"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.
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