"THINGS THAT ARE REVEALED!"

Deuteronomy 29:29                              (ESV)
""The secret things belong to the LORD our GOD, but the "THINGS THAT ARE REVEALED" belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law."



There are some people who have a distinct ability to do certain things that others simply can't seem to accomplish.  For instance, some can sing with near heavenly tones, and seemingly effortlessly.  Others have the ability to never meet a stranger.  Still others can be blessed with making tremendous wealth.  The one thing we must remember is that all good things come from above!

GOD distributes different "gifts" to those HE knows will use them for HIS Glory.  There are those who are gifted that use their gifts for their own glory.  Recently a sentence came to me writing a devotional one day.  It said "How sad to know there are some that will not "LISTEN TO ME" because they are too busy with their own agenda to download instructions from HEAVEN".

When we are NEEDING direction, a wise thing to do is find someone whose gifts are hearing from GOD, AND GIVING HIM GLORY, and to FOLLOW THEIR LEAD as they move closer to the LORD.  The ones who display an arrogant, self-centered attitude and are interested in worldly gain, would NOT be one to follow.  Seeing a person who has seen "THINGS THAT ARE REVEALED" would certainly be a place for us to begin to follow HIM.  If we follow a leader who isn't connected to divine leadership in their own lives, we are setting ourselves up for disaster!

When you see "THINGS THAT ARE REVEALED", only then can you know you are connected to Divinity.  GOD has HIS hand on some people, but HE also allows HIS chosen to be taken captive sometimes (2 Kings 17)!  It is a crucial time for the church to get on our faces before a HOLY GOD and pray that we choose a leader who is connected to the the THRONE ROOM and seeing "THINGS THAT ARE REVEALED" and not just what they THINK can make us prosperous!

"KNOW THAT I AM GOD!"

Psalms 46:10                              (ESV)
"BE STILL, and "KNOW THAT I AM GOD". I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"



Many know that GOD gave me a Non-Profit named Psalms 46:10 Ministries, Inc. in 2014.  That verse was cemented in my mind while off work recovering from the brain hemorrhage that occurred in 2007.  No one could have been more obedient to BE STILL than I was, as for 17 days I was in a drug-induced coma!  Recently, while driving to work,  I was pondering BE STILL and GOD spoke to me, and PRETTY PLAINLY!

Do you think that GOD, in all of HIS AWESOMENESS, can't keep up with us when we are running full speed to make schedules or appointments?  GOD can, and has, spoken to me even when I am operating at a pace where little can be heard by me, especially the STILL, SMALL VOICE of YAHWEH speaking!

Could it be that GOD instructs us (mainly me!) to BE STILL so that we can delight in HIS majesty, even when the pace of life is so hectic and hurried?  GOD is quite capable of operating at a much HIGHER level than we have ever thought or imagined.  HIS instructions to BE STILL must have been for our benefit then (especially me), as we tend to get so busy doing THINGS that we can't process things quickly enough to realize GOD at work, even in the smallest of things.

When we are being STILL in our Spirit, only then can we truly "KNOW THAT I AM GOD" and experience HIS guidance, companionship, and friendship.  GOD can be the most complete BEING we can ever know, or HE can be the most unsettling Spirit when we violate HIS precepts.  This unsettledness can lead to frustration, anger, hurting, or any other word that can describe being disconnected from the HOLY SPIRIT.

When GOD instructs us to BE STILL, it may be more for our benefit rather than HIS.  Scripture doesn't say that IF we are STILL HE will be exalted among the nations and in the entire earth, scripture says I WILL BE EXALTED!  To "KNOW THAT I AM GOD", the Creator of the universe, and that I AM lives within me is something I cannot explain.  Only having your eyes, and my eyes, opened by GOD (Ephesians 1:18) can HIS truths be fully made known to us.  HE usually does that when I BE STILL and "KNOW THAT I AM GOD"!!!

"STAND!"

Ephesians 6:10-15                 (KJV)
"10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the LORD, and in the power of HIS might. 11 Put on the whole armour of GOD, that ye may be able to "STAND" against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against FLESH and BLOOD, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of GOD, that ye may be able to withSTAND in the evil day, and having done all, to "STAND". 14 "STAND" therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace"




From time to time frustration tries to overwhelm me when I see people, who claim to be men and women of faith, and they don't recognize the true battle that is going on all around us.   Satan has been known since Genesis 3:1 as a deceiver beyond anything we can imagine.  People see supposed problems in "this world" and they misdiagnose the illness!  You can't help heal a nation if you can't SEE what is ailing that nation!

The Apostle Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus that "we wrestle not against FLESH and BLOOD".  The enemy is NOT human, but spiritual, spiritually EVIL!  To be able to identify our foe we have to understand who the foe REALLY is.   That he is so unrecognized in today's society is almost beyond belief?

The problem with America is not at our border, it's not our struggling economy, it's not better jobs, nor any other charade the enemy can throw out there to deceive those who supposedly are looking for answers.  The answer for our nation, just like it was for Israel in 2 Chronicles 7:14, is "If MY people, which are called by MY name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek MY face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land"!

The answer for America is to "STAND"! Know GOD's Word, preach GOD's Word, and live GOD's Word in everything we do and let HIM fight this battle!  In Exodus 14:14 HE says "The LORD shall fight for you, and YE SHALL HOLD YOUR PEACE!!"  All the children of Israel had to do was "STAND" and let GOD fight for them!  America must quit giving up on GOD and claim HIS promises.........and "STAND"!!!

"EMPTY WORDS!"

Ephesians 5:4-10
"4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.
5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of CHRIST and GOD.
6 Let no one deceive you with "EMPTY WORDS", for because of these things the wrath of GOD comes upon the sons of disobedience.
7 Therefore do not become partners with them;
8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the LORD. Walk as children of light
9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true),
10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the LORD."


There have been many great orators throughout history.  The gift of being able to use words that are timely and appropriate is something that is highly misunderstood.  Many times a person delivers an enunciation of a group of words that are empty of any value to those listening, only to the person delivering!  They may impress some, but those aren't looking for TRUTH!

From time to time I am moved to write notes on my Bible app I use.  These notes are on the app until I change them.  When the notes are placed on the app a bold colored marker appears on the screen.  On Ephesians 5:6 the following is in the NOTES highlighted portion of this iPad.  "The WORD OF GOD is the only literary offering that can change a heart!  Everything else comes up short."

Looking back over my younger years, I can see where "EMPTY WORDS" have been used to deceive me many times. Those "EMPTY WORDS" may have been delivered by individuals who were very adept at manipulating the English language to benefit the point they were trying to get across.  However, what was spoken will probably not have an impact on eternity, or probably even society.  Most carnal ideas have no Spiritual forethought and therefore no eternal benefit.  When we think about our "EMPTY WORDS" before delivering them, there is a good chance they will never be manifested into speech!

This passage concludes with "Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the LORD."  The thoughts I have should be "filtered" by the Holy Spirit to "discern what is pleasing to the LORD."  JESUS said in Matthew 15:18-20 that our heart is what defiles us.....that is until our heart has been given new life through belief that HE is GOD!  These are  NOT "EMPTY WORDS", and we should vocalize them more!!!

"IF MY PEOPLE!"

As someone who has the Spirit of the Living GOD abiding inside my body (1 Corinthians 3:16), I feel it incumbent upon myself to express my thoughts about the upcoming Presidential election.   I have friends who are supporting different candidates from different political parties.  I will remain being their friend, no matter the outcome of the election.

However, one thing that must be considered as someone who GOD chooses to temple within before deciding whom you will support to lead our country during the next four years.....do you believe this is THE person GOD can be glorified by as the leader of our nation?  The best way to know if they will glorify GOD when they are elected is do they glorify GOD in their lives now?  We all have moments of failure, but our "fruit" must show we are connected to the vine (John 15)!

Recently I asked the following question: From my viewpoint, the most important thing any person who wants to be a leader can show is an ability to be led, and to be led by the Spirit of the living GOD.  If they aren't led by the Spirit of the living GOD, then where are they leading us to?

We have an obligation to select leaders who have proven through their actions that they follow the leadership of GOD.  One article that recently came across my viewing included the following:

Those who choose leaders ought to be those who are walking in obedience to God’s Law. There was a time in America when that was the case. John Adams said, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people, it is wholly inadequate to the governance of any other.”

2 Chronicles 7:14 says "IF MY PEOPLE", which are called by MY name, shall humble themselves, AND PRAY, and seek MY face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."  Scripture doesn't say "If MY leaders" humble themselves, it says "If MY people"!  The United States of America has been given a Democratic Republic form of government by GOD's providence and grace.  Not because we deserved it or were smarter than our adversaries, but because GOD had mercy on people who were willing to seek HIS face!  I'm not smart enough, you're not smart enough, our leaders are not certainly smart enough to have gotten us where we are in just 240 years!  "We the people" must admit, not only who we are, but WHO GOD is!!!

"ALL THAT I GET!"

Luke 18:9-14                            (ESV)
"9 HE also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt:
10 "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
11 The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: 'GOD, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector.
12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of "ALL THAT I GET".'
13 But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'GOD, be merciful to me, a sinner!'
14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."



Having to admit that I am sometimes like the Pharisee, instead of the tax collector, is truly a humbling admission.  Seeing someone who has an attitude of being better than others can be a nauseating sight.  But we all can be just a little self-righteous when dealing with people that have not been blessed as much as we have, whether we realize it or not.

It can be difficult for a Billionaire to understand the plight of someone who only has a few hundred thousand dollars, or someone who has one hundred thousand dollars to  see the needs of one in debt.  And for someone in debt, but living in the United States to be compared to a hut dweller in a village in some far off jungle seems almost unfair?   When we realize that GOD has allowed us to be in the exact position we are in to grow us into tools HE can use in HIS Kingdom, we can begin to see HIS Plan for our lives.  But we must first realize that we all were Created by the same GOD to accomplish The Purpose HE laid out for us (Jeremiah 29:11).

When our mindset is on "ALL THAT I GET" instead ALL THAT I AM GIVEN we could be placing our abilities on a pedestal in front of GOD.  When we "have our eyes opened" to the fact that even our next breath is a gift from GOD, only then have we started to see things more clearly.  To see SPIRITUAL things with earthly eyes (1 Corinthians 2:14) cannot be done.  We have to have our eyesight adjusted in order to be able to clearly see the REAL things around us (Matthew 6:19-24)!

Having several friends who have had cataract surgery the most common reaction is that they can see things clearly now.  When JESUS "removes the veil" (2 Corinthians 3:12-18) from us we can see things that were right in front of us, but we previously could not see!  Our mindset will then obviously change, for what we see has changed!  But we can only see what is revealed to us, and JESUS is the ONE WHO reveals, and HE can give us "ALL THAT I GET"!

In 1879 a woman who was blind wrote a song called "Take the world, but give me JESUS"!  Fanny J. Crosby could not physically see, but her Spiritual vision was impeccable.  After losing her sight at six weeks of age, Fanny went on to write reportedly over 8,000 hymns, including Blessed Assurance.  Although her physical eyes were damaged, she was able to Spiritually see like few others who had ever lived.  She made the most of "ALL THAT I GET"...............will you??

"AN EXAMPLE!"

"AN EXAMPLE!"

1 Peter 2:21-25              (ESV)
"21 For to this you have been called, because CHRIST also suffered for you, leaving you "AN EXAMPLE", so that you might follow in HIS steps.
22 HE committed no sin, neither was deceit found in HIS mouth.
23 When HE was reviled, HE did not revile in return; when HE suffered, HE did not threaten, but continued entrusting HIMSELF to HIM WHO judges justly.
24 HE HIMSELF bore our sins in HIS body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By HIS wounds you have been healed.
25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the SHEPHERD and OVERSEER of your souls."



In noticing all of the posts on a social media site saying that a certain person is a certain way and we need to be like that certain person, I was reminded that JESUS came to earth, not only to provide a sacrifice for my sins, but to leave us "AN EXAMPLE" on how we should live our lives.

All of these memes can be cute, but we don't need to allow our focus be shifted from "AN EXAMPLE" provided by GOD for us to follow.  

I will let you get back to your scrolling.  But don't forget you are setting "AN EXAMPLE", whether a good one, or a not so good of one!!!

"TO HIM BE GLORY!"

Ephesians 3:20-21                                     (ESV)
"20 Now to HIM WHO is able to do FAR MORE ABUNDANTLY than all that WE ASK or THINK, according to the POWER at WORK within us,
21 "TO HIM BE GLORY" in the church and in CHRIST JESUS throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."



While reading an online devotional recently I read a statement that has stopped me in my tracks.  GOD LOVES US TOO MUCH TO PROMOTE US BEFORE WE ARE READY!  The devotional went on to expound that when GOD gets  ready to perform a work in our lives, it is "according to the POWER at work within us", not our own power!

My mind started recalling Exodus 14 when GOD told the children of Israel in verse 14 "The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent."  Just a few verses later GOD said "And I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they shall go in after them, and I WILL GET GLORY over Pharaoh and all his host, his chariots, and his horsemen."  GOD moved the children Israel to the precise position to cross the Red Sea where they could escape HIS wrath, but Pharaoh and his army would not.  GOD's timing was critical as Pharaoh and his army would see as they were about to overtake the Israelites their fate was sealed!

GOD LOVES US TOO MUCH TO PROMOTE US BEFORE WE ARE READY might be better stated I have to learn that GOD GETTING GLORY is more important than my wishes or desires.  Or just maybe I am getting closer to being ready when I realize that GOD GETTING GLORY is the most important thing?  GOD is able to do FAR MORE ABUNDANTLY than anything we could ever imagine, but we have to realize HIM getting glory is immensely more crucial than even our existence.

The children of Israel had to go through some rough times during the Exodus, but GOD was able to get glory.  We may have to go through some equally rough times in order for GOD to be glorified.  But just when all hope seems lost, just when the Egyptians seem to be overtaking us at the Red Sea, GOD will show up and make certain that "TO HIM BE GLORY"!

"THE LOVE OF CHRIST CONTROLS US!"

2 Corinthians 5:5-15                                  (ESV)
"5 HE who has prepared us for this very thing is GOD, WHO has given us the SPIRIT as a guarantee.
6 So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the LORD,
7 for we walk by faith, not by sight.
8 Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at HOME WITH THE LORD.
9 So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please HIM.
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of CHRIST, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, WHETHER GOOD OR EVIL.
11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the LORD, we persuade others. But what we are is known to GOD, and I hope it is known also to your conscience.
12 We are not commending ourselves to you again but giving you cause to boast about us, SO THAT YOU MAY BE ABLE TO ANSWER THOSE WHO BOAST ABOUT OUTWARD APPEARANCE AND NOT ABOUT WHAT IS IN THE HEART.
13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for GOD; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.
14 For "THE LOVE OF CHRIST CONTROLS US", because we have concluded this: that ONE has died for all, therefore all have died;
15 and HE died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for HIM WHO for their sake died and was raised."



"For "THE LOVE OF CHRIST CONTROLS US" is as good a start to a devotional as I can fathom.  But when one constantly desires to "BOAST ABOUT OUTWARD APPEARANCE AND NOT ABOUT WHAT IS IN THE HEART" they may be more interested in promoting their self-worth than the ONE who makes us worthy to begin with?  We must speak from our heart, and if our heart is focused on self-gratification we need to evaluate the condition of our heart.

GOD, "WHO has given us the SPIRIT as a guarantee" does not reveal HIMSELF by having us BOAST ABOUT OUTWARD APPEARANCES.  Jeremiah 9:23-24 says to not glory in our might or wealth, but to glory in the LORD!  The LORD "delights" in gaining glory from our lives, so why should we try to take the glory from HIM?  If we are glorying in our own selves, then we are elevating ourselves to a position to be worshipped, and that violates scripture.

When we glory in what we have accomplished we are drawing attention to ourselves rather than to the ONE WHO deserves it, GOD ALMIGHTY!  GOD controls even the air we breathe.  When we focus on what WE have done, instead of what GOD has done THROUGH us, we make ourselves to be bigger than we really are.  GOD can bring us down quickly.  HE can even bring us down quickly and permanently, as HE did with Herod in Acts 12:20-24.

GOD is not a being to be tested or tried.  HE is the Creator and sustainer of life, the Ruler of the Universe WHO has the power to give life, and take life!  HE gave HIS only SON, JESUS CHRIST, just so I could live eternally.  Because of that LOVE, "THE LOVE OF CHRIST CONTROLS US" to live for HIM and to share that love with a lost and dying world.  We must be able to "SEE" not everyone will be drawn to HIM, but we should show that "THE LOVE OF CHRIST CONTROLS US" to all who need HIM!!

"NO PART!"

Ephesians 5:6-13                              (ESV)
"6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the WRATH OF GOD comes upon the sons of disobedience.
7 Therefore do not become partners with them;
8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the LORD. Walk as children of light
9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true),
10 and TRY TO DISCERN WHAT IS PLEASING TO THE LORD.v c
11 Take "NO PART" in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead EXPOSE THEM.
12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret.
13 BUT WHEN ANYTHING IS EXPOSED BY THE LIGHT, IT BECOMES VISIBLE"



Anytime the word "deceive" is found, my mind immediately goes to Genesis 3:1.  The enemy is the most deceitful of GOD's creation, and there are many who believe his deception.  The Bible explicitly warns us not to be deceived by empty words, yet so many are moved to acting on words that have no Biblical premise or foundation.

In John 14:6 Jesus says "I AM the way, the TRUTH, and the life"!  It should come as no surprise to us that the exact opposite of TRUTH is deceit!  A lot of times deceit is used for financial gain, but at times it can be to get a person out of what they perceive as a tight spot.  That tight spot can turn into something that is unbelievably catastrophic, but we don't recognize the hand of GOD when the judgement is dispersed.

Many times it has been shared, but former President Ronald Reagan said "Within the covers of the BIBLE are the answers for "ALL" the problems men face"!  People evidently don't want to acknowledge GOD for WHO HE is, nor what HE can do either to, or for, mankind.  Mankind has a desire for a love affair with the drama and sadistic behavior of the great deceiver that can only be quenched by a devout relationship with GOD ALMIGHTY.  Until then, the enemy will continue to flaunt and masquerade in front of us as the ANSWER, when all along his only goal is to revel in our destruction!

Ephesians 5:11 says to "take "NO PART" in the unfruitful works of darkness"!  If we support those who deceive for monetary or political gain, then are we taking "NO PART" in their deceit?   One can claim to be a Believer until they run out of breath, but if their actions display deceit and manipulation, more than likely they have "NO PART" of the Kingdom of GOD!  JESUS said in Matthew 6:24 ""No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. YOU CANNOT SERVE GOD AND MONEY."  My prayer is that I will display Godly traits and that I exhibit "NO PART" of this world!

"CHILDREN OF GOD!"

Romans 8:16-17 says "The SPIRIT himself bears witness with our spirit that we are "CHILDREN OF GOD", and if children, then heirs-heirs of GOD and fellow heirs with CHRIST, provided WE SUFFER with HIM in order that we may also be glorified with HIM "


Much can be said about just who is a part of the "CHILDREN OF GOD".  Most don't really understand what is required of a person to be considered as the "CHILDREN OF GOD", and certainly even less actually desire to be apart of the SUFFERING mentioned in being known as the "CHILDREN OF GOD"!

Health, wealth and prosperity are certainly abundant in this country, so abundant in fact that I'm not sure if re that anyone could be classified as SUFFERING for the Kingdom.  Even during the darkest moment of the brain hemorrhage in 2007 I was in an air conditioned hospital with nurses taking care of my every need.  During my two year recovery, although I didn't have a job, my family survived with relative ease.  Sure, we missed the comforts many enjoy, but we made it through by GOD's grace, and with little SUFFERING.

Being a part of the "CHILDREN OF GOD" is a humbling thing that no one should brag about.  We are only called to be "CHILDREN OF GOD" by HIS grace, NOT BY ANYTHING WE HAVE DONE.  Isaiah 64:6a (KJV) says " But we are ALL as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as FILTHY RAGS;"!  To fully understand how wretched we are, we have to acknowledge how magnificent GOD is.  Unless we recognize HIS majesty we can never be a part of the "CHILDREN OF GOD"!

Romans 8:16 begins with "The SPIRIT HIMSELF bears witness.." when a person is part of the "CHILDREN OF GOD".   One can claim that they are a part of the "CHILDREN OF GOD", but if the SPIRIT doesn't bear witness, then they aren't going to be an heir with JESUS!  One cannot deceive, buy, or con their way into the "CHILDREN OF GOD".  Our SUFFERING may come through being ostracized or ridiculed, but if we are a member of the "CHILDREN OF GOD", we will SUFFER!!!

"YOU WILL LIVE!"

Romans 8:12-17                               (ESV)
"12 So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh.
13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if BY THE SPIRIT you put to death the deeds of the body, "YOU WILL LIVE".
14 For all who are led BY THE SPIRIT of GOD are sons of GOD.
15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the SPIRIT of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!"
16 The SPIRIT HIMSELF bears witness with our spirit that we are children of GOD,
17 and if children, then heirs-heirs of GOD and fellow heirs with CHRIST, provided we suffer with HIM in order that we may also be glorified with HIM."



In studying scripture this morning I ran across something that I am captivated by.  It began with reading the obituaries in the local newspaper, and proceeded to several parts of the New Testament.  Many believers, myself included at times, live like they are relegated to living in a graveyard, living among dead people if you will.  JESUS said "I came that they might have LIFE and have it abundantly"!

One Bible commentary I was reading offered these words that shook me as I studied:

Years ago when the billionaire Howard Hughes died, his company’s public relations director asked the casinos in Las Vegas, where Hughes owned multiple casinos, to show him respect by giving him a minute of silence. For an uncomfortable sixty seconds, the casinos fell eerily silent. Then a pit boss looked at his watch, leaned forward, and whispered, “Okay, roll the dice. He’s had his minute.” (From the book, Howard Hughes: The Hidden Years, cited in “Our Daily Bread,” 11/77.)

I wonder if sometimes we treat GOD as those gamblers in Las Vegas treated Howard Hughes. We interrupt our busy schedules once a week, rush into church, give GOD “HIS hour,” and then forget about HIM and get back to what we’d rather be doing.

When I read these words I immediately had to slow my reading down and repeat what I had read.  Sometimes I get the mentality that I am running a race against some unknown entity (probably from the devil) to try to get through with my Bible Study and on with my work for the day.  The original text of John 4:24 says JESUS says "GOD IS SPIRIT".   Several other versions insert one simple letter, an "a", in trying to make the sentence read more fluently which could imply the SPIRIT OF GOD is just another spirit!  When we diminish GOD to being just another spirit, could we be saying HE isn't GOD?

The SPIRIT OF GOD is LIFE, the same life that JESUS promised in John 10:10.  When we live BY THE SPIRIT we are living LIFE to the fullest.  Unless our spirit surrenders to HIS SPIRIT and allows HIM to control our lives, we can never experience the joy of LIVING.  If, however, we put to death the deeds of the body, "YOU WILL LIVE"!  You cannot have it both ways (Matthew 6:24).  Choose LIFE!!!

"MY GLORY!"

Exodus 33:18-23
"18 Moses said, "Please show me your glory."
19 And HE said, "I will make all MY goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you MY name 'The LORD.' And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy.
20 But," HE said, "you cannot see MY face, for MAN SHALL NOT SEE ME AND LIVE."
21 And the LORD said, "Behold, there is a place by ME where you shall stand on the rock,
22 and while MY glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with MY hand until I have passed by.
23 Then I will take away MY hand, and you shall see MY back, but MY face shall not be seen." - Exodus 33:18-23



GOD JEHOVAH, YAHWEH, cannot be described, explained, imagined, even put into a question, for GOD is too vast, too powerful, too encompassing,.......and too everything!  Much like the children of Israel in Exodus 32, we want to SEE a god that we can describe, an entity we can "put in a box"!

That GOD is SPIRIT (John 4:24) should cause us to realize that we cannot physically "see" HIM.  Mankind has a desire to "see" GOD, but HE only chooses to reveal HIS handiwork to us, for to "see" HIM in all of HIS glory would kill us, according to Exodus 33:20.  We need to be careful what we let into our minds eye through what we "see", as we tend to put that on the pedestal of LORDSHIP in our lives.  Letting someone or something replace GOD on the throne of our lives is breaking the first commandment.

But what about what we can't see?  GOD is SPIRIT, so are we able to physically "see" GOD without our eyes being supernaturally opened?  According to Hebrews 11:23-28, Moses was led "as seeing HIM WHO was invisible"!  An oft used dictionary says when describing the word Invisible "3. not perceptible or discernible by the mind. powerful, too encompassing everything"!  Therefore, the mind may not be able to even discern how AWESOME GOD really is?

Yet, our GOD so desired a relationship with me, that HE sent HIS SON to this minuscule planet called earth to be despised and rejected by mankind, even though HE offered nothing but peace and life.  "This world" could not "see" the Spirit of the Invisible GOD before them, especially moving at the pace our lifestyles have become accustomed to.

In Exodus 34:30 scripture records that "Aaron and all the people of Israel saw Moses, and behold, the SKIN OF HIS FACE SHONE, and they were afraid to come near him."  My prayer is that my life shall be a vessel to display "MY GLORY" for all the world to see, not because I am so holy and righteous, but because of HIS GLORY!

"YOU CAN DO IT!"

Deuteronomy 30:11-14                          (ESV)
"11 "For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, NEITHER IS IT FAR OFF.
12 It is not in heaven, that you should say, 'WHO WILL ASCEND TO HEAVEN FOR US AND BRING IT TO US, THAT WE MAY HEAR IT AND DO IT?'
13 Neither is it beyond the sea, that you should say, 'Who will go over the sea for us and bring it to us, that we may hear it and do it?'
14 BUT THE WORD IS VERY NEAR YOU.  IT IS IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART, SO THAT "YOU CAN DO IT"."



Not many years ago the movie line of "YOU CAN DO IT" was made popular by a relatively obscure actor.  The point that needs to be emphasized is that someone was always being told "YOU CAN DO IT", never was the actor saying I CAN DO IT!  Keeping the focus on something or someone other than yourself can be a sign of humility that has to be grown into, not read from a book.

Having GOD THE CREATOR place a desire to accomplish a task which seems unattainable can cause one to think of the Israelites at the Red Sea.  Moses and the nation of Israel were trapped by mountains on the left and right, the Red Sea in front of them, and Pharaoh and the Egyptian army approaching from behind.  The task of following GOD's leadership had apparently not worked out so well for the Israelites!  But when things appear the bleakest is when GOD says HE will take control!  And like HE did at the Red Sea, it will usually be when HE can get glory and when know one else but HIM can get credit for HIS handiwork!

When GOD starts dividing the Red Sea in your life you must have FAITH to walk across the dry bottom of the sea.  We have to WAIT ON THE LORD in order for HIM TO GET GLORY, but when HE says "YOU CAN DO IT" we need to be able to trust HIM that the seas will remain parted.  Waiting to make sure HE is ready to receive HIS glory is something that can be uncomfortable, even frustrating at times.  But when GOD moves and HE calls for us to move forward, HE wants us to know "YOU CAN DO IT"!!

We may can have an indication when we are getting close to seeing GOD prepare us to be in a position where "YOU CAN DO IT".  Deuteronomy 30:14 says "BUT THE WORD IS VERY NEAR YOU.  IT IS IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART, SO THAT "YOU CAN DO IT"!  When you are in HIS Word enough to where it is IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART, you  can rest assured that GOD will be glorified.  It may not be when we THINK HE should be glorified, but GOD WILL BE GLORIFIED!  And when HE is, we need to be ready to prove "YOU CAN DO IT"!!

"BETWEEN YOURSELF AND GOD!"

Romans 14:22-23                          (ESV)
"22 The FAITH that you have, keep "BETWEEN YOURSELF AND GOD". Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves.
23 But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. FOR WHATEVER DOES NOT PROCEED FROM FAITH IS SIN."




Enlightening !  Walking by FAITH is not just an option for the Spiritually strong, rather a command for even the weakest of believers!  If we are walking by FAITH we have no other choice but to trust HIM with everything.  Having FAITH can be the most rewarding activity we can engage in, but it can also be the most challenging.  It is so "natural" to desire to work things out on our own.  Growing our natural man should not be a goal of a Spiritual being though!

The key to living a life that pleases GOD is to have FAITH!  "And without FAITH it is impossible to please HIM, for whoever would draw near to GOD must believe that HE exists and that HE rewards those who seek HIM" according to Hebrews 11:6.  Romans 8:23 says, in part, "FOR WHATEVER DOES NOT PROCEED FROM FAITH IS SIN."  Can it be more plainly stated that GOD loves, and requires, us to have FAITH in HIS ability to sustain us..........and on HIS timetable.

Others may see our FAITH and be drawn to GOD because of it, or be drawn closer to HIM, but our FAITH will only be "BETWEEN YOURSELF AND GOD".  There is no one else WHO can judge us concerning our FAITH than the INVISIBLE GOD.  While "this world" may not be able to actually SEE HIM, one can surely see HIS effect in Creation and life itself.

The conclusion of the matter is this, whether you BELIEVE there is a GOD or not, is between "BETWEEN YOURSELF AND GOD".  That decision must be made while you are here......in "this world"!  There will be NO DOUBT when we reach the next world.  But that is "BETWEEN YOURSELF AND GOD"!!

"THE LORD IS WITH YOU!"

Luke 1:26-33                                     (ESV)
"26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from GOD to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,
27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.
28 And he came to her and said, "Greetings, O favored one, "THE LORD IS WITH YOU!"
29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be.
30 And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for YOU HAVE FOUND FAVOR with GOD.
31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a SON, and you shall call his name JESUS.
32 HE will be great and will be called the SON of the MOST HIGH. And the LORD GOD will give to HIM the throne of his father David,
33 and HE will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of HIS kingdom there will be no end."



There is no greater experience than getting a Word from GOD.  To understand that the Creator of the Universes, Who simply spoke the heavens and earth into existence, would speak to, and through, a mortal being is humbling, yet extremely comforting.  GOD is Spirit (John 4:24), and being a Spirit HIS method of communication is not heard by those of "this world" (1 Corinthians 2:14), only by those who are "of the Spirit".

Mary was a young woman, many say between 13 and 15 years of age. But she favored by GOD (Luke 1:28), and she was used by GOD to deliver HIS SON to mankind.  Now being so young Mary hadn't had the opportunity to build her resume for GOD.  She couldn't prove her worthiness to be a vessel to incubate GOD in the flesh.  The word FAVORED literally means "to receive grace"!  She was just FAVORED because of WHO GOD is, not because of who she was!

Many times throughout scripture GOD reveals HIS PLAN.  Remember that GOD is Spirit, and in verse 28 above scripture reveals "THE LORD IS WITH YOU"!  GOD has been "in our midst" (Zephaniah 3:17) for a long time, but mankind has failed to recognize HIM when HIS presence was revealed to them.  HE chose to come as a baby to a humble family of meager means RATHER than royalty and grandeur. Had JESUS been exalted with royalty then I might have thought I had to have wealth to please HIM?  But HE came as a lowly carpenter and let HIS Spirit elevate HIM as needed.

There is a misconception that we must have the best buildings, drive the best cars, wear the finest clothes, basically accumulate THINGS for the KINGDOM.  GOD is "still" Spirit (HE hasn't changed) and HE isn't impressed with our offerings, but our obedience!  What we need to do is make sure "THE LORD IS WITH YOU" and leave the rest to HIM!!

"PAY ATTENTION!"

2 Peter 1:16-21                               (ESV)
"16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, but we were eyewitnesses of HIS majesty.
17 For when HE received honor and glory from GOD the Father, and the voice was borne to HIM by the Majestic Glory, "This is MY beloved SON, with whom I am well pleased,"
18 we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with HIM on the holy mountain.
19 And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to "PAY ATTENTION" as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts,
20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation.
21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from GOD as they were carried along by the HOLY SPIRIT."



Knowing that someone is hearing from GOD can be a a difficult thing to discern.  How does one KNOW that they are hearing from THE CREATOR or "following cleverly devised myths" that may be authored by the great deceiver?  GOD has a Plan and HE can even use evil men to accomplish that Plan.  Even Pharaoh of old had to give chase to the Israelites before GOD could "get glory over Pharaoh and all his hosts"!

When GOD's Word is being proclaimed by HIS prophet, one sure way to determine if what you are hearing is from GOD is to see how many people are following the Word?  1 Peter 1:19 says to "PAY ATTENTION" as to a lamp shining in a dark place!  "This world" would have NEVER been able to SEE what GOD would be doing, but HIS ways are NOT our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9)!  In the end, the Israelites and the Egyptians believed GOD "AND" Moses!  In Exodus 14:31 the Bible states "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!"  In recent times, GOD has sent modern day Moses' to proclaim HIS Word, but is anybody "PAYING ATTENTION"!!

When GOD gives a multitude of warnings (heart attack, stroke, cancer, etc....), HIS judgement can be monumental!  Just look at the bottom of the Red Sea!  All of the warnings (plagues) sent by GOD seem vividly clear looking back.  Pharaoh and his armies would have done well to "PAY ATTENTION" to what was coming their way.  But they were too comfortable and set in their own ways........TOO COMFORTABLE AND SET IN THEIR OWN WAYS!!

Perhaps the United States could do well to "PAY ATTENTION" to GOD's Warnings HE has sent the United States?  The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the stock market crash of 2008, the attacks on the Benghazi embassy, the numerous terrorist attacks on United States soil, are just a few of the warnings that the United States has experienced.  My prayer is that the United States will not be BLIND to HIS warnings and will "PAY ATTENTION" and turn back to HIM and HIS protections.

"LISTEN TO ME!"

Job 33:31-33                                       (ESV)
"31 Pay attention, O Job, "LISTEN TO ME"; be silent, and I will speak.
32 If you have any words, answer me; speak, for I desire to justify you.
33 If not, "LISTEN TO ME": be silent, and I will teach you wisdom."



Recently, while looking back at some of my previous writings, I took the opportunity to read a devotional written on February 11, 2012.   In that devotional the words "BE SILENT" was emphasized as my Spirit was awful busy at the time.  My mind has almost been consumed with these three verses since reviewing them, but my focus has been more about "LISTEN TO ME" now.  The BE SILENT command seems to have been overtaken by "LISTEN TO ME" in my life.

The first "LISTEN TO ME" in this passage is followed by "and I will speak".  Being silent can be difficult for some, especially when we think we are so important that what we have to say really matters!  When GOD speaks HE expects us to be listening so we will hear HIM.  Many people say that GOD doesn't speak to them, but HE probably can't be heard over their complaints and rhetoric.  HIS requirement is for us to "LISTEN TO ME" first, and THEN HE will speak to us!

The second "LISTEN TO ME" is followed " and I will teach you wisdom"!  Can you imagine being taught by the ONE who Created the universes, simply by speaking them into existence?  I have had some good teachers in my life, but to be a student of YAHWEH is something that that you would certainly want to take notes of.  GOD THE FATHER desires to teach all HIS creation, but HIS teaching MUST be preceded by us taking the time to "LISTEN TO ME"!

It would seem that everyone whose eyes had been made to see the existence of a Creator, would be not only willing to hear from the Creator, but would be excited to know that YAHWEH wanted to teach them.  How sad to know there are some that will not "LISTEN TO ME" because they are too busy with their own agenda to download instructions from HEAVEN!  Can you fathom GOD THE CREATOR desiring to talk and teach you?  HE will, if we will only "LISTEN TO ME"!!!

"NOW I KNOW!"

Genesis 22:9-14                                  (ESV)
"9 When they came to the place of which GOD had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood.
10 Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son.
11 But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am."
12 HE said, "Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for "NOW I KNOW" that you fear GOD, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from ME."
13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son.
14 So Abraham called the name of that place, "The LORD will provide"; as it is said to this day, "On the mount of the LORD it shall be provided."



The account of Abraham offering Isaac as an offering is one that has always been difficult for me to grasp.  It became even harder after my sons were born and me trying to imagine GOD asking me to offer either of them as a sacrifice.  Being able to willingly take the life of someone you love must be the most difficult thing imaginable.  Maybe that is why GOD led Abraham up Mt. Moriah to display his faith that GOD would provide.

Most of us would probably want to say that we think GOD would not put us in a similar position.  HE is a loving GOD that according to scripture considered Abraham HIS friend (2 Chronicles 20:7; Isaiah 41:8).  Trying to envision a friend of mine hearing that I requiring them to sacrifice one of their children to display their love for me is not something I care to dwell on.  Yet Abraham journeyed up the mountain and built an altar with the express intent of using Isaac as an offering to GOD ALMIGHTY, without hesitation.

When GOD saw that Abraham was carrying through as instructed, GOD intervened, providing a ram caught in a thicket by his horns.  GOD told Abraham not to harm the boy, for "NOW I KNOW" that you fear GOD and will be obedient.  But we all know that GOD is sovereign and knows everything that has ever happened and will ever happen, so why did HE say "NOW I KNOW" to Abraham?  Was GOD enlightened to find out that Abraham was being obedient?  Could Abraham have failed in this test?

To understand that GOD knew Abraham was going to be obedient, and that a sacrifice would still be needed (ram in a thicket) is not the part that amazes me.  Sure GOD knew that Abraham would be obedient, but Abraham found out on Mt. Moriah that day what GOD already knew!  Because of Abraham's faith that GOD was REAL, and that "GOD will provide for HIMSELF" a lamb, he now was able to see evidence of his faith.  While it was true that GOD said for "NOW I KNOW" to Abraham, it was also true that Abraham could now say "NOW I KNOW" that GOD will do what HE says!!

"LEAVE HER ALONE!"

John 12:1-8                                (ESV)
"1 Six days before the Passover, JESUS therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom JESUS had raised from the dead.
2 So they gave a dinner for HIM there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with HIM at table.
3 Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of JESUS and wiped HIS feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
4 But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray HIM), said,
5 "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?"
6 He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it.
7 JESUS said, "LEAVE HER ALONE", so that she may keep it for the day of MY burial.
8 For the poor you ALWAYS have with you, but you do not always have ME."



There are few lessons that are more uncomfortable than when JESUS CHRIST had to almost rebuke Judas Iscariot about his wanting to refocus the efforts of Mary when she anointed the feet of JESUS with ointment.  One can almost line up with the thinking of Judas as this ointment was very valuable and the feet of one of the groups leaders was having this expensive ointment spent on HIM while so many were in need.  Maybe Mary could SEE, and Judas Iscariot couldn't SEE, that this was GOD IN THE FLESH and they were chosen among all creation to experience HIM walking among them?  Maybe JESUS was teaching a lesson to us all that we will NEVER be able to celebrate HIM enough, just like we can NEVER solve the problems of sin (poverty) without HIM first being lifted up?

The comparison of keeping the perspective of our surroundings while recognizing GOD for WHO HE IS may be one that we can still learn from today.  We have the opportunity to have JESUS CHRIST be LORD of our lives, and yet we get so caught up in the cares of "this world"!   We want to focus on what the world sees as important, and GOD wants us to focus on what HE leads us to do for HIS glory.  We wind up being just as selfish and worldly as Judas Iscariot, while GOD is waiting on us to celebrate HIM, much like Mary was doing!

We need to "LEAVE HER ALONE" when others are worshipping GOD, and not critique their methods.  Scripture is quite clear on the boundaries GOD expects from those who call upon HIS name, and HE is the only ONE who can change a heart.  Who would want to be known as a Judas Iscariot judging someone who was acknowledging a Holy GOD while they were concerned with the things of "this world"!  When GOD IN THE FLESH is being worshipped by the actions of those in our midst, we should join them and "LEAVE HER ALONE"!!!

"STEAL AND KILL AND DESTROY!"

John 10:10                         (ESV)
"The thief comes only to "STEAL AND KILL AND DESTROY". I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."

Genesis 3:1                        (ESV)
"Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD GOD had made. He said to the woman, "Did GOD actually say, 'You shall not eat of any tree in the garden'?"



Recently I wrote a message to a friend, that while looking at it later, convicted me to the point of doing my study this morning about it.  The statement was: "The enemy will disguise himself in many different forms in an attempt to steal our joy!" As the LORD spoke to my heart about my words, I began to understand more clearly what must be going on in the Spirit World surrounding us?

Ephesians 6:12 says "For we do NOT wrestle against FLESH and BLOOD, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the COSMIC POWERS OVER THIS PRESENT DARKNESS, against the spiritual FORCES OF EVIL in the heavenly places".   Genesis 3:1 talks about our enemy being "crafty" beyond anything else GOD had made.  GOD made satan the way he was made, just like GOD you and I the way we are.  The Spiritual War comes into play when our "natural man" begins gravitating toward darkness, instead of being in the LIGHT where sin is exposed!

The enemy must want to "STEAL AND KILL AND DESTROY" that which he doesn't have, that which he cannot control.  He can only do that through "deceiving"!  When we are faced with a seemingly wonderful windfall, we must be VERY aware that the enemy, the great deceiver, CONTINUALLY offers us "any tree in the garden" to satisfy our worldly lusts in an attempt to get us in his camp.  It is incumbent upon us to be able to recognize his tactics and schemes.  To develop a KEEN sense of identifying the enemy is one of the most crucial things a good warrior can achieve!

Recognizing the great deceiver can be a trait many prefer not to engage in.  Seeing evil in its vilest form is sometimes a grueling, uncomfortable task.  But the enemy can disguise himself as beautifully, even as "an angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14), in an effort to deceive those who are unlearned, immature if you will!

Being able to "see" the enemy can best be achieved when the LIGHT shines brightly in your life.  The enemy can't stand LIGHT, for it exposes his filth and hurt.  My aim is to not allow his to "STEAL AND KILL AND DESTROY" my joy as I serve the LORD, but I pray that I "may have life and have it abundantly."

"YOU SHALL REMEMBER!"

Deuteronomy 24:17-18                                (ESV)
"17 "You shall not pervert the justice due to the sojourner or to the fatherless, or take a widow's garment in pledge,
18 but "YOU SHALL REMEMBER" that you were a slave in Egypt and the LORD your GOD redeemed you from there; therefore I command you to do this."



We are SO blessed to live in a country where, at least according to our founding documents, the people are the rulers and are the ones in control.  Sometimes we get so caught up in our busy lives that we tend to forget, not only where we are coming from, but where we are headed to?   "This world is not my home, I'm just passing through " needs to be more than a line of a song, it should reflect a lifestyle we live!

Me, personally, my mother and father divorced when I was four years old, leaving my two sisters and I to be raised by my mom, with NO input, financial support, or love from my father.  As a matter of fact, he moved to Canada to avoid paying child support to my mom, and for us kids.  I often expressed to my sons while they were growing up that I didn't have an example to rely upon and that I was "playing it by ear", for I didn't want to be anything like my dad!  My formative years were not something that I wanted to focus on, and so it was difficult to say to me "YOU SHALL REMEMBER", as I was mostly trying to forget!

Last evening my wife and I were blessed to attend a fellowship about an hour from where we live where a group of people are being used to reach youth and children, a lot of whom are being reared in unfavorable circumstances.  Some of these kids come from homes where there is little, or no, parental involvement.  I could remember my childhood and the feeling of being "disconnected" while watching some of these children.  Although there will always be neglected children in "this world", NO CHILD should have to feel the "disconnected" feeling of a parent who isn't involved with their lives.

They say you can't fully appreciate where YOU ARE unless you can remember where you have been.  To be placed where "YOU SHALL REMEMBER" isn't an extremely comfortable position, but to see where I am now (comparatively) makes me see how blessed I really am.  The Israelites could do nothing about being slaves in Egypt, until GOD delivered then from bondage.  Last night, seeing "the bondage" of these children caused "YOU SHALL REMEMBER" to flood my mind.  JESUS paid a tremendous price to deliver me from the bondage of sin, and I pray "YOU SHALL REMEMBER" will always be at the forefront of my memories!!

"THE NAME OF THE LORD!"

1 Samuel 17:41-47                          (ESV)
" 41 And the Philistine moved forward and came near to David, with his shield-bearer in front of him.
42 And when the Philistine looked and saw David, he disdained him, for he was but a youth, ruddy and handsome in appearance.
43 And the Philistine said to David, "Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.
44 The Philistine said to David, "Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and to the beasts of the field."
45 Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in "THE NAME OF THE LORD" of hosts, the GOD of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
46 This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. And I will give the dead bodies of the host of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and to the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a GOD in Israel,
47 and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD's, and he will give you into our hand."



David's father, Jesse, must have been shocked at how his son responded to the enemy of GOD ALMIGHTY, known as Goliath.  David's older brothers and all of the Israeli army saw how large and ferocious Goliath appeared before their military strength, but David compared Goliath to "the GOD of the armies of Israel", not the armies themselves!

When the conversation was controlled by Goliath, the enemy, his attributes were what he tried to focus on.  When David had an opportunity to speak, the focal point swapped to "THE NAME OF THE LORD" of hosts, the GOD of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied".  Have you ever asked the question why didn't David talk about himself and all of the lion and bear he had killed, instead he spoke of "THE NAME OF THE LORD" and what GOD was able to accomplish.  Obviously, David knew to focus on  "THE NAME OF THE LORD"!

Don't get caught up in what the LORD has used you to make happen.  Keep your focus on what "THE NAME OF THE LORD" has brought about in your life, knowing HE can use you, or HE can use someone else to bring HIM Glory!  We all have read how this story plays out, and Goliath wasn't long for "this world"!  "THE NAME OF THE LORD" will be glorified, and HE will not share HIS glory with anyone (Isaiah 42:8)!  We need to elevate and magnify "THE NAME OF THE LORD" and let HIM take care of the battles (v.47)!!!

"TO DO IT!"

Ezra 7:1-10                                 (ESV)
"1 Now after this, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, son of Azariah, son of Hilkiah,
2 son of Shallum, son of Zadok, son of Ahitub,
3 son of Amariah, son of Azariah, son of Meraioth,
4 son of Zerahiah, son of Uzzi, son of Bukki,
5 son of Abishua, son of Phinehas, son of Eleazar, son of Aaron the chief priest-
6 this Ezra went up from Babylonia. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses that the LORD, the GOD of Israel, had given, and the king granted him all that he asked, for the hand of the LORD his GOD was on him.
7 And there went up also to Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king, some of the people of Israel, and some of the priests and Levites, the singers and gatekeepers, and the temple servants.
8 And Ezra came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year of the king.
9 For on the first day of the first month he began to go up from Babylonia, and on the first day of the fifth month he came to Jerusalem, for the good hand of his God was on him.
10 For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and "TO DO IT" and to teach HIS statutes and rules in Israel."



In studying the HOLY BIBLE as a whole, one could be left pondering just who it is GOD uses to further HIS call.  No one would argue that Moses was called of GOD to deliver HIS chosen people from the bondage of the Egyptians.  Yet Moses was a lowly sheep herder, and murderer, who lived outside of mainstream of society, and away from the limelight.  But GOD used Moses to in one of the most miraculous events to HIS Glory!

Ezra, on the other hand, had a lineage that would make most "proud"!  "He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses" (v.6) and even found favor with the king of Persia!  The hand of the LORD "his" GOD was on him, not the hand of the god of the Persian King!  If GOD can "harden Pharaoh's heart" (Exodus 14:4) and cause him and his hosts to drown in the Red Sea, it shouldn't surprise us that GOD could cause the king of Persia to favor Ezra.

GOD reveals HIMSELF through scripture.  HE can reveal TRUTHS in articles or books written by modern authors, but when a person MUST hear from GOD, HE will be found when you search HIS Word.  In verse 10 above, scripture records that "Ezra had SET HIS HEART to study the Law of the LORD"!   JESUS said in John 8:39-47 that the reason some CAN'T hear from GOD is because they are of the devil.  Ezra was determined ("set his heart") to hear from GOD, but not only to hear from GOD, but "TO DO IT" and to set an example by teaching GOD's Word and rules in Israel.

The pedigree of the messenger is not what sets the messenger apart from others.  The heart "TO DO IT" is what sets them apart!  Although Ezra had a heritage to be proud of, he desired not only to hear from GOD, but "TO DO IT"!  Too many times so-called men of GOD want to get a Word from GOD, but when it comes down to it they don't have a desire "TO DO IT", and their message is ineffective as the Holy Spirit hasn't been involved or consulted.  HEAVENLY FATHER, I pray that my life would be one that reflects an attitude of obedience and that my Spirit would display a "TO DO IT" mentality!!!

"JESUS CHRIST IS THE SAME!"

 Hebrews 13:8-10              (ESV)
"8 "JESUS CHRIST IS THE SAME" yesterday and today and forever.
9 Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them.
10 We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat."



Have you ever witnessed someone acting totally out of character, doing things that don't quite line up with who they really are?  Better still, have YOU ever experienced yourself having an apparent change in personality traits so dramatic that you think there may be something wrong with you?  When JESUS comes into a life and changes that life they have a NEW character, a new basis for living their life.

But changing for the sake of change will not bring about lasting, meaningful results.  While it is true that times are constantly changing, and maybe even progressing, "JESUS CHRIST IS THE SAME" for eternity.  When a person surrenders to JESUS they are not just getting a get-out-of-jail free card.  But that is the way a lot of people live their lives.  Even "teachers" of (what are supposed to be) biblical principles get caught up in the frenzy of "this world" and give advice that isn't scriptural.  If there's no scripture to confirm, or base a teaching from, you might need to make sure it is from GOD?

The intelligence of man is an amazing phenomenon.  Less than 100 years ago automobiles were a rarity!  Today it seems like every family in the United States has multiple vehicles.  Medicine, growing of crops, manufacturing of clothing, indoor utilities, and we can't leave out TECHNOLOGY, are things we take for granted as nothing seems out of the realm of possibility for mankind.

But we have allowed our so-called intelligence to so cloud our minds and thinking that we fail to proclaim that there is a GOD who is in control and HE has a Plan that WILL come to fruition.  JESUS said that just like it was in the days of Noah when people were eating, drinking, and being given in marriage until the day that Noah entered the ark and judgement of the sins of man was sealed, will the coming of he SON of MAN be!  The fear, the dread, the impending doom had to be intense, yet Noah had told them for many years that Judgement Day was coming..........and now it was too late!!!

The fact that "JESUS CHRIST IS THE SAME" yesterday, today, and forever informs us that no matter our intelligence, our progress, our TECHNOLOGY, our sin WILL BE JUDGED!  Exodus 34:7 says GOD "will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation."  GOD IS HOLY and you should not be deceived that HE will not judge our sin!  Unless we can claim GRACE through "JESUS CHRIST IS THE SAME", we will experience judgement!

"TEACH ME YOUR WAY!"

Psalms 86:11                            (ESV)
"TEACH ME YOUR WAY", O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name."



Trusting GOD to work HIS will in my life, on HIS timing, for HIS glory requires more than patience on my part, it requires a humble obedience, demonstrating a complete surrender to HIS leadership and direction of where, when, and how, HE can be most glorified in my existence.

Have thine own way LORD, have thine own way
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay
Mold me and make me, after thy will
Will I am WAITING, yielded and still

"IMPOSSIBLE!"

Hebrews 11:5-7              (ESV)
"5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because GOD had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased GOD.
6 And without faith it is "IMPOSSIBLE" to please HIM, for whoever would draw near to GOD must believe that HE exists and that HE rewards those who seek HIM.
7 By faith Noah, being warned by GOD concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by FAITH."




When I reflect on my life and all of the joy and successes I have enjoyed there is little doubt in my mind there is a loving GOD guiding my life.  When I consider my past and all of the trials and turmoils I have endured, there remains NO DOUBT whatsoever that GOD has been there before I was formed in my mothers womb providing direction and sometimes by limiting choices where I would follow HIM. Even when I was unable to make wise decisions, namely during the brain hemorrhage of 2007, GOD directed Doctors to place me into a medically induced coma so I wouldn't interfere, nor gain any glory, from the greatest miracle provided in my life.  The idea that GOD is not sovereign, while at the same time allowing us to have choices in our lives, is something I'm not sure I totally understand, but am so grateful for!

GOD cannot be seen by all.  You must diligently search for HIM in order to find HIM.  Jeremiah 29:13 says "You will seek ME and find ME, when you seek ME with all your heart".  I did not realize that GOD was directing my life until I earnestly started seeking for HIM to be revealed in my life.  Of course, when I set me eyes on HIM and HIS majesty seeing that HE has always been is an overwhelming observation.

Since GOD has always been there in my life and HE never fails, why do I fret about the future and what may lie ahead?  One commentary states "God is eternal. Because He is eternal, He did not need to be created. In fact, because He is eternal, God could not have been created, since it is not possible to create something that already exists."  Since GOD "is" and HE is sovereign over everything (ask Pharaoh in Exodus 14!), I must realize that if trials and turmoil are in my future, then GOD must be using the trials and turmoil for HIS glory!

In Luke 1:37 the same angel who foretold the birth of JESUS said "For nothing will be "IMPOSSIBLE" with GOD".  In Hebrews 11:6 scripture says it IS "IMPOSSIBLE" to please GOD!  The only conclusion that I can deduce is that one "must believe that HE exists and that HE rewards those who seek HIM"!  Since GOD is eternal and is sovereign over everything in my life, I can rest assured that HE knows the plans (Jeremiah 29:11) HE has for me!  My focus shall remain on HIM getting glory from my life in everything I do, and doing the "IMPOSSIBLE" for HIM!!!

"FOLLOW ME!"

Matthew 16:24-25                                    (ESV)
"24 Then JESUS told HIS disciples, "If anyone would come after ME, let him deny himself and take up his cross and "FOLLOW ME".
25 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for MY sake will find it."



Not ever being one who reveled in coming in second, I remember always having a desire to lead the pack, especially when driving!  My wife has been married to me for nearly 32 years and she still gets frustrated with me on not wanting to allow another vehicle to lead the way.  I'm not saying that having (or being) a leader is bad, but that the designated leader must recognize his assignment and not lead down the wrong path!

The earthly ministry of JESUS lasted just over three years.  The teachings HE left in that short period of time continue changing lives to this day!  Matthew 16:24-28 could take months for an expository preacher to make his way through.  In Matthew 16:24, a different translation says that "Those who want to come with me must say NO to the things they want".  In a conversation with a friend recently they were speaking about praying that GOD would join them in THEIR PLANS, when GOD spoke to them about them joining GOD and HIS work!  We are called to "FOLLOW ME", not for HIM to help us through our troubles!

When GOD was leading the children of Israel, HIS Holy Spirit preceded then in a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, leaving no room for them to stray.  I, on the other hand, have been known to begin following HIM and I proceed down a path, ASSUMING that is the path GOD would have me travel.  HIS cloud, or pillar of fire, may have taken a turn but I was so intent on leading the pack that I missed HIS leadership and continued on my own!  All of the sudden, I am on my own with no guidance or direction, wondering what I did wrong?

Far too many times "followers of CHRIST" want to be out front expecting GOD to bless their efforts, even though they have abandoned following HIM.  Now I see that the only way to effectively lead is to " FOLLOW ME"!  When we make sure we are behind HIS cloud, or pillar of fire, we are placing HIS direction ahead of our wishes.  GOD's protection, and following HIS Plan, can only be achieved when we "FOLLOW ME!"