"GRACE!"

John 1:14-17                          (ESV)

"14 And the WORD became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen HIS  glory, glory as of the only SON from the FATHER, full of "GRACE" and truth.

15 (John bore witness about HIM, and cried out, "This was HE of whom I said, 'HE who comes after me ranks before me, because HE was before me.'")

16 For from HIS fullness we have all received, "GRACE" upon "GRACE". 

17 For the law was given through Moses; "GRACE" and truth came through JESUS CHRIST."

The "GRACE" written about in the four verses above speaks to me very plainly about WHO JESUS CHRIST is, not only to me, but to the whole world!  The fact that "GRACE" and Truth came to this world through JESUS CHRIST is a testament to HIS divinity and glory.  HIS entire existence is all about bringing "GRACE" to a world that attempts to separate us from the love of GOD, because of our sinful lives.  

The fact that HE was "GRACE" walking among us put HIM in a place of rejection from the start of HIS ministry.  Although GOD is love, we seem to try putting HIM into a box where we feel HE "should" be.  When JESUS came clothed in "GRACE", HE brought forgiveness rather than judgement, and love rather than division.  However, HE separates those who Believe in Truth and "GRACE" from those who think they are better than the "GRACE" HE provides.   

To understand WHO HE is and what HE came to earth from Heaven to provide, imagine if you will, someone who Created this world and all of its surroundings, coming to live among us as a mere human just so we might have the opportunity to live with HIM for eternity in the same Heaven HE gave up?  You might say, well that's unbelievable, no one would give up what we Believe Heaven is to come to earth to be a King for 30 years or so?  Yet JESUS came, not to be royalty, but to be ridiculed and mocked by this world, and to be sacrificed upon Calvary's tree by HIS OWN FATHER, to provide mankind a way to Heaven that we could never experience without HIM! 

Nobody requires "GRACE" more than I do.  The Apostle Paul said in 1 Timothy 1:15 that "CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost!"  With all due respect to Paul and his ministry, I believe that I am the foremost of sinners!  Thanks be to GOD, in 2 Corinthians 9:8 it says "......And GOD is able to make all "GRACE" abound to you,....".  Have you requested HE make "GRACE" abound to you???

"LISTEN!"

Proverbs 19:20                                       (ESV)

""LISTEN" to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future."

There are many people who have said, "Lord, please help me keep my mouth shut".  In our country, we have the "right" of free speech.  However, what is frequently ignored is "that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights", according to the United States Constitution.  GOD ALMIGHTY, our "Creator", endowed us with Rights, but HE also "grants Wisdom" (Proverbs 2:6) to instruct us when to keep our mouths shut!

For me, learning this lesson has been an ongoing process.  The phrase "You'll never learned anything with your mouth open" has taken me years to come to grips with, and I still find times that I need some work on it!  When we are "LISTEN"ing to advice and instruction, we seldom have time to interject our thoughts.  

But when we "LISTEN" to GOD, we need to be focused hearing from HIM!  Mark Virkler says "GOD's voice sounds like spontaneous thoughts that light upon your mind WHILE YOUR EYES ARE FIXED ON JESUS."  Hearing from GOD seldom comes at half-time of a sporting event.  Hearing from GOD usually doesn't happen while our minds are set on anything but HIM!

Our TIME Has become the most precious commodity that many of us have.  GOD is a jealous GOD (Exodus 34:14) and HE desires for us to recognize HIM on HIS terms.  When HE calls us, will we have time to "LISTEN"?  Do we have time for our Creator?  GOD still speaks to everyone (Romans 1:18-23), but are we ready to "LISTEN"???

"GOD OPENED HER EYES!"

Genesis 21:19-21

"19 Then "GOD OPENED HER EYES", and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink.

20 And GOD was with the boy, and he grew up. He lived in the wilderness and became an expert with the bow.

21 He lived in the wilderness of Paran, and his mother took a wife for him from the land of Egypt."

There is a quote that says "I am responsible for what I say.  I am not responsible for what you understand."  Although this quote tends to place the onus of understanding on the hearer, in the scripture above GOD was limiting what Hagar (mother of Ishmael) had revealed to her.  Only GOD was able to reveal what HE had provided long before the apparent need arose to Hagar and her son. 

Have you ever been looking for someone or something and not been able to SEE it?  Even in my more "experienced" years, I seemingly am constantly dependent upon my wife to help me find things (especially at the office), and when she does they are usually right on top of my desk....I just couldn't SEE them!  

Hagar was in the desert, with no hope for her and her son, Ishmael.  In Genesis 21:16 it is written "......for she said, "Let me not look on the death of the child." And as she sat opposite him, she lifted up her voice and wept."  Then, all of the sudden, "GOD OPENED HER EYES", and she could SEE!  The well of water didn't just appear before her, although that would be well within the power GOD ALMIGHTY!  "GOD OPENED HER EYES" to reveal HIS provisions that were waiting for her when she needed them most.  

GOD generally operates on a timetable that is different than anything mankind is comfortable with.  When "GOD OPENED HER EYES", HE did so to assure HE would get Glory from it, not so Hagar or Ishmael could, or would!  HE desires for us to demonstrate FAITH in HIS timing and ability to provide what we need, when we need it!  GOD had already provided the well long before, but "GOD OPENED HER EYES" so she could SEE HIS provisions just when she needed for HIM to come through!  May I trust in HIS timing and abilities in my life!!!

"OF WHOM I AM CHIEF!"

1 Timothy 1:13-15                         (KJV)

"13 (Apostle Paul) Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our LORD was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in CHRIST JESUS. 15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners; "OF WHOM I AM CHIEF!"

Although I run the risk of offending many who are convinced they are always correct about everything, there has only been ONE person without fault!  Just to name a few, Abraham didn't wait for GOD's Promise.  King David couldn't control his passion and lusts.  The Apostle Peter flew off the handle too often.  And the Apostle Paul "was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious:"!  

The Bible is full of examples of how GOD displayed mercy and grace to HIS creations, even though they didn't deserve it, FOR HIS GLORY!  I'm glad HIS WORD demonstrates how merciful and gracious HE is, as I would argue the Apostle Paul's statement, for I feel it should be "OF WHOM I AM CHIEF"!  

"HOW CAN THESE THINGS BE?"

John 3:1-2; 9-11 

"1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.

2 This man came to JESUS by night and said to HIM, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from GOD, for no one can do these signs that you do unless GOD is with HIM......." 

"9 ......Nicodemus said to HIM (JESUS) "HOW CAN THESE THINGS BE?"

10 JESUS answered him, "Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things?

11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony."

Nicodemus was a highly thought of man by "this world" in the days that JESUS physically manifested HIS presence to us.  He was a Pharisee, a ruler of the Jews.  Nicodemus came to JESUS "by night", presumably to be undetected by other Jewish rulers, and to attempt to get to the bottom of this thing called "eternal life".  He was WELL educated, yet still he did not know "HOW CAN THESE THINGS BE?"

JESUS responded in verse 10 that Nicodemus was a supposed teacher of Israel and evidently he did not know what he should be teaching?  A teacher who isn't sure about what they are teaching can be a great disaster.  I believe Nicodemus was serious about wanting to know THE TRUTH, but he had to accept THE TRUTH on HIS terms, and not try to put HIM in some preconceived box of the supposed learned!  

Although the Israelites were in captivity in their own land by the Romans, the so-called educated Israelites were "in power" as far as telling people what they should believe.  Now here came a "ruler", in the darkness of night, to be educated by a carpenter!  Nicodemus said, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from GOD, for no one can do these signs that you do unless GOD is with HIM."  Nicodemus thought knew WHO JESUS was, but at the time didn't believe that GOD had taken on flesh and become a man because of HIS LOVE (John 3:16)!  The belief that Nicodemus did come to a belief of WHO JESUS really was, is shown in John 19:39 when he helped Joseph of Arimathea remove JESUS from the cross and bury HIM. If he didn't fully "KNOW" then, he certainly did three days later!!!

The intelligence of "this world" can be way blown out of proportion.  There are countless Doctors and Phd's that will never SEE the things of Heaven.  Just because you are bestowed all kinds of earthly degrees and notoriety, that won't help you find out "HOW CAN THESE THINGS BE?"  The Spiritual things can only be "discerned" by we who have the SPIRIT (1 Corinthians 2:14)!  Don't be deceived by the glamour of "this world" and be left wondering, "HOW CAN THESE THINGS BE?"  

"WAIT ON THE LORD!"

Psalms 27:14                                         (ESV)

""WAIT FOR THE LORD"; be strong, and let your heart take courage; "WAIT FOR THE LORD""! 

Driving to the office is a joy for me.  The normal path I take is a state highway that is very lightly traveled.  The "back way" to the office is quieter and I can talk with GOD on my way to work. The speed limit is 55MPH for the most part, but I hardly ever travel over 42 or 43MPH.  It's not that I'm an "old man" who can't handle the speed of the interstate, I really enjoy taking my time and letting GOD speak to me as I am going to work. 

As I was driving to the office recently, it was if GOD spoke very clearly to me, kind of out of the blue, and said "You are living your life at 55MPH when I'm moving at 43MPH"!  Of course, my immediate response was "I'm driving slower than the speed limit, GOD"!  And GOD so lovingly said "Just because "this world" says you are okay to do things their way, that doesn't mean that I approve of it"!  

There is something about the way that GOD was speaking to me that made me take note that HE was in control of everything around me.  If HE desires me to drive slower to the office, doesn't it make sense that HE will "work all things" for HIS Glory?  HE was telling me that I could go ahead of HIM, but I would very soon find myself traveling without HIS guidance and protection!  My mind quickly went to the children of Israel exiting Egypt.  They had a Cloud going before them, and getting in front the Cloud in the wilderness (desert) would have proven to be unwise, to put it mildly.  

Unless we "WAIT ON THE LORD" we run the risk of getting in front of HIM and HIS will.  I don't want to be running wide open and HE be moving slowly.  My desire is to be listening intently whenever HE is speaking to me.  So I have to continuously "WAIT ON THE LORD" or I may find myself outside of HIS guidance and protection.  

"THE GRACE OF GOD!"

1 Corinthians 15:10                   (ESV)

"But by "THE GRACE OF GOD" I am what I am, and HIS grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but "THE GRACE OF GOD" that is with me."

There are those who tend to talk about "their ministry"and how GOD has blessed in "their ministry".  The Apostle Paul could be one of those people as he was used to minister to untold numbers of people.  But he chose to acknowledge GOD that is with me as being the ONE that put the wind in his sails!

One of the verses of scripture that is continuously ignored is Isaiah 42:8 where GOD says "I AM the LORD; that is MY NAME; MY GLORY I GIVE TO NO OTHER, nor my praise to carved idols".  ALMIGHTY GOD will not yield to a person, place, or thing when it comes to sharing HIS Glory.  GOD "calls" us "....out of darkness into HIS marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9)!  

So why should we try to act as though we are doing anything for HIM, other than worship and serve HIM?  The verse above says "THE GRACE OF GOD" is what we should be giving Glory to!  We haven't done anything, nor will we do anything in the future, that is worthy of any praise or adoration, only that which we have been given by "THE GRACE OF GOD"!  

"WILL NOT ENDURE!"

2 Timothy 4:1-5                     (ESV)

"1 I charge you in the presence of GOD and of CHRIST JESUS, WHO is to judge the living and the dead, and by HIS appearing and HIS kingdom:

2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.

3 For the time is coming when people "WILL NOT ENDURE" sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,

4 and will turn away from listening to the TRUTH and wander off into myths.

5 As for you, always be sober-minded, ENDURE SUFFERING, do the work of an evangelist, FULFILL YOUR MINISTRY."

Many people have inquired about where I get my devotionals everyday.  To be quite honest, sometimes I open my Bible and it is on a page where GOD already has verses prepared for me to guide my life.  Today is one of those days.  My Bible was opened to 2 Timothy 4 and the LORD drew my eyes to the words "WILL NOT ENDURE"!  

The word ENDURE can be defined as "to continue to exist; last:".  Our microwave society has evolved into one where ENDURANCE is a thing of the past.  We don't WAIT ON THE LORD anymore.  We don't listen to HIM for guidance and direction.  Sadly, the world, and even the church, has devolved into "accumulating for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the TRUTH and wander off into myths."  There no longer seems to be a hunger for the TRUTH, and certainly if we have to WAIT on it!  

Allowing GOD to have control of our lives isn't something for the weak.  I know there are times that I don't want to "give up" control of my life to a Spirit that we can't identify to "this world".  But just like the children of Israel were escaping the bondage of the Egyptians, we are leaving a captivity of our own.  In order for us to have FREEDOM IN CHRIST, we must surrender to being led by THE SPIRIT OF GOD!  The children of Israel were led by a Cloud, and we are to be led by HIS Spirit.   

We cannot be swayed by what others think of being led by something that they cannot SEE!  1 Corinthians 2:14 says "The natural person DOES NOT accept the things of the Spirit of GOD, for they are folly to him, and HE IS NOT ABLE TO UNDERSTAND THEM because they are spiritually discerned."  Just because "this world" can't SEE the things of GOD doesn't mean that we are misguided.  It means that they "WILL NOT ENDURE" because they are blinded to the TRUTH!!!

"HEAR HIS VOICE!"

Hebrews 3:15-19                     (ESV) 

"15 As it is said, "TODAY, IF YOU "HEAR HIS VOICE", DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS AS IN THE REBELLION." 

16 For who were those who heard and yet rebelled? Was it not all those who left Egypt led by Moses?

17 And with whom was he provoked for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness?

18 And to whom did HE swear that they would not enter HIS rest, but to those who were disobedient?

19 So we see that THEY WERE UNABLE TO ENTER (The Promised Land) BECAUSE OF UNBELIEF."

There was a time in my life that I was unable to hear the voice of GOD, or at least I couldn't discern HIS Voice from the noise generated by "this world".  I'm not sure how many people today really take time to listen to, and really hear from GOD ALMIGHTY.   In Exodus 20:19 the children of Israel didn't want GOD speaking to them, "lest we die"!  How many times do I not want to hear from GOD for fear of what I might hear?  

When I "HEAR HIS VOICE", the assurance and confidence it gives me is unmatched.  It's not as if my goodness or righteousness warrants HIM speaking to me, but only HIS grace and mercy.  The Apostle Paul was a far more worthy vessel than I, yet he said in 1 Timothy 1:15 "...CHRIST JESUS Came into this world to save sinners, of whom I am chief"!!!

But usually I can't hear HIS Voice until I get alone with HIM and focus on HIS Word.  Mark Virkler says "GOD's voice sounds like spontaneous thoughts that light upon your mind while your eyes are fixed on JESUS."  Unless I DESIRE to take the time to focus my thoughts on JESUS CHRIST, its as if HE won't bother me.  HE is a gentleman WHO will not force HIMSELF on anyone.  

Why do I fail HIM daily when I am working trying not to sin?  Maybe it's because I take my eyes off of HIM and HIS example for me?  There is NOTHING more assuring than to have THE CREATOR of the Universe speak and for me to "HEAR HIS VOICE"!  FATHER IN HEAVEN, cause me to keep my eyes on YOU and my ears in tune with you so I can "HEAR HIS VOICE" when HE wants to speak to me!!!

"LEADS TO DESTRUCTION!"

Matthew 7:13-14                   (ESV)

"13 "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.

14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few."

Looking at roadmaps has always fascinated me.  Imagining going to the different places and experiencing the various journeys is something I think I would greatly enjoy.  But all of the choices we have in our actual life does NOT interest me, hardly at all.  Scripture seems to indicate that the way that is easy "LEADS TO DESTRUCTION", and that is not something I am intrigued with in the least!  

Yet there are many who either are infatuated with, or don't believe that the path that "LEADS TO DESTRUCTION" will be a bad option!   After all , the scripture above states that "the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few."  You don't find a lot of people trying to find the "hard way" through this life.  Most of us are looking to find the easiest, least complicated lifestyle for us and our family.  We want to say we have lived a successful life and provided the best of earthly treasures for the ones we love.  

But what happens when "this life" is over?  Has life beyond "this world" been addressed?  Or is your future on a wait and see basis?   Making arrangements now for your eternity is the only was you can avoid the way that "LEADS TO DESTRUCTION "!  Is GOD calling you to serve HIM and it's not the wide and easy way?  Make your choice based off of the eternal rewards and not what appears to be the easiest thing to do.  The gate is wide and the way is easy that "LEADS TO DESTRUCTION", but the choice is ours!  CHOOSE WISELY!!!

"REFUSED TO LISTEN!"

Proverbs 1:23-26                               (ESV)

"23 If you turn at MY reproof, behold, I will pour out MY SPIRIT to you; I will make MY words known to you. 

24 Because I have called and you "REFUSED TO LISTEN", have stretched out MY hand and no one has heeded, 

25 because you have ignored all MY counsel and would have none of MY reproof,

26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when terror strikes you,"

Seeing a child be disciplined for not heeding instruction can be a painful thing to observe.  However, if no discipline is ever administered, the future of that child might be one that holds a tremendous amount of heartache!  A loving parent will "break a heart" now to instill principles that can keep the child from future problems.  A child who REFUSES TO LISTEN might experience a bit more discipline than one who adheres to correction. 

These verses aren't necessarily referring to physical children being reared, but the same scenario could be used for Spiritual children who "REFUSED TO LISTEN".  Our Heavenly FATHER says that IF WE WILL TURN AT HIS REPROOF, HE will pour HIS SPIRIT out on us!  Evidently ALMIGHTY GOD desires to indwell within HIS children.  But when we (as a whole) become people who "REFUSED TO LISTEN", the consequences have been promised!  

Has the modern Church in America become so comfortable with our "padded pew mentality" that we can be categorized as those who "REFUSED TO LISTEN"?  Have we been BLINDED BY THE ENEMY to the point that we cannot SEE the TRUTH any longer because we are moving at the pace of "this world"?  Is it "just a coincidence" that GOD laid it on my heart to begin a ministry based on Psalms 46:10, "Be Still, and KNOW that I AM GOD"?  

Spending time with my children and their families this weekend was a great experience.  However, my grandchildren both were disciplined because they weren't doing what they were told.  When they reacted to the discipline, we adults had to smile behind their backs because we knew their heartbreak over something that was so menial. Don't you imagine ALMIGHTY GOD has to smile sometimes when HIS children react so devastatingly to HIS discipline in our lives?  HE loves us too much to allow us to have anything we want.  We need to be grateful that we have a Heavenly FATHER who is more concerned with our Spiritual growth than allowing us whatever we desire.  How long will we be like the one who "REFUSED TO LISTEN" to the Creator?

"ALL HAVE SINNED!"

Romans 3:23-24                   (ESV)

"23 for "ALL HAVE SINNED" and fall short of the glory of GOD,

24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in CHRIST JESUS."

It seems the current President of the United States is under more scrutiny than any President I can remember.   Just this morning there was a story on social media declaring that the opposition to the President "were liars too" because of their past.  When you examine the facts, aren't we ALL liars?  Who can say that they have NEVER spoken anything but TRUTH their entire life?  Yet, most people only want to discover other people's faults!

The scripture above is pretty blunt, "ALL HAVE SINNED", not just a select group of chosen people.  That's right, I say chosen people for that is who the Apostle Paul was writing to with the letter of Romans.  Romans 1:7 says "To all THOSE IN ROME who are loved by GOD and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from GOD our FATHER and the LORD JESUS CHRIST", but it means me also.  In fact, we "ALL HAVE SINNED" before a HOLY GOD and we desperately need redemption for our sins.  

Don't get caught up with thinking that your sin is not as bad as the sin of others.  The only thing that Believers have going for them is that JESUS CHRIST offers a redemption plan for those who believe that HE is GOD and provides us what we cannot do for ourselves.  We are not holier than anyone else.  We are not more deserving than the next person.  Except for the redemption provided by my Savior, we would be doomed, for "ALL HAVE SINNED"!!!

"SIN THAT DWELLS WITHIN ME!"

Romans 7:15-20                                  (ESV)

"15 For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.

16 Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good.

17 So now it is no longer I who do it, but "SIN THAT DWELLS WITHIN ME".

18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I HAVE THE DESIRE to do what is right, but NOT THE ABILITY to carry it out.

19 For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.

20 Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but "SIN THAT DWELLS WITHIN ME "." 

There are times when I feel extremely defeated!  I do my best to live a life that pleases GOD, but then, before you know it, I am doing exactly what I promised myself I would never do again!  It seems as though the enemy knows the precise moment that I will be at my weakest and he subtly slips his agenda into my choices.  The Apostle Paul used the words "I do not understand", and neither do I, but we do "the very thing I hate"!  What is the matter with me?  

Before the Apostle Paul was changed from being Saul, he was a zealous supporter of persecuting Believers.  In verse nineteen above, Paul writes that he winds up doing "the evil I do not want" to do.  So if Paul is doing what he DOESN'T want to do, what is making him do it?  Paul writes the "SIN THAT DWELLS WITHIN ME" is the culprit. I hate to admit it, but the "SIN THAT DWELLS WITHIN ME" sometimes gets the better of my actions and causes me to do things I almost immediately regret.  It's almost like it is something I can't overcome!

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 the Apostle Paul again writes that he has a problem with sin.  He says that three times he prayed for a "thorn" to be removed from him.  But the LORD said that HE is made strong by our weaknesses, so Paul said he would "boast" in his weaknesses so CHRIST would be elevated!

So when the enemy is beating me up because of my failures, what I need to do is turn my weaknesses over to HIM and let HIM be elevated!  I'm not worthy of forgiveness and I should be condemned to death!  But JESUS CHRIST pain an unimaginable price to become the ultimate sacrifice for mankind, and I am so glad HIS FATHER called me out of darkness into HIS marvelous light!  

"FORCES OF EVIL!"

Ephesians 6:12                              (ESV)

"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual "FORCES OF EVIL" in the heavenly places."

There is SO much chatter in "this world's ungodly news media" going on about division!  Division between races!  Division between political parties!  Division between religions!  Division between genders!  Division just to be DIVIDED!!!  It shouldn't be alarming to any of us, as scripture prophesies that these days are coming.  Why doesn't, AT LEAST, the Church react with a modicum of Biblical knowledge to understand that the warfare we are being exposed to is SPIRITUAL, and not physical?  

Genesis 3:1 says "Now the serpent was "more crafty" than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made. ...".   Other translations use the words subtil, deceiving, cunning, clever, and the like.  Basically, the enemy tries to trick us into believing the LIE that we all have been mistreated and our rights violated to keep dissension about SOMETHING going all the time.  When the dissension from one narrative dies down, he finds another "victim" and begins a new war!

It's not as if these factions have recently become stronger, or more prevalent.  The Apostle Paul wrote about these in the first century.  But the SPIRITUAL WARFARE has been going on since satan was expelled from the Garden of Eden.  The enemy and his "FORCES OF EVIL" are always on the prowl (1 Peter 5:8) seeking those whom he can "devour"!  He comes to "steal, kill, and destroy" (John 10:10), and JESUS came "that they may have LIFE, and have it more abundantly"!  

"This world" can't help but to try to get our attention to the division that sin brings about, it is "their character" (John 8:44)!  It would benefit the Church GREATLY if we wouldn't let "this world's ungodly news media" dictate our conversation with their choice of conversation and we speak LIFE more freely.  The "FORCES OF EVIL" are very prevalent today.  The ONLY HOPE we have of LIFE is the ONE WHO brings LIFE!!!  

"WE SHALL SEE HIM!"

1 John 3:2-3                         (ESV)

"1 See what kind of love the FATHER has given to us, that we should be called children of GOD; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know HIM.

2 Beloved, we are GOD's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when HE appears we shall be like HIM, because "WE SHALL SEE HIM" as HE is."

I see those who are dealing with painful experiences and think how do they get through what they are dealing with?  Then I see people who have made it through the darkest of valleys and have overcome their problems.  Then there are those who are trying to overcome yet another challenge, only to eventually surrender to a unknown enemy who we know as DEATH!  

When I was dealing with the DEATH of my younger sister in 1996 I was so hurt that I was unable to help her to be cured of the cancer that ravaged her body.  There are many things that I remember about her illness, but the one thing that stands out for me is what she spoke to her family from her hospital bed after they told us of her diagnosis.  They told us that the type of stomach cancer she had was very unforgiving, and that she would probably have a year to survive.  Trying to help her deal with the finality of her prognosis was the most awkward thing I have ever experienced.  But my 33 year old sister said something that continues to make me realize how mature she was....and I wasn't!  When speaking about her getting to see our grandmother (who she was named after) when she made it to Heaven, my sister replied, "I just want to see JESUS!".  

Isn't that what we all should be living for?  Shouldn't my life be more concerned about seeing the SAVIOR than seeing someone else?  Scripture says that "WE SHALL SEE HIM" when that day comes!  Our EYES will be opened and we will FULLY be able to SEE the price HE has paid for our sins and be able to praise HIM forever!  Revelation 4:8 says we will "...never cease to say, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!"  

We can miss those who have gone on before us, and I think that is only natural!  But when we get to Heaven we won't be doing what is natural any longer.  We will be doing that which is Spiritual, and John 4:24 says "GOD IS SPIRIT"!  Yes, "WE SHALL SEE HIM" will be very real on that day and EVERYONE'S eyes will be opened and SEE the KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS!!!

"BEFORE OTHERS!"

Matthew 5:15-16                        (ESV)

"15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.

16 In the same way, let your light shine "BEFORE OTHERS", so that they may see your good works and give glory to your FATHER WHO is in heaven."

You know, it is a lot easier to "do the right things" when you are around people who believe in doing the right thing.   But what about when we find ourselves surrounded "BEFORE OTHERS" who don't share the same values that we do?  When we are the ONLY examples of living a HOLY life in a atmosphere of godless activities?  

JESUS said our light shines brightest when it is displayed on a stand, "BEFORE OTHERS", where it can give light to "all in the house"!  But there are times I tend to be the one who doesn't want to offend, who wants to get along with the rest of the world!  But are we helping them any when we allow the whole house to burn down around them and not alert them?  It's like we are the fire department and we just pull up to a fire and watch it burn killing everyone inside.  

The words "BEFORE OTHERS" indicates to me that we are talking about people who are different than me.   Sure, I can go to church and teach fellow Believers about the Word of GOD, but speaking TRUTH "BEFORE OTHERS" let's the light shining inside of me expose darkness more effectively.  

While it is TRUTH that GOD must draw people before they can SEE the real TRUTH, Romans 10:17 (KJV) says "So then faith cometh by HEARING, and HEARING by the WORD of GOD"!  A person MUST hear TRUTH and that is one reason GOD left me on earth after HE saved me.  HEAVENLY FATHER, guide me to become bolder, clearer and more succinct that YOUR SON is the only way out of this world and the evilness of Satan.  If I won't speak TRUTH "BEFORE OTHERS", who will???

"BE HOLY!"

1 Peter 3:13-16                   (ESV)

"13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of JESUS CHRIST. 

14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance,

15 but as HE who called you is Holy, you also "BE HOLY" in ALL your conduct,

16 since it is written, "You shall BE HOLY", for I am Holy." 

There are many people who attempt to live "good" lives as if that will be enough at the Judgement Seat to appease a HOLY GOD.  I am SO thankful that when GOD ALMIGHTY looks at my record, the only thing HE will SEE is the spotless life of JESUS CHRIST!  HE came to earth to live a perfect life, and die a perfect death, and overcome the enemy in a perfect resurrection, in place of a fallen mankind so that HE could be seen by HIS FATHER at the Judgement INSTEAD OF ME.  

But with HIM living a perfect life, that doesn't give me the freedom to live a life full of sinful actions and selfish desires.  GOD forbid!  The verses above states ""BE HOLY" in ALL your conduct", not just when it is convenient!  Now I'm sure that I fail in this area more than I care to admit, and I'm thankful for GOD's grace that never fails.  But I need to understand that, even although my sins have already been forgiven, sin carries with it some repercussions that I may have to deal with.   I should be Holy because GOD (whom I am to emulate) IS HOLY!  

Recently I saw a quote from a young lady who said ""I want to be a stripper because my mommy is a stripper, and I love my mommy."  Now if a young lady wants to be what her mom is because of her love for her mom, shouldn't I want to be what my HEAVENLY FATHER is?  After all, I LOVE HIM, don't I ??? 

Do I have the same commitment that this young lady has to resemble her love?  Far too often I resort to "the passions of your former ignorance" (v14) and act as though I am still living in "this world" instead of exemplifying "BE HOLY"!  GOD IN HEAVEN , cause me to live a life where others see YOU in my actions.  As the song by Geron Davis says, "I want to be like HOLY, HOLY like HIM!!!"

"WITH YOUR GOD!"

Micah 6:8                         (ESV)

"HE has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly "WITH YOUR GOD"?"

There are many different ways to examine this verse in scripture, beginning with 'HE has told you' and have I always been listening to HIS voice???  The one I want to target this morning is walking "WITH YOUR GOD"!  

All of us walk "WITH YOUR GOD" most of the time.  The humbling thing is, who is our god?  Who/what is driving the decisions that we make in our day to day lives?  If the truth were known, a LOT of my life has been spent attempting to satisfy my own selfish desires with no second thoughts of would my desires be pleasing to HIM?  This is the GOD WHO created the earth that I walk on, the air that I breathe, the water I drink, and on and on, and for some reason I can't make time to spend time "WITH YOUR GOD"!  

Yet, we ALL really spend time "WITH YOUR GOD".  Whether it's our family, our jobs, our fishing boat, or any other worldly possession we have elevated to a position of driving where our lives were headed.  

Do we ever stop to think that GOD may have a Plan (Jeremiah 29:11) for our lives and we are aren't wise enough (Isaiah 55:8-9) to know what HIS Plan is?  We can only hope to FOLLOW HIM, much as the children of Israel did leaving Egypt (the CLOUD), and walk "WITH YOUR GOD"!  

One final thing, I seemingly ALWAYS want GOD to work on my timeline!  I want to walk "WITH YOUR GOD", but at my worldly pace!  When we FOLLOW that generally means we have to let someone go before us!  Will it be a whoever we have elevated to the position of leadership in our lives, or will we walk "WITH YOUR GOD"???

"THE WORLD DOES NOT KNOW YOU!"

John 17:25-26                        (ESV)

"25 O righteous FATHER, even though "THE WORLD DOES NOT KNOW YOU", I know YOU, and these know that YOU have sent ME.

26 I made known to them YOUR name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which YOU have loved ME may be in them, and I in them." 

The seventeenth chapter of John is one of my favorite chapters of the HOLY BIBLE.  In my Bible it is subtitled "The High Priestly Prayer" as JESUS was having intimate fellowship with HIS HEAVENLY FATHER.  The eighteenth chapter is subtitled "Betrayal and Arrest of JESUS", so right before JESUS was to he arrested, HE was praying, probably as an example to us to always bathe everything in prayer before we try to battle the enemy!

These verses make it abundantly clear that "the world does not know YOU", so we can expect to NOT be understood when HE lives in us!  For the most part, the actions we take under the leadership of the HOLY SPIRIT will go against the common sense approach that "this world" is accustomed to.   

To begin with, GOD IS SPIRIT (John 4:24) and "this world" can't see, feel or touch a Spirit, so they operate in different realms.  "This world" can't understand how something that doesn't make SENSE can exist, therefore FAITH never enters into the equation for them.  We Believers can't even take credit for our Belief, for we have "been called out of darkness into HIS marvelous light"!  Until our eyes have been opened, and our ears are made to hear, we can't follow the leadership of GOD.  

"THE WORLD DOES NOT KNOW YOU" because their eyes and ears have yet to be opened by GOD ALMIGHTY!  I can't explain why GOD chose me to be called into HIS marvelous light!  It's not like I am a prize to be had.  All I know is HE chose me and I am so glad HE did. 

"DAY AND NIGHT!"

"DAY AND NIGHT!"

Joshua 1:7-8                                    (ESV)

"7 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.

8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it "DAY AND NIGHT", so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."

Watching my weight has been something that I have had difficulties for years.  I didn't know how bad my problems were until I experienced the Brain Hemorrhage in 2007.  When I discovered a few years later from reading my medical records what my weight was on that memorable morning, I was almost shocked.  Eating healthier has become more of a passion for me instead of a goal.  However, the flesh is weak and I still struggle eating TOO MUCH at times, and eating the wrong things at other times!

But even though our physical appearance is usually easier to see, a person's Spiritual appearance can take Spiritual eyes examining to be able to recognize it.  A person who is malnourished physically can be identified rather easily, while a Spiritually malnourished person may even be in a position of leadership in a church fellowship.  Just because they are put where they are by people in "this world" doesn't mean they have been grown by the SPIRIT of GOD ALMIGHTY to perform HIS work.  Some of the most Spiritually mature people I've ever been exposed to are people who GOD hasn't risen to prominence as far as "this world" is concerned.  

We cannot "fake" the lessons that GOD has taught.  Joshua was known by THE LORD to be a man who seemingly couldn't get enough of HIS WORD and HIS statutes.  As far back as in Genesis 33:11 scripture records "Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, AS A MAN SPEAKS TO HIS FRIEND. When Moses turned again into the camp, HIS ASSISTANT JOSHUA THE SON OF NUN, A YOUNG MAN, WOULD NOT DEPART FROM THE TENT!"  Of course we know, Joshua was used to lead the children of Israel on the final leg into the Promised Land, something that was a tremendous honor.  I am of the opinion that Joshua's love for THE WORD, even in his younger days, made THE LORD know that he would follow HIS leaders "DAY AND NIGHT"!  

We cannot think that just because we are under GRACE that our Spiritual Warfare has diminished, in the least!  The enemy is always "roaming about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8), especially as his time draws to an end!  We have been told for a really long time to study HIS WORD "DAY AND NIGHT", and the message is even more desperate today.  There are plenty of us who physically eat every day, but not many eat Spiritually everyday, and certainly not "DAY AND NIGHT"!  

"WILL INSTRUCT YOU!"

Psalms 32:8-9                                (ESV)

"8 I "WILL INSTRUCT YOU" and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with MY eye upon you.

9 Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you."

The path we are each assigned in this life is unique to us.  The only example that we have to follow in our lives is the one given by JESUS, for HE is life!  So why do we compare our accomplishments to others, observing that they have more, or less, than we do?  Why do we compare our lives with the lives of others?  Must I constantly be reminded that the Spirit of CHRIST lives inside of me and that I am called to follow HIS guidance and direction?  

1 Corinthians 7:17 says "Only let each person LEAD THE LIFE THAT THE LORD HAS ASSIGNED HIM, and to which GOD has called him!"  ALMIGHTY GOD has a specific Plan for my life and my selfish wishes and carnal desires DO NOT fit into HIS Plan.  The enemy attempts to get my eyes on the things of "this world" and not on the things of GOD.  To keep my focus on "HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33) should be my goal.  

Growing up, my grandfather had a mule that he used to plow in his garden.  The mule obviously had a bridle and bit to guide it where it should go.  Every now and then the mule had to have "blinders" limiting what his eyes could SEE, therefore cutting down on the distractions he had to overcome.  When he became "spooked", he was useless for a good while.   

Over my life I can see where I could have used some SPIRITUAL blinders!  There have been MANY times that the enemy has "spooked" me and caused me to loose focus.  The peace and comfort of intimately knowing GOD and that HE "WILL INSTRUCT YOU" will prevent you from being swayed by the enemies tactics.  Being calm when a storm is coming is a testimony to GOD living inside of you.  GOD "WILL INSTRUCT YOU", the question is, will you be listening???

"HE IS WISE!"

1 Corinthians 3:16-19                    (ESV)

"16 Do you not know that you are GOD's temple and that GOD's Spirit dwells in you?

17 If anyone destroys GOD's temple, GOD will destroy him. For GOD's temple is Holy, and you are that temple.

18 Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that "HE IS WISE" in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise.

19 For the wisdom of this world is folly with GOD. For it is written, "HE catches the wise in their craftiness,".   

One of the most gratifying experiences has to be when others come to you seeking guidance with a situation they are dealing with.   Exhibiting traits that will draw people seeking what you have can be a testament to a GODLY lifestyle.  Mainly, when others SEE that the Spirit of GOD ALMIGHTY is upon you, they can quietly know that you have a peace and assurance that only comes from ABOVE, and you're likely to share that peace and assurance.  

Most experiences can only be shared by someone who has gone through their own trials!  You can revel in your trials or accomplishments, but getting through those trials or accomplishments are always a testimony to the ONE WHO is in control of all things.  I have been through some AMAZING experiences, but the ONE WHO got me through the journey is the ONE WHO gets all of the Glory!  

Being one who has come through some pretty AMAZING physical problems is one thing, but coming through times when there is intellectual and Spiritual growth can be quite another.  The ONLY way to grow "WISER" as we mature is to be granted the growth from Heaven.  Proverbs 2:6-8 says "...the LORD gives Wisdom:.." and not earthly sources. Anyone who says "HE IS WISE" is in danger of becoming "a fool that he may become wise".  GOD uses trials (James 1:1-13) to mold us into vessels that can Glorify HIM, not so someone can say "HE IS WISE"! 

There are times when I can't even find the words to complete a sentence I am trying to say.  Do you think I even think about saying "HE IS WISE" when that occurs?  Or what about after I have made a decision that costs me resources, even more than money?  Can you hear me saying "HE IS WISE"?  There are way too many times when I am left wondering how I will get through this journey called "life" to consider the phrase "HE IS WISE"!  But Wisdom that comes from GOD is one thing that I can have freely (James 1:5), and I'm blessed to receive graciously!!!