"Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is The Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins." James 4:13-17 (NIV)
James, the half brother of Jesus, wrote these Holy Spirit inspired words to the believers to help them correct their speech and their behavior. Here, he urges them to be careful regarding how they speak about what they will do in the future. He encouraged them to say, "If it be The Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."
At the end of each calendar year, we seem to get caught up in saying what we will do in the upcoming year. We seem to forget that we really do not have control over the future, or if we will live to see it. We need to remember that only "if it is in The Good Lord's will ..." would be a better way to begin any statement regarding our future plans. Additionally, we celebrate the beginning of the new year, a worldly celebration for which I could not find a Biblical reference. The Bible says that every day always is a day for continually giving thanks to God. (Ephesians 5:20, Colossians 3:17, and Hebrews 13:15) We should praise Him and thank Him for every day, and every week, and every month, and for every year that we are blessed to be alive. Only God can make a day, (Genesis 1:1-5 and Psalms 118:24), and only God can sustain us through a day. (Psalms 55:22) Let us not get so caught up in worldly celebrations, and our future plans, that we forget that only that which is in the will of The Lord God will occur, and we should praise and thank Him for what He has done, is doing, and will do for us.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Be Salt A Purifying Influence In A Decaying World
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:5-6 (NIV)
In this passage of his letter to the believers in The Church at Colosse, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul told them to be careful in the way in which they act towards and speak to outsiders. He told them that they should make every effort to interact with others in a Christ-like manner, displaying the grace of Christ, so that their behavior and their words were helpful and reflected positively on Christians.
As believers, we should speak with grace. Our words should be spiritual and wholesome (Godly), fitting and sensitive (appropriate), purposeful and complimentary (helpful), kind and gentle (considerate), truthful and thoughtful (filtered by our mind before being spoken). Our words should also be seasoned with salt. Salt adds flavor to food, but it also prevents corruption. It was used to prevent the bacterial contamination of meat before refrigeration in days of old. Salt is a purifying influence in a decaying world. Jesus said that we are the salt of the earth. (Matthew 5:13) As believers, we should know how to, and be ready to answer people. To do this we must read and study The Word of God. (2 Timothy 2:15) Then, after we hear and read The Word of God, we must be doers of The Word. (James 1:22) We must live in such a way that our Christian beliefs and our behavior are consistent. Let us pray that God will use us to add a Christ-like flavor to this sin-sick world, and that He will use us to be a purifying influence in this decaying world.
In this passage of his letter to the believers in The Church at Colosse, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul told them to be careful in the way in which they act towards and speak to outsiders. He told them that they should make every effort to interact with others in a Christ-like manner, displaying the grace of Christ, so that their behavior and their words were helpful and reflected positively on Christians.
As believers, we should speak with grace. Our words should be spiritual and wholesome (Godly), fitting and sensitive (appropriate), purposeful and complimentary (helpful), kind and gentle (considerate), truthful and thoughtful (filtered by our mind before being spoken). Our words should also be seasoned with salt. Salt adds flavor to food, but it also prevents corruption. It was used to prevent the bacterial contamination of meat before refrigeration in days of old. Salt is a purifying influence in a decaying world. Jesus said that we are the salt of the earth. (Matthew 5:13) As believers, we should know how to, and be ready to answer people. To do this we must read and study The Word of God. (2 Timothy 2:15) Then, after we hear and read The Word of God, we must be doers of The Word. (James 1:22) We must live in such a way that our Christian beliefs and our behavior are consistent. Let us pray that God will use us to add a Christ-like flavor to this sin-sick world, and that He will use us to be a purifying influence in this decaying world.
Saturday, December 28, 2013
May The Peace Of Christ Rule Our Hearts
"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as The Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let The Word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of The Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God The Father through Him." Colossians 3:12-17 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote these Holy Spirit inspired Words of God to the believers in The Church at Colosse, that they might enjoy the peace of God in their lives. He told them to keep their minds on the things of God, and not on the things of this world. (Colossians 3:1-3) He also told them what things they should not do. (Colossians 3:5-10) He told them to let Christ rule their hearts and their lives. He said that all that they say, and do, should give glory to God. (Colossians 3:17)
These words were, and still are, instructions for Christian living which, if we would follow them, would please The Lord God and give Him glory. We should live in such a way that the peace of God will rule our hearts and our lives. We should re-dedicate ourselves to following this example. These are the things which we should pray that The Good Lord will help us to do in the days to come, in the upcoming year, and in the years to come.
The Apostle Paul wrote these Holy Spirit inspired Words of God to the believers in The Church at Colosse, that they might enjoy the peace of God in their lives. He told them to keep their minds on the things of God, and not on the things of this world. (Colossians 3:1-3) He also told them what things they should not do. (Colossians 3:5-10) He told them to let Christ rule their hearts and their lives. He said that all that they say, and do, should give glory to God. (Colossians 3:17)
These words were, and still are, instructions for Christian living which, if we would follow them, would please The Lord God and give Him glory. We should live in such a way that the peace of God will rule our hearts and our lives. We should re-dedicate ourselves to following this example. These are the things which we should pray that The Good Lord will help us to do in the days to come, in the upcoming year, and in the years to come.
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Do Not Let The Rocks Speak For You
"Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, 'Teacher, rebuke Your disciples!' 'I tell you,' He replied, 'if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.' " Luke 19:39-40 (NIV)
In the gospel according to Luke, the physician, these words were recorded which Jesus spoke to the Pharisees in the crowd of His disciples. As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, (Luke 19:28), riding on the young colt, (Luke 19:33-35), the crowd began to shout praises unto Him. (Luke 19:37-38) Some of the Pharisees in the crowd told Jesus to rebuke them, and tell them to be quiet. (Luke 19:39) Jesus responded to them by saying "If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
As believers, we should praise The Lord God loudly and often. (Psalms 34:1, Psalms 35:27, and Psalms 100:1) In fact, we are encouraged to praise Him continually. For He is worthy of all glory, honor, and praise. (Psalms 18:3, Proverbs 3:9, Romans 15:6, and Revelation 19:1) He does not need us to give Him praise, but He will be praised. If we do not praise Him, then the rocks will praise Him. (Luke 19:40) Let us praise Him so that the rocks will not have to speak for us. The Lord God is truly worthy to be praised.
In the gospel according to Luke, the physician, these words were recorded which Jesus spoke to the Pharisees in the crowd of His disciples. As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, (Luke 19:28), riding on the young colt, (Luke 19:33-35), the crowd began to shout praises unto Him. (Luke 19:37-38) Some of the Pharisees in the crowd told Jesus to rebuke them, and tell them to be quiet. (Luke 19:39) Jesus responded to them by saying "If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
As believers, we should praise The Lord God loudly and often. (Psalms 34:1, Psalms 35:27, and Psalms 100:1) In fact, we are encouraged to praise Him continually. For He is worthy of all glory, honor, and praise. (Psalms 18:3, Proverbs 3:9, Romans 15:6, and Revelation 19:1) He does not need us to give Him praise, but He will be praised. If we do not praise Him, then the rocks will praise Him. (Luke 19:40) Let us praise Him so that the rocks will not have to speak for us. The Lord God is truly worthy to be praised.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
The Birth Of Jesus The Christ
"... And she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7 (NIV)
This account of the birth of Jesus, The Christ, was recorded by Luke, the physician and frequent travelling companion of the Apostle Paul. The virgin Mary, who was engaged to Joseph,
conceived the child with the aid of The Holy Spirit of God. (Matthew 1:18) This was predicted some four hundred years earlier by the prophet Isaiah and recorded in the Holy Scriptures. (Isaiah 7:14) She wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, as was the Jewish custom in that time. She placed Him in a manger, which was an animal feeding trough. They were in the animal shelter because the town of Bethlehem was crowed with people coming to pay their taxes, as decreed by Cesar Augustus, (Luke 2:1-3), and there was no room for them in any of the guest quarters.
The Holy Spirit of God came upon the virgin Mary and she conceived as the angel Gabriel told her. (Luke 1:26-35) Although He was with God in heaven before the beginning of time, (John 1:1), Jesus, The Son of God, left heaven, and put on human flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:14) His birth was part of the divine plan for the redemption of man. He humbled Himself, took on the form of man, lived a sin-free life, and was obedient even unto His death on the cross. (Philippians 2:6-8) He was born in order to be the sacrificial lamb for the sins of man. (John 1:29) We all should thank God for the birth of Christ, without which our salvation would not be possible. (2 Corinthians 9:15 and John 14:6)
This account of the birth of Jesus, The Christ, was recorded by Luke, the physician and frequent travelling companion of the Apostle Paul. The virgin Mary, who was engaged to Joseph,
conceived the child with the aid of The Holy Spirit of God. (Matthew 1:18) This was predicted some four hundred years earlier by the prophet Isaiah and recorded in the Holy Scriptures. (Isaiah 7:14) She wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, as was the Jewish custom in that time. She placed Him in a manger, which was an animal feeding trough. They were in the animal shelter because the town of Bethlehem was crowed with people coming to pay their taxes, as decreed by Cesar Augustus, (Luke 2:1-3), and there was no room for them in any of the guest quarters.
The Holy Spirit of God came upon the virgin Mary and she conceived as the angel Gabriel told her. (Luke 1:26-35) Although He was with God in heaven before the beginning of time, (John 1:1), Jesus, The Son of God, left heaven, and put on human flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:14) His birth was part of the divine plan for the redemption of man. He humbled Himself, took on the form of man, lived a sin-free life, and was obedient even unto His death on the cross. (Philippians 2:6-8) He was born in order to be the sacrificial lamb for the sins of man. (John 1:29) We all should thank God for the birth of Christ, without which our salvation would not be possible. (2 Corinthians 9:15 and John 14:6)
Friday, December 20, 2013
The Last Blessing In The Bible
"Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have a right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." Revelation 22:14 (KJV)
This is the last blessing mentioned in The Holy Bible. It was recorded by the Apostle John, the disciple who referred to himself five times as the disciple whom Jesus loved. (John 13:23, 19:26, 20:2, 21:7, and 21:20) He was inspired and directed to write this by The Holy Spirit of God. Blessed are all those who believe, confess their sins, obey His Word, and have been forgiven of their sins because they will have been washed and cleansed by the blood of The Lamb of God. They will have eternal life and continual blessings because they will have been granted entrance into heaven.
The Bible basically come to a close saying that believers, those who follow Jesus, The Christ, will be allowed to enter heaven and be blessed with eternal life. The Lord God said the He was the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. (Revelation 22:13) He will reward every man according to their works. (Revelation 22:12)
This is the last blessing mentioned in The Holy Bible. It was recorded by the Apostle John, the disciple who referred to himself five times as the disciple whom Jesus loved. (John 13:23, 19:26, 20:2, 21:7, and 21:20) He was inspired and directed to write this by The Holy Spirit of God. Blessed are all those who believe, confess their sins, obey His Word, and have been forgiven of their sins because they will have been washed and cleansed by the blood of The Lamb of God. They will have eternal life and continual blessings because they will have been granted entrance into heaven.
The Bible basically come to a close saying that believers, those who follow Jesus, The Christ, will be allowed to enter heaven and be blessed with eternal life. The Lord God said the He was the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. (Revelation 22:13) He will reward every man according to their works. (Revelation 22:12)
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Blessed Are Those Who Die In Christ
"Then I heard a voice from heaven say, 'Write: Blessed are the dead who die in The Lord from now on.' 'Yes,' says The Spirit, 'they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.' " Revelation 14:13 (NIV)
These are the divinely inspired words from The Holy Spirit of God as revealed to, and recorded by, the Apostle John which was written to all believers. He was told to write that believers who die from that point in time forward, would be blessed. They will make the transition from earthly labor, to rest and heavenly reward. Their works will follow them as a testimony and evidence that they lived a Christ-like life, and were obedient to The Word of God.
For the believer, death is not the end of life, it is the beginning of eternal life. The death of a believer is precious in the sight of The Lord. (Psalms 116:15) The battle with sin, temptation, sorrow, persecution, illnesses, trials, and tribulations is finished. (2 Timothy 4:6-8) The death of the physical body just liberates the spiritual soul, which then returns to The Lord God to whom it belongs. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8) The dead in Christ shall rise and meet The Lord first. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18) On judgement day, the rewards and crowns which we receive will depend upon the works that we did to give God glory. (Psalms 62:12, Proverbs 19:17, Proverbs 25:21-22, Jeremiah 17:10, Matthew 5:11-12, Matthew 10:41, Ephesians 6:8, 2 Timothy 4:8, James 1:12, 1 Peter 5:4, Revelation 2:10, and Revelation 22:12) Believers are blessed during this life, and will be blessed throughout eternity. Loved ones who die are not lost, we know where they are, they are in heaven with The Lord.
These are the divinely inspired words from The Holy Spirit of God as revealed to, and recorded by, the Apostle John which was written to all believers. He was told to write that believers who die from that point in time forward, would be blessed. They will make the transition from earthly labor, to rest and heavenly reward. Their works will follow them as a testimony and evidence that they lived a Christ-like life, and were obedient to The Word of God.
For the believer, death is not the end of life, it is the beginning of eternal life. The death of a believer is precious in the sight of The Lord. (Psalms 116:15) The battle with sin, temptation, sorrow, persecution, illnesses, trials, and tribulations is finished. (2 Timothy 4:6-8) The death of the physical body just liberates the spiritual soul, which then returns to The Lord God to whom it belongs. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8) The dead in Christ shall rise and meet The Lord first. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18) On judgement day, the rewards and crowns which we receive will depend upon the works that we did to give God glory. (Psalms 62:12, Proverbs 19:17, Proverbs 25:21-22, Jeremiah 17:10, Matthew 5:11-12, Matthew 10:41, Ephesians 6:8, 2 Timothy 4:8, James 1:12, 1 Peter 5:4, Revelation 2:10, and Revelation 22:12) Believers are blessed during this life, and will be blessed throughout eternity. Loved ones who die are not lost, we know where they are, they are in heaven with The Lord.
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Blessed For Reading The Word Of God
"Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near." Revelation 1:3 (NIV)
The Bible Book of Revelation is the book of prophesy in The New Testament. It was revealed to, and recorded by the Apostle John, under the divine inspiration of The Holy Spirit of God. There is a special blessing in store for those who read this Book of The Bible. There is also a special blessing for those who hear this inspired Word of God, believe it, take it to heart, and obey it . John also warns them that the end of time is near.
The Book of Revelation is a difficult book to understand. It is a prophesy regarding twenty-first century events recorded by a man with a first century frame of reference. It would be helpful to understand this book if one had read the other sixty-five books beforehand, because it refers to previously recorded scripture and biblical events. However, this special blessing does not require us to understand this book, we will be blessed for reading it. There is also a special blessing for those who hear it preached, believe it, and follow it. The truth is we are blessed when we delight in, and find joy in, reading and meditating on The Word of God. (Psalms 1:2) So, let us read The Word of God daily, and let us attend worship services each week so that we can hear The Word of God preached. (Romans 10:13-15) Let us also study The word of God more frequently, so that we may increase our understanding of it. (2 Timothy 2:15) Then let us be doers of The Word, and not just hearers of The Word. (James 1:22) For I am sure that there is a blessing in store for those of us who read, hear, obey, and share The Word of God
The Bible Book of Revelation is the book of prophesy in The New Testament. It was revealed to, and recorded by the Apostle John, under the divine inspiration of The Holy Spirit of God. There is a special blessing in store for those who read this Book of The Bible. There is also a special blessing for those who hear this inspired Word of God, believe it, take it to heart, and obey it . John also warns them that the end of time is near.
The Book of Revelation is a difficult book to understand. It is a prophesy regarding twenty-first century events recorded by a man with a first century frame of reference. It would be helpful to understand this book if one had read the other sixty-five books beforehand, because it refers to previously recorded scripture and biblical events. However, this special blessing does not require us to understand this book, we will be blessed for reading it. There is also a special blessing for those who hear it preached, believe it, and follow it. The truth is we are blessed when we delight in, and find joy in, reading and meditating on The Word of God. (Psalms 1:2) So, let us read The Word of God daily, and let us attend worship services each week so that we can hear The Word of God preached. (Romans 10:13-15) Let us also study The word of God more frequently, so that we may increase our understanding of it. (2 Timothy 2:15) Then let us be doers of The Word, and not just hearers of The Word. (James 1:22) For I am sure that there is a blessing in store for those of us who read, hear, obey, and share The Word of God
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Who We Really Are Determines What We Do
"In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him...Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man...he said "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise." Luke 10:25-37 (NIV)
Luke, the physician, recorded this parable regarding the good Samaritan which Jesus spoke in response to a lawyer who was questioning Him. The lawyer asked Jesus who was the neighbor that he should love as he loved himself. After Jesus told him the parable about a man who was robbed, beaten, and left for dead on the side of the road. He told him that a priest walked past him and did nothing. A Levite, a religious person who worked in the temple, also walked past him and did nothing. A Samaritan, a non-religious person of a different culture, saw the man as he was walking by, had compassion for him, cleaned and bandaged his wounds, took him to an inn, and took care of him. Then Jesus asked him which man of the three was a neighbor to the beaten man. When the lawyer answered "The one who had compassion for him", Jesus told him to go and do likewise.
The point is that our title, or position, or religious affiliations do not determine our behavior. Our behavior is determined by the convictions within our heart. "Who we really are inside determines what we see, and what we see determines what we do." (Unknown) If we have the Christ-like compassion for others within us, then we will do what we can to help those who are in need. If we don't have it within us, then we won't help others. The lawyer asked Christ "who is my neighbor?" The much more important question for us today is, "who are we?" Who we are will determine what we will do. If we love our neighbor as ourselves, then we will help those that we can. Those who help the poor are lending to The Lord God, and He will repay the debt. (Proverbs 19:17) He who blesses others shall himself be blessed. (Proverbs 11:25) If we give, then it shall be given back unto us, and we will receive more than we gave. (Luke 6:38) Let us share with those who are less fortunate and in need. Remember the words of The Lord Jesus, it is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)
Luke, the physician, recorded this parable regarding the good Samaritan which Jesus spoke in response to a lawyer who was questioning Him. The lawyer asked Jesus who was the neighbor that he should love as he loved himself. After Jesus told him the parable about a man who was robbed, beaten, and left for dead on the side of the road. He told him that a priest walked past him and did nothing. A Levite, a religious person who worked in the temple, also walked past him and did nothing. A Samaritan, a non-religious person of a different culture, saw the man as he was walking by, had compassion for him, cleaned and bandaged his wounds, took him to an inn, and took care of him. Then Jesus asked him which man of the three was a neighbor to the beaten man. When the lawyer answered "The one who had compassion for him", Jesus told him to go and do likewise.
The point is that our title, or position, or religious affiliations do not determine our behavior. Our behavior is determined by the convictions within our heart. "Who we really are inside determines what we see, and what we see determines what we do." (Unknown) If we have the Christ-like compassion for others within us, then we will do what we can to help those who are in need. If we don't have it within us, then we won't help others. The lawyer asked Christ "who is my neighbor?" The much more important question for us today is, "who are we?" Who we are will determine what we will do. If we love our neighbor as ourselves, then we will help those that we can. Those who help the poor are lending to The Lord God, and He will repay the debt. (Proverbs 19:17) He who blesses others shall himself be blessed. (Proverbs 11:25) If we give, then it shall be given back unto us, and we will receive more than we gave. (Luke 6:38) Let us share with those who are less fortunate and in need. Remember the words of The Lord Jesus, it is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)
Saturday, December 14, 2013
We Must Control Our Tongue
"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless." James 1:26 (NIV)
This Holy Spirit inspired Word of God was written by James, the half brother of Jesus, to the believers in order to encourage them to think before they speak so that they would control their speech. He stated that any religious or God fearing person who did not control his tongue was only deceiving himself and not honoring God.
It would also be better for us today if we would screen and filter our thoughts before we speak. "Purity of heart is often revealed by controlled and proper speech." (John Mac Arthur) Being involved in religious activities just to be seen by others is not worship and it does not honor God. If our speech is about evil things or full of foul language, then we do not honor God. If by our activities and words we present ourselves as God fearing people but in actuality we do not have that conviction within our hearts, then we are living a lie, and God knows the truth and will not be pleased. Out of the mouth come the issues of the heart. (Matthew 12:34, Matthew 15:18, and Luke 6:45) As we think and speak, so we really are. (Proverbs 23:7) So let us think before we speak, and let us pray that the words of our mouth and the meditations of our heart will be acceptable in the sight of The Lord God. (Psalms 19:14)
This Holy Spirit inspired Word of God was written by James, the half brother of Jesus, to the believers in order to encourage them to think before they speak so that they would control their speech. He stated that any religious or God fearing person who did not control his tongue was only deceiving himself and not honoring God.
It would also be better for us today if we would screen and filter our thoughts before we speak. "Purity of heart is often revealed by controlled and proper speech." (John Mac Arthur) Being involved in religious activities just to be seen by others is not worship and it does not honor God. If our speech is about evil things or full of foul language, then we do not honor God. If by our activities and words we present ourselves as God fearing people but in actuality we do not have that conviction within our hearts, then we are living a lie, and God knows the truth and will not be pleased. Out of the mouth come the issues of the heart. (Matthew 12:34, Matthew 15:18, and Luke 6:45) As we think and speak, so we really are. (Proverbs 23:7) So let us think before we speak, and let us pray that the words of our mouth and the meditations of our heart will be acceptable in the sight of The Lord God. (Psalms 19:14)
Thursday, December 12, 2013
We Will Be Blessed If We Do As Christ Did
"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." John 13:15-17 (NIV)
According to The Holy Spirit inspired word recorded by the Apostle John, the disciple who referred to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved, Jesus said to His disciples that the man who has been shown and taught the right way, and then does right and follows the right way, will be blessed.
When we know that which is right, we should do that which is right. As the saying goes, "when we know better, we should do better." We are encouraged to not just be hearers of The Word of God, but also to be doers of The Word. (James 1:22) The Lord God will show His wrath to those who hear The Word of God, and then do not obey it. (2 Thessalonians 1:8) Christ lived His human life on earth as an example to us, and we need to follow His example. If we live a Christ-like life, we will be blessed.
According to The Holy Spirit inspired word recorded by the Apostle John, the disciple who referred to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved, Jesus said to His disciples that the man who has been shown and taught the right way, and then does right and follows the right way, will be blessed.
When we know that which is right, we should do that which is right. As the saying goes, "when we know better, we should do better." We are encouraged to not just be hearers of The Word of God, but also to be doers of The Word. (James 1:22) The Lord God will show His wrath to those who hear The Word of God, and then do not obey it. (2 Thessalonians 1:8) Christ lived His human life on earth as an example to us, and we need to follow His example. If we live a Christ-like life, we will be blessed.
Monday, December 9, 2013
Be Quick To Listen And Be Slow To Speak
"My dear brothers, take note of this; Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept The Word planted in you, which can save you." James 1:19-21 (NIV)
These are The Holy Spirit inspired words of James, the half brother of Jesus, who became a pillar of the early Church after the resurrection. James wrote to the people of God to provide them with guidance regarding their behavior. He was encouraging them to exercise self-control, to listen to others more often, and to be think before they speak or become angry. He told them that they should not say or do anything which would displease God, and they should humbly accept and display The Word of God, and The Holy Spirit of God, which was within them.
It has been said that we have two ears and one mouth, maybe we should spend twice as much time listening as we do talking. James encouraged believers to listen to others, but he did not say to believe everything that we hear. He said we should be slow to speak, meaning that we should hear what the other person has to say before we respond, and we should think about what they said and what we are going to say, before we say it. James said that we should be slow to get angry, because when we get angry, we often say and do things which are not consistent with the Christ-like life that we should live. We also should always be ready to listen to The Word of God, and we should welcome every opportunity to gain a better understanding of it. We should be very cautious and slow to teach or tell others about The Word of God without first giving our words careful consideration and much thought, least we mis-speak. If The Word of God is within us, then we should let it shine forth for others to see by our actions, which will speak much louder than our words.
These are The Holy Spirit inspired words of James, the half brother of Jesus, who became a pillar of the early Church after the resurrection. James wrote to the people of God to provide them with guidance regarding their behavior. He was encouraging them to exercise self-control, to listen to others more often, and to be think before they speak or become angry. He told them that they should not say or do anything which would displease God, and they should humbly accept and display The Word of God, and The Holy Spirit of God, which was within them.
It has been said that we have two ears and one mouth, maybe we should spend twice as much time listening as we do talking. James encouraged believers to listen to others, but he did not say to believe everything that we hear. He said we should be slow to speak, meaning that we should hear what the other person has to say before we respond, and we should think about what they said and what we are going to say, before we say it. James said that we should be slow to get angry, because when we get angry, we often say and do things which are not consistent with the Christ-like life that we should live. We also should always be ready to listen to The Word of God, and we should welcome every opportunity to gain a better understanding of it. We should be very cautious and slow to teach or tell others about The Word of God without first giving our words careful consideration and much thought, least we mis-speak. If The Word of God is within us, then we should let it shine forth for others to see by our actions, which will speak much louder than our words.
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Avoid Evil And The Appearance Of Evil
"Avoid every kind of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5:22 (NIV) The King James version of The Bible for this verse reads: "Abstain from all appearance of evil."
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Thessaliniki, the Apostle Paul gave them advice regarding guidelines and examples of good Christian behavior. In this verse Paul told them to avoid every kind of evil. The Amplified Bible for this verse reads: "Abstain from evil; shrink from it and keep aloof from it, in whatever form or whatever kind it may be."
In order to engage in successful Christian living, one must avoid sinful behavior, as much as is humanly possible. Believers still sin, but when we fall and sin, we do not stay down. We ask The Lord God to forgive us and He picks us up and cleans us up. (Psalms 37:24 and 1 John 1:9) However, as believers are encouraged to avoid any activity which is sinful, and to avoid anything which even appears to be, or might be perceived to be sinful. (1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV) We are advised to avoid corrupt or evil practices which suggest sinful thoughts or actions, even if they are legal by the laws of man. We should be very careful regarding that which we place before our sanctified eyes, or in our sanctified ears, because some inappropriate things can lead to sinful thoughts. (Psalms 101:3 and 2 Timothy 4:3) Listening to false witness reports, or watching sinful acts on television, at the movies, or on the internet, produces sinful thoughts which is sinful behavior. (Exodus 23:1, Psalms 101:3, Matthew 5:28, and Proverbs 23:7) So, let us ask God to forgive us of our sinful thoughts, words, and actions. Let us pray for guidance in our decision making, for help in avoiding sinful activities, and for help avoiding those things which appear evil or sinful. We do not want to stumble and fall into sin, and we do want to cause someone else to stumble and fall into sin. (Malachi 2:8)
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Thessaliniki, the Apostle Paul gave them advice regarding guidelines and examples of good Christian behavior. In this verse Paul told them to avoid every kind of evil. The Amplified Bible for this verse reads: "Abstain from evil; shrink from it and keep aloof from it, in whatever form or whatever kind it may be."
In order to engage in successful Christian living, one must avoid sinful behavior, as much as is humanly possible. Believers still sin, but when we fall and sin, we do not stay down. We ask The Lord God to forgive us and He picks us up and cleans us up. (Psalms 37:24 and 1 John 1:9) However, as believers are encouraged to avoid any activity which is sinful, and to avoid anything which even appears to be, or might be perceived to be sinful. (1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV) We are advised to avoid corrupt or evil practices which suggest sinful thoughts or actions, even if they are legal by the laws of man. We should be very careful regarding that which we place before our sanctified eyes, or in our sanctified ears, because some inappropriate things can lead to sinful thoughts. (Psalms 101:3 and 2 Timothy 4:3) Listening to false witness reports, or watching sinful acts on television, at the movies, or on the internet, produces sinful thoughts which is sinful behavior. (Exodus 23:1, Psalms 101:3, Matthew 5:28, and Proverbs 23:7) So, let us ask God to forgive us of our sinful thoughts, words, and actions. Let us pray for guidance in our decision making, for help in avoiding sinful activities, and for help avoiding those things which appear evil or sinful. We do not want to stumble and fall into sin, and we do want to cause someone else to stumble and fall into sin. (Malachi 2:8)
Friday, December 6, 2013
Blessed Is The Servant Whom The Lord Finds Doing Good
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this; If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because The Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him. 'Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.' " Matthew 24:42-46 (NIV)
The Apostle Matthew, the former tax collector, recorded this parable which Jesus spoke to His disciples regarding the end of the age, (Matthew 24:3-36), the rapture of The Church, (Matthew 24:40-41), and His return to earth. (Matthew 24:44) He told them to keep watch and be ready, because not one knows exactly when He will return. He then taught them using a parable that the wise and faithful servant will be doing the work which he was assigned when The Master returns.
Since no one knows exactly when Christ will return, we need to prepare now for His return. It is said that we need to get ready now, and stay ready, so that we be ready when He comes. If we stay ready, we won't have to worry about trying to get ready when He comes. Just as in the days of Noah, the people would not turn from their sinful ways before the flood, and after the flood came, it was too late for them. (Matthew 24:37-39) It would be better for us today, if we were like the good and faithful servant. (Matthew 24:45 and Matthew 25:21 and 23) Blessed is the servant whom The Lord will find doing good works when He returns. (Matthew 24:46)
The Apostle Matthew, the former tax collector, recorded this parable which Jesus spoke to His disciples regarding the end of the age, (Matthew 24:3-36), the rapture of The Church, (Matthew 24:40-41), and His return to earth. (Matthew 24:44) He told them to keep watch and be ready, because not one knows exactly when He will return. He then taught them using a parable that the wise and faithful servant will be doing the work which he was assigned when The Master returns.
Since no one knows exactly when Christ will return, we need to prepare now for His return. It is said that we need to get ready now, and stay ready, so that we be ready when He comes. If we stay ready, we won't have to worry about trying to get ready when He comes. Just as in the days of Noah, the people would not turn from their sinful ways before the flood, and after the flood came, it was too late for them. (Matthew 24:37-39) It would be better for us today, if we were like the good and faithful servant. (Matthew 24:45 and Matthew 25:21 and 23) Blessed is the servant whom The Lord will find doing good works when He returns. (Matthew 24:46)
Thursday, December 5, 2013
We Are Blessed To Be Chosen By God
"Blessed are those You choose and bring near to live in Your courts! We are filled with the good things of Your house, of Your holy temple. You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness,O God our Savior..." Psalms 65:4-5 (NIV)
This psalm of King David is both a prayer and a song for the people of God to sing to give Him praise. David is directing the people to praise God for choosing them, for satisfying them physically and spiritually, for protecting them, and for supporting them in an awesome manner.
As believers, we are blessed to be included among the elect of God. We have been chosen to be one of His children, adopted into His family. (Ephesians 1:5, Titus 1:1 and 1 Peter 1:2) It is God who gives us the inclination and who draws us near to Himself. (John 6:44) In His presence we are blessed to enjoy all of the good things which He provides including, righteousness, grace, mercy, comfort, and joy. When we communicate with Him through prayer, He grants our requests, frequently in ways that are much greater than we can imagine. (1 Corinthians 2:9) All who believe and choose Him are blessed.
This psalm of King David is both a prayer and a song for the people of God to sing to give Him praise. David is directing the people to praise God for choosing them, for satisfying them physically and spiritually, for protecting them, and for supporting them in an awesome manner.
As believers, we are blessed to be included among the elect of God. We have been chosen to be one of His children, adopted into His family. (Ephesians 1:5, Titus 1:1 and 1 Peter 1:2) It is God who gives us the inclination and who draws us near to Himself. (John 6:44) In His presence we are blessed to enjoy all of the good things which He provides including, righteousness, grace, mercy, comfort, and joy. When we communicate with Him through prayer, He grants our requests, frequently in ways that are much greater than we can imagine. (1 Corinthians 2:9) All who believe and choose Him are blessed.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Press On Towards The Goal Of Christ-likeness
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do, forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12-14 (NIV)
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Philippi, the Apostle Paul told them that although he was saved, he was not perfect. However, he was pressing on towards the mark for which Christ had laid hold of him. While he had not attained it yet, he was going forward towards it, and he was not going to worry about his past as he worked toward the prize for which God had called him.
We can learn from Paul. All of us have sinned. (Romans 3:23) We all have skeletons in our closets because of our negative sinful past. However, once we have confessed our past sins, and asked God to forgive us, He forgives us and we should let go of them. (1 John 1:9) We should not let our past sins, or our past successes hinder our present work, or block our future efforts. God has a work for each of us to accomplish as part of His kingdom building project. (1 Chronicles 28:20 and Colossians 3:23) As Paul said, we are all like a runner in a race heading for the goal of Christ-likeness, we are not there yet, but we must keep on running towards the goal. None of us is perfect, but God can still use us. None of the men in The Bible were perfect, except for Jesus, The Christ. They just believed and were willing to work for The Lord God, and He used them for His purposes. We must likewise forget about our past and be willing to use our skills and abilities to work for The Lord. (Exodus 36:2)
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Philippi, the Apostle Paul told them that although he was saved, he was not perfect. However, he was pressing on towards the mark for which Christ had laid hold of him. While he had not attained it yet, he was going forward towards it, and he was not going to worry about his past as he worked toward the prize for which God had called him.
We can learn from Paul. All of us have sinned. (Romans 3:23) We all have skeletons in our closets because of our negative sinful past. However, once we have confessed our past sins, and asked God to forgive us, He forgives us and we should let go of them. (1 John 1:9) We should not let our past sins, or our past successes hinder our present work, or block our future efforts. God has a work for each of us to accomplish as part of His kingdom building project. (1 Chronicles 28:20 and Colossians 3:23) As Paul said, we are all like a runner in a race heading for the goal of Christ-likeness, we are not there yet, but we must keep on running towards the goal. None of us is perfect, but God can still use us. None of the men in The Bible were perfect, except for Jesus, The Christ. They just believed and were willing to work for The Lord God, and He used them for His purposes. We must likewise forget about our past and be willing to use our skills and abilities to work for The Lord. (Exodus 36:2)
Death Is A Temporary Process Life Is Eternal
"So then, death is at work in us, but ... because we know that The One who raised The Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus ... Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day ... For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:12-18 (NIV)
This message was written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in The Church in Corinth to encourage them to keep the faith and not be led astray by false prophets. (2 Corinthians 4:13) He told them that although they were dying a little each day, and would eventually see physical death, their spirit was being renewed each day, and it is eternal.
From the day that we are born we began to die. It is just that, while we are young, we were growing at a faster rate than we were dying, so the net result was that we grew. However, at some point in our life the rate at which we were dying exceeded the rate of growth and we began to notice that we were aging, decaying, wasting away, and slowing dying. As Paul put it, "...death is at work in us..." from the very beginning. But when the process is complete and death overtakes us, as believers we know that The God who raised up our Lord and Savior Jesus, The Christ, will also raise us up from the dead. Christ said that, "he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live." (John 11:25) We know that when the body dies physically, the spirit returns to God, for when we are absent from the body, we are present with The Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8) We know that the dead in Christ shall rise, and they will meet The Lord God first. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17) Our spiritual selves will live throughout eternity. (Matthew 25:46, John 3:15, Romans 6:23, and 1 John 5:11) Death and dying is a temporary process, but spiritual life is eternal. In this we can find comfort at the death of a loved one.
This message was written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in The Church in Corinth to encourage them to keep the faith and not be led astray by false prophets. (2 Corinthians 4:13) He told them that although they were dying a little each day, and would eventually see physical death, their spirit was being renewed each day, and it is eternal.
From the day that we are born we began to die. It is just that, while we are young, we were growing at a faster rate than we were dying, so the net result was that we grew. However, at some point in our life the rate at which we were dying exceeded the rate of growth and we began to notice that we were aging, decaying, wasting away, and slowing dying. As Paul put it, "...death is at work in us..." from the very beginning. But when the process is complete and death overtakes us, as believers we know that The God who raised up our Lord and Savior Jesus, The Christ, will also raise us up from the dead. Christ said that, "he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live." (John 11:25) We know that when the body dies physically, the spirit returns to God, for when we are absent from the body, we are present with The Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8) We know that the dead in Christ shall rise, and they will meet The Lord God first. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17) Our spiritual selves will live throughout eternity. (Matthew 25:46, John 3:15, Romans 6:23, and 1 John 5:11) Death and dying is a temporary process, but spiritual life is eternal. In this we can find comfort at the death of a loved one.
Monday, December 2, 2013
Blessed Is He Who Has Compassion
"Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; The LORD delivers him in times of trouble. The LORD will protect him and preserve his life; He will bless him in the land and not surrender him to the desire of his foes. The LORD will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness." Psalms 41:1-3 (NIV)
This psalm of King David records the blessings and the sufferings of the people of God. Those believers who are poor, weak, sick, down or depressed, will be blessed by The Lord God. He will protect them, preserve them, uplift them, sustain them, cure them, and restore them. David also said that The Lord will bless those who have compassion for others who are suffering and in need.
We are blessed in so many ways, most of which we take for granted. The Lord blesses us when He protects us, preserves us, sustains us, and restores us from and through the things which confront us as the storms of life. Some of the storms that we go through are for our benefit in order to strengthen us. (Romans 5:3, James 1:2-3, and 1 Peter 1:6-7) However, He also blesses us for having compassion on those who are suffering and are less fortunate. (Proverbs 11:25 and 2 Corinthians 1:4) When we have pity on the poor and less fortunate, we are lending whatever to The Lord, and He will repay us. (Proverbs 19:17) Jesus, The Christ, said that as we treat the less fortunate, we are doing the same unto Him. (Matthew 25:40) When we are a blessing to others, we will ourselves also be blessed.
This psalm of King David records the blessings and the sufferings of the people of God. Those believers who are poor, weak, sick, down or depressed, will be blessed by The Lord God. He will protect them, preserve them, uplift them, sustain them, cure them, and restore them. David also said that The Lord will bless those who have compassion for others who are suffering and in need.
We are blessed in so many ways, most of which we take for granted. The Lord blesses us when He protects us, preserves us, sustains us, and restores us from and through the things which confront us as the storms of life. Some of the storms that we go through are for our benefit in order to strengthen us. (Romans 5:3, James 1:2-3, and 1 Peter 1:6-7) However, He also blesses us for having compassion on those who are suffering and are less fortunate. (Proverbs 11:25 and 2 Corinthians 1:4) When we have pity on the poor and less fortunate, we are lending whatever to The Lord, and He will repay us. (Proverbs 19:17) Jesus, The Christ, said that as we treat the less fortunate, we are doing the same unto Him. (Matthew 25:40) When we are a blessing to others, we will ourselves also be blessed.
Ask Believe And Receive
"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Matthew 21:22 (NIV) The King James Version reads: "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."
These are the words of Jesus as He spoke to His disciples on His way back to Jerusalem from Bethany, where He had spent the night, on the day after He had driven the money-changers and merchants from the temple. Jesus told them that they would receive whatever they asked The Lord God for in prayer if they believed that they would receive it.
There is power in the prayer of the believer. Jesus, The Christ, said that we would receive whatever we asked for in prayer. (Matthew 7:7 and 21:22) However, there are some conditions which relate to this. First, we must believe in Him, and believe that He can grant our requests. (Hebrews 11:6) Second, we must ask for things that will give God glory. (John 14:13) Third, we must be sincere in our requests. (James 5:16) Fourth, we must not ask for things for the wrong motives, or for our lustful pleasure. (James 4:3) If we ask for anything which is consistent with the will of God, and which we desire in order to give glory to God, then our prayer requests will be granted, but only if we believe.
These are the words of Jesus as He spoke to His disciples on His way back to Jerusalem from Bethany, where He had spent the night, on the day after He had driven the money-changers and merchants from the temple. Jesus told them that they would receive whatever they asked The Lord God for in prayer if they believed that they would receive it.
There is power in the prayer of the believer. Jesus, The Christ, said that we would receive whatever we asked for in prayer. (Matthew 7:7 and 21:22) However, there are some conditions which relate to this. First, we must believe in Him, and believe that He can grant our requests. (Hebrews 11:6) Second, we must ask for things that will give God glory. (John 14:13) Third, we must be sincere in our requests. (James 5:16) Fourth, we must not ask for things for the wrong motives, or for our lustful pleasure. (James 4:3) If we ask for anything which is consistent with the will of God, and which we desire in order to give glory to God, then our prayer requests will be granted, but only if we believe.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Don't Envy Others Walk With The Spirit
"Since we live by The Spirit, let us keep in step with The Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other." Galatians 5:25-26 (NIV)
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Galatia, the Apostle Paul told them that since The Holy Spirit of God was within them, that they should obey The Word of God and keep His commandments. He also told them that they should not be jealous or envious of one another, or be conceited and self-centered.
When we are envious of that which others have, it suggests that we are dissatisfied with that which The Lord God has blessed us with. It suggests that we are ungrateful or greedy. Being greedy can lead to sinful thoughts and actions. (Proverbs 1:19) We should not envy sinners or one another. (Proverbs 23:17 and Galatians 5:26) The Lord God will deal with those who enjoy ill-gotten gains. (Psalms 37:1-2) Envy is one of the sins of those with a reprobate mind. (Romans 1:29) Envy will destroy us, it will eat up that which is inside of us. (Proverbs 14:30) We, who are called by His name, should have faith in Him and obey His Holy Word. (Exodus 20:17 and Romans 13:9) We should not be envious of that which others have, but we should rejoice with them that they have been blessed. (Romans 12:15) We live by The Spirit and we should exhibit the Christ-like qualities of The Spirit of God. (Galatians 5:22-23) Since we live by The Spirit of God, let us walk with The Spirit of God. (Galatians 5:25)
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Galatia, the Apostle Paul told them that since The Holy Spirit of God was within them, that they should obey The Word of God and keep His commandments. He also told them that they should not be jealous or envious of one another, or be conceited and self-centered.
When we are envious of that which others have, it suggests that we are dissatisfied with that which The Lord God has blessed us with. It suggests that we are ungrateful or greedy. Being greedy can lead to sinful thoughts and actions. (Proverbs 1:19) We should not envy sinners or one another. (Proverbs 23:17 and Galatians 5:26) The Lord God will deal with those who enjoy ill-gotten gains. (Psalms 37:1-2) Envy is one of the sins of those with a reprobate mind. (Romans 1:29) Envy will destroy us, it will eat up that which is inside of us. (Proverbs 14:30) We, who are called by His name, should have faith in Him and obey His Holy Word. (Exodus 20:17 and Romans 13:9) We should not be envious of that which others have, but we should rejoice with them that they have been blessed. (Romans 12:15) We live by The Spirit and we should exhibit the Christ-like qualities of The Spirit of God. (Galatians 5:22-23) Since we live by The Spirit of God, let us walk with The Spirit of God. (Galatians 5:25)
Honest Is The Best Policy
"Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in The Lord Jesus to do this more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of The Lord Jesus. It is God's will that you should be sanctified; that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him. The Lord will punish men for all such sins, as we have already told you and warned you. For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life." 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7 (NIV)
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Thessaloniki, the Apostle Paul gave them instructions regarding holy living in order to please God. He urged them to live a sanctified life, to control their bodies, and to live in an honest, holy, and honorable manner. He also warned them that God would punish them if they chose to do otherwise.
We know that we are all sinners, we all fall short when it comes to obeying The Word of God. (Romans 3:23) However, we are all encouraged to make an active effort to do the will of God and live a Christ-like life. It would please The Lord God if we would consciously choose to sin less and less each day. We may not know all that is contained within The Word of God, but we know right from wrong. God said that we should be holy because we are His and He is holy. (1 Peter 1:16) We have been called and set apart from the world to behave in a Christ-like manner. (Psalms 4:3) Our bodies are His temple, and we should treat ourselves as a living sacrifice to Him. (1 Corinthians 6:19 and Romans 12:1) We should be honest and helpful in our dealings with each other. We are children of God, and our actions should reflect that we are in this world but not of this world. (Romans 8:16, Galatians 3:26, and John 8:23) "God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life." (1 Thessalonians 4:7)
In his letter to the believers in The Church at Thessaloniki, the Apostle Paul gave them instructions regarding holy living in order to please God. He urged them to live a sanctified life, to control their bodies, and to live in an honest, holy, and honorable manner. He also warned them that God would punish them if they chose to do otherwise.
We know that we are all sinners, we all fall short when it comes to obeying The Word of God. (Romans 3:23) However, we are all encouraged to make an active effort to do the will of God and live a Christ-like life. It would please The Lord God if we would consciously choose to sin less and less each day. We may not know all that is contained within The Word of God, but we know right from wrong. God said that we should be holy because we are His and He is holy. (1 Peter 1:16) We have been called and set apart from the world to behave in a Christ-like manner. (Psalms 4:3) Our bodies are His temple, and we should treat ourselves as a living sacrifice to Him. (1 Corinthians 6:19 and Romans 12:1) We should be honest and helpful in our dealings with each other. We are children of God, and our actions should reflect that we are in this world but not of this world. (Romans 8:16, Galatians 3:26, and John 8:23) "God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life." (1 Thessalonians 4:7)
Friday, November 29, 2013
Thank You Lord
"And we also thank God continually because, when you received The Word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, The Word of God, which is at work in you who believe." 1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in The Church at Thessaloniki. He was thankful that they received the disciples, and that they heard The Word of God and they believed it. Paul also said that they were witnesses that the disciples worked while among them so as not to be a burden on the people. Then he urged them to live theirs lives in such a manner that would be pleasing to God, and to continue to imitate Christ-like behavior.
Today, we should also be thankful, and we should thank The Lord God continually. We should thank Him for His Son, Jesus, The Christ, and we should thank Him because we have The Word of God within us. During this thanksgiving holiday season, and every day throughout the remainder of this year and on into the future, we should give God thanks for blessing us. We should also live our lives in a way which imitates Christ-like behavior. (1 Thessalonians 2:14)
The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in The Church at Thessaloniki. He was thankful that they received the disciples, and that they heard The Word of God and they believed it. Paul also said that they were witnesses that the disciples worked while among them so as not to be a burden on the people. Then he urged them to live theirs lives in such a manner that would be pleasing to God, and to continue to imitate Christ-like behavior.
Today, we should also be thankful, and we should thank The Lord God continually. We should thank Him for His Son, Jesus, The Christ, and we should thank Him because we have The Word of God within us. During this thanksgiving holiday season, and every day throughout the remainder of this year and on into the future, we should give God thanks for blessing us. We should also live our lives in a way which imitates Christ-like behavior. (1 Thessalonians 2:14)
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Be Thankful Share And Pray With Thanksgiving
"You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God." 2 Corinthians 9:11 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in The Church at Corinth to encourage them to be generous with those who were less fortunate. He told them that they had been blessed, and would be blessed even more so that they could be a blessing to others.
He also said that their generosity would result in them giving thanksgiving to God.
O, give thanks unto The Lord. (Psalms 105:1, 106:1, 107:1, 118:1, and 136:1) We should begin our thanksgiving celebration with prayer, as Nehemiah was first to do. (Nehemiah 11:17) We are encouraged to always come before the presence of The Lord with thanksgiving. (Psalms 95:2) When we enter into our place of worship, we should do so with thanksgiving. (Psalms 100:4) We should sing unto The Lord with thanksgiving. (Psalms 147:7) This should not be something that we do one day of the year, every day is a day of thanksgiving. We have been blessed in more ways than we can count, and we should be thankful. (Psalms 100:4 and Colossians 3:15) We have been blessed so that we can be a blessing to others. (Proverbs 11:25) Let us thank God for the blessings which we have already received, and let us share with those who are less fortunate. Let us not worry about anything, and pray about every thing with thanksgiving to God. (Philippians 4:6) Let us do this every day, and not just on this day of celebration, but continually. (Colossians 4:2) Have a blessed day of thanksgiving. O, give thanks unto The Lord.
The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in The Church at Corinth to encourage them to be generous with those who were less fortunate. He told them that they had been blessed, and would be blessed even more so that they could be a blessing to others.
He also said that their generosity would result in them giving thanksgiving to God.
O, give thanks unto The Lord. (Psalms 105:1, 106:1, 107:1, 118:1, and 136:1) We should begin our thanksgiving celebration with prayer, as Nehemiah was first to do. (Nehemiah 11:17) We are encouraged to always come before the presence of The Lord with thanksgiving. (Psalms 95:2) When we enter into our place of worship, we should do so with thanksgiving. (Psalms 100:4) We should sing unto The Lord with thanksgiving. (Psalms 147:7) This should not be something that we do one day of the year, every day is a day of thanksgiving. We have been blessed in more ways than we can count, and we should be thankful. (Psalms 100:4 and Colossians 3:15) We have been blessed so that we can be a blessing to others. (Proverbs 11:25) Let us thank God for the blessings which we have already received, and let us share with those who are less fortunate. Let us not worry about anything, and pray about every thing with thanksgiving to God. (Philippians 4:6) Let us do this every day, and not just on this day of celebration, but continually. (Colossians 4:2) Have a blessed day of thanksgiving. O, give thanks unto The Lord.
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Repent And Turn To God
"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from The Lord, and that He may send The Christ, who has been appointed for you, even Jesus." Acts 3:19-20 (NIV)
These are The Holy Spirit inspired words, which were recorded by Luke, the physician, that were spoken by the Apostle Peter to the crowd that had gathered at the temple gate, after he healed the lame man. He told the crowd that God had sent Jesus unto them, and they denied Him. He said that they asked Pilate to release a murderer and crucify Jesus. He said that they killed Him, but God raised Him from the dead, and he and the disciples were witnesses of His resurrection. (Acts 3:11-15) Peter's message to them was that they should repent, and turn to God, so that their sins may be forgiven.
Christ died for the sins of the world. (John 1:29) That means that He died for our sins, He went to the cross and died for us. We also need to repent, to turn from our sinful ways, and to seek His face, and to follow Him. (2 Chronicles 7:14) If we confess our sins, and ask to be forgiven, He will forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from our unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9) We must repent while we have the opportunity, and get busy working for The Lord. (Ecclesiastes 9:10) There will come a point in time when it will be to late for our names to be recorded in The Lamb's Book of Life. (Revelation 20:12 and 20:15) Jesus said and preached, repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 3:2 and 4:17)
These are The Holy Spirit inspired words, which were recorded by Luke, the physician, that were spoken by the Apostle Peter to the crowd that had gathered at the temple gate, after he healed the lame man. He told the crowd that God had sent Jesus unto them, and they denied Him. He said that they asked Pilate to release a murderer and crucify Jesus. He said that they killed Him, but God raised Him from the dead, and he and the disciples were witnesses of His resurrection. (Acts 3:11-15) Peter's message to them was that they should repent, and turn to God, so that their sins may be forgiven.
Christ died for the sins of the world. (John 1:29) That means that He died for our sins, He went to the cross and died for us. We also need to repent, to turn from our sinful ways, and to seek His face, and to follow Him. (2 Chronicles 7:14) If we confess our sins, and ask to be forgiven, He will forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from our unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9) We must repent while we have the opportunity, and get busy working for The Lord. (Ecclesiastes 9:10) There will come a point in time when it will be to late for our names to be recorded in The Lamb's Book of Life. (Revelation 20:12 and 20:15) Jesus said and preached, repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 3:2 and 4:17)
Monday, November 25, 2013
Enjoy The Joy Of The Presence Of The Lord
"Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, because You will not abandon me to the grave, nor will You let Your Holy One see decay. You have made known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand." Psalms 16:9-11 (NIV)
After beginning this psalm with a one line prayer, King David goes on to recount how The Lord has blessed him, and then he restates his commitment to The Lord. Then he states how glad he is that The Lord has kept him, shown him the right path to take, and filled him with joy.
We can learn a lot from David. The first thing that we should learn is that a prayer does not have to be lengthy in order to be effective. (Psalms 16:1) Maybe if we prayed more often, then our prayers would not have to be so long. The second thing we can learn is to praise The Lord
more often for the good things that He has done for us and for others. (Psalms 16:2-3) We need to be grateful for what we have already been blessed to receive. (Psalms 16:5-6) Then we need to listen to, and obey the counsel and instruction of The Lord, and we should always keep The Word of God before us. (Psalms 16:7-8) God has blessed us, and we should be glad. (Psalms 16:9) He has shown us the right path to take, and His Word is the light unto the right pathway. (Psalms 16:11 and Psalms 119:105) The joy that He has given to us, cannot be taken from us. (John 17:13) He is always with us, and in His presence there is complete joy. (Psalms 16:11)
After beginning this psalm with a one line prayer, King David goes on to recount how The Lord has blessed him, and then he restates his commitment to The Lord. Then he states how glad he is that The Lord has kept him, shown him the right path to take, and filled him with joy.
We can learn a lot from David. The first thing that we should learn is that a prayer does not have to be lengthy in order to be effective. (Psalms 16:1) Maybe if we prayed more often, then our prayers would not have to be so long. The second thing we can learn is to praise The Lord
more often for the good things that He has done for us and for others. (Psalms 16:2-3) We need to be grateful for what we have already been blessed to receive. (Psalms 16:5-6) Then we need to listen to, and obey the counsel and instruction of The Lord, and we should always keep The Word of God before us. (Psalms 16:7-8) God has blessed us, and we should be glad. (Psalms 16:9) He has shown us the right path to take, and His Word is the light unto the right pathway. (Psalms 16:11 and Psalms 119:105) The joy that He has given to us, cannot be taken from us. (John 17:13) He is always with us, and in His presence there is complete joy. (Psalms 16:11)
Sunday, November 24, 2013
The Humble Will Be Exalted
"For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:12 (NIV)
These are the words spoken by Jesus, The Christ, to His disciples, to the crowd, and to the Pharisees and Sadducees in the temple in Jerusalem, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew. He said this after telling them not to do things just to be seen by men. He also said that they should not seek lofty titles, or call themselves "Rabbi", or "father", or "teacher". The man who exalts himself will be brought down, and the man who humbles himself will be exalted.
We should not promote or exalt ourselves, true promotion and exaltation comes from The Lord, He puts up one and puts down another. (Psalms 75:6-7) He will honor and bless whomever He chooses, for whatever purposes He chooses. The proud shall be brought down and the humble shall be honored. (Proverbs 29:23) It is better to be invited up to a position of honor than it is to be asked to move or step down after taking a position or seat on your own. It is better to be humble than to be proud. (Proverbs 16:19 and 1 Peter 5:5) If we humble ourselves before The Lord, He will lift us up. (James 4:10 and 1 Peter 5:6)
These are the words spoken by Jesus, The Christ, to His disciples, to the crowd, and to the Pharisees and Sadducees in the temple in Jerusalem, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew. He said this after telling them not to do things just to be seen by men. He also said that they should not seek lofty titles, or call themselves "Rabbi", or "father", or "teacher". The man who exalts himself will be brought down, and the man who humbles himself will be exalted.
We should not promote or exalt ourselves, true promotion and exaltation comes from The Lord, He puts up one and puts down another. (Psalms 75:6-7) He will honor and bless whomever He chooses, for whatever purposes He chooses. The proud shall be brought down and the humble shall be honored. (Proverbs 29:23) It is better to be invited up to a position of honor than it is to be asked to move or step down after taking a position or seat on your own. It is better to be humble than to be proud. (Proverbs 16:19 and 1 Peter 5:5) If we humble ourselves before The Lord, He will lift us up. (James 4:10 and 1 Peter 5:6)
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Make Every Effort To Add To Your Faith
"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:3-8 (NIV)
These are the words of the Apostle Peter, inspired by The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the early church to counter the false teachers who were infiltrating the church. Peter told them that God had given them the power escape the corruption caused by evil desires and evil influences. He told them that they must make every effort to exercise their faith. By doing so, they would increase their faith and produce more fruit of The Spirit of God.
Today we need to realize that The Lord has blessed us and given us some of His divine power. We have The Holy Spirit of God dwelling within us, and that makes us capable of exhibiting the fruit of The Spirit, which is love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23) These traits which we have as believers, we ought to increase them within our lives and in our behavior. As we exercise them, we become stronger in the faith, and thereby we become more effective and productive in our efforts for The Lord.
These are the words of the Apostle Peter, inspired by The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the early church to counter the false teachers who were infiltrating the church. Peter told them that God had given them the power escape the corruption caused by evil desires and evil influences. He told them that they must make every effort to exercise their faith. By doing so, they would increase their faith and produce more fruit of The Spirit of God.
Today we need to realize that The Lord has blessed us and given us some of His divine power. We have The Holy Spirit of God dwelling within us, and that makes us capable of exhibiting the fruit of The Spirit, which is love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23) These traits which we have as believers, we ought to increase them within our lives and in our behavior. As we exercise them, we become stronger in the faith, and thereby we become more effective and productive in our efforts for The Lord.
Friday, November 22, 2013
God's Correction Discipline And Punishment
"Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so The LORD your God disciplines you. Observe the commands of The LORD your God, walking in His ways and revering Him." Deuteronomy 8:5-6 (NIV)
This Fifth Book of Moses, the fifth book of the Pentateuch, which center around the events that occur near the end of the life of Moses, was written to the people of God. Here Moses told them that just as they discipline their children, so The Lord God disciplines them. His purpose was to correct their wayward attitude and behavior. Moses encouraged them to obey The Lord, to keep His commandments, and to walk in His ways.
Some times as believers, because of our back-sliding sinful behavior, we need a good old fashion spanking, and The Lord God provides us with the appropriate discipline to get our attention and to change our behavior. In this day of "time out" as a form or punishment, some parents need to be reminded that The Bible says, spare the rod, spoil the child. (Proverbs 22:15, Proverbs 23:13, and Proverbs 29:15) None of us received all of the punishment from our parents that we deserved, and thanks to His goodness and mercy, The Lord God did not discipline us every time that we sinned. However, our sins did not go unnoticed. (Job 34:21)
If we confess our sins and ask to be forgiven, He will cleanse us of our unrighteousness because Jesus paid the price for our sins. (1 John 1:9) If we do not confess our sins, then we will have to give and account for them. (Luke 16:2) Blessed is the man whom The Lord God chastises. (Psalms 94:12) He only disciplines us because He loves us, and He wants us to do that which is right. (Proverbs 3:12 and Hebrews 12:6)
This Fifth Book of Moses, the fifth book of the Pentateuch, which center around the events that occur near the end of the life of Moses, was written to the people of God. Here Moses told them that just as they discipline their children, so The Lord God disciplines them. His purpose was to correct their wayward attitude and behavior. Moses encouraged them to obey The Lord, to keep His commandments, and to walk in His ways.
Some times as believers, because of our back-sliding sinful behavior, we need a good old fashion spanking, and The Lord God provides us with the appropriate discipline to get our attention and to change our behavior. In this day of "time out" as a form or punishment, some parents need to be reminded that The Bible says, spare the rod, spoil the child. (Proverbs 22:15, Proverbs 23:13, and Proverbs 29:15) None of us received all of the punishment from our parents that we deserved, and thanks to His goodness and mercy, The Lord God did not discipline us every time that we sinned. However, our sins did not go unnoticed. (Job 34:21)
If we confess our sins and ask to be forgiven, He will cleanse us of our unrighteousness because Jesus paid the price for our sins. (1 John 1:9) If we do not confess our sins, then we will have to give and account for them. (Luke 16:2) Blessed is the man whom The Lord God chastises. (Psalms 94:12) He only disciplines us because He loves us, and He wants us to do that which is right. (Proverbs 3:12 and Hebrews 12:6)
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Refrain From Anger And Wrath And Sin
"Be still before The LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret, it leads only to evil." Psalms 37:7-8 (NIV)
These are the words of King David, inspired by The Holy Spirit of God, addressed to the people of God, telling them to relax, be calm, and do not get upset because of what is going on around them, especially the success of the wicked.
These words are also appropriate for us today. The wicked, the evil ones, the liars, and the cheats seem to be getting ahead in this world and enjoying the spoils of success. Whereas the good, "the nice guys" seem to finish last. Believers should not worry about the wicked ones, for they will soon be cut down. (Psalms 37:1-2) Rather, what we should do is trust in The Lord, commit to The Lord, delight in The Lord, and do that which is good in His sight, and He will give us the desires of our hearts. (Psalms 37:3-5) We should learn how to mind our own business and not worry about the affairs of others. (1 Thessalonians 4:11) We should do what The Lord has assigned for us to do, and we should pray for every body else, good and bad.
These are the words of King David, inspired by The Holy Spirit of God, addressed to the people of God, telling them to relax, be calm, and do not get upset because of what is going on around them, especially the success of the wicked.
These words are also appropriate for us today. The wicked, the evil ones, the liars, and the cheats seem to be getting ahead in this world and enjoying the spoils of success. Whereas the good, "the nice guys" seem to finish last. Believers should not worry about the wicked ones, for they will soon be cut down. (Psalms 37:1-2) Rather, what we should do is trust in The Lord, commit to The Lord, delight in The Lord, and do that which is good in His sight, and He will give us the desires of our hearts. (Psalms 37:3-5) We should learn how to mind our own business and not worry about the affairs of others. (1 Thessalonians 4:11) We should do what The Lord has assigned for us to do, and we should pray for every body else, good and bad.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
The Lord Can Calm Our Storms
"Then He got into the boat and His disciples followed Him. Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke Him, saying, 'Lord, save us! We're going to drown!' He replied, 'You of little faith, why are you so afraid?' Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, 'What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey Him!" Matthew 8:23-27 (NIV)
In the gospel according to the Apostle Matthew, he records this account of The Lord Jesus rebuking the wind and the waves. He spoke and calmed the storm. (Peace, be still. Mark 4:39) He questioned His disciples and asked them why were they afraid. Jesus already knew that they were men of little faith. They did not yet really understand exactly who He was and is.
Today, we act like we do not understand just how powerful The Lord God really is. Every thing on earth is subject to His will. When Jesus, The Christ, rose from the dead, He said that all power in heaven and in earth is given unto Him. (Matthew 28:18) When we were created, we were given the free will to choose to serve God, or not to serve Him. (Joshua 24:15) We have the option to believe in Him, or not to believe. (John 3:15, John 3:16, and Acts 10:43) He will knock on the door of our hearts, but we must open it and invite Him inside. (Revelation 3:20) If we choose to believe in Him, He can calm the storms in our lives. He can also give us His peace and protection in the midst of our storms and troublesome situations, and deliverance through them. (Jonah 2:1-10) Some times He will move our mountains and calm our storms, and other times He will give us the strength to endure them. As He told the Apostle Paul, His grace is sufficient. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
In the gospel according to the Apostle Matthew, he records this account of The Lord Jesus rebuking the wind and the waves. He spoke and calmed the storm. (Peace, be still. Mark 4:39) He questioned His disciples and asked them why were they afraid. Jesus already knew that they were men of little faith. They did not yet really understand exactly who He was and is.
Today, we act like we do not understand just how powerful The Lord God really is. Every thing on earth is subject to His will. When Jesus, The Christ, rose from the dead, He said that all power in heaven and in earth is given unto Him. (Matthew 28:18) When we were created, we were given the free will to choose to serve God, or not to serve Him. (Joshua 24:15) We have the option to believe in Him, or not to believe. (John 3:15, John 3:16, and Acts 10:43) He will knock on the door of our hearts, but we must open it and invite Him inside. (Revelation 3:20) If we choose to believe in Him, He can calm the storms in our lives. He can also give us His peace and protection in the midst of our storms and troublesome situations, and deliverance through them. (Jonah 2:1-10) Some times He will move our mountains and calm our storms, and other times He will give us the strength to endure them. As He told the Apostle Paul, His grace is sufficient. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
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