Philippians 1:19-21 (ESV)
"19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the SPIRIT of JESUS CHRIST this will turn out for my deliverance,
20 as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always "CHRIST WILL BE HONORED" in my body, whether by life or by death.
21 For to me to live is CHRIST, and to die is gain."
Many times I find myself in the depths of despair and self-pity! Thoughts of "I don't deserve this", or "I should have done things differently", or a similar expression generally enter my mind while wallowing in my doubt. There is little time or room for glorifying GOD when your thoughts are focused on your own situation. And the last thing the enemy wants to occur is for GOD to be glorified!
The Apostle Paul was thought to be imprisoned when he wrote the letter to the church in Philippi (v13). He could have bemoaned the situation he and Timothy found themselves in, but rather he wrote "CHRIST WILL BE HONORED" through his difficulties. Being detained would seemingly curtail one's ability to spread the gospel (Good News), but Paul recognized that GOD was/is in control of ALL THINGS (Romans 8:28) and HE would get glory from the sufferings he had to endure! The Apostle Paul was quite willing to endure difficulties and sufferings for GOD to be glorified (2 Timothy 4:6-8), even being put to death!
Modern day Christianity has become so comfortable with our blessings and prosperity that we seem to have lost sight of suffering for the sake of the gospel. When we see "preachers" living in multi-million dollar homes and flying private jets we "perceive" they must be doing something right? I wonder where the Apostle Paul would be classified today? Better still, I wonder where JESUS would be classified (Mark 10:35-45)???
Paul stated that whether by life or by death, "CHRIST WILL BE HONORED" in my body! We should have the same resolve to make sure "CHRIST WILL BE HONORED" in our lives, but I fail HIM so miserably at times with my life! Thanks to GOD ALMIGHTY that HIS grace (2 Corinthians 12:9-11) IS sufficient and I am so glad it is! May I forever be mindful that whatever circumstances I find myself in that "CHRIST WILL BE HONORED" by my life!!!
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
"FOR GOD ALONE!"
Psalms 62:1-2 (ESV)
"1 "FOR GOD ALONE" my soul waits in silence; from HIM comes my salvation.
2 HE alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I SHALL NOT BE GREATLY SHAKEN."
In the modern day culture, we tend to get so caught up in the pace of "this world" that most of the time we don't even slow down to hear from GOD. There are some who have never even developed their Spiritual listening skills to know when GOD is speaking to them. We can go through life "so busy" that we fail to enjoy our journey. Not long ago I observed something on a social media site that has stuck with me. It read, "REST is a weapon given to us by GOD! The enemy hates it because he wants you STRESSED and OCCUPIED!"
Before July 09, 2007 I was a poster child for being busy! Saying "I didn't have time" was as foreign to me as saying "I can't"! One thing I now recognize is that I was easily shaken in those days. Making sure I was "in control" was a trait that I did my best to perfect, and with a certain degree of success. But then I experienced a time of NOT being "in control", the degree of which words cannot describe! There seems to be something about lying in the floor flat of your face because your legs don't work, and then not being able to formulate a sentence, that humbles me every time I recall the day. Believing GOD is in control, and KNOWING GOD IS IN CONTROL, are two VERY different things!!!
Learning to wait "FOR GOD ALONE" was not something I just decided I would do because I could do nothing else! Being hospitalized for 52 days didn't SLOW me down enough to make me not be SHAKEN! When your SOUL has to "wait in silence" your physical body can become so frustrated that the anxiety and stress can immobilize you. Waiting "FOR GOD ALONE" can be a very painful, yet extremely rewarding, experience. We must come to the understanding that HE IS IN CONTROL though and HE has a Plan!
Perhaps being hospitalized can be a time to wait "FOR GOD ALONE"? Maybe even being in a coma for 17 days may cause you to wait "FOR GOD ALONE"? But until your SOUL WAITS IN SILENCE "FOR GOD ALONE" there will not be an unmistakable peace and comfort that calms your Spirit. It cannot come from any other source. It can only be "FOR GOD ALONE"!!!
"1 "FOR GOD ALONE" my soul waits in silence; from HIM comes my salvation.
2 HE alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I SHALL NOT BE GREATLY SHAKEN."
In the modern day culture, we tend to get so caught up in the pace of "this world" that most of the time we don't even slow down to hear from GOD. There are some who have never even developed their Spiritual listening skills to know when GOD is speaking to them. We can go through life "so busy" that we fail to enjoy our journey. Not long ago I observed something on a social media site that has stuck with me. It read, "REST is a weapon given to us by GOD! The enemy hates it because he wants you STRESSED and OCCUPIED!"
Before July 09, 2007 I was a poster child for being busy! Saying "I didn't have time" was as foreign to me as saying "I can't"! One thing I now recognize is that I was easily shaken in those days. Making sure I was "in control" was a trait that I did my best to perfect, and with a certain degree of success. But then I experienced a time of NOT being "in control", the degree of which words cannot describe! There seems to be something about lying in the floor flat of your face because your legs don't work, and then not being able to formulate a sentence, that humbles me every time I recall the day. Believing GOD is in control, and KNOWING GOD IS IN CONTROL, are two VERY different things!!!
Learning to wait "FOR GOD ALONE" was not something I just decided I would do because I could do nothing else! Being hospitalized for 52 days didn't SLOW me down enough to make me not be SHAKEN! When your SOUL has to "wait in silence" your physical body can become so frustrated that the anxiety and stress can immobilize you. Waiting "FOR GOD ALONE" can be a very painful, yet extremely rewarding, experience. We must come to the understanding that HE IS IN CONTROL though and HE has a Plan!
Perhaps being hospitalized can be a time to wait "FOR GOD ALONE"? Maybe even being in a coma for 17 days may cause you to wait "FOR GOD ALONE"? But until your SOUL WAITS IN SILENCE "FOR GOD ALONE" there will not be an unmistakable peace and comfort that calms your Spirit. It cannot come from any other source. It can only be "FOR GOD ALONE"!!!
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
"THE TRUTH!"
2 Timothy 4:3-4 (ESV)
"3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,
4 and will turn away from listening to "THE TRUTH" and wander off into myths."
Occasionally, while visiting a social media website, I observe a message that must be from GOD, for HE uses it to unmistakably speak to my heart. Recently I saw something that had the passage of scripture listed above and a caption that read: "SUGAR-COATED PREACHING IS DANGEROUS TO YOUR SOUL. 2 TIMOTHY 4:3-4. It is better to SPEAK THE TRUTH that HURTS then HEALS, than FALSEHOOD that COMFORTS and then KILLS!"
Far too many modern day pulpits are occupied by ministers whose only interest is in NOT OFFENDING people in the congregation, rather than HEALING those who are hearing their message today. Hebrews 4:12 states "For the WORD OF GOD is living and ACTIVE, SHARPER THAN ANY TWO-EDGED SWORD, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." But not only are pulpits to blame, but Believers (especially in the United States) today are too comfortable in their life of luxury and comfort that they don't want to rock the boat with "THE TRUTH" and say what THUS SAITH THE LORD!
The day is quickly approaching when "this world" will no longer tolerate "THE TRUTH", nor the righteous actions of those who follow "THE TRUTH", and are content with wandering off into myths, or "an imaginary or fictitious thing or person". JESUS said in John 14:6 "I am the way, and 'THE TRUTH', and the life. No one comes to the FATHER except through ME". "This world" rejected JESUS when HE came to earth before (John 3:19-21), so we should not be surprised when they reject HIM today, for HIS Spirit lives in us and they cannot tolerate "THE TRUTH"!
When people turn from "THE TRUTH" and try living in their own wisdom and strength, the generally wind up "wandering off into myths" with no direction or purpose. Sure, they can experience earthly success, fame and/or fortune, but true peace and comfort only will come from "THE TRUTH"! We are/were created for glorification of a HOLY GOD, not to "wander off into myths"! May my life draw HIM glory as I celebrate "THE TRUTH" that this world rejects and rest in the joy and peace only HE can bring!!!
"3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,
4 and will turn away from listening to "THE TRUTH" and wander off into myths."
Occasionally, while visiting a social media website, I observe a message that must be from GOD, for HE uses it to unmistakably speak to my heart. Recently I saw something that had the passage of scripture listed above and a caption that read: "SUGAR-COATED PREACHING IS DANGEROUS TO YOUR SOUL. 2 TIMOTHY 4:3-4. It is better to SPEAK THE TRUTH that HURTS then HEALS, than FALSEHOOD that COMFORTS and then KILLS!"
Far too many modern day pulpits are occupied by ministers whose only interest is in NOT OFFENDING people in the congregation, rather than HEALING those who are hearing their message today. Hebrews 4:12 states "For the WORD OF GOD is living and ACTIVE, SHARPER THAN ANY TWO-EDGED SWORD, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." But not only are pulpits to blame, but Believers (especially in the United States) today are too comfortable in their life of luxury and comfort that they don't want to rock the boat with "THE TRUTH" and say what THUS SAITH THE LORD!
The day is quickly approaching when "this world" will no longer tolerate "THE TRUTH", nor the righteous actions of those who follow "THE TRUTH", and are content with wandering off into myths, or "an imaginary or fictitious thing or person". JESUS said in John 14:6 "I am the way, and 'THE TRUTH', and the life. No one comes to the FATHER except through ME". "This world" rejected JESUS when HE came to earth before (John 3:19-21), so we should not be surprised when they reject HIM today, for HIS Spirit lives in us and they cannot tolerate "THE TRUTH"!
When people turn from "THE TRUTH" and try living in their own wisdom and strength, the generally wind up "wandering off into myths" with no direction or purpose. Sure, they can experience earthly success, fame and/or fortune, but true peace and comfort only will come from "THE TRUTH"! We are/were created for glorification of a HOLY GOD, not to "wander off into myths"! May my life draw HIM glory as I celebrate "THE TRUTH" that this world rejects and rest in the joy and peace only HE can bring!!!
Monday, June 27, 2016
"BE SEPARATE!"
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (ESV)
"14 DO NOT be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?
15 What accord has CHRIST with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever?
16 What agreement has the temple of GOD with idols? For we are the temple of the living GOD; as GOD said, "I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their GOD, and they shall be MY people.
17 Therefore go out from their midst, and "BE SEPARATE" from them, says the LORD, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you,
18 and I will be a FATHER to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to ME , says the LORD ALMIGHTY."
"This world" continually tries to convince the church that we need to assimilate to the ideals and lifestyles that THEY approve and mandate. There is no greater frustration than a Believer trying to live a life that is not in accordance to how GOD directs one one to live. JESUS said in Matthew 6:24 that we cannot serve two Masters, so why do we even attempt to? Is the church trying to prove GOD wrong? In Revelation 3:16 scripture states "So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth." The way I read scripture, GOD doesn't want HIS children to try to be like "this world"!
Leviticus 11:44a says "For I am the LORD your GOD. CONSECRATE yourselves therefore, and be HOLY, for I am HOLY....". One dictionary defines CONSECRATE as "1.
to make or declare sacred; SET APART or dedicate to the service of a deity." Am I "dedicated to the service of a Diety", or am I trying to NOT OFFEND "this world" by not standing for THE TRUTH when it is against what they practice? While it is true that a person must be drawn by the Spirit of GOD to have their life changed, GOD may need me to be DISTINCT and SEPARATE as an example of what HIS Child should be? Remember, I am NOT MY OWN (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), I have been bought with a price so I must live for HIM!
When the temptation comes to be "unequally yoked", we must "BE SEPARATE" from them, says the LORD! Believers are a part of the Vine (John 15:1-8) and we can't assimilate to "this world", we must "BE SEPARATE"! We don't need to accept their lifestyles just to show them we love them, for what kind of love allows a friend to spend eternity in the lake of fire! We will "BE SEPARATE" for eternity. To be obedient now, we need to "BE SEPARATE" from them now!
"14 DO NOT be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?
15 What accord has CHRIST with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever?
16 What agreement has the temple of GOD with idols? For we are the temple of the living GOD; as GOD said, "I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their GOD, and they shall be MY people.
17 Therefore go out from their midst, and "BE SEPARATE" from them, says the LORD, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you,
18 and I will be a FATHER to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to ME , says the LORD ALMIGHTY."
"This world" continually tries to convince the church that we need to assimilate to the ideals and lifestyles that THEY approve and mandate. There is no greater frustration than a Believer trying to live a life that is not in accordance to how GOD directs one one to live. JESUS said in Matthew 6:24 that we cannot serve two Masters, so why do we even attempt to? Is the church trying to prove GOD wrong? In Revelation 3:16 scripture states "So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth." The way I read scripture, GOD doesn't want HIS children to try to be like "this world"!
Leviticus 11:44a says "For I am the LORD your GOD. CONSECRATE yourselves therefore, and be HOLY, for I am HOLY....". One dictionary defines CONSECRATE as "1.
to make or declare sacred; SET APART or dedicate to the service of a deity." Am I "dedicated to the service of a Diety", or am I trying to NOT OFFEND "this world" by not standing for THE TRUTH when it is against what they practice? While it is true that a person must be drawn by the Spirit of GOD to have their life changed, GOD may need me to be DISTINCT and SEPARATE as an example of what HIS Child should be? Remember, I am NOT MY OWN (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), I have been bought with a price so I must live for HIM!
When the temptation comes to be "unequally yoked", we must "BE SEPARATE" from them, says the LORD! Believers are a part of the Vine (John 15:1-8) and we can't assimilate to "this world", we must "BE SEPARATE"! We don't need to accept their lifestyles just to show them we love them, for what kind of love allows a friend to spend eternity in the lake of fire! We will "BE SEPARATE" for eternity. To be obedient now, we need to "BE SEPARATE" from them now!
Friday, June 24, 2016
"THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH!"
Psalms 23 (ESV)
"1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 HE makes me lie down in green pastures. HE leads me beside still waters.
3 HE restores my soul. HE leads me in paths of righteousness for HIS name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH", I will fear no evil, for YOU are with me; YOUR rod and YOUR staff, they comfort me.
5 YOU prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; YOU anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever."
Recently I was visiting with a client/friend who, like me, experienced a near death experience earlier in life. In June 2006 he was in a plane crash that left him hospitalized for three weeks. He had a difficult time of recovery and still experiences certain "handicaps" from the accident. It was intriguing to hear of his experiences and how he appreciates life more now, and how he has slowed his life down since his accident.
Nine years ago next month my brain hemorrhaged and I was hospitalized for 31 days, then in Rehab for 21 days. Both of us have interesting stories to tell. When we were talking recently, it was almost like we were trying to "one up" the other, but in reality, we were both expressing how GOD is the only was we made it through our circumstance. For me, when GOD delivered me through "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH" it became so much of a part of who I am that separating me from my healing is almost impossible. I don't intend to bore people with my history, but I must tell them that it was GOD WHO got me where I am today.
There is no doubt we all could stand to slow our lives down just a bit. King David wrote in the above scriptures several items like LIE DOWN, STILL WATERS, and ANOINTING WITH OIL, none of which are indicative of a modern day, fast-paced society. The enemy attempts to get us on a "spinning-top", moving so fast that our lives are out of control. We try to "make more", whether it's time, money, recreation, or anything to avoid spending time with our CREATOR! And by keeping us busy, the enemy is accomplishing his goal!
GOD wants us to slow down and WALK, not run, through our schedules. HE is able to move at whatever pace needed to gain HIM Glory! But we are usually too busy trying to "make more" that we neglect GOD and HIS WORD. The fact that GOD can slow us down from time to time has not escaped me. When you WALK through "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH" you are able to SEE things from a different perspective. My prayer is that you will not be too busy "making more" that you have to experience a something as dramatic as my friend and I. "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH" is not a place you want to frequent!!!
"1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 HE makes me lie down in green pastures. HE leads me beside still waters.
3 HE restores my soul. HE leads me in paths of righteousness for HIS name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH", I will fear no evil, for YOU are with me; YOUR rod and YOUR staff, they comfort me.
5 YOU prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; YOU anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever."
Recently I was visiting with a client/friend who, like me, experienced a near death experience earlier in life. In June 2006 he was in a plane crash that left him hospitalized for three weeks. He had a difficult time of recovery and still experiences certain "handicaps" from the accident. It was intriguing to hear of his experiences and how he appreciates life more now, and how he has slowed his life down since his accident.
Nine years ago next month my brain hemorrhaged and I was hospitalized for 31 days, then in Rehab for 21 days. Both of us have interesting stories to tell. When we were talking recently, it was almost like we were trying to "one up" the other, but in reality, we were both expressing how GOD is the only was we made it through our circumstance. For me, when GOD delivered me through "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH" it became so much of a part of who I am that separating me from my healing is almost impossible. I don't intend to bore people with my history, but I must tell them that it was GOD WHO got me where I am today.
There is no doubt we all could stand to slow our lives down just a bit. King David wrote in the above scriptures several items like LIE DOWN, STILL WATERS, and ANOINTING WITH OIL, none of which are indicative of a modern day, fast-paced society. The enemy attempts to get us on a "spinning-top", moving so fast that our lives are out of control. We try to "make more", whether it's time, money, recreation, or anything to avoid spending time with our CREATOR! And by keeping us busy, the enemy is accomplishing his goal!
GOD wants us to slow down and WALK, not run, through our schedules. HE is able to move at whatever pace needed to gain HIM Glory! But we are usually too busy trying to "make more" that we neglect GOD and HIS WORD. The fact that GOD can slow us down from time to time has not escaped me. When you WALK through "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH" you are able to SEE things from a different perspective. My prayer is that you will not be too busy "making more" that you have to experience a something as dramatic as my friend and I. "THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH" is not a place you want to frequent!!!
Thursday, June 23, 2016
YOU ARE THE MAN!"
2 Samuel 12:-13 (ESV)
"1 And the LORD sent Nathan to David. He came to him and said to him, "There were two men in a certain city, the one rich and the other poor.
2 The rich man had very many flocks and herds,
3 but the poor man had nothing but one little ewe lamb, which he had bought. And he brought it up, and it grew up with him and with his children. It used to eat of his morsel and drink from his cup and lie in his arms, and it was like a daughter to him.
4 Now there came a traveler to the rich man, and he was unwilling to take one of his own flock or herd to prepare for the guest who had come to him, but he took the poor man's lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him."
5 Then David's anger was greatly kindled against the man, and he said to Nathan, "As the LORD lives, the man who has done this deserves to die,
6 and he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity."
7 Nathan said to David, "YOU ARE THE MAN!" Thus says the LORD, the GOD of Israel, 'I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you out of the hand of Saul.
8 And I gave you your master's house and your master's wives into your arms and gave you the house of Israel and of Judah. And if this were too little, I would add to you as much more.
9 Why have you despised the word of the LORD, to do what is evil in his sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and have taken his wife to be your wife and have killed him with the sword of the Ammonites.
10 Now therefore the sword shall never depart from your house, because you have despised ME and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife.'
11 Thus says the LORD, 'Behold, I will raise up evil against you out of your own house. And I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor, and he shall lie with your wives in the sight of this sun.
12 For you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel and before the sun.'"
13 David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD." And Nathan said to David, "The LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die."
There are many words that have been, and could be, written about the scriptures above. Most everyone who knows scripture understands King David had chosen the brief passion with Bathsheba over his relationship with the LORD. Now David was a "man after GOD's own heart" (1 Samuel 13:14) and yet he made such an egregious decision! How in the world could that be the case?
According to 2 Samuel 11:27b GOD was "displeased" that David had made such a bad decision. That scripture states "....But the thing that David had done displeased the LORD." King David had been chosen to be King as a young shepherd boy, and now he was choosing passion and pleasure over obedience to the LORD. It would appear GOD would have rejected King David as King, much as HE rejected Saul, David's predecessor. Yet King David also had Uriah, Bathsheba's husband and a dedicated servant of the King, placed in a position where he would be killed and out of the picture so King David could try to cover up his sin. The child who was conceived in sin died and David mourned.
However, in 2 Samuel 12:24 Solomon was conceived by Bathsheba by King David and scripture states near the end of that verse "...and he called his name Solomon. AND THE LORD LOVED HIM"! GOD used King David's bad choices for HIS glory. In Matthew 1 , the lineage of JESUS CHRIST is given, and in verse 6 it is recorded "and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah,"! Now how would you like your legacy to be that you are a predecessor to GOD INCARNATE, but you were used to be that predecessor with another man's wife?! GOD has a tendency to use HIS servants weakest moments to do HIS greatest works.
"YOU ARE THE MAN" is generally thought of as an admiration statement. In the case, it was not something that elevated King David. Although King David's heart was in the right place, he allowed his actions to lead him into sinning against GOD. GOD continues to use imperfect people to accomplish HIS Plan. Although I am not close to being without sin, I pray that I will be used by GOD to accomplish HIS Plan and to be told "YOU ARE THE MAN " who GOD used to change your world!
"1 And the LORD sent Nathan to David. He came to him and said to him, "There were two men in a certain city, the one rich and the other poor.
2 The rich man had very many flocks and herds,
3 but the poor man had nothing but one little ewe lamb, which he had bought. And he brought it up, and it grew up with him and with his children. It used to eat of his morsel and drink from his cup and lie in his arms, and it was like a daughter to him.
4 Now there came a traveler to the rich man, and he was unwilling to take one of his own flock or herd to prepare for the guest who had come to him, but he took the poor man's lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him."
5 Then David's anger was greatly kindled against the man, and he said to Nathan, "As the LORD lives, the man who has done this deserves to die,
6 and he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity."
7 Nathan said to David, "YOU ARE THE MAN!" Thus says the LORD, the GOD of Israel, 'I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you out of the hand of Saul.
8 And I gave you your master's house and your master's wives into your arms and gave you the house of Israel and of Judah. And if this were too little, I would add to you as much more.
9 Why have you despised the word of the LORD, to do what is evil in his sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and have taken his wife to be your wife and have killed him with the sword of the Ammonites.
10 Now therefore the sword shall never depart from your house, because you have despised ME and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife.'
11 Thus says the LORD, 'Behold, I will raise up evil against you out of your own house. And I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor, and he shall lie with your wives in the sight of this sun.
12 For you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel and before the sun.'"
13 David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD." And Nathan said to David, "The LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die."
There are many words that have been, and could be, written about the scriptures above. Most everyone who knows scripture understands King David had chosen the brief passion with Bathsheba over his relationship with the LORD. Now David was a "man after GOD's own heart" (1 Samuel 13:14) and yet he made such an egregious decision! How in the world could that be the case?
According to 2 Samuel 11:27b GOD was "displeased" that David had made such a bad decision. That scripture states "....But the thing that David had done displeased the LORD." King David had been chosen to be King as a young shepherd boy, and now he was choosing passion and pleasure over obedience to the LORD. It would appear GOD would have rejected King David as King, much as HE rejected Saul, David's predecessor. Yet King David also had Uriah, Bathsheba's husband and a dedicated servant of the King, placed in a position where he would be killed and out of the picture so King David could try to cover up his sin. The child who was conceived in sin died and David mourned.
However, in 2 Samuel 12:24 Solomon was conceived by Bathsheba by King David and scripture states near the end of that verse "...and he called his name Solomon. AND THE LORD LOVED HIM"! GOD used King David's bad choices for HIS glory. In Matthew 1 , the lineage of JESUS CHRIST is given, and in verse 6 it is recorded "and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah,"! Now how would you like your legacy to be that you are a predecessor to GOD INCARNATE, but you were used to be that predecessor with another man's wife?! GOD has a tendency to use HIS servants weakest moments to do HIS greatest works.
"YOU ARE THE MAN" is generally thought of as an admiration statement. In the case, it was not something that elevated King David. Although King David's heart was in the right place, he allowed his actions to lead him into sinning against GOD. GOD continues to use imperfect people to accomplish HIS Plan. Although I am not close to being without sin, I pray that I will be used by GOD to accomplish HIS Plan and to be told "YOU ARE THE MAN " who GOD used to change your world!
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
"THESE WORDS!"
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (ESV)
"4 "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our GOD, the LORD is ONE.
5 You shall love THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
6 And "THESE WORDS" that I command you today shall be on your heart.
7 You shall teach them "diligently" to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.
8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.
9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
In Deuteronomy 5:32-33 GOD tells the children of Israel "You shall be careful therefore to do as THE LORD YOUR GOD has commanded you. You shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. You shall walk in all the way that THE LORD YOUR GOD has commanded you, that you may live, and that it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land that you shall possess." In the next few verses GOD instructs them (and us) to "diligently" teach "THESE WORDS" to your children.
Why would GOD instruct HIS children to "diligently" teach their children "THESE WORDS" that HE commanded them to keep on implanting in their hearts? The CREATOR gave instructions on how to make sure "it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land that you shall possess." Why would WE not follow the instructions of The CREATOR when we are rearing our children? Why have them go through a "wilderness" of sorts when GOD has instructed us on how "it may go well with you"? Parenting books sell millions, but our CREATOR instructed us on what we should do thousands of years ago!
Our CREATOR instructs us to write "THESE WORDS" on our hands, between our eyes, and on our doorposts and gates", and on our children's, for a reason! Psalms 119:11 says "I have stored up YOUR WORD in my heart, that I might not sin against YOU!" When we place our hope and trust in HIS WORD (John 1:1) we are acknowledging that GOD IS IN CONTROL! When we try to figure things out within our own reasonings and understandings, we are walking in the "natural" and not living by faith! "THESE WORDS" are intended to 'set us free' from the slavery that living in the "natural" brings. To understand we are enslaved by this world, we must stay in HIS WORD and let HIS WORD stay in us!
Speaking just for me, I regret not 'diligently" teaching my children more about "THESE WORDS"! Teaching them how to perform in athletics, or how to have a good work ethic, or anything else to do with their "perceived" social status will not mean anything when they stand before our CREATOR. Sure, their mom and I must have done something right, for we have never had to get our children out of jail, nor visit them in a hospital, nor get them out of a lot of trouble. Apparently we planted enough of "THESE WORDS" in their lives, but THE LORD grew the seed, to grow them into the responsible adults they are today. Help me LORD to rely solely on "THESE WORDS" in my life to guide and protect me as I serve YOU!!!
"4 "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our GOD, the LORD is ONE.
5 You shall love THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
6 And "THESE WORDS" that I command you today shall be on your heart.
7 You shall teach them "diligently" to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.
8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.
9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
In Deuteronomy 5:32-33 GOD tells the children of Israel "You shall be careful therefore to do as THE LORD YOUR GOD has commanded you. You shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. You shall walk in all the way that THE LORD YOUR GOD has commanded you, that you may live, and that it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land that you shall possess." In the next few verses GOD instructs them (and us) to "diligently" teach "THESE WORDS" to your children.
Why would GOD instruct HIS children to "diligently" teach their children "THESE WORDS" that HE commanded them to keep on implanting in their hearts? The CREATOR gave instructions on how to make sure "it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land that you shall possess." Why would WE not follow the instructions of The CREATOR when we are rearing our children? Why have them go through a "wilderness" of sorts when GOD has instructed us on how "it may go well with you"? Parenting books sell millions, but our CREATOR instructed us on what we should do thousands of years ago!
Our CREATOR instructs us to write "THESE WORDS" on our hands, between our eyes, and on our doorposts and gates", and on our children's, for a reason! Psalms 119:11 says "I have stored up YOUR WORD in my heart, that I might not sin against YOU!" When we place our hope and trust in HIS WORD (John 1:1) we are acknowledging that GOD IS IN CONTROL! When we try to figure things out within our own reasonings and understandings, we are walking in the "natural" and not living by faith! "THESE WORDS" are intended to 'set us free' from the slavery that living in the "natural" brings. To understand we are enslaved by this world, we must stay in HIS WORD and let HIS WORD stay in us!
Speaking just for me, I regret not 'diligently" teaching my children more about "THESE WORDS"! Teaching them how to perform in athletics, or how to have a good work ethic, or anything else to do with their "perceived" social status will not mean anything when they stand before our CREATOR. Sure, their mom and I must have done something right, for we have never had to get our children out of jail, nor visit them in a hospital, nor get them out of a lot of trouble. Apparently we planted enough of "THESE WORDS" in their lives, but THE LORD grew the seed, to grow them into the responsible adults they are today. Help me LORD to rely solely on "THESE WORDS" in my life to guide and protect me as I serve YOU!!!
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
"THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART!"
1 Samuel 16:4-7 (ESV)
"4 Samuel did what the LORD commanded and came to Bethlehem. The elders of the city came to meet him trembling and said, "Do you come peaceably?"
5 And he said, "Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD. Consecrate yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice." And he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.
6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, "Surely the LORD's anointed is before him."
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART."
Not being able to physically SEE must be one of the most difficult things to experience. You can't know where you are nor where you are going, nor can you be aware of your surroundings! They say that when a person loses one of the five senses known to man, their remaining senses become more keenly developed? Maybe that's how we develop our Spiritual being. When our Physical being is given less importance, perhaps our Spiritual being become stronger? Maybe that is why we GROW the most when we are in the valleys of life?
Samuel was a Prophet, a man who was set aside by his mother through the Divine leadership of GOD, to be used accomplish GOD's Plan for his life on earth. When GOD "rejected" King Saul (1 Samuel 15:26), HE then would choose a shepherd boy named David to be King. David (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22) was known by GOD HIMSELF to be a "man after MY heart", which confirms that "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART"! Was King David blameless and perfect in all his ways? Romans 3:10 says "None is righteous, no, not one;", so King David sinned just like we all do. But he had a desire to live HOLY, much like Paul in Romans 7:13:25.
In 1 Samuel 16:7 GOD instructs Samuel "Do not look on "his appearance or on the height of his stature", because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART." Why then do we desire to elevate those with a handsome appearance when Isaiah 53:2-3 says JESUS was "despised and rejected" by men? We "clean ourselves up" outwardly before we go to church, but if "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART", what is HE seeing from me? Would I desire to have my thought-life displayed on a gigantic screen for all the world to see?
There are no words to describe the humiliation and despair that I should have to endure. When King Saul examined his HEART he only saw what man could see. When King David examined his heart he saw a broken man who needed redemption. King David was BLESSED to SEE some things the way GOD saw them. When "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART" while looking at me, what does HE SEE? Does HE SEE pride and arrogance, or does HE SEE a broken man in need of redemption???
"4 Samuel did what the LORD commanded and came to Bethlehem. The elders of the city came to meet him trembling and said, "Do you come peaceably?"
5 And he said, "Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD. Consecrate yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice." And he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.
6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, "Surely the LORD's anointed is before him."
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART."
Not being able to physically SEE must be one of the most difficult things to experience. You can't know where you are nor where you are going, nor can you be aware of your surroundings! They say that when a person loses one of the five senses known to man, their remaining senses become more keenly developed? Maybe that's how we develop our Spiritual being. When our Physical being is given less importance, perhaps our Spiritual being become stronger? Maybe that is why we GROW the most when we are in the valleys of life?
Samuel was a Prophet, a man who was set aside by his mother through the Divine leadership of GOD, to be used accomplish GOD's Plan for his life on earth. When GOD "rejected" King Saul (1 Samuel 15:26), HE then would choose a shepherd boy named David to be King. David (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22) was known by GOD HIMSELF to be a "man after MY heart", which confirms that "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART"! Was King David blameless and perfect in all his ways? Romans 3:10 says "None is righteous, no, not one;", so King David sinned just like we all do. But he had a desire to live HOLY, much like Paul in Romans 7:13:25.
In 1 Samuel 16:7 GOD instructs Samuel "Do not look on "his appearance or on the height of his stature", because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART." Why then do we desire to elevate those with a handsome appearance when Isaiah 53:2-3 says JESUS was "despised and rejected" by men? We "clean ourselves up" outwardly before we go to church, but if "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART", what is HE seeing from me? Would I desire to have my thought-life displayed on a gigantic screen for all the world to see?
There are no words to describe the humiliation and despair that I should have to endure. When King Saul examined his HEART he only saw what man could see. When King David examined his heart he saw a broken man who needed redemption. King David was BLESSED to SEE some things the way GOD saw them. When "THE LORD LOOKS ON THE HEART" while looking at me, what does HE SEE? Does HE SEE pride and arrogance, or does HE SEE a broken man in need of redemption???
Monday, June 20, 2016
"DIED BEFORE THE LORD!"
Leviticus 10:1-2 (NASB)
"Now Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took their respective firepans, and after putting fire in them, placed incense on it and offered strange fire before the LORD, which HE had not commanded them. And fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they "DIED BEFORE THE LORD.”
In modern times, we don't (and I am including myself) have a great enough respect for GOD, nor HIS WORD! People tend to do what they want and ask forgiveness if it violates GOD's instructions, or HIS WORD. There are times when I find myself in open violation of GOD's WORD, yet I act as though GRACE will get me out of a tough spot? When I read about Nadab and Abihu I am left to shudder in fear of my actions or inactions from time to time.
Nadab and Abihu were sons of Aaron, the first priest of Israel, according to the book Leviticus. Aaron's story begins in Exodus, with Aaron as spokesperson for and assistant to his younger brother, Moses. But his sons didn't follow GOD like their father. They thought they would worship GOD by their own rules, only GOD didn't hold their decision in the highest regard. They were immediately "consumed" and "they died before the LORD.”
I'm not sure what it was that GOD took such offense to, but suffice it to say that GOD didn't like people changing the way GOD was to be worshipped! The thing is, GOD struck them down with no warning, no second chances! If I were on a leash no longer than that, I would be "consumed" long ago! If not for GRACE, GOD would have had to burn me as quickly as HE did Nadab and Abihu. HE is a loving GOD, but HIS chief attribute is "I AM HOLY" (Leviticus 11:44)! Don't get my HOLY GOD confused with the "easy-believism" theology that some want to preach.
When GOD observes my life, all HE can see is the blood of JESUS CHRIST on Calvary covering my sinful actions. The sacrifice of THE LAMB paid my sin debt! Nadab and Abihu "DIED BEFORE THE LORD" for their sins. GRACE shouts that JESUS "DIED BEFORE THE LORD" for my sins!
"Now Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took their respective firepans, and after putting fire in them, placed incense on it and offered strange fire before the LORD, which HE had not commanded them. And fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they "DIED BEFORE THE LORD.”
In modern times, we don't (and I am including myself) have a great enough respect for GOD, nor HIS WORD! People tend to do what they want and ask forgiveness if it violates GOD's instructions, or HIS WORD. There are times when I find myself in open violation of GOD's WORD, yet I act as though GRACE will get me out of a tough spot? When I read about Nadab and Abihu I am left to shudder in fear of my actions or inactions from time to time.
Nadab and Abihu were sons of Aaron, the first priest of Israel, according to the book Leviticus. Aaron's story begins in Exodus, with Aaron as spokesperson for and assistant to his younger brother, Moses. But his sons didn't follow GOD like their father. They thought they would worship GOD by their own rules, only GOD didn't hold their decision in the highest regard. They were immediately "consumed" and "they died before the LORD.”
I'm not sure what it was that GOD took such offense to, but suffice it to say that GOD didn't like people changing the way GOD was to be worshipped! The thing is, GOD struck them down with no warning, no second chances! If I were on a leash no longer than that, I would be "consumed" long ago! If not for GRACE, GOD would have had to burn me as quickly as HE did Nadab and Abihu. HE is a loving GOD, but HIS chief attribute is "I AM HOLY" (Leviticus 11:44)! Don't get my HOLY GOD confused with the "easy-believism" theology that some want to preach.
When GOD observes my life, all HE can see is the blood of JESUS CHRIST on Calvary covering my sinful actions. The sacrifice of THE LAMB paid my sin debt! Nadab and Abihu "DIED BEFORE THE LORD" for their sins. GRACE shouts that JESUS "DIED BEFORE THE LORD" for my sins!
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
"GIVING HIM THANKS!"
Luke 17:11-19
"11 On the way to Jerusalem HE was passing along between Samaria and Galilee.
12 And as HE entered a village, HE was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance
13 and lifted up their voices, saying, "JESUS, MASTER, have mercy on us."
14 When HE saw them HE said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed.
15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising GOD WITH A LOUD VOICE;
16 and he fell on his face at JESUS' feet, "GIVING HIM THANKS". Now he was a Samaritan.
17 Then JESUS answered, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?
18 Was no one found to return and GIVE PRAISE to GOD except this foreigner?"
19 And HE said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
Yesterday evening I had just came in from a 2.4 mile walk in 36 minutes. I was sitting in my recliner trying to get my heart rate to get below 100bpm. During this time I notice where a friend is requesting prayer for a lady who has been admitted to a hospital and is in ICU in a drug induced coma. Of course, that brought back vivid memories!
Earlier yesterday I had visited the hospital where I was in a drug induced coma for 17 days almost 9 years ago. I met a RN who cared for me while I was in the coma. Her mom was in a congregation Sunday evening when I gave my testimony. She said her daughter worked at the same hospital in ICU and "probably" took care of me. Sure enough, today I went by and met this lady, and indeed she took care of me during my hospital stay. She said "you were a VERY sick young man" nine years ago! Somehow, I am rather humbled to hear just how poor my prognosis was in July/August 2007. Of course, I bear little resemblance to the man who was bed fast for over a month and had to go through extensive (yet brief) Rehab just to be able to walk away from my wheelchair on August 29, 2007 with the help of a walker!
The ability to recover physically is only secondary to my Spiritual recovery since JESUS came into my life in 1978. No, I have not lived for HIM like I should all those years, and YES, I have made my share (and probably more) of mistakes since! But GOD's forgiveness is always there for me when I stop long enough to realize how sinful I am, and how much I need HIM to guide me!
The physical recovery I manifest according to my medical records of September 25, 2007 is "a miracle from GOD"! The lady I met today who assisted me in my "darkest hours" can verify the seriousness of my condition. The Samaritan leper was the only leper healed that day who took time to acknowledge WHO had healed him. His future must have been as seemingly dark as mine, for I am told my prognosis was pretty bleak! But everyone that has been SAVED by the blood of JESUS CHRIST has had just as tremendous event in their lives. For those, such as my caregivers, who know where I have come from, it is a joyous story. For those who have to take my word, they will continue to hear me "GIVING HIM THANKS", for I will NEVER forget where I came from and where I could be!
"11 On the way to Jerusalem HE was passing along between Samaria and Galilee.
12 And as HE entered a village, HE was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance
13 and lifted up their voices, saying, "JESUS, MASTER, have mercy on us."
14 When HE saw them HE said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed.
15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising GOD WITH A LOUD VOICE;
16 and he fell on his face at JESUS' feet, "GIVING HIM THANKS". Now he was a Samaritan.
17 Then JESUS answered, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?
18 Was no one found to return and GIVE PRAISE to GOD except this foreigner?"
19 And HE said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
Yesterday evening I had just came in from a 2.4 mile walk in 36 minutes. I was sitting in my recliner trying to get my heart rate to get below 100bpm. During this time I notice where a friend is requesting prayer for a lady who has been admitted to a hospital and is in ICU in a drug induced coma. Of course, that brought back vivid memories!
Earlier yesterday I had visited the hospital where I was in a drug induced coma for 17 days almost 9 years ago. I met a RN who cared for me while I was in the coma. Her mom was in a congregation Sunday evening when I gave my testimony. She said her daughter worked at the same hospital in ICU and "probably" took care of me. Sure enough, today I went by and met this lady, and indeed she took care of me during my hospital stay. She said "you were a VERY sick young man" nine years ago! Somehow, I am rather humbled to hear just how poor my prognosis was in July/August 2007. Of course, I bear little resemblance to the man who was bed fast for over a month and had to go through extensive (yet brief) Rehab just to be able to walk away from my wheelchair on August 29, 2007 with the help of a walker!
The ability to recover physically is only secondary to my Spiritual recovery since JESUS came into my life in 1978. No, I have not lived for HIM like I should all those years, and YES, I have made my share (and probably more) of mistakes since! But GOD's forgiveness is always there for me when I stop long enough to realize how sinful I am, and how much I need HIM to guide me!
The physical recovery I manifest according to my medical records of September 25, 2007 is "a miracle from GOD"! The lady I met today who assisted me in my "darkest hours" can verify the seriousness of my condition. The Samaritan leper was the only leper healed that day who took time to acknowledge WHO had healed him. His future must have been as seemingly dark as mine, for I am told my prognosis was pretty bleak! But everyone that has been SAVED by the blood of JESUS CHRIST has had just as tremendous event in their lives. For those, such as my caregivers, who know where I have come from, it is a joyous story. For those who have to take my word, they will continue to hear me "GIVING HIM THANKS", for I will NEVER forget where I came from and where I could be!
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
"DAY BY DAY!"
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV)
"16 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed "DAY BY DAY".
17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,
18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Whether it's the senseless tragedy in Orlando, Florida, or something just as ridiculous in another city, "this world" continues to digress into a cesspool of degradation of biblical proportions! Everyone has their own opinion of how to improve the behavior of those who commit such heinous acts, but the Holy Bible is the only place we must turn to see lasting results. Ronald Reagan said "Within the covers of the BIBLE are the answers for "ALL" the problems men face"!
We cannot begin to improve while focusing on other people's sins, only by looking at OUR OWN FAILURES and improving "DAY BY DAY". We can be a "fruit inspector" all we want, but we until we realize FAITH in the ONE WHO makes the fruit is our only hope, we will continue spiraling out of control! Only GOD can change the hearts and minds of those who do not know HIM and until we change what we are looking at, and looking to, we cannot expect to see improvement.
We cannot hope to see better results just from going to church more faithfully. Changing our activities may help for awhile, but GOD changing our hearts will improve us "DAY BY DAY"! We can't expect the hearts of others to change just because GOD changes our hearts. JESUS says in Matthew 7:12-14 "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the WAY IS EASY that leads to DESTRUCTION, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is NARROW and the way is HARD that leads to life, and THOSE WHO FIND IT ARE FEW!" We should reject the notion that living a Christian life will result in a life of luxury and comfort. GOD inspired the Apostle Paul to write in verse 17-18 above "this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are SEEN are transient, but the things that are UNSEEN are ETERNAL."
"This world" is not my home, I'm just a visitor. GOD placed me here to reflect HIS love and mercy to a world of unbelievers who are blinded to THE TRUTH. While I cannot change a heart, if my reflection of CHRIST is tainted by self-righteousness and ignoring THE TRUTH, "this world" may never have their "blinders" exposed to themselves! We must be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-20), but HE only tells us to let "our" righteousness exceed the scribes and Pharisees, not our neighbors! HEAVENLY FATHER, I pray that I will be changed by YOUR HOLY SPIRIT molding me to be more like YOU "DAY BY DAY"!!!
"16 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed "DAY BY DAY".
17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,
18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Whether it's the senseless tragedy in Orlando, Florida, or something just as ridiculous in another city, "this world" continues to digress into a cesspool of degradation of biblical proportions! Everyone has their own opinion of how to improve the behavior of those who commit such heinous acts, but the Holy Bible is the only place we must turn to see lasting results. Ronald Reagan said "Within the covers of the BIBLE are the answers for "ALL" the problems men face"!
We cannot begin to improve while focusing on other people's sins, only by looking at OUR OWN FAILURES and improving "DAY BY DAY". We can be a "fruit inspector" all we want, but we until we realize FAITH in the ONE WHO makes the fruit is our only hope, we will continue spiraling out of control! Only GOD can change the hearts and minds of those who do not know HIM and until we change what we are looking at, and looking to, we cannot expect to see improvement.
We cannot hope to see better results just from going to church more faithfully. Changing our activities may help for awhile, but GOD changing our hearts will improve us "DAY BY DAY"! We can't expect the hearts of others to change just because GOD changes our hearts. JESUS says in Matthew 7:12-14 "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the WAY IS EASY that leads to DESTRUCTION, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is NARROW and the way is HARD that leads to life, and THOSE WHO FIND IT ARE FEW!" We should reject the notion that living a Christian life will result in a life of luxury and comfort. GOD inspired the Apostle Paul to write in verse 17-18 above "this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are SEEN are transient, but the things that are UNSEEN are ETERNAL."
"This world" is not my home, I'm just a visitor. GOD placed me here to reflect HIS love and mercy to a world of unbelievers who are blinded to THE TRUTH. While I cannot change a heart, if my reflection of CHRIST is tainted by self-righteousness and ignoring THE TRUTH, "this world" may never have their "blinders" exposed to themselves! We must be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-20), but HE only tells us to let "our" righteousness exceed the scribes and Pharisees, not our neighbors! HEAVENLY FATHER, I pray that I will be changed by YOUR HOLY SPIRIT molding me to be more like YOU "DAY BY DAY"!!!
Monday, June 13, 2016
"WHO THEN IS THIS?"
Mark 4:35-41 (ESV)
"35 On that day, when evening had come, HE said to them, "Let us go across to the other side."
36 And leaving the crowd, they took HIM with them in the boat, just as HE was. And other boats were with HIM.
37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling.
38 But HE was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke HIM and said to HIM, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?"
39 And HE awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
40 HE said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?"
41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, "WHO THEN IS THIS", that even the wind and the sea obey HIM?"
Many times I have read the history of JESUS simply SPEAKING to the raging storm and bringing calm to the situation. But recently my EYES were OPENED to a different revelation. JESUS was/is GOD IN THE FLESH and HE was displaying that to the disciples, only their eyes could not SEE the TRUTH, until HE was gone from them AND the "comforter" was sent to them (John 14:26; Acts 2). When GOD speaks to us through HIS HOLY SPIRIT, it is as real as it gets! We have to have "FAITH in HIM that HE exists and rewards those who seek HIM" (Hebrews 11:6)!!
JESUS told "them" that they were going "across to the other side." GOD IN THE FLESH told "them" where they were going, but their eyes soon were focused on the storms right in front of their eyes, and not on the FAITH in what GOD IN THE FLESH and HIS WORD! GOD THE CREATOR simply spoke the worlds into existence (Genesis 1) and JESUS was there with HIM (John 1:2)! Since GOD created the Heavens and the Earth, shouldn't they obey HIM? Yet, even after "there was a great calm" and GOD IN THE FLESH asked them "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?", they were filled with GREAT FEAR and asked "WHO THEN IS THIS?"
Am I any better than they were though? GOD can reveal HIS PLAN for my life to me, and when it doesn't happen just when "I THINK" it should, I begin to DOUBT! I DOUBT whether it was GOD speaking to me, or whether GOD has changed HIS mind, or whether GOD is able to "pull off" what HE revealed to me? 2 Timothy 1:7 says "for GOD gave us a spirit NOT OF FEAR but of power and love and self-control". If fear doesn't come from GOD, fear must come from the enemy, and he doesn't want GOD's Plan to be fulfilled!
When GOD reveals HIS Plan to me, yet still requires me to walk by faith, shall I say because of not being able to SEE through my doubt "WHO THEN IS THIS"? GOD FORBID! ALMIGHTY GOD, Creator of the Universes, sustainer of life, WHO dwells inside of my body (John 17:23), cause me to Spiritually mature to the point of SEEing YOU and trusting the Plan that YOU have laid before me. May I so demonstrate YOUR attributes that this world will inquire "WHO THEN IS THIS"???
"35 On that day, when evening had come, HE said to them, "Let us go across to the other side."
36 And leaving the crowd, they took HIM with them in the boat, just as HE was. And other boats were with HIM.
37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling.
38 But HE was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke HIM and said to HIM, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?"
39 And HE awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
40 HE said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?"
41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, "WHO THEN IS THIS", that even the wind and the sea obey HIM?"
Many times I have read the history of JESUS simply SPEAKING to the raging storm and bringing calm to the situation. But recently my EYES were OPENED to a different revelation. JESUS was/is GOD IN THE FLESH and HE was displaying that to the disciples, only their eyes could not SEE the TRUTH, until HE was gone from them AND the "comforter" was sent to them (John 14:26; Acts 2). When GOD speaks to us through HIS HOLY SPIRIT, it is as real as it gets! We have to have "FAITH in HIM that HE exists and rewards those who seek HIM" (Hebrews 11:6)!!
JESUS told "them" that they were going "across to the other side." GOD IN THE FLESH told "them" where they were going, but their eyes soon were focused on the storms right in front of their eyes, and not on the FAITH in what GOD IN THE FLESH and HIS WORD! GOD THE CREATOR simply spoke the worlds into existence (Genesis 1) and JESUS was there with HIM (John 1:2)! Since GOD created the Heavens and the Earth, shouldn't they obey HIM? Yet, even after "there was a great calm" and GOD IN THE FLESH asked them "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?", they were filled with GREAT FEAR and asked "WHO THEN IS THIS?"
Am I any better than they were though? GOD can reveal HIS PLAN for my life to me, and when it doesn't happen just when "I THINK" it should, I begin to DOUBT! I DOUBT whether it was GOD speaking to me, or whether GOD has changed HIS mind, or whether GOD is able to "pull off" what HE revealed to me? 2 Timothy 1:7 says "for GOD gave us a spirit NOT OF FEAR but of power and love and self-control". If fear doesn't come from GOD, fear must come from the enemy, and he doesn't want GOD's Plan to be fulfilled!
When GOD reveals HIS Plan to me, yet still requires me to walk by faith, shall I say because of not being able to SEE through my doubt "WHO THEN IS THIS"? GOD FORBID! ALMIGHTY GOD, Creator of the Universes, sustainer of life, WHO dwells inside of my body (John 17:23), cause me to Spiritually mature to the point of SEEing YOU and trusting the Plan that YOU have laid before me. May I so demonstrate YOUR attributes that this world will inquire "WHO THEN IS THIS"???
Friday, June 10, 2016
"WITH MY LIPS!"
Psalms 119:10-13 (ESV)
"10 With my whole heart I seek YOU; let me not wander from YOUR commandments!
11 I have stored up YOUR word in my heart, that I might not sin against YOU.
12 Blessed are YOU, O LORD; teach me YOUR statutes!
13 "WITH MY LIPS" I declare all the rules of YOUR mouth."
Not trying to think more of myself than I should, I have always been a person with "plenty to say". Looking back, my words were almost always an attempt to be "funny", but sometimes crossed the line to becoming "cutting", or maybe even "hateful"! My intentions were never to hurt, but if hurting occurred I accepted that as part of the burden I was assigned.
Nine years ago next month I awoke to a brain hemorrhage in the word recall portion of my brain and I quickly found out that some of the things I WANTED to say didn't need to be said NEARLY as badly as I might have believed they did. It seemed as though I could THINK the words were going to come out correctly, but just as the right words got to MY LIPS, the wrong words would jump into the spot and there was no sense to be made by my speech! When you have absolutely NO CONTROL over the word selection that is coming from your mouth, you re-evaluate what you say "WITH MY LIPS" before you embarrass yourself greatly!
GOD has used the brain hemorrhage to teach me how to make sure the words I speak are edifying and uplifting to HIM. Where I formerly looked for a way to be funny (or sarcastic), I have found that words spoken have to be dealt with, even if we don't want to admit it at the time!
Dealing with the words from Psalms 119 are definitely not the most pleasant to someone who is attempting to be funny, or cute! "With my WHOLE HEART I seek YOU..."? "I have stored up YOUR WORD..."? "Teach me YOUR statutes...."? And, to me, the most convicting statement "WITH MY LIPS" I declare all the rules of YOUR mouth"!! If I take this verse to heart, how can I have time to engage in criticism or sarcasm? Do "I declare all the rules of YOUR mouth" with demeaning words or unpleasant rhetoric? GOD's Word doesn't require any assistance in accomplishing HIS purpose. HE may use things HE puts in our minds, but HE used a donkey in Numbers 22! HE can get HIS message across on HIS own!
As I age, and continue to hopefully become more of what GOD has designed me for, my prayer is that I will glorify GOD with my remaining days. I pray that "WITH MY LIPS" will come words of edification and encouragement. Sure, there are times when a "light" moment can be shared with family or close friends, but I don't want to be cutting or hurtful any longer "WITH MY LIPS"!!!
"10 With my whole heart I seek YOU; let me not wander from YOUR commandments!
11 I have stored up YOUR word in my heart, that I might not sin against YOU.
12 Blessed are YOU, O LORD; teach me YOUR statutes!
13 "WITH MY LIPS" I declare all the rules of YOUR mouth."
Not trying to think more of myself than I should, I have always been a person with "plenty to say". Looking back, my words were almost always an attempt to be "funny", but sometimes crossed the line to becoming "cutting", or maybe even "hateful"! My intentions were never to hurt, but if hurting occurred I accepted that as part of the burden I was assigned.
Nine years ago next month I awoke to a brain hemorrhage in the word recall portion of my brain and I quickly found out that some of the things I WANTED to say didn't need to be said NEARLY as badly as I might have believed they did. It seemed as though I could THINK the words were going to come out correctly, but just as the right words got to MY LIPS, the wrong words would jump into the spot and there was no sense to be made by my speech! When you have absolutely NO CONTROL over the word selection that is coming from your mouth, you re-evaluate what you say "WITH MY LIPS" before you embarrass yourself greatly!
GOD has used the brain hemorrhage to teach me how to make sure the words I speak are edifying and uplifting to HIM. Where I formerly looked for a way to be funny (or sarcastic), I have found that words spoken have to be dealt with, even if we don't want to admit it at the time!
Dealing with the words from Psalms 119 are definitely not the most pleasant to someone who is attempting to be funny, or cute! "With my WHOLE HEART I seek YOU..."? "I have stored up YOUR WORD..."? "Teach me YOUR statutes...."? And, to me, the most convicting statement "WITH MY LIPS" I declare all the rules of YOUR mouth"!! If I take this verse to heart, how can I have time to engage in criticism or sarcasm? Do "I declare all the rules of YOUR mouth" with demeaning words or unpleasant rhetoric? GOD's Word doesn't require any assistance in accomplishing HIS purpose. HE may use things HE puts in our minds, but HE used a donkey in Numbers 22! HE can get HIS message across on HIS own!
As I age, and continue to hopefully become more of what GOD has designed me for, my prayer is that I will glorify GOD with my remaining days. I pray that "WITH MY LIPS" will come words of edification and encouragement. Sure, there are times when a "light" moment can be shared with family or close friends, but I don't want to be cutting or hurtful any longer "WITH MY LIPS"!!!
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
"WILL OF GOD!"
Mark 3:31-35 (ESV)
"31 And HIS mother and HIS brothers came, and standing outside they sent to HIM and called HIM.
32 And a crowd was sitting around him, and they said to him, "YOUR mother and YOUR brothers are outside, seeking YOU."
33 And HE answered them, "Who are MY mother and my brothers?"
34 And looking about at those who sat around HIM, he said, "Here are MY mother and MY brothers!
35 For whoever does the "WILL OF GOD", he is MY brother and sister and mother."
Having a strong desire to have the "WILL OF GOD" displayed in my life is, not only a dream, but a goal I have in everything I do. When JESUS came to "this world" HE did so with the distinct purpose of sacrificing HIMSELF on Calvary for the sins of ALL mankind. HE didn't just happen to be in Jerusalem during Passover over 2,000 ago where Pilate got mad at HIM and decided to murder HIM. No, JESUS knew the path that was before HIM and HE came to earth ANYWAY to provide redemption for you and me, AND to do the "WILL OF GOD"!
Being a part of the "physical relatives" of JESUS must be an honor. But just who is it that were identified as being really related to JESUS? Did being a physical half-brother of JESUS bring special "Spiritual" enlightenment? John 4:24 says "GOD is SPIRIT, and those who worship HIM MUST worship HIM in Spirit and Truth"! Our Spirits cannot be controlled by laws or regulations. If we have a desire to worship GOD in Spirit and Truth there is nothing that can prevent that from occurring. Those who have a strong enough desire to do the "WILL OF GOD" cannot be overcome. The same GOD (SPIRIT) that raised JESUS from the dead (Romans 8:11) can abide in our mortal bodies making all believers in HIM related!
GOD's Plan for my life may not be to sacrifice myself for the sins of mankind. But GOD still has a definitive Plan for you and me just the same. That Plan requires me to "walk by faith" (2 Corinthians 5:7) and adjust daily to HIS guidance. I'm sure it would be nice to have our lives "all mapped out" as to know exactly where we are going and when we will be arriving? But trusting in HIM brings fulfillment and peace that is beyond description, and that is what I long for!
Making sure we are in the "WILL OF GOD" can be as simple as staying inside the protection of HIS direction. In Exodus 13:21-22 the children of Israel were blessed with a Pillar of Fire by night and a Pillar of Cloud by day. When you get outside of HIS protective Pillars you face immediate dangers. When we are inside the Pillar of the "WILL OF GOD", even though there may be turmoil, PEACE will abound!!
"31 And HIS mother and HIS brothers came, and standing outside they sent to HIM and called HIM.
32 And a crowd was sitting around him, and they said to him, "YOUR mother and YOUR brothers are outside, seeking YOU."
33 And HE answered them, "Who are MY mother and my brothers?"
34 And looking about at those who sat around HIM, he said, "Here are MY mother and MY brothers!
35 For whoever does the "WILL OF GOD", he is MY brother and sister and mother."
Having a strong desire to have the "WILL OF GOD" displayed in my life is, not only a dream, but a goal I have in everything I do. When JESUS came to "this world" HE did so with the distinct purpose of sacrificing HIMSELF on Calvary for the sins of ALL mankind. HE didn't just happen to be in Jerusalem during Passover over 2,000 ago where Pilate got mad at HIM and decided to murder HIM. No, JESUS knew the path that was before HIM and HE came to earth ANYWAY to provide redemption for you and me, AND to do the "WILL OF GOD"!
Being a part of the "physical relatives" of JESUS must be an honor. But just who is it that were identified as being really related to JESUS? Did being a physical half-brother of JESUS bring special "Spiritual" enlightenment? John 4:24 says "GOD is SPIRIT, and those who worship HIM MUST worship HIM in Spirit and Truth"! Our Spirits cannot be controlled by laws or regulations. If we have a desire to worship GOD in Spirit and Truth there is nothing that can prevent that from occurring. Those who have a strong enough desire to do the "WILL OF GOD" cannot be overcome. The same GOD (SPIRIT) that raised JESUS from the dead (Romans 8:11) can abide in our mortal bodies making all believers in HIM related!
GOD's Plan for my life may not be to sacrifice myself for the sins of mankind. But GOD still has a definitive Plan for you and me just the same. That Plan requires me to "walk by faith" (2 Corinthians 5:7) and adjust daily to HIS guidance. I'm sure it would be nice to have our lives "all mapped out" as to know exactly where we are going and when we will be arriving? But trusting in HIM brings fulfillment and peace that is beyond description, and that is what I long for!
Making sure we are in the "WILL OF GOD" can be as simple as staying inside the protection of HIS direction. In Exodus 13:21-22 the children of Israel were blessed with a Pillar of Fire by night and a Pillar of Cloud by day. When you get outside of HIS protective Pillars you face immediate dangers. When we are inside the Pillar of the "WILL OF GOD", even though there may be turmoil, PEACE will abound!!
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
"COMPARE ME!"
Isaiah 40:25-28 (ESV)
"25 To whom then will you "COMPARE ME", that I should be like him? says the HOLY ONE.
26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: WHO created these? HE who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name, by the greatness of HIS might, and because HE is strong in power not one is missing.
27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, "MY WAY IS HIDDEN FROM THE LORD, and MY RIGHT right IS DISREGARDED by my GOD"?
28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting GOD, the Creator of the ends of the earth. HE does not faint or grow weary; HIS understanding is unsearchable."
The US Government can issue a ban on soldiers drinking alcoholic beverages in Japan because of the bad behavior of a unlawful few and, for the most part, it is adhered to with little discussion. But GOD ALMIGHTY, our Creator, instructs us that living outside of HIS Plan is unhealthy, unHoly, and not in our best interest, and you would think GOD was being a bully on a playground! Do we even understand the endless mercy and grace of GOD that HE would continue to permit lifestyles that, not only disobey HIM, but utterly and completely DISHONOR HIM?
We try and say that GOD is this, or GOD is that, or HE is unmatched! Dr. S.M. Lockridge speaks a brief (3 minutes 19 seconds) (https://youtu.be/yzqTFNfeDnE) montage called "That's my KING" that I absolutely love listening to. In this presentation Dr Lockridge eloquently describes WHO JESUS/GOD is and why we should honor and respect HIM.
In reality, we have nothing we can "COMPARE ME" to? When we understand that GOD is so big that we can't describe HIM, so powerful that we can't control HIM, so loving that we can't imagine HIM, then we are just beginning to really SEE what our Creator gave up to become a sacrifice for my sins. And to say I'm not that "bad" is an affront to a HOLY GzzjOD! Scripture records in 1 John 1:10 "If we say we have not sinned, we make HIM a liar, and HIS word is not in us".
Ecclesiastes 12:14 says "For GOD will bring EVERY DEED into JUDGEMENT, with every secret thing, whether good or evil." But who will GOD "judge" us against? WHO will HE "COMPARE ME" to? The only HOPE any of us have is to have JESUS CHRIST on our defense team and let HIM plead HIS blood on our behalf! When we have JESUS on our side, we can "COMPARE ME" to any foe!
"25 To whom then will you "COMPARE ME", that I should be like him? says the HOLY ONE.
26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: WHO created these? HE who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name, by the greatness of HIS might, and because HE is strong in power not one is missing.
27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, "MY WAY IS HIDDEN FROM THE LORD, and MY RIGHT right IS DISREGARDED by my GOD"?
28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting GOD, the Creator of the ends of the earth. HE does not faint or grow weary; HIS understanding is unsearchable."
The US Government can issue a ban on soldiers drinking alcoholic beverages in Japan because of the bad behavior of a unlawful few and, for the most part, it is adhered to with little discussion. But GOD ALMIGHTY, our Creator, instructs us that living outside of HIS Plan is unhealthy, unHoly, and not in our best interest, and you would think GOD was being a bully on a playground! Do we even understand the endless mercy and grace of GOD that HE would continue to permit lifestyles that, not only disobey HIM, but utterly and completely DISHONOR HIM?
We try and say that GOD is this, or GOD is that, or HE is unmatched! Dr. S.M. Lockridge speaks a brief (3 minutes 19 seconds) (https://youtu.be/yzqTFNfeDnE) montage called "That's my KING" that I absolutely love listening to. In this presentation Dr Lockridge eloquently describes WHO JESUS/GOD is and why we should honor and respect HIM.
In reality, we have nothing we can "COMPARE ME" to? When we understand that GOD is so big that we can't describe HIM, so powerful that we can't control HIM, so loving that we can't imagine HIM, then we are just beginning to really SEE what our Creator gave up to become a sacrifice for my sins. And to say I'm not that "bad" is an affront to a HOLY GzzjOD! Scripture records in 1 John 1:10 "If we say we have not sinned, we make HIM a liar, and HIS word is not in us".
Ecclesiastes 12:14 says "For GOD will bring EVERY DEED into JUDGEMENT, with every secret thing, whether good or evil." But who will GOD "judge" us against? WHO will HE "COMPARE ME" to? The only HOPE any of us have is to have JESUS CHRIST on our defense team and let HIM plead HIS blood on our behalf! When we have JESUS on our side, we can "COMPARE ME" to any foe!
Monday, June 6, 2016
"HAVE FAITH IN GOD!"
Mark 11:22-25 (ESV)
"22 And JESUS answered them, "HAVE FAITH IN GOD".
23 Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what HE says will come to pass, it will be done for him.
24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
25 And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your FATHER also WHO is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
Recently our Sunday School lesson was about Israel "demanding" to have a king like all the other nations. The viewpoint was made that we often do the same thing. GOD, the CREATOR, wants to love inside our hearts, but we elect to have self or the world as the king in our lives?! Or we want GOD to be what we envision in our finite minds HIM to be, not what HE actually is. I'm afraid there are too many times we don't "think" GOD can do something, so we don't pray that HE will do it!
In Genesis 18:14 GOD is speaking to Abraham, and HE speaks about HIMSELF when HE says "IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR THE LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son." Of course, Sarah was 90 years old and probably "thought" her ability to have children was past, but GOD said there was NOTHING beyond HIS power!
When GOD became flesh in the form of JESUS CHRIST, HE was fully human, but also fully GOD! We tend to try and box JESUS into what we THINK a human can accomplish! However, we have to remember that JESUS is/was GOD walking among us, and according to John 1:2, the WORD was there "in the beginning" with GOD! When we understand that JESUS was/is GOD it can change our entire outlook! Knowing that GOD HIMSELF "submitted" HIMSELF to become human just so I could have eternal life is one of the hardest, yet rewarding, TRUTHS to grasp of all Creation.
When JESUS says for us to "HAVE FAITH IN GOD", it wasn't as if HE was trying to get us to buy into a pyramid scheme or something. GOD was being manifested to mankind and HE wanted us to understand that whatever GOD needs to do to make "this world" believe in GOD is not out of HIS power. Since JESUS now lives in me (John 17:23), I should live with the confidence that HE will accomplish HIS Plan in our lives FOR HIS GLORY! In Matthew 19:26 JESUS says "With man this is impossible, but with GOD "all things" are possible." I just need to "HAVE FAITH IN GOD!!!"
"22 And JESUS answered them, "HAVE FAITH IN GOD".
23 Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what HE says will come to pass, it will be done for him.
24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
25 And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your FATHER also WHO is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
Recently our Sunday School lesson was about Israel "demanding" to have a king like all the other nations. The viewpoint was made that we often do the same thing. GOD, the CREATOR, wants to love inside our hearts, but we elect to have self or the world as the king in our lives?! Or we want GOD to be what we envision in our finite minds HIM to be, not what HE actually is. I'm afraid there are too many times we don't "think" GOD can do something, so we don't pray that HE will do it!
In Genesis 18:14 GOD is speaking to Abraham, and HE speaks about HIMSELF when HE says "IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR THE LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son." Of course, Sarah was 90 years old and probably "thought" her ability to have children was past, but GOD said there was NOTHING beyond HIS power!
When GOD became flesh in the form of JESUS CHRIST, HE was fully human, but also fully GOD! We tend to try and box JESUS into what we THINK a human can accomplish! However, we have to remember that JESUS is/was GOD walking among us, and according to John 1:2, the WORD was there "in the beginning" with GOD! When we understand that JESUS was/is GOD it can change our entire outlook! Knowing that GOD HIMSELF "submitted" HIMSELF to become human just so I could have eternal life is one of the hardest, yet rewarding, TRUTHS to grasp of all Creation.
When JESUS says for us to "HAVE FAITH IN GOD", it wasn't as if HE was trying to get us to buy into a pyramid scheme or something. GOD was being manifested to mankind and HE wanted us to understand that whatever GOD needs to do to make "this world" believe in GOD is not out of HIS power. Since JESUS now lives in me (John 17:23), I should live with the confidence that HE will accomplish HIS Plan in our lives FOR HIS GLORY! In Matthew 19:26 JESUS says "With man this is impossible, but with GOD "all things" are possible." I just need to "HAVE FAITH IN GOD!!!"
Friday, June 3, 2016
"GETTING WHERE HE WANTS ME!"
Four years ago I completed a series and devotionals on 2 Chronicles 7:14 that lasted 7-10 days. In looking back over at some of these writings I am amazed at how poorly some are written! But GOD used them for HIS Glory and developed me Spiritually and mentally into a vessel that is more committed to HIM today than ever before!
Looking forward, I can't fathom where HE will take me over the coming years, but getting to the point of TRUSTING HIM, not only to get me where HE wants me to be, but that I will glorify HIM in everything I do is something I long for. In John 17:4 (ESV) JESUS prays "I glorified YOU on earth, having accomplished the work that YOU gave me to do".
FATHER IN HEAVEN, cause me to be more like JESUS in that I will glorify YOU on earth and accomplish the work YOU have planned for me!
------------------------------------------
IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, SHALL HUMBLE THEMSELVES , AND PRAY, ANS 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. -2 Chronicles 7:14
"AND WILL HEAL THEIR LAND"
Once again, GOD is not "considering" healing the land. "WILL" is a promise. HE promises to heal their land, but where I mess up is I want the land healed on my time schedule! GOD wants to bless us, but HE is far too wise to let our timing interfere with HIS plan!
In Genesis 1:26 scripture states GOD's plan is to make man in "HIS" own image. Dictionary.com defines an image as "an optical counterpart or appearance of an object, as is produced by reflection from a MIRROR, refraction by a lens, or the passage of luminous rays through a small aperture and their reception on a surface."
Mankind is created in a likeness of GOD, but HE is far, FAR wiser and inclusive than we are. HE knows the number of hairs on over 7 Billion people on earth and yet HE knows when a sparrow falls to the earth!
My "timing" is not that important when ALL is considered. I am blessed to be called on of HIS chosen and am thankful HE loves me!
Looking forward, I can't fathom where HE will take me over the coming years, but getting to the point of TRUSTING HIM, not only to get me where HE wants me to be, but that I will glorify HIM in everything I do is something I long for. In John 17:4 (ESV) JESUS prays "I glorified YOU on earth, having accomplished the work that YOU gave me to do".
FATHER IN HEAVEN, cause me to be more like JESUS in that I will glorify YOU on earth and accomplish the work YOU have planned for me!
------------------------------------------
IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, SHALL HUMBLE THEMSELVES , AND PRAY, ANS 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. -2 Chronicles 7:14
"AND WILL HEAL THEIR LAND"
Once again, GOD is not "considering" healing the land. "WILL" is a promise. HE promises to heal their land, but where I mess up is I want the land healed on my time schedule! GOD wants to bless us, but HE is far too wise to let our timing interfere with HIS plan!
In Genesis 1:26 scripture states GOD's plan is to make man in "HIS" own image. Dictionary.com defines an image as "an optical counterpart or appearance of an object, as is produced by reflection from a MIRROR, refraction by a lens, or the passage of luminous rays through a small aperture and their reception on a surface."
Mankind is created in a likeness of GOD, but HE is far, FAR wiser and inclusive than we are. HE knows the number of hairs on over 7 Billion people on earth and yet HE knows when a sparrow falls to the earth!
My "timing" is not that important when ALL is considered. I am blessed to be called on of HIS chosen and am thankful HE loves me!
Thursday, June 2, 2016
"AND ENCAMP!"
"AND ENCAMP!"
About a month ago GOD gave me this devotional in my quiet time. It seems I go back to this reminder often when I am caught up in trying to "get ahead" of GOD. we seem to have our own ideas for what is best for our future, but scripture says in 1 Corinthians 2:9 "But, as it is written, "What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, NOR THE HEART IMAGINED,the heart of man imagined, what GOD has prepared for those who love HIM"! How can my imaginations exceed GOD's Divine Plan for my life? I shall endeavor to be content in waiting on HIM to guide me, especially when I have to TURN BACK "AND ENCAMP"!
Exodus 14:1-2 (ESV)
"1 Then the LORD said to Moses,
2 "Tell the people of Israel to turn back "AND ENCAMP" in front of Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, in front of Baal-zephon; you shall encamp facing it, by the sea."
Exodus 14 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. GOD displays HIS sovereignty, HIS deliverance, HIS power, HIS holiness, and HIS steadfastness for ALL of mankind (not just the Israelites and Egyptians) to observe, IF THEY WOULD ONLY CHOOSE TO SEE HIM! We could observe similar HOLY TRAITS if we would just SLOW DOWN and recognize the Spiritual battle that is taking place in our midst (Ephesians 6:12)!!
When the Israelites were leaving Egypt they were "encouraged" to leave in a considerable hurry! Exodus 12:33 tells us "The Egyptians were urgent with the people to send them out of the land in haste. For they said, "We shall all be dead." The Egyptians wanted them gone, and the Israelites WANTED to be gone, but GOD wanted to be glorified (Exodus 14:4), and HE had a PLAN to make that happen.
When "the LORD said to Moses, "Tell the people of Israel to turn back "AND ENCAMP", another way of putting what HIS instructions were could have been "to WAIT ON THE LORD" (Psalms 27:14)! Now I'm not sure that I could've heard GOD's directives as I tend to be one who moves with great abandonment when "I think" I know what GOD's PLAN IS, but sometimes GOD's PLAN is different than mine and HE has to SLOW me down to be on HIS pace! GOD needed for the Egyptians to catch up with the Israelites at just the right timing so they would chase them into the Red Sea and HE could get glory over them! It wasn't by chance or circumstance, it was DIVINE PROVIDENCE that GOD BE GLORIFIED! GOD directed the children of Israel to the exact place where HIS PLAN would be carried out, at the precise timing to make sure Pharaoh's heart was hardened (Exodus 14:4), and that Moses was listening to HIM for guidance!
You must be certain you are hearing (Exodus 14:1) from GOD. The great deceiver tries to emulate GOD, but GOD IS PEACE, and nothing can be mistaken for the PEACE of GOD! Moses and the children of Israel had a Pillar of Cloud to lead them by day, and a Pillar of Fire to lead them by night to be able to escape Egypt, but GOD directed Moses to turn back "AND ENCAMP" on the banks of the Red Sea! Why would GOD make them WAIT ON THE LORD when the Egyptians were rapidly gaining on them? GOD's Divine Plan may not be known to us, but if we TRUST IN HIM we can turn back "AND ENCAMP" and let our foes advance upon us with NO FEAR because we KNOW WHO wins in the end!!!
About a month ago GOD gave me this devotional in my quiet time. It seems I go back to this reminder often when I am caught up in trying to "get ahead" of GOD. we seem to have our own ideas for what is best for our future, but scripture says in 1 Corinthians 2:9 "But, as it is written, "What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, NOR THE HEART IMAGINED,the heart of man imagined, what GOD has prepared for those who love HIM"! How can my imaginations exceed GOD's Divine Plan for my life? I shall endeavor to be content in waiting on HIM to guide me, especially when I have to TURN BACK "AND ENCAMP"!
Exodus 14:1-2 (ESV)
"1 Then the LORD said to Moses,
2 "Tell the people of Israel to turn back "AND ENCAMP" in front of Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, in front of Baal-zephon; you shall encamp facing it, by the sea."
Exodus 14 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. GOD displays HIS sovereignty, HIS deliverance, HIS power, HIS holiness, and HIS steadfastness for ALL of mankind (not just the Israelites and Egyptians) to observe, IF THEY WOULD ONLY CHOOSE TO SEE HIM! We could observe similar HOLY TRAITS if we would just SLOW DOWN and recognize the Spiritual battle that is taking place in our midst (Ephesians 6:12)!!
When the Israelites were leaving Egypt they were "encouraged" to leave in a considerable hurry! Exodus 12:33 tells us "The Egyptians were urgent with the people to send them out of the land in haste. For they said, "We shall all be dead." The Egyptians wanted them gone, and the Israelites WANTED to be gone, but GOD wanted to be glorified (Exodus 14:4), and HE had a PLAN to make that happen.
When "the LORD said to Moses, "Tell the people of Israel to turn back "AND ENCAMP", another way of putting what HIS instructions were could have been "to WAIT ON THE LORD" (Psalms 27:14)! Now I'm not sure that I could've heard GOD's directives as I tend to be one who moves with great abandonment when "I think" I know what GOD's PLAN IS, but sometimes GOD's PLAN is different than mine and HE has to SLOW me down to be on HIS pace! GOD needed for the Egyptians to catch up with the Israelites at just the right timing so they would chase them into the Red Sea and HE could get glory over them! It wasn't by chance or circumstance, it was DIVINE PROVIDENCE that GOD BE GLORIFIED! GOD directed the children of Israel to the exact place where HIS PLAN would be carried out, at the precise timing to make sure Pharaoh's heart was hardened (Exodus 14:4), and that Moses was listening to HIM for guidance!
You must be certain you are hearing (Exodus 14:1) from GOD. The great deceiver tries to emulate GOD, but GOD IS PEACE, and nothing can be mistaken for the PEACE of GOD! Moses and the children of Israel had a Pillar of Cloud to lead them by day, and a Pillar of Fire to lead them by night to be able to escape Egypt, but GOD directed Moses to turn back "AND ENCAMP" on the banks of the Red Sea! Why would GOD make them WAIT ON THE LORD when the Egyptians were rapidly gaining on them? GOD's Divine Plan may not be known to us, but if we TRUST IN HIM we can turn back "AND ENCAMP" and let our foes advance upon us with NO FEAR because we KNOW WHO wins in the end!!!
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
WHO GOD IS???"
Exodus 34:5-10 (ESV)
"5 The LORD descended in the cloud and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD.
6 The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD, a GOD MERCIFUL and GRACIOUS, SLOW TO ANGER, and ABOUNDING in STEADFAST LOVE and FAITHFULNESS,
7 keeping STEADFAST LOVE for THOUSANDS, FORGIVING INIQUITY and TRANSGRESSION and SIN, BUT WHO 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."
8 And Moses quickly bowed his head toward the earth and worshiped.
9 And he said, "If now I have found favor in your sight, O Lord, please let the LORD go in the midst of us, for it is a stiff-necked people, and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for YOUR inheritance."
10 And HE said, "Behold, I am making a covenant. Before all your people I will do marvels, such as have not been created in all the earth or in any nation. And all the people among whom you are shall see the work of the LORD, for it is "AN AWESOME THING" that I will do with you."
In my thoughts and deliberations of scripture recently, I perceive that "the church", along with "this world", has either lost sight, or has never gotten a TRUE DEPICTION, of just "WHO GOD IS"! Even modern day "Believers" don't fully grasp that GOD IS IN CONTROL and HIS PLAN WILL BE COMPLETED! Pharaoh and his hosts were vessels used to bring glory to GOD, and HE hasn't lost any power or might since! We can either be used to bring HIM glory by our obedience, or we will be used to bring HIM glory when HE judges our apathy and disobedience!
The Nation of Israel was chosen by GOD ALMIGHTY HIMSELF to demonstrate HIS MERCY, GRACE, and STEADFAST LOVE while HE FORGAVE their TRANSGRESSION and SIN enabling the HOLY RELATIONSHIP with HIM to be restored to those who seek redemption. But to those who DO NOT SEEK REDEMPTION GOD says HE will be NO MEANS CLEAR THE GUILTY! Jeremiah 30:11 says "For I am with you to save you, declares the LORD; I will make a full end of all the nations among whom I scattered you, but of you I will not make a full end. I will discipline you in just measure, and I will by no means leave you unpunished." Might the meaning of this be that GOD will JUDGE SIN, but HE will be merciful to those HE chooses to be merciful to (Exodus 33:19; Romans 9:15)?
Realizing that I have a lot to learn about the things of GOD, I am hesitant to write or say anything that Scripture doesn't specifically delineate. What I do KNOW is "The LORD, the LORD, a GOD MERCIFUL and GRACIOUS, SLOW TO ANGER, and ABOUNDING in STEADFAST LOVE and FAITHFULNESS, keeping STEADFAST LOVE for THOUSANDS, FORGIVING INIQUITY and TRANSGRESSION and SIN, BUT WHO WILL BY NO MEANS CLEAR THE GUILTY"! These words were spoken by GOD ALMIGHTY regarding HIMSELF! WHO better to describe the character of GOD than HIMSELF?
The same GOD WHO is SELF-described as "The LORD, the LORD, a GOD MERCIFUL and GRACIOUS, SLOW TO ANGER, and ABOUNDING in STEADFAST LOVE and FAITHFULNESS, keeping STEADFAST LOVE for THOUSANDS, FORGIVING INIQUITY and TRANSGRESSION and SIN" is also SELF-described as "WHO WILL BY NO MEANS CLEAR THE GUILTY"!!! GOD ALMIGHTY desires to loves us, but HE is also a just GOD WHO will judge sin! I am so blessed that when HE sees me, HE can only see the Blood of JESUS CHRIST that was shed on Calvary (2 Corinthians 5:21)!!! Now, if I could truly see HIM for WHO HE is instead of what I perceived HIM to be??? That is just "WHO GOD IS"!!!
"5 The LORD descended in the cloud and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD.
6 The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD, a GOD MERCIFUL and GRACIOUS, SLOW TO ANGER, and ABOUNDING in STEADFAST LOVE and FAITHFULNESS,
7 keeping STEADFAST LOVE for THOUSANDS, FORGIVING INIQUITY and TRANSGRESSION and SIN, BUT WHO 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."
8 And Moses quickly bowed his head toward the earth and worshiped.
9 And he said, "If now I have found favor in your sight, O Lord, please let the LORD go in the midst of us, for it is a stiff-necked people, and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for YOUR inheritance."
10 And HE said, "Behold, I am making a covenant. Before all your people I will do marvels, such as have not been created in all the earth or in any nation. And all the people among whom you are shall see the work of the LORD, for it is "AN AWESOME THING" that I will do with you."
In my thoughts and deliberations of scripture recently, I perceive that "the church", along with "this world", has either lost sight, or has never gotten a TRUE DEPICTION, of just "WHO GOD IS"! Even modern day "Believers" don't fully grasp that GOD IS IN CONTROL and HIS PLAN WILL BE COMPLETED! Pharaoh and his hosts were vessels used to bring glory to GOD, and HE hasn't lost any power or might since! We can either be used to bring HIM glory by our obedience, or we will be used to bring HIM glory when HE judges our apathy and disobedience!
The Nation of Israel was chosen by GOD ALMIGHTY HIMSELF to demonstrate HIS MERCY, GRACE, and STEADFAST LOVE while HE FORGAVE their TRANSGRESSION and SIN enabling the HOLY RELATIONSHIP with HIM to be restored to those who seek redemption. But to those who DO NOT SEEK REDEMPTION GOD says HE will be NO MEANS CLEAR THE GUILTY! Jeremiah 30:11 says "For I am with you to save you, declares the LORD; I will make a full end of all the nations among whom I scattered you, but of you I will not make a full end. I will discipline you in just measure, and I will by no means leave you unpunished." Might the meaning of this be that GOD will JUDGE SIN, but HE will be merciful to those HE chooses to be merciful to (Exodus 33:19; Romans 9:15)?
Realizing that I have a lot to learn about the things of GOD, I am hesitant to write or say anything that Scripture doesn't specifically delineate. What I do KNOW is "The LORD, the LORD, a GOD MERCIFUL and GRACIOUS, SLOW TO ANGER, and ABOUNDING in STEADFAST LOVE and FAITHFULNESS, keeping STEADFAST LOVE for THOUSANDS, FORGIVING INIQUITY and TRANSGRESSION and SIN, BUT WHO WILL BY NO MEANS CLEAR THE GUILTY"! These words were spoken by GOD ALMIGHTY regarding HIMSELF! WHO better to describe the character of GOD than HIMSELF?
The same GOD WHO is SELF-described as "The LORD, the LORD, a GOD MERCIFUL and GRACIOUS, SLOW TO ANGER, and ABOUNDING in STEADFAST LOVE and FAITHFULNESS, keeping STEADFAST LOVE for THOUSANDS, FORGIVING INIQUITY and TRANSGRESSION and SIN" is also SELF-described as "WHO WILL BY NO MEANS CLEAR THE GUILTY"!!! GOD ALMIGHTY desires to loves us, but HE is also a just GOD WHO will judge sin! I am so blessed that when HE sees me, HE can only see the Blood of JESUS CHRIST that was shed on Calvary (2 Corinthians 5:21)!!! Now, if I could truly see HIM for WHO HE is instead of what I perceived HIM to be??? That is just "WHO GOD IS"!!!
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