"What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!" 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth and told them that once they became followers of Christ, they became new people. Their old life had passed away, and a new life had begun.
Becoming a Christian means that one has been born again and taken on a new life. (John 3:3) It means that one believes in the finished work of Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection. (Romans 10:9) Believing does not make one perfect, even though that is what we are striving for. (Matthew 5:48) It also does not cause one to completely stop committing sins. (Romans 7:18-21) Believing gives one the desire to please God. That means doing that which is right and pleasing to God, and not doing that which is wrong and sinful and displeasing to God. Believers love The Lord and want to please Him by obeying His Word.(John 14:15) When we fall short and sin, we feel bad, and remorseful, and the sinful activity is no longer as enjoyable as it used to be. (John 15:11) Once we are saved, we no longer think, talk, or act the same way that we did before we were saved. (Ezekiel 36:27) People who knew us beforehand, can see a difference in us. Our old values, priorities, beliefs, loves, and plans are changed. We still sin but our view of it takes on a new perspective. Our main focus shifts from temporal to eternal.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Monday, September 22, 2014
Don't Praise Yourself
"Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips." Proverbs 27:2 (NIV)
These words were written by King Solomon, the wisest man to ever live. Under the guidance and direction of The Holy Spirit of God, he told the people not to praise themselves. Let others praise them.
Pride and boasting are different forms of the same root word in Hebrew. A proud and boastful person is not pleasing to The Lord God. Self praise is a sin. (Proverbs 21:4) As believers, we are to praise God, and not to praise ourselves. (Psalms 34:1) It is okay for someone else to praise us and life us up. (James 4:10) However, it is better for us to give all praise, honor, and glory to The Lord.
These words were written by King Solomon, the wisest man to ever live. Under the guidance and direction of The Holy Spirit of God, he told the people not to praise themselves. Let others praise them.
Pride and boasting are different forms of the same root word in Hebrew. A proud and boastful person is not pleasing to The Lord God. Self praise is a sin. (Proverbs 21:4) As believers, we are to praise God, and not to praise ourselves. (Psalms 34:1) It is okay for someone else to praise us and life us up. (James 4:10) However, it is better for us to give all praise, honor, and glory to The Lord.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Pray Seek Him And Be Persistent
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV)
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew from The Sermon on The Mount. Jesus told His disciples that they would receive what they asked for, they would find that which they seek, and if they knock on the door, it will be opened for them.
Jesus spoke these words directly to His disciples, and indirectly to all believers. As believers we should humbly pray and ask God for that which is according to our needs. (John 14:13) We should act in a responsible manner and seek to follow His way, and obey His Word. (John 12:26) When we knock on the door, we may have to knock more than once. This suggests persistence in our efforts, knowing that He will hear us, and He will see us, and He will reward our efforts. He will open doors for us which no man can close. (Revelation 3:8) We just need to pray, to seek His way, and to be persistent.
These are the words of Jesus, The Christ, as recorded by the Apostle Matthew from The Sermon on The Mount. Jesus told His disciples that they would receive what they asked for, they would find that which they seek, and if they knock on the door, it will be opened for them.
Jesus spoke these words directly to His disciples, and indirectly to all believers. As believers we should humbly pray and ask God for that which is according to our needs. (John 14:13) We should act in a responsible manner and seek to follow His way, and obey His Word. (John 12:26) When we knock on the door, we may have to knock more than once. This suggests persistence in our efforts, knowing that He will hear us, and He will see us, and He will reward our efforts. He will open doors for us which no man can close. (Revelation 3:8) We just need to pray, to seek His way, and to be persistent.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
May The Lord Give You Peace
"Now may The Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you." 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote these words as he closed his second letter to the believers in Thessaloniki. He wanted the peace of The Lord God to be with each of them at all times.
There can be no peace without God, for He is The God of peace. (Hebrews 13:20) Paul knew that the believers in Thessaloniki were being persecuted and they were troubled by the spiritual battles which were taking place around them. (2 Thessalonians 1:6-8) He wanted them to be at peace, in spite of their situation. This also verse applies to the believers today, we are undergoing tribulations, trials, troubles, and spiritual battles. (2 Thessalonians 1:4 and Ephesians 6:12) However, if we could see the angels which The Lord has surrounding us, and surrounding our enemies, ready to protect us and to do battle for us, then we would know the peace of God in troubling times. (2 Kings 6:15-17) Thanks to The Lord God, we are able to relax and replace our troubled mind with an inner peace. The storms in our lives occur for a reason, so don't pray for the storms to end, it is better to pray for God's protection and peace, as we go through the storms.
The Apostle Paul wrote these words as he closed his second letter to the believers in Thessaloniki. He wanted the peace of The Lord God to be with each of them at all times.
There can be no peace without God, for He is The God of peace. (Hebrews 13:20) Paul knew that the believers in Thessaloniki were being persecuted and they were troubled by the spiritual battles which were taking place around them. (2 Thessalonians 1:6-8) He wanted them to be at peace, in spite of their situation. This also verse applies to the believers today, we are undergoing tribulations, trials, troubles, and spiritual battles. (2 Thessalonians 1:4 and Ephesians 6:12) However, if we could see the angels which The Lord has surrounding us, and surrounding our enemies, ready to protect us and to do battle for us, then we would know the peace of God in troubling times. (2 Kings 6:15-17) Thanks to The Lord God, we are able to relax and replace our troubled mind with an inner peace. The storms in our lives occur for a reason, so don't pray for the storms to end, it is better to pray for God's protection and peace, as we go through the storms.
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Love One Another
"Through Him you believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and glorified Him, and so your faith and hope are in God. Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart." 1 Peter 1:21-22 (NIV)
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Peter wrote to the believers and told them now that they were followers of Christ, and have their faith and hope in God, they should sincerely love one another.
Today, believers in Jesus, The Christ, know that we must obey The Word of God. (John 14:15) Jesus said that we must love one another as He loved us. (John 15:12) In fact, the only way that we know that we are saved, is by the fact that we love our fellow believers. (1 John 3:14) The world will know that we are believers in Christ by the way in which we show love to one another. (John 13:35) Jesus said, how can we love one whom we have not seen if we cannot love our brothers whom we see daily. (1 John 4:20) If we truly believe, then we must love one another.
Under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Peter wrote to the believers and told them now that they were followers of Christ, and have their faith and hope in God, they should sincerely love one another.
Today, believers in Jesus, The Christ, know that we must obey The Word of God. (John 14:15) Jesus said that we must love one another as He loved us. (John 15:12) In fact, the only way that we know that we are saved, is by the fact that we love our fellow believers. (1 John 3:14) The world will know that we are believers in Christ by the way in which we show love to one another. (John 13:35) Jesus said, how can we love one whom we have not seen if we cannot love our brothers whom we see daily. (1 John 4:20) If we truly believe, then we must love one another.
Long Life And Prosperity
"My son, do not forget My teaching, but keep My commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity." Proverbs 3:1-2 (NIV)
In this parental appeal, King Solomon wrote the commands and principals which The Lord God gave to the people through him. Addressing the young people, these "teachings" here refer to the law of God. The Word of God was to be remembered, and obeyed. Those who did so would enjoy a long life and prosperity.
Here we are taught to live a life in constant communion with The Lord God. His law should guide our every thought, word, and action. In order to encourage us to submit to His law, He assured that if we do so, we would enjoy a long and prosperous life. This long life refers not only to the length of our days here on earth, but also to the length of our days for ever and ever. (Psalms 21:4)
In this parental appeal, King Solomon wrote the commands and principals which The Lord God gave to the people through him. Addressing the young people, these "teachings" here refer to the law of God. The Word of God was to be remembered, and obeyed. Those who did so would enjoy a long life and prosperity.
Here we are taught to live a life in constant communion with The Lord God. His law should guide our every thought, word, and action. In order to encourage us to submit to His law, He assured that if we do so, we would enjoy a long and prosperous life. This long life refers not only to the length of our days here on earth, but also to the length of our days for ever and ever. (Psalms 21:4)
Monday, September 15, 2014
Fear The Lord And Hope In His Unfailing Love
"The LORD delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love." Psalms 147:11 (NIV)
The human author of this psalm of praise and thanksgiving is unknown, but the psalmist clearly expresses thanks to God for His blessings. After praising God for all of the wonderful things that He has done, including caring for the plants and animals, the psalmist states two things that The Lord does not delight in. (Psalms 147:10) Then he states two things which The Lord does delight in, those who fear Him, and those who put their hope in Him.
To fear The Lord is to adore His majesty, to acknowledge His authority, to stand in awe of His power, and to dread His wrath. The Lord God delights in those who fear Him. To hope in The Lord is to believe in Him, to have faith in Him, to trust in Him, and to know that His love is eternal. The Lord delights in those who put their hope in Him and His unfailing love. So, let us please The Lord our God. Let us fear The Lord, and put our hope in Him and in His unfailing love. Good things are sure to come to us if God is pleased with us.
The human author of this psalm of praise and thanksgiving is unknown, but the psalmist clearly expresses thanks to God for His blessings. After praising God for all of the wonderful things that He has done, including caring for the plants and animals, the psalmist states two things that The Lord does not delight in. (Psalms 147:10) Then he states two things which The Lord does delight in, those who fear Him, and those who put their hope in Him.
To fear The Lord is to adore His majesty, to acknowledge His authority, to stand in awe of His power, and to dread His wrath. The Lord God delights in those who fear Him. To hope in The Lord is to believe in Him, to have faith in Him, to trust in Him, and to know that His love is eternal. The Lord delights in those who put their hope in Him and His unfailing love. So, let us please The Lord our God. Let us fear The Lord, and put our hope in Him and in His unfailing love. Good things are sure to come to us if God is pleased with us.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Be Christ-like And Tell The Truth
"Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices, and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." Colossians 3:9-10 (NIV)
While under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in a letter to the believers in Colosse. As part of his encouragement to them to live a holy life, Paul told them not to lie to each other. He said that lying was part of their old nature, which they had given up when they were transformed into new creators by their acceptance of Christ as their personal Savior. He also said that they should be renewing themselves daily in the image of The Lord God.
As believers, when we speak we should tell the truth. The Ten Commandments state that we should not bear false witness. (Exodus 20:16) Even though today we are not under the law, we are under grace, we should note that Jesus told the rich young man that he should keep the commandments. (Matthew 19:18-19) We should always tell the truth. We should probably talk less than we do, because the more we speak, the more likely we are to lie. (Matthew 5:37) Lying is an abomination to The Lord. (Proverbs 12:22) There is a special place in hell for liars. (Revelation 21:8) Since believers are not to act or talk like non-believers, we are to transform our behavior and renew our mind each day, in order that we might become more like Christ. (Romans 12:2) Let us hold our tongue, and when we speak, let us speak in a Christ-like manner. Let us be truthful and kind.
While under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in a letter to the believers in Colosse. As part of his encouragement to them to live a holy life, Paul told them not to lie to each other. He said that lying was part of their old nature, which they had given up when they were transformed into new creators by their acceptance of Christ as their personal Savior. He also said that they should be renewing themselves daily in the image of The Lord God.
As believers, when we speak we should tell the truth. The Ten Commandments state that we should not bear false witness. (Exodus 20:16) Even though today we are not under the law, we are under grace, we should note that Jesus told the rich young man that he should keep the commandments. (Matthew 19:18-19) We should always tell the truth. We should probably talk less than we do, because the more we speak, the more likely we are to lie. (Matthew 5:37) Lying is an abomination to The Lord. (Proverbs 12:22) There is a special place in hell for liars. (Revelation 21:8) Since believers are not to act or talk like non-believers, we are to transform our behavior and renew our mind each day, in order that we might become more like Christ. (Romans 12:2) Let us hold our tongue, and when we speak, let us speak in a Christ-like manner. Let us be truthful and kind.
Friday, September 12, 2014
We Need To Grow In Christ
"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:3-8 (NIV)
The Apostle Peter wrote these words, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to encourage the believers to increase their faith and to grow spiritually. He said that God had given them everything that they needed, but it was up to them to use it. The fruit of The Holy Spirit was within them, but it was up to them to exercise it. He told them that the more they used their godly qualities, the stronger they would become, and the more effective and productive they would become.
Everything that is alive is growing. The question is, in which way are they growing? Believers need to grow in Christ, we need to grow in our Christ-likeness. God has given us all that we need to live godly lives. However, our God given gifts are like our muscles, if we don't use them, they become weak and ineffective. The Holy Spirit of God resides within all believers, so we all have the gift of the fruit of The Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23 and 1 John 3:24) Just having it is not enough, we must exercise our God given gifts in order to live godly lives, so that we can be effective and productive in our work for The Lord. Knowing The Word of God is not enough, we must live it and share it with others. (James 1:22)
The Apostle Peter wrote these words, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to encourage the believers to increase their faith and to grow spiritually. He said that God had given them everything that they needed, but it was up to them to use it. The fruit of The Holy Spirit was within them, but it was up to them to exercise it. He told them that the more they used their godly qualities, the stronger they would become, and the more effective and productive they would become.
Everything that is alive is growing. The question is, in which way are they growing? Believers need to grow in Christ, we need to grow in our Christ-likeness. God has given us all that we need to live godly lives. However, our God given gifts are like our muscles, if we don't use them, they become weak and ineffective. The Holy Spirit of God resides within all believers, so we all have the gift of the fruit of The Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23 and 1 John 3:24) Just having it is not enough, we must exercise our God given gifts in order to live godly lives, so that we can be effective and productive in our work for The Lord. Knowing The Word of God is not enough, we must live it and share it with others. (James 1:22)
Thursday, September 11, 2014
In All Thy Ways Acknowledge Him
"In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:6 (KJV)
This is one of the sayings of King Solomon, who was blessed to be the wisest man to ever live. (2 Chronicles 1:11-12) He told the believers that they should acknowledge The Lord God in all that they do, and He would give them guidance and direction as they go through life.
It has been said that everything that happens to us is either a blessing or a lesson; and it provides us with a test or a testimony. God is in control, and all that happens is part of His permissive will. (Job 1:6-12) Our trials and tribulations should strengthen us, and increase our faith in The Lord. (Romans 5:3-4) His hand is in everything, so we should thank Him, and give Him praise, honor, and glory for everything. (1 Thessalonians 5:18) If we acknowledge Him for who He is, and for all that He has done, He will guide and direct us through this life. (Psalms 48:14) Remember, the steps of a good man are ordered by The Lord. (Psalms 37:23)
This is one of the sayings of King Solomon, who was blessed to be the wisest man to ever live. (2 Chronicles 1:11-12) He told the believers that they should acknowledge The Lord God in all that they do, and He would give them guidance and direction as they go through life.
It has been said that everything that happens to us is either a blessing or a lesson; and it provides us with a test or a testimony. God is in control, and all that happens is part of His permissive will. (Job 1:6-12) Our trials and tribulations should strengthen us, and increase our faith in The Lord. (Romans 5:3-4) His hand is in everything, so we should thank Him, and give Him praise, honor, and glory for everything. (1 Thessalonians 5:18) If we acknowledge Him for who He is, and for all that He has done, He will guide and direct us through this life. (Psalms 48:14) Remember, the steps of a good man are ordered by The Lord. (Psalms 37:23)
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Study The Word Of God
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV)
These words were written by the Apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, in a letter to his young protege, Timothy, to encourage him to study The Word of God. A believer should not be ashamed of God's Word. He said that study was necessary to correctly interpret The Word of God.
Reading The Word of God is good. Studying The Word of God is even better, because it improves one's understanding and, when it is done prayerfully, it increases one's knowledge and wisdom. When we know more about The Lord God, and what He intended for us to do, we would be much more likely to live by His Word. We should not be ashamed to be seen reading and studying The Word of God, and we ought to do both much more often than we do.
These words were written by the Apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, in a letter to his young protege, Timothy, to encourage him to study The Word of God. A believer should not be ashamed of God's Word. He said that study was necessary to correctly interpret The Word of God.
Reading The Word of God is good. Studying The Word of God is even better, because it improves one's understanding and, when it is done prayerfully, it increases one's knowledge and wisdom. When we know more about The Lord God, and what He intended for us to do, we would be much more likely to live by His Word. We should not be ashamed to be seen reading and studying The Word of God, and we ought to do both much more often than we do.
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
We Must Believe That God Exists
"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)
Under the divine influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the unknown human author of The Bible Book of Hebrews wrote words of encouragement to the scattered believers, after the crucifixion of Christ. He told them to keep the faith, because without faith it is not possible to please God. He also told them that they must believe that The Lord God exists, and that He will reward all those who diligently and sincerely seek to follow Him.
Those of us who believe and have faith in Jesus, The Christ, without having had the pleasure of seeing Him, will be blessed. (John 20:29) Jesus said that we should "Have faith in God." (Mark 11:22) We must have faith in that which we cannot see, but believe that it will be. (Hebrews 11:1) We also must believe that we will be rewarded for following The Lord and doing that which pleases Him. (2 Chronicles 15:7)
Under the divine influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the unknown human author of The Bible Book of Hebrews wrote words of encouragement to the scattered believers, after the crucifixion of Christ. He told them to keep the faith, because without faith it is not possible to please God. He also told them that they must believe that The Lord God exists, and that He will reward all those who diligently and sincerely seek to follow Him.
Those of us who believe and have faith in Jesus, The Christ, without having had the pleasure of seeing Him, will be blessed. (John 20:29) Jesus said that we should "Have faith in God." (Mark 11:22) We must have faith in that which we cannot see, but believe that it will be. (Hebrews 11:1) We also must believe that we will be rewarded for following The Lord and doing that which pleases Him. (2 Chronicles 15:7)
Monday, September 8, 2014
Be Content With What We Have
"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that."
1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NIV)
While under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in a letter to his protege, Timothy, the young preacher. Paul told him that it is good to be godly and content. He said, if they have food and clothing, they should be content with that.
There are people who have a closet full of clothes, and yet they say that they have nothing to wear. It does not seem to matter how much we have, we still want more of it. Most of us have not learned to be content with that which we already have. The desire for material things can cloud our judgment, and negatively impact our priorities. We need to be thankful and grateful for that which we have, and we need to learn godliness with contentment. (Philippians 4:11) If we were good stewards over that which The Lord has blessed us with, maybe He would bless us with more without us having to ask for it. (Matthew 25:15-23) We ought to be content with having the basic necessities of life, or with whatever we have. There is nothing wrong with having lots of possessions, as long as the desire for them, or the desire for money to acquire them, does not rule us. (1 Timothy 6:10) The problem is not the things, the problem is our desire for them. Being self-indulgent can be problematic, if we place it above seeking The Lord God. (Matthew 6:33) Do not put the creations above, or before, The Creator. (Romans 1:25)
1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NIV)
While under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, the Apostle Paul wrote these words in a letter to his protege, Timothy, the young preacher. Paul told him that it is good to be godly and content. He said, if they have food and clothing, they should be content with that.
There are people who have a closet full of clothes, and yet they say that they have nothing to wear. It does not seem to matter how much we have, we still want more of it. Most of us have not learned to be content with that which we already have. The desire for material things can cloud our judgment, and negatively impact our priorities. We need to be thankful and grateful for that which we have, and we need to learn godliness with contentment. (Philippians 4:11) If we were good stewards over that which The Lord has blessed us with, maybe He would bless us with more without us having to ask for it. (Matthew 25:15-23) We ought to be content with having the basic necessities of life, or with whatever we have. There is nothing wrong with having lots of possessions, as long as the desire for them, or the desire for money to acquire them, does not rule us. (1 Timothy 6:10) The problem is not the things, the problem is our desire for them. Being self-indulgent can be problematic, if we place it above seeking The Lord God. (Matthew 6:33) Do not put the creations above, or before, The Creator. (Romans 1:25)
Sunday, September 7, 2014
God Is Our Help And Strength
"The salvation of the righteous comes from The LORD; He is their stronghold in time of trouble." Psalms 37:39 (NIV) The King James Version of this Bible verse reads: " But the salvation of the righteous is of The LORD; He is their strength in the time of trouble."
This verse is taken from one of the psalms of King David, a man after God's own heart. (Acts 13:22) David's point is that The Lord God is the source of salvation, it is His to give, and He chooses to give it to the righteous believers. Those are the people with whom He also shares His strength during their time of trouble. (Psalms 46:1)
Believers know that it is only by the grace of God that we are saved. (Ephesians 2:8) We also know that our strength and help come from The Lord. (Psalms 121:1) We know that we need help and protection from evil people and evil forces. (Ephesians 6:11-13) It is only with the help of The Lord that we are able to stand and survive all that comes up against us in this life. (Psalms 37:40) If we get knocked down, or fall down, it is with His help that we are able to get back up, and continue on. (Psalms 37:34)
This verse is taken from one of the psalms of King David, a man after God's own heart. (Acts 13:22) David's point is that The Lord God is the source of salvation, it is His to give, and He chooses to give it to the righteous believers. Those are the people with whom He also shares His strength during their time of trouble. (Psalms 46:1)
Believers know that it is only by the grace of God that we are saved. (Ephesians 2:8) We also know that our strength and help come from The Lord. (Psalms 121:1) We know that we need help and protection from evil people and evil forces. (Ephesians 6:11-13) It is only with the help of The Lord that we are able to stand and survive all that comes up against us in this life. (Psalms 37:40) If we get knocked down, or fall down, it is with His help that we are able to get back up, and continue on. (Psalms 37:34)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Believe In Christ And Have Eternal Life
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 (NIV)
These words were recorded by the Apostle John, as part of The Gospel according to John, which was written so that all people would believe. (John 1:7) Jesus, The Christ, left the splendor of heaven, wrapped Himself in human flesh, and dwelt among us. (John 1:14) Because mankind was lost in sin, He who was without sin, came to earth to die in our place for our sins. (Romans 5:8) The price to be paid for sin was death, and He paid the price for all of us so that we might have a chance at salvation and eternal life. (Romans 6:23)
The Lord God loves us, and it would please Him if all mankind would be saved and that none would be lost. However, man was given the free will to choose to believe as he wants. Only those who choose to believe in Christ will be given the gift of eternal life. Those who choose not to believe have condemned themselves. (John 3:18)
These words were recorded by the Apostle John, as part of The Gospel according to John, which was written so that all people would believe. (John 1:7) Jesus, The Christ, left the splendor of heaven, wrapped Himself in human flesh, and dwelt among us. (John 1:14) Because mankind was lost in sin, He who was without sin, came to earth to die in our place for our sins. (Romans 5:8) The price to be paid for sin was death, and He paid the price for all of us so that we might have a chance at salvation and eternal life. (Romans 6:23)
The Lord God loves us, and it would please Him if all mankind would be saved and that none would be lost. However, man was given the free will to choose to believe as he wants. Only those who choose to believe in Christ will be given the gift of eternal life. Those who choose not to believe have condemned themselves. (John 3:18)
Deny The World And Follow Christ
"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, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good." Titus 2:11-14 (NIV)
These words were part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, for his protege, Titus, and the people that he pastors. Paul's point was that the people of God practice self-denial. They should deny themselves the worldly pleasures and anything that is ungodly. They should live in a godly manner while they await the return of Christ, who died and paid the price for their sins so they could be with Him.
Salvation brings about a personal transformation, believers are changed and become new creatures. (2 Corinthians 5:17) We are no longer to walk worldly, we are to deny worldly lusts, and take up our cross daily and follow Christ. (Matthew 16:24) We are to do good during our earthly lives, while we await His glorious return. We are to live holy lives because He is within us and He is holy. (1 Peter 1:16) We should be eager to do that which is good because our good works are our way of showing Him that we appreciate His gift of salvation. (James 2:14-26) By our good works we give God glory. (Matthew 5:16)
These words were part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, for his protege, Titus, and the people that he pastors. Paul's point was that the people of God practice self-denial. They should deny themselves the worldly pleasures and anything that is ungodly. They should live in a godly manner while they await the return of Christ, who died and paid the price for their sins so they could be with Him.
Salvation brings about a personal transformation, believers are changed and become new creatures. (2 Corinthians 5:17) We are no longer to walk worldly, we are to deny worldly lusts, and take up our cross daily and follow Christ. (Matthew 16:24) We are to do good during our earthly lives, while we await His glorious return. We are to live holy lives because He is within us and He is holy. (1 Peter 1:16) We should be eager to do that which is good because our good works are our way of showing Him that we appreciate His gift of salvation. (James 2:14-26) By our good works we give God glory. (Matthew 5:16)
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Repent And Turn To God
"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from The Lord ..." Acts 3:19 (NIV)
These are the words of the Apostle Peter, as recorded by Luke, the physician, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God. After he healed the man by the temple gate who had been born crippled, Peter spoke to the crowd which had gathered. His message was the same as that of John, the baptizer (Matthew 3:2), and the same as the initial messages of Jesus, The Christ, (Matthew 4:17), repent.
If we do not believe and repent, then our sins will not be forgiven, and salvation will not be ours. We need to turn to God instead of continuing to turn away from Him. Only those who pray, and sincerely seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways, will God hear and forgive. (2 Chronicles 7:14) Those who confess their sins and believe will be saved. (Romans 10:9) Heaven rejoices every time one sinner repents. (Luke 15:7) However, those non-believers who do not repent, will endure a second death and then eternal damnation. (Revelation 21:8) Those who think that they can do "good deeds" and be saved without repenting and believing in Jesus, The Christ, will call on Him on judgment day, and will hear Him say, "Depart from me, I know you not." (Luke 13:27) So, repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 10:7)
These are the words of the Apostle Peter, as recorded by Luke, the physician, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God. After he healed the man by the temple gate who had been born crippled, Peter spoke to the crowd which had gathered. His message was the same as that of John, the baptizer (Matthew 3:2), and the same as the initial messages of Jesus, The Christ, (Matthew 4:17), repent.
If we do not believe and repent, then our sins will not be forgiven, and salvation will not be ours. We need to turn to God instead of continuing to turn away from Him. Only those who pray, and sincerely seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways, will God hear and forgive. (2 Chronicles 7:14) Those who confess their sins and believe will be saved. (Romans 10:9) Heaven rejoices every time one sinner repents. (Luke 15:7) However, those non-believers who do not repent, will endure a second death and then eternal damnation. (Revelation 21:8) Those who think that they can do "good deeds" and be saved without repenting and believing in Jesus, The Christ, will call on Him on judgment day, and will hear Him say, "Depart from me, I know you not." (Luke 13:27) So, repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 10:7)
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Rejoice And Praise God All Day Long
"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim You, who walk in the light of Your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in Your name all day long; they exult in Your righteousness." Psalms 89:15-16 (NIV)
This psalm, recorded by Ethan under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, is a song of lament and of hope. The psalmist knew that the people of God were suffering, and he knew of God's promise. He also knew that, regardless of their circumstances, the people of God should praise Him. (Psalms 89:5) He stated that the people who had learned to make a joyful noise unto The Lord would be blessed. Those who walk His way, and who praise His name, in spite of their situation, would be exalted.
We must learn to rejoice and be joyful. Joy, like the peace of God, the world cannot give it, and the world cannot take it away. (John 14:27) Joy is a gift from God. (Ecclesiastes 2:26) When we rejoice in The Lord, our soul will be joyful. (Isaiah 61:10) Since God has given us the joy in our spirit, it is up to us to learn to look at every situation as part of His purpose for us, and count all things as joyful. (James 1:2) If we can see God's hand in everything, then it will be easier for us to praise Him and to be joyful all day long.
This psalm, recorded by Ethan under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, is a song of lament and of hope. The psalmist knew that the people of God were suffering, and he knew of God's promise. He also knew that, regardless of their circumstances, the people of God should praise Him. (Psalms 89:5) He stated that the people who had learned to make a joyful noise unto The Lord would be blessed. Those who walk His way, and who praise His name, in spite of their situation, would be exalted.
We must learn to rejoice and be joyful. Joy, like the peace of God, the world cannot give it, and the world cannot take it away. (John 14:27) Joy is a gift from God. (Ecclesiastes 2:26) When we rejoice in The Lord, our soul will be joyful. (Isaiah 61:10) Since God has given us the joy in our spirit, it is up to us to learn to look at every situation as part of His purpose for us, and count all things as joyful. (James 1:2) If we can see God's hand in everything, then it will be easier for us to praise Him and to be joyful all day long.
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
God Gives Grace To The Humble
"... All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time." 1 Peter 5:5-6 (NIV)
These words were recorded by the Apostle Peter, who wrote them under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God. After addressing the elders, and then the young men, Peter addressed all of the believers and told them to be humble. He said that The Lord God did not like the proud person, but He blesses the humble individual. Those who humble themselves before God, will be lifted up by Him in due time.
People who exalt themselves will be put down, and those who humble themselves before God will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12) We should not think more highly of ourselves than we ought to. (Romans 12:3) Too much pride in ones self will lead to destruction. (Proverbs 16:18) The proud shall be brought down low, but the humble shall be upheld. (Proverbs 29:23) Pride is one of the things that comes out of the heart and mouth of man that defiles him. (Mark 7:20-23) Pride is not of God, it is a worldly thing. (1 John 2:16) Believers, therefore, should pray for, and practice humility. We need to humbly submit to The Lord God and obey His Holy Word. He will end our suffering, and He will lift us up and graciously bless us, in due time.
These words were recorded by the Apostle Peter, who wrote them under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God. After addressing the elders, and then the young men, Peter addressed all of the believers and told them to be humble. He said that The Lord God did not like the proud person, but He blesses the humble individual. Those who humble themselves before God, will be lifted up by Him in due time.
People who exalt themselves will be put down, and those who humble themselves before God will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12) We should not think more highly of ourselves than we ought to. (Romans 12:3) Too much pride in ones self will lead to destruction. (Proverbs 16:18) The proud shall be brought down low, but the humble shall be upheld. (Proverbs 29:23) Pride is one of the things that comes out of the heart and mouth of man that defiles him. (Mark 7:20-23) Pride is not of God, it is a worldly thing. (1 John 2:16) Believers, therefore, should pray for, and practice humility. We need to humbly submit to The Lord God and obey His Holy Word. He will end our suffering, and He will lift us up and graciously bless us, in due time.
Monday, September 1, 2014
Our Hope Is In The Lord
"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God." Psalms 42:11 (NIV)
This is one of the psalms which was recorded by the Sons of Korah, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God. The exact occasion and situation which resulted in this psalm are unknown. It is clear that the individual human author was lamenting something intense, which was aggravated by the people around him that were mocking him. (Psalms 42:3 and 10) He rebukes himself for being despondent, and then expresses his hope in The Lord God.
Sometimes, life has a way of getting us down. Some things depress us, or disturb us. And all too often, some of the people around us make the situation worse instead of better. In times like these, we need to turn our attention to The Lord. We need to remember how He helped us in past situations. We need to remember that our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus, His redemptive blood, and His righteousness. We need to pray, and read The Holy Word of God, and then praise Him for who He is, knowing that whatever we need is already done. Be strong and take heart, The Lord preserves all those who place their hope in Him. (Psalm 31:23-24)
This is one of the psalms which was recorded by the Sons of Korah, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God. The exact occasion and situation which resulted in this psalm are unknown. It is clear that the individual human author was lamenting something intense, which was aggravated by the people around him that were mocking him. (Psalms 42:3 and 10) He rebukes himself for being despondent, and then expresses his hope in The Lord God.
Sometimes, life has a way of getting us down. Some things depress us, or disturb us. And all too often, some of the people around us make the situation worse instead of better. In times like these, we need to turn our attention to The Lord. We need to remember how He helped us in past situations. We need to remember that our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus, His redemptive blood, and His righteousness. We need to pray, and read The Holy Word of God, and then praise Him for who He is, knowing that whatever we need is already done. Be strong and take heart, The Lord preserves all those who place their hope in Him. (Psalm 31:23-24)
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