"But The Counselor, The Holy Spirit, whom The Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." John 14:26 (NIV)
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, recorded by the Apostle John, as Jesus spoke with His disciples. He told them that He would go away to prepare a place for them. (John 14:2) Then He told them that He would ask His Father to send them another Comforter, The Holy Spirit, who would be with them forever. (John 14:16) He promised them that The Holy Spirit would remind them of everything which He had said to them.
Today, The Lord God speaks to us through His Holy Word. When we read or hear The Word of God, He is speaking to us. The Holy Spirit can bring His words to our remembrance today. However, we must first have heard or read The Word of God before The Holy Spirit can remind us of what He said. So, in addition to hearing The Word preached on Sunday, we need to read His Holy Word every day of the week. In fact, we should begin and end each day with prayer and then reading The Word of God. (Joshua 1:8)
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Saturday, August 30, 2014
When We Know What Is Right We Should Do It
"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." Luke 12:47-48 (NIV)
Under the influence and guidance of The Holy Spirit of God, Luke, the physician and frequent travelling companion of the Apostle Paul, recorded these words of Jesus, The Christ. Although he was not one of those who walked with Christ, Luke had access to the eye witnesses and to their writings from which to draw upon. Here he wrote that after Jesus had spoken to His disciples the parables of the rich fool who built new barns because he had so much to store, and the faithful and wise manager, He then told them about the servant whom the master left in charge of the other servants. The two main points were, one, those who do wrong knowingly, will be punished more severely. Two, those who are given much material goods or responsibility, more will be required of them than those who are given less or given little.
Those to whom much is given, much will be required. We are blessed in order to be a blessing to others. People in positions of responsibility, especially those who have responsibility for other people, will be held to a higher standard of accountability. Those who know that which is right, and do otherwise, will be punished more severely than those who do wrong in ignorance. When we know what is right, we ought to do it. With the knowledge of The Word of God comes responsibility to share it with others, and with that responsibility comes the greater expectation that we will live by it.
Under the influence and guidance of The Holy Spirit of God, Luke, the physician and frequent travelling companion of the Apostle Paul, recorded these words of Jesus, The Christ. Although he was not one of those who walked with Christ, Luke had access to the eye witnesses and to their writings from which to draw upon. Here he wrote that after Jesus had spoken to His disciples the parables of the rich fool who built new barns because he had so much to store, and the faithful and wise manager, He then told them about the servant whom the master left in charge of the other servants. The two main points were, one, those who do wrong knowingly, will be punished more severely. Two, those who are given much material goods or responsibility, more will be required of them than those who are given less or given little.
Those to whom much is given, much will be required. We are blessed in order to be a blessing to others. People in positions of responsibility, especially those who have responsibility for other people, will be held to a higher standard of accountability. Those who know that which is right, and do otherwise, will be punished more severely than those who do wrong in ignorance. When we know what is right, we ought to do it. With the knowledge of The Word of God comes responsibility to share it with others, and with that responsibility comes the greater expectation that we will live by it.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Blessings After Blessings
"From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another." John 1:16 (NIV) The King James Version of The Bible reads: " And of His fullness have all we received, grace for grace."
In the gospel according to the Apostle John, self described as "the disciple whom Jesus loved", these words were written just after stating that:The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and he was a witness of Him. (John 1:14-15) It is from the fullness of His grace that all of them, and all of us, have been blessed.
The Lord God is an unending well of grace and blessings which is overflowing and spilling unto all of us. (Ephesians 1:23) It is by His grace that we are what we are. (1 Corinthians 15:10) It is by the grace of God that we live, move, and have our very being. (Acts 17:28) We have all received blessing after blessing, and we should forever be giving Him thanks. We should thank Him for that which we have, instead of worrying about that which we don't have.
In the gospel according to the Apostle John, self described as "the disciple whom Jesus loved", these words were written just after stating that:The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and he was a witness of Him. (John 1:14-15) It is from the fullness of His grace that all of them, and all of us, have been blessed.
The Lord God is an unending well of grace and blessings which is overflowing and spilling unto all of us. (Ephesians 1:23) It is by His grace that we are what we are. (1 Corinthians 15:10) It is by the grace of God that we live, move, and have our very being. (Acts 17:28) We have all received blessing after blessing, and we should forever be giving Him thanks. We should thank Him for that which we have, instead of worrying about that which we don't have.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Pray And Believe Without Doubting
"Jesus replied, 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, Go, throw yourself into the sea, and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.' " Matthew 21:21-22 (NIV)
These are the words and actions of Jesus, The Christ, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew after He had entered into Jerusalem riding on a donkey, and after He had driven the money changers out of the temple. Jesus, being hungry and seeing a fig tree, went to the tree and found only leaves, no fruit. Then He said to the tree, "May you never bear fruit again." Immediately the fig tree withered. (Matthew 21:19) His disciples were amazed and asked, "How did the tree wither so quickly?" Jesus told them that if they had the faith and did not doubt, they could do even greater things, like move mountains. He said that if they believed, then they would receive whatever they asked for in prayer.
Our problem today, as believers, is that we are so well trained in the laws of science that we doubt the power of God. We believe that God exists, and we pray. We just have so little faith, and are so full of doubt, that we are almost powerless. Much faith and much prayer equals much power. Little faith with little prayer equals little power. On more than one occasion, Jesus said to His disciples, "O ye of little faith." (Matthew 8:26) We are no different than they were. Our faith, in size quantitatively, must be smaller than a grain of mustard seed. (Matthew 17:20) We need to exercise our faith so it can grow. We need to eliminate all doubt in God. We need for our will and His will to be so wrapped up together, that we would only pray for things which are within His will. Thereby, when we pray and ask for something, we will know that it is already done.
These are the words and actions of Jesus, The Christ, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew after He had entered into Jerusalem riding on a donkey, and after He had driven the money changers out of the temple. Jesus, being hungry and seeing a fig tree, went to the tree and found only leaves, no fruit. Then He said to the tree, "May you never bear fruit again." Immediately the fig tree withered. (Matthew 21:19) His disciples were amazed and asked, "How did the tree wither so quickly?" Jesus told them that if they had the faith and did not doubt, they could do even greater things, like move mountains. He said that if they believed, then they would receive whatever they asked for in prayer.
Our problem today, as believers, is that we are so well trained in the laws of science that we doubt the power of God. We believe that God exists, and we pray. We just have so little faith, and are so full of doubt, that we are almost powerless. Much faith and much prayer equals much power. Little faith with little prayer equals little power. On more than one occasion, Jesus said to His disciples, "O ye of little faith." (Matthew 8:26) We are no different than they were. Our faith, in size quantitatively, must be smaller than a grain of mustard seed. (Matthew 17:20) We need to exercise our faith so it can grow. We need to eliminate all doubt in God. We need for our will and His will to be so wrapped up together, that we would only pray for things which are within His will. Thereby, when we pray and ask for something, we will know that it is already done.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
We Should Think Before We Speak
"He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin." Proverbs 13:3 (NIV)
These words of King Solomon, the wisest man to ever live, were written to the people of God to share his insights on human behavior and how believers should conduct themselves. His point here was that believers should control their tongue, and not speak everything they think. Those who do not engage their brain before they speak, will end up worse off for doing so.
There is a very familiar and popular quote which says, "Think before you speak." (Unknown) Most of us would be better off it we would practice this. However, there is another quote which says, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." (Thumper, the rabbit, in the Disney animated film entitled "Bambi") (He may not be the original author, but that was the first time that I heard it) Before we speak, we should ask ourselves these three questions. One, is it truthful? Two, is it helpful? Three, is it kind? If what we were going to say is untruthful, we should forget it. If it is not going to help the person, or the situation, we should keep it to ourselves. If it is not kind, or is insensitive, it is better left unsaid. We should always let our speech be filled with the grace of God. (Colossians 4:6) Some things just do not need to be said.
These words of King Solomon, the wisest man to ever live, were written to the people of God to share his insights on human behavior and how believers should conduct themselves. His point here was that believers should control their tongue, and not speak everything they think. Those who do not engage their brain before they speak, will end up worse off for doing so.
There is a very familiar and popular quote which says, "Think before you speak." (Unknown) Most of us would be better off it we would practice this. However, there is another quote which says, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." (Thumper, the rabbit, in the Disney animated film entitled "Bambi") (He may not be the original author, but that was the first time that I heard it) Before we speak, we should ask ourselves these three questions. One, is it truthful? Two, is it helpful? Three, is it kind? If what we were going to say is untruthful, we should forget it. If it is not going to help the person, or the situation, we should keep it to ourselves. If it is not kind, or is insensitive, it is better left unsaid. We should always let our speech be filled with the grace of God. (Colossians 4:6) Some things just do not need to be said.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
God Is Always With Us
"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?' " Hebrews 13:5-6 (NIV)
Under the guidance and direction of The Holy Spirit of God, this unknown human author of The Bible Book of Hebrews recounts the words of God when He says, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." He tells the scattered believers that they can be confident because God is with them. There is no need for them to fear anything or anyone.
It does not matter whatever life throws at us, the loss of a car, the loss of a house, the loss of a job, the loss of our health, or the death of a loved one, God is always with us. He said that He will never leave us, nor forsake us. He is with us through all of our trials and tribulations, through each and every storm, and through our sorrow and pain. He neither slumbers or sleeps, but He watches over us while we do. He puts a hedge of protection around us to keep us safe from dangers seen and unseen. Because of His goodness, He lets His grace and mercy rain down upon us daily. He is our comforter, our provider, our healer, our protector, our refuge, our help, and our strength. He is our God, and He is always with us.
Under the guidance and direction of The Holy Spirit of God, this unknown human author of The Bible Book of Hebrews recounts the words of God when He says, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." He tells the scattered believers that they can be confident because God is with them. There is no need for them to fear anything or anyone.
It does not matter whatever life throws at us, the loss of a car, the loss of a house, the loss of a job, the loss of our health, or the death of a loved one, God is always with us. He said that He will never leave us, nor forsake us. He is with us through all of our trials and tribulations, through each and every storm, and through our sorrow and pain. He neither slumbers or sleeps, but He watches over us while we do. He puts a hedge of protection around us to keep us safe from dangers seen and unseen. Because of His goodness, He lets His grace and mercy rain down upon us daily. He is our comforter, our provider, our healer, our protector, our refuge, our help, and our strength. He is our God, and He is always with us.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Have Compassion For The Needy
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' " Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, recorded by the Apostle Matthew, the former tax collector, as He spoke to His disciples regarding the parable of the sheep and the goats. (Matthew 25:31-46) He told them that when the time is come, He will separate people one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. (Matthew 25:32-33) He will direct the righteous to His right side, and the non-believers to his left. The righteous He will tell to come and claim their inheritance as their reward for how they treated Him. (Matthew 25:34-36) Then they will ask Him, when did we treat you that way, and His reply will be, as you did it for the least of these, My brothers, you did it for Me. (Matthew 25:37-40)
It is clear that Jesus regards our treatment of the least of the believers as if we had done it to Him. Who are the least of His brothers? They are the hungry, the thirsty, those in need of clothing, the sick, and those who are incarcerated. When we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, give clothing to those in need, care for the sick, and visit the incarcerated, in His eyes we are doing it to Him. We should be very careful in the way that we treat people, especially the down and out. We are blessed in order to be a blessing to others. (Proverbs 11:25) It is possible that we may encounter an angel and not be aware of it. (Hebrews 13:1-3)
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, recorded by the Apostle Matthew, the former tax collector, as He spoke to His disciples regarding the parable of the sheep and the goats. (Matthew 25:31-46) He told them that when the time is come, He will separate people one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. (Matthew 25:32-33) He will direct the righteous to His right side, and the non-believers to his left. The righteous He will tell to come and claim their inheritance as their reward for how they treated Him. (Matthew 25:34-36) Then they will ask Him, when did we treat you that way, and His reply will be, as you did it for the least of these, My brothers, you did it for Me. (Matthew 25:37-40)
It is clear that Jesus regards our treatment of the least of the believers as if we had done it to Him. Who are the least of His brothers? They are the hungry, the thirsty, those in need of clothing, the sick, and those who are incarcerated. When we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, give clothing to those in need, care for the sick, and visit the incarcerated, in His eyes we are doing it to Him. We should be very careful in the way that we treat people, especially the down and out. We are blessed in order to be a blessing to others. (Proverbs 11:25) It is possible that we may encounter an angel and not be aware of it. (Hebrews 13:1-3)
Sunday, August 24, 2014
The Power Of Prayer And Praise
"After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose." Acts 16:23-26 (NIV)
These words were recorded, under the influence and direction of The Holy Spirit of God, by Luke, the physician and travelling companion of the Apostle Paul. Having been thrown into prison for removing the demon spirit from a slave girl, which allowed her to predict the future. (Acts 16:16) The owners of the slave girl earned a great deal of money because of her unique ability, and they were not happy with Paul and Silas for ending their source of income. They seized Paul and Silas, turned them over to the authorities for conducting unlawful activities. (Acts 16:19-21)
In spite of their situation and circumstances, being falsely accused, in prison, physically beaten, and locked in the stocks and chains, Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises to God. In their darkest hour, they praised God. Their prayers were heard, things began to shake, and their chains came loose, along with the chains of all who were in prison with them. The jailer was so impressed that he asked them, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" Then he led them out of the prison to his house, and all in his household were saved. (Acts 16:30-33) The world is watching to see how believers respond to the events of life. They make judgments about all believers based upon our behavior. We are representatives of The Lord God on earth, and we never know who is watching us, or what effect our behavior will have upon them. Therefore, it behooves us to always act and speak in a Christ-like manner. There is power in prayer and in praising God, chains can be broken and doors can be opened. We ought to do both more often, and we ought to give God the glory for the good things which result from our prayers and praise.
These words were recorded, under the influence and direction of The Holy Spirit of God, by Luke, the physician and travelling companion of the Apostle Paul. Having been thrown into prison for removing the demon spirit from a slave girl, which allowed her to predict the future. (Acts 16:16) The owners of the slave girl earned a great deal of money because of her unique ability, and they were not happy with Paul and Silas for ending their source of income. They seized Paul and Silas, turned them over to the authorities for conducting unlawful activities. (Acts 16:19-21)
In spite of their situation and circumstances, being falsely accused, in prison, physically beaten, and locked in the stocks and chains, Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises to God. In their darkest hour, they praised God. Their prayers were heard, things began to shake, and their chains came loose, along with the chains of all who were in prison with them. The jailer was so impressed that he asked them, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" Then he led them out of the prison to his house, and all in his household were saved. (Acts 16:30-33) The world is watching to see how believers respond to the events of life. They make judgments about all believers based upon our behavior. We are representatives of The Lord God on earth, and we never know who is watching us, or what effect our behavior will have upon them. Therefore, it behooves us to always act and speak in a Christ-like manner. There is power in prayer and in praising God, chains can be broken and doors can be opened. We ought to do both more often, and we ought to give God the glory for the good things which result from our prayers and praise.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Meeting The Lord God Will Change You
"As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?' 'Who are you, Lord?' Saul asked. 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," He replied.' " Acts 9:3-5 (NIV) (Read Acts 9:1-9)
These words were recorded, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, by Luke, the physician and travelling companion of the Apostle Paul, here called Saul. He had an encounter with The Lord on the road to Damascus, and his life was completely changed. He went from being a persecutor of Christians, to being a preacher of the gospel. Paul became the human author of thirteen of the twenty-seven books in The New Testament of The Bible.
It does not matter how bad we are, or what sins we have committed, an encounter with The Lord will change our life. No one is so bad that The Lord God cannot save him, or use him. Each person's encounter is personal and for them only. The men who were with Paul when this occurred, heard a sound but din not understand it as words. (Acts 9:7) The purpose and plan which The Lord God has for each one of us is unique and special. We just have to believe and be willing to let Him use us as He sees fit to do.
These words were recorded, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, by Luke, the physician and travelling companion of the Apostle Paul, here called Saul. He had an encounter with The Lord on the road to Damascus, and his life was completely changed. He went from being a persecutor of Christians, to being a preacher of the gospel. Paul became the human author of thirteen of the twenty-seven books in The New Testament of The Bible.
It does not matter how bad we are, or what sins we have committed, an encounter with The Lord will change our life. No one is so bad that The Lord God cannot save him, or use him. Each person's encounter is personal and for them only. The men who were with Paul when this occurred, heard a sound but din not understand it as words. (Acts 9:7) The purpose and plan which The Lord God has for each one of us is unique and special. We just have to believe and be willing to let Him use us as He sees fit to do.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Don't Be Afraid
"While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. 'Your daughter is dead,' they said. "Why bother The Teacher any more?' Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, 'Don't be afraid; just believe.' " Mark 5:35-36 (NIV)
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, spoken just after the woman with the twelve year long bleeding problem had touched the hem if His garment. Jairus, the synagogue ruler had asked Jesus to come and heal his daughter who was sick and dying. (Mark 5:23) Some of the men from his household came and told him that his daughter was dead. Jesus told him "Don't be afraid, just believe." The Jesus went with him to his home and He brought the dead girl back to life. (Mark 5:41-42)
Here, Jesus said "Don't be afraid." That phrase is stated in The Bible twenty-six times. The phrase "be not afraid" is written twenty-six times, and the phrase "fear not" occurs sixty-three times. God did not give us the spirit of fear. (2 Timothy 1:7) Fear is an emotional response to a situation, or to an anticipated situation. Danger is real, but fear is a choice. The Lord God said that He will always be with us, He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) Since God is with us, who or what do we have to be afraid of, or to fear? (Psalms 27:1) Even death is nothing to fear, for He has conquered death. "Don't be afraid, just believe."
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, spoken just after the woman with the twelve year long bleeding problem had touched the hem if His garment. Jairus, the synagogue ruler had asked Jesus to come and heal his daughter who was sick and dying. (Mark 5:23) Some of the men from his household came and told him that his daughter was dead. Jesus told him "Don't be afraid, just believe." The Jesus went with him to his home and He brought the dead girl back to life. (Mark 5:41-42)
Here, Jesus said "Don't be afraid." That phrase is stated in The Bible twenty-six times. The phrase "be not afraid" is written twenty-six times, and the phrase "fear not" occurs sixty-three times. God did not give us the spirit of fear. (2 Timothy 1:7) Fear is an emotional response to a situation, or to an anticipated situation. Danger is real, but fear is a choice. The Lord God said that He will always be with us, He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) Since God is with us, who or what do we have to be afraid of, or to fear? (Psalms 27:1) Even death is nothing to fear, for He has conquered death. "Don't be afraid, just believe."
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
The Lord Directs The Steps Of A Good Man
"If The LORD delights in a man's way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for The LORD upholds him with His hand." Psalms 37:23-24 (NIV) In The King James version of The Bible verse 23 reads: "The steps of a good man are ordered by The LORD..."
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, King David wrote this psalm to contrast the evil man and what he does, with the good man and what he does. He told the people of God not to be concerned with the prosperity of evil men, for it would be short-lived. (Psalm 37:1-2) They were encouraged to commit themselves to The Lord, to trust Him, and to do His will. (Psalm 37:5) The walk and path of a good man is determined by The Lord because a good man will obey the will of God.
All too often, men do whatever they think is right in their own mind. (Proverbs 21:2) Believers know that we are to stay on the straight and narrow path. (Matthew 7:14) We are to follow The Lord and let Him direct our path. (Proverbs 3:6) It pleases The Lord when we follow His way, and He will help us along the way, even when we stumble. (Psalms 37:24) It does not matter how many times we fall, The Lord will pick us up. (Proverbs 24:16) We are to commit ourselves to doing that which is good, even though we sometimes fail. (Romans 7:15) Though we fall and sin, we are to ask to be forgiven, to forget past failures, and to press on towards the goal of righteousness. (Philippians 3:13-14) Along the way, we pray that The Lord will order our steps.
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, King David wrote this psalm to contrast the evil man and what he does, with the good man and what he does. He told the people of God not to be concerned with the prosperity of evil men, for it would be short-lived. (Psalm 37:1-2) They were encouraged to commit themselves to The Lord, to trust Him, and to do His will. (Psalm 37:5) The walk and path of a good man is determined by The Lord because a good man will obey the will of God.
All too often, men do whatever they think is right in their own mind. (Proverbs 21:2) Believers know that we are to stay on the straight and narrow path. (Matthew 7:14) We are to follow The Lord and let Him direct our path. (Proverbs 3:6) It pleases The Lord when we follow His way, and He will help us along the way, even when we stumble. (Psalms 37:24) It does not matter how many times we fall, The Lord will pick us up. (Proverbs 24:16) We are to commit ourselves to doing that which is good, even though we sometimes fail. (Romans 7:15) Though we fall and sin, we are to ask to be forgiven, to forget past failures, and to press on towards the goal of righteousness. (Philippians 3:13-14) Along the way, we pray that The Lord will order our steps.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Good People Produce Good Fruit
"By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn-bushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit." Matthew 7:16-17 (NIV)
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, recorded by the Apostle Matthew, the tax collector, as He spoke during His Sermon on The Mount. Jesus warned His disciples, and the crowd which had gathered around them, to watch out for false prophets who come in sheep's clothing but are actually wolves underneath. His message was that they may not be able to recognize who they are by their appearance, but they would know them by their fruit. Bad people, like bad trees, produce bad fruit.
The point which Jesus made is just as true today as it was back then. All people are not who they appear to be, or pretend to be. That applies to some of our "friends" as well as some of our leaders. Everything that they say which may sound good, isn't good for us. However, their wickedness will soon reveal itself. Their lack of honesty will manifest itself in behavior which is not in keeping with their words, or with The Word of God. Bad people do not produce the fruit of good works. Their lifestyle and the results of their influence on others, are the fruit that will determine whether or not their words are consistent with kingdom building. If what is being said to us, or if what we are being asked to do, does not line up with The Bible, that person may not have our best interest at heart. The standard by which we test all things, doctrine, teaching, statements, and behavior, is The Word of God. (1 Thessalonians 5:21) The devil can use or influence anyone, so do not believe every word that you hear, try every spirit by The Word of God. (1 John 4:1) Good people produce good fruit, bad people don't.
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, recorded by the Apostle Matthew, the tax collector, as He spoke during His Sermon on The Mount. Jesus warned His disciples, and the crowd which had gathered around them, to watch out for false prophets who come in sheep's clothing but are actually wolves underneath. His message was that they may not be able to recognize who they are by their appearance, but they would know them by their fruit. Bad people, like bad trees, produce bad fruit.
The point which Jesus made is just as true today as it was back then. All people are not who they appear to be, or pretend to be. That applies to some of our "friends" as well as some of our leaders. Everything that they say which may sound good, isn't good for us. However, their wickedness will soon reveal itself. Their lack of honesty will manifest itself in behavior which is not in keeping with their words, or with The Word of God. Bad people do not produce the fruit of good works. Their lifestyle and the results of their influence on others, are the fruit that will determine whether or not their words are consistent with kingdom building. If what is being said to us, or if what we are being asked to do, does not line up with The Bible, that person may not have our best interest at heart. The standard by which we test all things, doctrine, teaching, statements, and behavior, is The Word of God. (1 Thessalonians 5:21) The devil can use or influence anyone, so do not believe every word that you hear, try every spirit by The Word of God. (1 John 4:1) Good people produce good fruit, bad people don't.
Monday, August 18, 2014
When We Face Our Giants
"David said to the Philistine, 'You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of The LORD Almighty, The God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day The LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head..." 1 Samuel 17:45-46 (NIV)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the prophet Samuel recorded the encounter between David and Goliath, the giant and champion of the Philistines. The Philistines were preparing to go to war with Israel. (1 Samuel 17:1) Goliath came out and shouted insults at Israel's army and told them to send out one man to fight him. (1 Samuel 17:8) If that man beat him, then they would be slaves to Israel. However, if he beat that man, then Israel would be slaves to the Philistines. Goliath was giant of a man who stood over nine feet tall, while David was a short boy. (1 Samuel 17:4 and 17:42) With only a sling and five small smooth stones, David faced Goliath, and the help of The Lord God, David slew Goliath. (1 Samuel 17:49-50)
Today, we need to be aware of the fact that with God, all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26) If we truly believe, with the help of The Lord, we can also defeat our giants. If God is for us, then who can stand against us? (Romans 8:31) It does not matter what giants, or what battles, we are facing, The Lord will protect His children, and He will fight their battles for them. (Exodus 14:14) Even when there seems to be no way out, The Lord will make a way. (Isaiah 43:19)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the prophet Samuel recorded the encounter between David and Goliath, the giant and champion of the Philistines. The Philistines were preparing to go to war with Israel. (1 Samuel 17:1) Goliath came out and shouted insults at Israel's army and told them to send out one man to fight him. (1 Samuel 17:8) If that man beat him, then they would be slaves to Israel. However, if he beat that man, then Israel would be slaves to the Philistines. Goliath was giant of a man who stood over nine feet tall, while David was a short boy. (1 Samuel 17:4 and 17:42) With only a sling and five small smooth stones, David faced Goliath, and the help of The Lord God, David slew Goliath. (1 Samuel 17:49-50)
Today, we need to be aware of the fact that with God, all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26) If we truly believe, with the help of The Lord, we can also defeat our giants. If God is for us, then who can stand against us? (Romans 8:31) It does not matter what giants, or what battles, we are facing, The Lord will protect His children, and He will fight their battles for them. (Exodus 14:14) Even when there seems to be no way out, The Lord will make a way. (Isaiah 43:19)
Acknowledge Confess And Ask To Be Forgiven
"Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to The LORD', and You forgave the guilt of my sin." Psalms 32:5 (NIV)
In this verse King David told the people of God that he acknowledged his sin to The Lord. He also said that he confessed his transgressions to The Lord, and The Lord forgave him.
All of us have sinned. (Romans 3:23) Therefore, all of us born again believers need to do as David did here, we need to acknowledge our sins, confess them to The Lord, and ask to be forgiven. The Word of God says that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us of our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
In this verse King David told the people of God that he acknowledged his sin to The Lord. He also said that he confessed his transgressions to The Lord, and The Lord forgave him.
All of us have sinned. (Romans 3:23) Therefore, all of us born again believers need to do as David did here, we need to acknowledge our sins, confess them to The Lord, and ask to be forgiven. The Word of God says that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us of our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
Saturday, August 16, 2014
He Comforts Us So That We Can Comfort Others
"Praise be to The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, The Father of compassion and The God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in Corinth to let them know that all comfort is from God. He comforts us in our hour of need so that we will know how to be a comfort to others in their hour of need.
Our Heavenly Father is The God of all comfort and compassion. When we need it, He comforts us, and He expects that we will comfort those in need as we were comforted. Like blessings, comfort was meant to be shared with others. We are blessed in order to be a blessing to others, and likewise we were comforted in order to be a comfort to others. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in Corinth to let them know that all comfort is from God. He comforts us in our hour of need so that we will know how to be a comfort to others in their hour of need.
Our Heavenly Father is The God of all comfort and compassion. When we need it, He comforts us, and He expects that we will comfort those in need as we were comforted. Like blessings, comfort was meant to be shared with others. We are blessed in order to be a blessing to others, and likewise we were comforted in order to be a comfort to others. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Friday, August 15, 2014
We Are To Live Self-Controlled Godly Lives
"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ ..." Titus 2:11-13 (NIV)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in his letter to Titus, one of his young proteges, to encourage him to tell the people of God that were to live Christ-like godly lives in this sinful world while they awaited the return of Jesus, The Christ.
This advice which Paul gave to Titus is not just for preachers and pastors, it is for all believers. We are not to conduct ourselves as the unsaved sinners behave. We belong to Christ, and just as He was, we are in this world but not of it. (John 8:23) As believers we are to live self-controlled, godly lives as examples to a lost world. One day, Christ will return and we will have to give an account of our stewardship. (Romans 14:12) All believers will be saved, but our rewards will depend upon our works. (Matthew 25:14-23)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in his letter to Titus, one of his young proteges, to encourage him to tell the people of God that were to live Christ-like godly lives in this sinful world while they awaited the return of Jesus, The Christ.
This advice which Paul gave to Titus is not just for preachers and pastors, it is for all believers. We are not to conduct ourselves as the unsaved sinners behave. We belong to Christ, and just as He was, we are in this world but not of it. (John 8:23) As believers we are to live self-controlled, godly lives as examples to a lost world. One day, Christ will return and we will have to give an account of our stewardship. (Romans 14:12) All believers will be saved, but our rewards will depend upon our works. (Matthew 25:14-23)
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Do Not Complain
"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe ..." Philippians 2:14-15 (NIV)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in Philippi to encourage them to continue to obey The Word of God, but to do so without complaining or a negative attitude. As the people of God they were to be godly examples to a wicked and depraved world.
We need to understand that if we do the right thing, but we grumble and complain while doing it, God is not pleased. Our negative attitude displays an emotional rejection of God's providence and His will. God knows our thoughts, motives, and intentions. (Psalms 94:11) The Bible teaches us that God loves a "cheerful giver". (2 Corinthians 9:7) We are to be the light of the world. (Matthew 5:16) Whatever the activity or situation, it is the will of God for us at that time and we should accept His will joyfully. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 and James 1:2-4) All things happen for a reason, and even if we do not understand why at that time, they will eventually work for our benefit. (Romans 8:28) So, whatever we do, let us do it without complaining, and do it to the glory of God. (Colossians 3:23)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers in Philippi to encourage them to continue to obey The Word of God, but to do so without complaining or a negative attitude. As the people of God they were to be godly examples to a wicked and depraved world.
We need to understand that if we do the right thing, but we grumble and complain while doing it, God is not pleased. Our negative attitude displays an emotional rejection of God's providence and His will. God knows our thoughts, motives, and intentions. (Psalms 94:11) The Bible teaches us that God loves a "cheerful giver". (2 Corinthians 9:7) We are to be the light of the world. (Matthew 5:16) Whatever the activity or situation, it is the will of God for us at that time and we should accept His will joyfully. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 and James 1:2-4) All things happen for a reason, and even if we do not understand why at that time, they will eventually work for our benefit. (Romans 8:28) So, whatever we do, let us do it without complaining, and do it to the glory of God. (Colossians 3:23)
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
God's Grace Is Sufficient During Our Weakneses
"But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
In one of his letters to the believers in Corinth, the Apostle Paul told them that he was given a "thorn" in his flesh to weaken him and to keep him from becoming conceited. (2 Corinthians 12:7) He said that three times he asked God to remove the thorn and God told him: "My grace is sufficient..." God told Paul that His power is made "perfect" in his weakness.
"That which can't be cured, must be endured." (author unknown) We need God's help to change our attitude regarding the difficulties which we face that we have no control over. Some of the difficulties that we experience in life today are things which we ourselves cannot handle, but by God's grace and strength, He allows us to endure them. Situations of human weakness are platforms for demonstrating God's power and strength. (2 Corinthians 12:10) With God's help, we can turn our difficulties from negative situations into positive examples of what can be done through the grace of God.
In one of his letters to the believers in Corinth, the Apostle Paul told them that he was given a "thorn" in his flesh to weaken him and to keep him from becoming conceited. (2 Corinthians 12:7) He said that three times he asked God to remove the thorn and God told him: "My grace is sufficient..." God told Paul that His power is made "perfect" in his weakness.
"That which can't be cured, must be endured." (author unknown) We need God's help to change our attitude regarding the difficulties which we face that we have no control over. Some of the difficulties that we experience in life today are things which we ourselves cannot handle, but by God's grace and strength, He allows us to endure them. Situations of human weakness are platforms for demonstrating God's power and strength. (2 Corinthians 12:10) With God's help, we can turn our difficulties from negative situations into positive examples of what can be done through the grace of God.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
The Righteous Live Long And Are Still Productive
"The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of The LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, "The LORD is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him." Psalms 92:12-15 (NIV)
The unknown human author of this psalm states that the righteous will flourish under God's care. He compares them to trees, palm trees and cedars of Lebanon, which live for a long time; as opposed to the wicked and the evil doers which he describes as short lived grass that will be destroyed. (Psalms 92:7) The righteous believers will even still be productive in their old age and they will continue to praise The Lord.
No one wants to live to be a ripe old age if they are not going to be functional at that age. The righteous believers who maintain a close relationship with The Lord will be blessed to enjoy long and productive lives. (Psalms 92:13) Believers know that it is good to praise The Lord. The righteous believers praise Him daily, in the morning and in the evening. (Psalms 92:1-2) They are blessed in a special way for doing so. (Psalms 92:10) So, to be blessed in a special way, to live long, to remain strong, to be productive, and to prosper, we should be like the righteous believers and praise The Lord every morning and every evening.
The unknown human author of this psalm states that the righteous will flourish under God's care. He compares them to trees, palm trees and cedars of Lebanon, which live for a long time; as opposed to the wicked and the evil doers which he describes as short lived grass that will be destroyed. (Psalms 92:7) The righteous believers will even still be productive in their old age and they will continue to praise The Lord.
No one wants to live to be a ripe old age if they are not going to be functional at that age. The righteous believers who maintain a close relationship with The Lord will be blessed to enjoy long and productive lives. (Psalms 92:13) Believers know that it is good to praise The Lord. The righteous believers praise Him daily, in the morning and in the evening. (Psalms 92:1-2) They are blessed in a special way for doing so. (Psalms 92:10) So, to be blessed in a special way, to live long, to remain strong, to be productive, and to prosper, we should be like the righteous believers and praise The Lord every morning and every evening.
Monday, August 11, 2014
Trouble Lasts Only For A Season Joy Is Coming
"For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Psalms 30:5 (NIV)
This psalm of King David lets the people of God know that His anger, and their punishment for disobedience, will only last for a short duration. He also tells them that God's favor will last for a lifetime. Their pain and suffering will only be for a season, joy and rejoicing are soon to come.
For everything there is a season, a time for trouble and sorrow, and a time for joy and rejoicing. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8) Thanks to God's mercy and His grace, He may punish us for a while, but He still loves us. (Isaiah 54:7-8) Some times our troubles result from our own sinful choices, and other times we are just going through the storms of this life which test us. Either way, trouble don't last always, and relief is coming. God said that we would suffer for a time, but He would turn our weeping into joy. (John 16:20-22) Even if we, as believers, suffer numerous trials and tribulations in this life, we know that we have an eternal home in glory where there will be nothing but joy. (2 Corinthians 4:17)
This psalm of King David lets the people of God know that His anger, and their punishment for disobedience, will only last for a short duration. He also tells them that God's favor will last for a lifetime. Their pain and suffering will only be for a season, joy and rejoicing are soon to come.
For everything there is a season, a time for trouble and sorrow, and a time for joy and rejoicing. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8) Thanks to God's mercy and His grace, He may punish us for a while, but He still loves us. (Isaiah 54:7-8) Some times our troubles result from our own sinful choices, and other times we are just going through the storms of this life which test us. Either way, trouble don't last always, and relief is coming. God said that we would suffer for a time, but He would turn our weeping into joy. (John 16:20-22) Even if we, as believers, suffer numerous trials and tribulations in this life, we know that we have an eternal home in glory where there will be nothing but joy. (2 Corinthians 4:17)
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Let Us Run This Race With Perseverance
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
Under the divine inspiration of The Holy Spirit of God, the unknown human author of the Bible Book of Hebrews wrote to the scattered believers after the crucifixion of Jesus, The Christ, to encourage them. Even though they were being hunted and persecuted, and being tempted by the sinful cultures around them, he told them not to focus on their circumstances or the sinful distractions, but to keep the faith and focus on the course which was before them.
Today we have more enemies or people who hate us than we have friends. There are also more people attempting to get us involved in some type of sinful activity than there are those who are trying to encourage us to follow Christ. Only with prayer, perseverance, and God's help can we endure all of the evil and sinful things which derail us and get us off track. (Ephesians 6:11 and James 4:7) We must run the race that is set before us, with faithful determination, pacing ourselves to ensure that we finish the course. (2 Timothy 4:7) This can only be done if we keep our eyes on the prize, which is Christ Jesus. (Hebrews 12:2) When we take our eyes off of Him, we tend to stumble and fall. Remember, Peter also walked on water and he did not start to sink until he took his eyes off of Jesus and began to focus on his surroundings. (Mathew 14:25-30) Only by focusing, or re-focusing, on Him can we win this race.
Under the divine inspiration of The Holy Spirit of God, the unknown human author of the Bible Book of Hebrews wrote to the scattered believers after the crucifixion of Jesus, The Christ, to encourage them. Even though they were being hunted and persecuted, and being tempted by the sinful cultures around them, he told them not to focus on their circumstances or the sinful distractions, but to keep the faith and focus on the course which was before them.
Today we have more enemies or people who hate us than we have friends. There are also more people attempting to get us involved in some type of sinful activity than there are those who are trying to encourage us to follow Christ. Only with prayer, perseverance, and God's help can we endure all of the evil and sinful things which derail us and get us off track. (Ephesians 6:11 and James 4:7) We must run the race that is set before us, with faithful determination, pacing ourselves to ensure that we finish the course. (2 Timothy 4:7) This can only be done if we keep our eyes on the prize, which is Christ Jesus. (Hebrews 12:2) When we take our eyes off of Him, we tend to stumble and fall. Remember, Peter also walked on water and he did not start to sink until he took his eyes off of Jesus and began to focus on his surroundings. (Mathew 14:25-30) Only by focusing, or re-focusing, on Him can we win this race.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Wait On The Lord And Be Blessed
"Yet The LORD longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For The LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!" Isaiah 30:18 (NIV)
These are the words of the Prophet Isaiah, written under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the impatient people of God to remind them that The Lord God wants to be gracious and compassionate to them. However, The Lord is a God of justice, and their disobedience must be punished. Their impatience will not cause God to bless them any sooner.
At times, the people of God do things without first consulting with Him. At other times, we just disobey Him. Such actions warrant and receive punishment. (Isaiah 30:12-14) The same is true now as it was then. Blessed are those who take things to The Lord in prayer and then wait for His reply or take action. He knows when one of His children has been wronged, and He will take care of the evil doer. (Proverbs 20:22) Sometimes He will even let the believer see the evil doer get punished. (Psalms 37:34) But when we are the ones that have done wrong, He waits patiently for us to learn the error of our ways and ask to be forgiven. We hinder our own blessings. The Lord wants to bless us, we just need to wait patiently for Him to do it in His own time frame. While we are waiting on Him to bless us, it would not hurt to praise Him as if it was already done.
These are the words of the Prophet Isaiah, written under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the impatient people of God to remind them that The Lord God wants to be gracious and compassionate to them. However, The Lord is a God of justice, and their disobedience must be punished. Their impatience will not cause God to bless them any sooner.
At times, the people of God do things without first consulting with Him. At other times, we just disobey Him. Such actions warrant and receive punishment. (Isaiah 30:12-14) The same is true now as it was then. Blessed are those who take things to The Lord in prayer and then wait for His reply or take action. He knows when one of His children has been wronged, and He will take care of the evil doer. (Proverbs 20:22) Sometimes He will even let the believer see the evil doer get punished. (Psalms 37:34) But when we are the ones that have done wrong, He waits patiently for us to learn the error of our ways and ask to be forgiven. We hinder our own blessings. The Lord wants to bless us, we just need to wait patiently for Him to do it in His own time frame. While we are waiting on Him to bless us, it would not hurt to praise Him as if it was already done.
Friday, August 8, 2014
My Help Comes From The Lord
"My help comes from The LORD, The Maker of heaven and earth." Psalms 121:2 (NIV)
The unknown author of this psalm, a song of ascent which the people of God sang on their way up to Jerusalem to worship, knew that the help he needed came from The Lord. He wrote and sang this song so that all who heard it would also know that his help comes from The Lord God, The Creator of heaven and earth.
We all need help in some aspect of our lives today. Unfortunately, we turn to self-help books, friends, family, or some professional expert to give the help we need. We turn to that which was created, or a derivative of the creation, instead of turning to The Creator. The Lord God knows all and is all powerful. Everything in heaven and on earth is under His control. (Matthew 28:18) Believers know that we can take our burdens to The Lord and leave them with Him. (Psalms 34:17 and Proverbs 15:29) He said that He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) He is always present, in good times and bad times. (Psalms 46:1) If we walk with Him, He will help us every step of the way. (Psalms 121:7-8)
The unknown author of this psalm, a song of ascent which the people of God sang on their way up to Jerusalem to worship, knew that the help he needed came from The Lord. He wrote and sang this song so that all who heard it would also know that his help comes from The Lord God, The Creator of heaven and earth.
We all need help in some aspect of our lives today. Unfortunately, we turn to self-help books, friends, family, or some professional expert to give the help we need. We turn to that which was created, or a derivative of the creation, instead of turning to The Creator. The Lord God knows all and is all powerful. Everything in heaven and on earth is under His control. (Matthew 28:18) Believers know that we can take our burdens to The Lord and leave them with Him. (Psalms 34:17 and Proverbs 15:29) He said that He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) He is always present, in good times and bad times. (Psalms 46:1) If we walk with Him, He will help us every step of the way. (Psalms 121:7-8)
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Let Your Light Shine
"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew as Jesus was beginning His Sermon on the Mount. After telling His disciples that they were the salt of the earth and the light of the world, He told them to let their light shine. He wanted all men to see their good works and then glorify God, The Father, in heaven.
Believers are to be a living example of the teachings of Christ. Once we are saved, The Holy Spirit of God indwells us and we are changed. (Ezekiel 36:27 and 1 John 3:24) That Spirit within us is the light which shines forth, however brightly. By living godly lives, we show the world the power of salvation to change us from what we used to be. We all need to let our light shine, and let it shine brightly.
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew as Jesus was beginning His Sermon on the Mount. After telling His disciples that they were the salt of the earth and the light of the world, He told them to let their light shine. He wanted all men to see their good works and then glorify God, The Father, in heaven.
Believers are to be a living example of the teachings of Christ. Once we are saved, The Holy Spirit of God indwells us and we are changed. (Ezekiel 36:27 and 1 John 3:24) That Spirit within us is the light which shines forth, however brightly. By living godly lives, we show the world the power of salvation to change us from what we used to be. We all need to let our light shine, and let it shine brightly.
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
We Are Working For God And We Should Do Our Best
"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom." Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NIV)
The wisest man to ever live, King Solomon, the son of King David, wrote these under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to warn the young people, and all of the other people of God, to avoid just going through life relying on human wisdom and doing just enough to get by. He encouraged them to do their very best at whatever they do.
I was taught that one should do their very best to be the best at whatever. The Bible teaches us that we should do our best, and that we should work as if what we are doing is for The Lord (Colossians 3:23) We are also taught that we should get busy and not procrastinate because this life is short. (John 9:4) Whatever we do, and in all that we do, we should do our best to do it to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31) Nothing that we do should be done in a half-hearted manner, it should be done to the best of our ability. Anything that is worth doing, is worth doing right, and it is worthy of our best effort.
The wisest man to ever live, King Solomon, the son of King David, wrote these under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to warn the young people, and all of the other people of God, to avoid just going through life relying on human wisdom and doing just enough to get by. He encouraged them to do their very best at whatever they do.
I was taught that one should do their very best to be the best at whatever. The Bible teaches us that we should do our best, and that we should work as if what we are doing is for The Lord (Colossians 3:23) We are also taught that we should get busy and not procrastinate because this life is short. (John 9:4) Whatever we do, and in all that we do, we should do our best to do it to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31) Nothing that we do should be done in a half-hearted manner, it should be done to the best of our ability. Anything that is worth doing, is worth doing right, and it is worthy of our best effort.
Monday, August 4, 2014
Give Thanks To God In All Situations
"And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 (NIV)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in his letter to the believers in Thessaloniki. Paul was providing them with practical instructions for Christian living. He told them how they ought to walk and talk in order to please God. He said that they should comfort, encourage, help, and warn one another. He also said that whatever they were going through, they should be joyful because it was part of God's permissive will for them.
These words are as relevant for believers today as they were for those believers then. We need to be reminded that we are children of God (Galatians 3:26), and that we are in this world but not of it. (John 8:23) We are to behave in a Christ-like manner, and we are to help one another. We are even to love our enemies and haters (Matthew 5:44), and kill them with kindness. (Romans 12:20) Whatever our current situation, it is only a test and part of God's permissive will for us. (James 1:12) So, let us count all things as joyful. (James 1:2) Let us pray sincerely and frequently (James 5:16), and let us give thanks to God for everything. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in his letter to the believers in Thessaloniki. Paul was providing them with practical instructions for Christian living. He told them how they ought to walk and talk in order to please God. He said that they should comfort, encourage, help, and warn one another. He also said that whatever they were going through, they should be joyful because it was part of God's permissive will for them.
These words are as relevant for believers today as they were for those believers then. We need to be reminded that we are children of God (Galatians 3:26), and that we are in this world but not of it. (John 8:23) We are to behave in a Christ-like manner, and we are to help one another. We are even to love our enemies and haters (Matthew 5:44), and kill them with kindness. (Romans 12:20) Whatever our current situation, it is only a test and part of God's permissive will for us. (James 1:12) So, let us count all things as joyful. (James 1:2) Let us pray sincerely and frequently (James 5:16), and let us give thanks to God for everything. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Blessed For Holding God In Reverential Awe
"Blessed are all who fear The LORD, who walk in His ways." Psalms 128:1 (NIV)
The human author of this psalm, and the context and occasion for which it was written are unknown. The purpose clearly was to inform the people of God that those who hold The Lord in reverential awe, who are humbly submissive to Him, and who obey His Word, will be blessed. The author goes on in this psalm to say that such a person's work will be productive, and all will be well with them, their spouse, and their children.
To fear The Lord God is to hold Him in reverential awe. In order to be truly happy, one must be truly holy. The believer who truly enjoys life is the one who acknowledges that The Lord God is in every aspect of their life. By living in practical obedience to The Word of God and walking with God, one can truly enjoy a happy, healthy, productive, and long life. (Proverbs 3:1-2) Fear The Lord, be obedient to His Word, walk in His ways, and be truly blessed.
The human author of this psalm, and the context and occasion for which it was written are unknown. The purpose clearly was to inform the people of God that those who hold The Lord in reverential awe, who are humbly submissive to Him, and who obey His Word, will be blessed. The author goes on in this psalm to say that such a person's work will be productive, and all will be well with them, their spouse, and their children.
To fear The Lord God is to hold Him in reverential awe. In order to be truly happy, one must be truly holy. The believer who truly enjoys life is the one who acknowledges that The Lord God is in every aspect of their life. By living in practical obedience to The Word of God and walking with God, one can truly enjoy a happy, healthy, productive, and long life. (Proverbs 3:1-2) Fear The Lord, be obedient to His Word, walk in His ways, and be truly blessed.
Friday, August 1, 2014
Pray For It And Prepare For It
"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing , ye shall receive." Matthew 21:22 (KJV) The New International Version of The Holy Bible reads: "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." (NIV)
The Apostle Matthew recorded these words which Jesus spoke to His disciples after He spoke and the fig tree withered. He told them that if they had faith, and did not doubt, they could speak to a mountain and tell it to throw itself into the sea, and it would be done. Jesus told them that they would receive whatever they asked for in prayer, if they had faith, and believed without a doubt that they would receive it.
As believers today, we need to increase our faith in The Lord. When we pray and ask for something, we need to begin to prepare to receive it. We shouldn't just pray for it, we should believe, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that it will happen and then prepare to receive it. We should act like it is already done. If it is in His will, it is already done. (John 15:7) We could do so much more if we sincerely prayed and believed. (James 5:16) Pray for it, believe it, prepare for it, and receive it.
The Apostle Matthew recorded these words which Jesus spoke to His disciples after He spoke and the fig tree withered. He told them that if they had faith, and did not doubt, they could speak to a mountain and tell it to throw itself into the sea, and it would be done. Jesus told them that they would receive whatever they asked for in prayer, if they had faith, and believed without a doubt that they would receive it.
As believers today, we need to increase our faith in The Lord. When we pray and ask for something, we need to begin to prepare to receive it. We shouldn't just pray for it, we should believe, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that it will happen and then prepare to receive it. We should act like it is already done. If it is in His will, it is already done. (John 15:7) We could do so much more if we sincerely prayed and believed. (James 5:16) Pray for it, believe it, prepare for it, and receive it.
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