A Tough Command

[1 Thessalonians 5:16-18]

The Scriptures clearly teach that giving thanks is meant to be a way of life, not just a seasonal event (Psalm 92:1-2; Phil. 4:6-7). The problem is that we often do not feel appreciative, particularly when facing painful circumstances or faith tests. In fact, expressing gratitude for bad news seems irrational.
What seems logical to the human mind, however, cannot compete with God’s greater knowledge of what is best for His children. As a result, we live a successful Christian life only by choosing to thank Him for everything He sends or allows across our path.

1 Thessalonians 5:16

“Be joyful always.”

Now wait just a minute. I have some pretty sorry days! Things don't always go well for me! Some of my friends have abandoned me at my worst possible moments. How can I be joyful ALWAYS? "Simple, my child," the Father reminds me. "First, joy is more than always feeling happy, but is instead, a deep abiding sense of being in God's grace and purpose.

Second, no matter where you are, no matter how hopeless things may seem, your life is bound for glory — my glory!" In the light of this incredible truth, all other things seem bland, out of touch, and insignificant.53

Repentance

Billy Graham says that it is the Holy Spirit that brings about this conviction. Actually, repentance cannot take place unless first there is a movement of the Holy Spirit in the heart and mind.

The Holy Spirit may use a mother's prayer, a Pastor's sermon, a Christian TV program, the sight of a Church steeple, or even the death of a loved one to bring about this necessary conviction.

Quotes 

. When we bless God for mercies, we usually prolong them.  When we bless God for miseries, we usually end them.  Praise is the honey of life which a devout heart extracts from every bloom of providence and grace. - C. H. Spurgeon

. Do not let Satan deceive you into being afraid of God’s plans for your life. - R. A. Torrey

Reasons for winning souls - 3

Because of the Great Commission:

1 Corinthians 15:3-4

For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures,

Every believer is Commissioned:

Luke 14:23

Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

God will Guide:

Acts 16:6-9

Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”

Matthew 28:20

teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

Choose -

John 4:35

Do you not say, “There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!

Luke 10:2

Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.

Do Not Let Sin Reign

Be a fighter. Listen to the violent language Paul uses: “For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds [sins] of the body, you will live” (Rom. 8:13). Elsewhere Paul says, “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry” (Col. 3:5). Put them to death! See how Paul uses his freedom: “No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize” (1 Cor. 9:27).

We rule our bodies; they do not rule us. As God’s free men and women, we beat our bodies and make them our slaves to obey Jesus Christ and to disobey sin. We have no obligation to the flesh. We put to death the misdeeds of the body by the Holy Spirit. We are led by the Spirit and filled with the Spirit. Sin shall not win. In Christ, having done all, we will stand.

What the Bible says

Glass

Revelation 4:6

Before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal. And in the midst of the throne, and around the throne, were four living creatures full of eyes in front and in back.

Revelation 21:21

The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.

Daniel 7:18

“But the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and will possess it forever — yes, for ever and ever.”

Forever! The Kingdom will belong to God's saints, his children, the people of the Most High (see Daniel 7:27), us! And it will be ours, forever... and ever... and ever. Praise God for his promises, his grace, and his faithfulness.

Reasons for winning souls - 2

Pray:

Luke 6:12

Now it came to pass in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

They will be lost without Christ:

Amos 8:11

“Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord God,
 “That I will send a famine on the land,
 Not a famine of bread,
 Nor a thirst for water,
 But of hearing the words of the Lord.

2 Corinthians 10:16

to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's sphere of accomplishment.

2 Peter 3:9

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

1 Corinthians 15:34 

Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame.

The Church Sleeps:

Proverbs 10:5

He who gathers in summer is a wise son;
 He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.

It is a Sin:

James 4:17

Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

It’s a Shame:

Proverbs 10:5

He who gathers in summer is a wise son;
 He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.

Jeremiah 8:20

The harvest is past,
 The summer is ended,
 And we are not saved!”

Reasons for winning souls - 1

He said “Go out and get them:

2 Corinthians  5:18-19

Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Colossians 1:20

and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.

Because He is Great:

Matthew 9:37

Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few.

Luke 10:1-3

After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go. Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.

Luke 10:19

Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Luke 14:23

Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

1 Corinthians 7:29

But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none,

What has Faith costed you?

For Abraham!
It was Isaac!

For Joseph!
It was Divine Dream!

For Hosea!
It was Gomer!

For Daniel!
It was a LIFE of PRAYER!

For Ruth!
It was an Unknown Territory!

For RAHAB!
It was a Conquering Enemy!

For Mary!
It was dignity and shame!

For Paul!
It was Power and Authority!

For CHRIST!
It was everything!

Proverbs 21:29

“A wicked man puts up a bold front, but an upright man gives thought to his ways.”

When we harbor wickedness in our hearts, there are all sorts of "fronts" we have to keep up so people won't know the truth about us. But if righteousness is our aim, we'll try to live up to that goal with honesty. When we blow it, we'll be honest and ask forgiveness, learning from our mistakes. We won't put up a facade.

We know that even though we're flawed, God is not through working on us yet!

What do I have to be saved? (John 3:3)

To be saved you must turn away from sin, believe in the death and resurrection of Jesus, and receive Him as Lord and Savior of your life.

Here is the step- by – step process:

First, you must consider your life and then turn away from everything in it contrary to what  God wants. This turning away from selfishness and toward God is  called repentance (Matt. 3:7-10; Acts 3:19).

Second, you must acknowledge that Jesus Christ died on the Cross to forgive you of sin. You take Him as your Savior to cleanse you from sin – as the substitute who paid the price due for your sin (Rom. 5:9; 10; Titus 2:14).

Third, you must ask Him to be Lord of your life, acknowledging openly and verbally that Jesus is not only your Savior  but your Lord (1 John 2:23).

The Bible says, that as many received Him were given the power to become the sons of God (John 1:12). So when you open your heart and receive Him, He comes into your heart – your inner person – through His Holy Spirit, and begins to live His life in you. From the point it is your privilege and call to confess what God has done (Rom. 10:9).
Amen. 

Keys to wise living

Daniel 7:28

Wisdom is necessary to achieving one’s full spiritual potential. The spiritually  full spiritual potential. The spiritually wise man knows when and when not to speak of things he has seen and to speak of thing he has seen and heard and knows when and when not heard and knows when and when not to pursue certain spiritual experiences.

Prayers 

. Gracious God and loving Father, thank you for every good and perfect gift you have lavished upon me. Please accept the offering of my heart which I freely give to you. Soften it and make is gracious and generous like you. I commit to give you and your work in the world, my first and best. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

. Almighty God, my Father and my helper, I place my trust in you. As the Alpha and Omega, I trust you for all of my tomorrows and place my trust and dependence in you for today. In Jesus' name I praise you. Amen.

Proverbs 18:24

A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Who are your closest friends? Good friends are hard to come by in a world of superficial acquaintances and shallow relationships. "Hanging with the crowd" can give us a false sense of belonging, but often leaves us wounded and alone in times of trouble. Open, honest, supportive, and loving relationships don't happen without investment. Ask the Lord to lead you to close friends in his family.

Minister to and serve those around you. Listen to their requests, faithfully upholding them in prayer. Spend time in Christian service with other servant believers. Join yourself to a Bible study or accountability group. As you do, trust that God will give you that "stick-through-thick-and-thin-friend." Companions are easy to find, but can be unreliable. Development of Christian friends is an investment of effort and time, but they are friends with whom we will share forever.

Steps to Dynamic Devotion

Daniel 2:20—23

The individual devoted to God affirms that the Lord is sovereign and seeks to glorify His name.
What the Bible says for the following words?

Advice 

1 Samuel 25:33

And blessed is your advice and blessed are you, because you have kept me this day from coming to bloodshed and from avenging myself with my own hand

2 Corinthians 8:10

And in this I give advice: It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and were desiring to do a year ago;

Hardship 

Number 20:14

Now Moses sent messengers from Kadesh to the king of Edom. “Thus says your brother Israel: ‘You know all the hardship that has befallen us,

2 Timothy 2:3

You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ

Psalmist – I waited patiently

When the cloud tarried... then the children of Israel... journeyed not (Numbers 9:19).

This was the supreme test of obedience. It was comparatively easy to strike tents, when the fleecy folds of the cloud were slowly gathering from off the Tabernacle, and it floated majestically before the host. Change is always delightful; and there was excitement and interest in the route, the scenery, and the locality of the next halting-place. But, ah, the tarrying.

The Psalmist says, "I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry." And what He did for the Old Testament saints He will do for believers throughout all ages. Still God often keeps us waiting. Face to face with threatening foes, in the midst of alarms, encircled by perils, beneath the impending rock. May we not go? Is it not time to strike our tents?

Have we not suffered to the point of utter collapse? May we not exchange the glare and heat for green pastures and still waters?

Holy Bible

Ruth 

Author: Unknown. Jewish Ascribes it to Samuel

Date: 1050 BC and 500 BC

Theme: God’s sovereign intervention brings  universal redemption.

Key Words: Sovereignty – The Almighty - Redeemer

. Book No: 9 – O.T.

First Samuel 

Author:

Date:

Theme:

Key Words:

Quotes 

. Monitor your heart daily to avoid wandering from God’s wisdom.

. Jesus loved us by serving.

. Our intimate moments spent with God can change us and direct others to His love.

What you should say?

Luke 12:8; Luke 12:11-12

Jesus gives us two incredible promises. First, he assures us that if we publicly confess our allegiance to Him, then he will claim us as his own before the Father and the angels in heaven (Matthew 10:32).
Then, he goes a step beyond the first promise: He tells us that we aren't to worry even about what to say in difficult situations because the Holy Spirit will give us the words to say! No wonder the Holy Spirit is described as God's seal of ownership and our guarantee of salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14).

Quote

"Forgiveness doesn't make the other person right, it makes you free." - Stormie Omartian

Guidelines for growing in Godliness

Daniel 1:8-16

Godly living requires that we exhibit faith during times of adversity and want, as well as during times of prosperity and peace.

Compromising our faith when threatened with persecution forfeits that most powerful opportunities for God to manifest His glory!

Ezekiel 7:23

"Prepare chains, because the land is full of bloodshed and the city is full of violence." –
God hates it when the innocent are afflicted with violence and bloodshed. He hates evil and political corruption. He hates courts that are false and leaders who are abusive of their power. We need to rest assured that he will provide deliverance for his faithful followers and administer justice to those who have abused or harmed other people — if not in this life, for sure in the life to come.

Prayer 

. Loving Father in heaven, thank you for giving me the victory over sin and death in Jesus. I know that just as you raised him from the dead, you will also raise me up at the great day of Jesus' return. Please use that resurrection power in me to help me live more victoriously today. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

A Commitment to Obey

Psalm 1:1-6

Scripture proclaims God’s great power and majesty while also revealing His deep mercy and love. He is worthy of wholehearted, passionate submission but doesn’t often get it. Are you among the few who offer themselves to Him without reservation?

Complete obedience is a choice to follow God regardless of the consequences. This means that we obey the Lord even if our friends choose a different path or when suffering and embarrassment are guaranteed. Seeing His will done is more important than our own comfort or personal ambition. We commit the consequences to God and cling to His promises: He will never leave us (Deut. 31:6), and He makes good out of every situation (Rom. 8:28).

If Jesus Christ is the Lord of your life, what right do you have to limit how and when you’ll do His will?

Believers have no right to set their own limits; their one criterion for making decisions should be, What does God want me to do? The answer at times may cause suffering, but obedience is always right. And following God in all things is the surest path to favour and spiritual growth.

Holy Bible

Joshua 

Author: Uncertain

Date: 1400-1375 B.C.

Theme: Possessing the Inheritance

Key Words: Obedience, Covenant, Courage

Judges 

Author: Unknown

Date: About 1050-1000 B.C.

Theme: Apostasy, Oppression, Delivered

Key Words: Did evil, Cried out, Delivered, Judged, Spirit of the Lord

Death: the Final Uncertainty

Why we must die? The Bible says, “It is appointed unto men once to die” (Hebrews 9:27). It is the most democratic of all experiences.



Today we confront with so many voices telling us how to live. We are told how to look young, stay trim, keep healthy, have a good image, think positively, make more money, hove more friends.
All these are reasonable ambitions, but they indicate that we are trying  desperately to cling to this present world. The truth is, life transitory. “What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14).

The psalmist said, “Each min’s life is but a breath” fact that is going to end.

Dr. L. Nelson Bell, wrote many years ago, “Only those who are prepared to die are really prepared to live.” The uncertainty is not the dying, it’s the preparation.

Holy Bible

Book No: 3 – O.T.

Leviticus 

Author: Traditionally Moses

Date: About 1445 B.C.

Theme: The sanctity of God and Holiness in everyday life.

Key Words: Holiness, Offering, Sacrifice

Revelation 7:17

For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.

What a beautiful picture! The One who died for us will nourish and refresh us. The One upon whom all eternity hinges will take time to personally comfort us. No wonder Paul could say that he did not consider his present sufferings worth comparing to the glory that would be revealed to us! (Romans 8:18)

Quotes 

. Brokenness can lead to wholeness.

. Through prayer, we have instant access to our Father.

. God’s kingdom is alive and active in all generations.

. Jesus is our peace.

Facts about Faith

If we are without  faith –

Hebrews 1:6

And again, when God brings his firstborn  into the world,  he says,
  “Let all God’s angels worship him.”

The righteous  will live by faith –

Habakkuk 2:4

“See, the enemy is puffed up;

 his desires are not upright—

 but the righteous person  will live by his faithfulness —

If we reject faith –

1 Timothy 1:19

holding on to faith and a good conscience,  which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith.

If we are eager for money –

1 Timothy 6:10

If our faith is not accompanied by action –

James 2:17

Our faith is the shield –

Ephesians 6:16 

If we lack faith –

Matthew 13:58

Great faith –

Matthew 8:9-10

Jesus is astonished  when he sees great faith –

Matthew 8:10

Everything that does not come by faith is sin –

Is today the limit of God's working time?

 There hath not failed one word of all his good promise (1 Kings 8:56).

Some day we shall understand that God has a reason in every NO which He speaks through the slow movement of life. "Somehow God makes up to us." How often, when His people are worrying and perplexing themselves about their, prayers not being answered, is God answering them in a far richer way! Glimpses of this we see occasionally, but the full revelation of it remains for the future.

Oh for the faith that does not make haste, but waits patiently for the Lord, waits for the explanation that shall come in the end, at the revelation of Jesus Christ! When did God take anything from a man, without giving him manifold more in return? Suppose that the return had not been made immediately manifest, what then? Is today the limit of God's working time? Has He no provinces beyond this little world? Does the door of the grave open upon nothing but infinite darkness and eternal silence?

Steps to knowing God

Daniel 5

We must know that  God will judge and that everyone will give an account to God for his/her conduct.

Hebrews 4:12

The word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

How often do you let God do major surgery on your spirit as his Spirit uses the Word to encourage, judge, motivate, convict, instruct, and inspire? With such a great tool so readily at hand for most of us, let's not let a day go by that we don't let God use his word on hearts.

Holy Bible

. Book No: 2 – O.T.

Exodus

Author: Traditionally Moses

Date: About 1400 B.C.

Theme: Deliverance

Key Words: Deliver, Sacrifice, Sign, Tabernacle, Sanctuary

God’s Angels are important to You

1. God’s angels are always with you.

2. God’s angels can go anywhere at any time. They are where you need them when you need them.

3. God’s angels are instantly available at God’s command.

4. God’s  angels have superhuman strength.

5. God’s angels delight to do God’s will.

Is today the limit of God's working time?

Holy Bible

Book No: 1 – O.T.

Genesis

Author: Traditionally Moses

Date: About

Theme: Beginnings

Key Words: Create – Covenant - Genealogy

2 Samuel 7:22

"How great you are, O Sovereign LORD! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears."

The promises of God to Abraham and David, the work of God through Jesus, and the miraculous preservation of both the Abrahamic and Davidic lines to Jesus are nothing short of miraculous. They are testimony to God's faithfulness and power. When we get discouraged by the unfaithfulness and blasphemy so prevalent in our world, we need to remember the faithfulness of our God and his awesome power displayed through his chosen people.

Prayers 

. Father, our world needs your deliverance. In your majesty and power, please destroy the plans of the wicked. In your mercy and grace, please raise up your people who find themselves facing hardship and trouble. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Bitterly

Ruth 1:20

But she said to them, “Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me.

2 Kings 20:3

Remember now, O Lord, I pray, how I have walked before You in truth and with a loyal heart, and have done what was good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly.

Matthew 26:75

And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly.

Extend

Psalm 109:12

Let there be none to extend mercy to him,
 Nor let there be any to favor his fatherless children.

Isaiah 66:12

For thus says the Lord:

   “Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river,
 And the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream.
 Then you shall feed;
 On her sides shall you be carried,
 And be dandled on her knees.

2 Corinthians 10:14

For we are not overextending ourselves (as though our authority did not extend to you), for it was to you that we came with the gospel of Christ;

Quote

. Gratitude as a discipline involves a conscious choice.  I can choose to be grateful even when my emotions and feelings are still steeped in hurt and resentment.  It is amazing how many occasions present themselves in which I can choose gratitude instead of a complaint. - Henri Nouwen

A Prayer

Blessed are you, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes.

Open my eyes that I may see the wondrous things from Your Law.

Revive me according to Your Word.

Teach me good judgement and knowledge, because I believe Your commandments.

Uphold me according to Your Word, that I may live.

Direct my steps by Your Word as one who finds great treasure.

Let my soul live, and it shall praise You!

Amen and Amen

Church and Ministry 

. My church family give me:

- God’s purpose to live for (mission)

- God’s people to live with (membership)

- God’s principles to live out (ministry)

- God’s power to live on (magnify)

Joel 2:21

Be not afraid, O land; be glad and rejoice. Surely the LORD has done great things.

This reassurance from God is given to a people facing desperate times, which were brought on by God to lead them to repent. Their land lies desolate and decimated from drought, plagues, and poor harvests. God, however, is now promising to bless them if they will return to him with all their hearts. The LORD, the covenant God of Israel, will do great things to bring his people to deliverance through their repentance and his gracious power. The land can rejoice and be glad. So should his people! So should we! Because of Jesus, we know that "the LORD has done great things" for us!

What shall I render to my God

What shall I render too my God for all his mercy’s store? I’ll take the gifts he hath bestowed, and humbly ask for more.

Praise him, ye saints, the God of love who hath my sins forgiven, till gathered to the church above we sing the songs of heaven.

The Necessity of the Death of Christ

Habakkuk 1:13

You are of purer eyes than to behold evil,
 And cannot look on wickedness.
 Why do You look on those who deal treacherously,
 And hold Your tongue when the wicked devours
 A person more righteous than he?

Hebrews 10:5

Therefore, when He came into the world, He said:
  “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire,
 But a body You have prepared for Me.

Hebrews 10:7

Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—
 In the volume of the book it is written of Me—
 To do Your will, O God.’ ”

Luke 24:44

Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.”

Romans 4:25

who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.

Hebrews 2:14

Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil,

Three Ways to Think Right

Philippians 4:4-9

We all want to experience joy and peace in difficult times—to have a sense of security and the confidence that the heavenly Father loves us. Yet we are oftentimes held back by worries and other pressures.

There are three ways we can govern our thoughts:

1. Screen them. Imagine there’s a grid protecting your mind, and whatever you think about must first pass through it. If you have built your filter upon the Word of God, any unscriptural ideas that try to get through will set off a warning alarm. You can check each thought by asking yourself a series of questions: What’s the source? Where will it lead me? Is this scripturally sound? Is this going to build me up or tear me down? Can I share this with someone else? Does it make me feel guilty? Does it fit who I am as a follower of Jesus Christ?

2. Select them. God has given you the right and the power to decide whether or not you will accept a thought. Every time an opinion or teaching hits your screen, you can choose to either let it through or discard it. Since the idea itself may not be wrong or right, those same screening questions can help you know what to do next.

3. Cultivate them. Accepting godly thoughts (and rejecting evil ones) is not enough. You need to dwell on the ideas that align with God’s Word and then start practicing them.
Allow God to pour Himself into your life and to reign in your mind. In doing so, you will see awesome changes take place.

Titus 2:3

“Teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good.”

"Teach... to teach!" We need faithful women in God's family to help show us the way to reverence God in our daily lives and to live with character. That means we need to teach these women they need to teach.

We need to pray for them to step forward and be mentors. We must openly respect their reverent lifestyles and acknowledge their godly character.

Our Role in Prayer

But even more important is learning how to communicate with the Lord. Too often, we take what we learn about mass communication and try to apply it to prayer. We carefully craft each word of our petitions, labouring over every phrase and peppering in some fancy biblical words like “thou” and “thee.” Sometimes, we seem to believe that it’s possible to unlock the mysteries of heaven if we just learn how to phrase our prayers.

Our role in prayer is not to impress the Lord with our fine phrasing and fancy vocabulary. Rather, it is to cry out to Him, to express our needs, and then to listen. Sadly, we often miss out on what God wants to say because we’re too busy doing all the talking!

Habakkuk 2:14

For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
What a glorious day when this promise is fully realized! Let's make every effort and commit ourselves to the task of making our glorious God known to every nation, tribe, language, and people.

Jeremiah 2:28

Where then are the gods you made for yourselves? Let them come if they can save you when you are in trouble! For you have as many gods as you have towns, O Judah.

Let's focus on one simple concept today. Based on the allocation of our time, interest, lifestyle, expenditures of money, and speech, who or what is our god? Is it the Lord God?

Quotes 

. God gives us second chances.

.Always be humble before God and allow Him to be your all in all. Oswald Chambers

. God can do the most with what we think is least.

. When we cannot see God’s hand at work, we can still trust His heart.

. Who can I encourage to persevere through difficulty today?Our troubles can fill our prayers with love and empathy for others.

'Test the Spirits'

Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. - 1 John 4:1

Occasionally, we hear someone say something, preach something, or teach something that doesn't sit well in our hearts. We have a nagging feeling that something just isn't quite right with what was said. The Holy Spirit within us gives us what I call "the greasies" — that sick feeling in the pit of our stomachs that something isn't quite right.
The things said could be very pleasing to us, they could be difficult for us to hear, or they could be the culturally acceptable point of view. No matter on what trajectory the comments reach us, we need to pray and seek the Spirit's leading and then open the Scriptures to check and see if what we heard is really from God. Spiritual discernment is an important work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Bible Promise

Philippians 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Proverbs 2:6

For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Galatians 1:10

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Psalm 46:1-2

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,

Think it over ...

If you stop learning, you will forget what you already know.

Hear the Saviour's Voice

Hear the Saviour's Voice

Again he [Jesus]  said, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you." Then he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit."— John 20:21-22

We are here on purpose. What we have been given and the time in which we live are not accidents, luck, or the achievements of our own hands. God has formed us, Jesus has called us, and the Holy Spirit indwells us for such a time as this. Just as surely as God sent Jesus by the miraculous conception in the womb of Mary by the Holy Spirit, we have been reborn by the power of the Holy Spirit and sent by Jesus into the world to show and share God's grace. I hope we hear the Saviour’s voice as he says, "As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you."

Quotes 

. Serve God by serving others.

. One day our sorrow will be turned to joy!

. Fear can paralyze but faith propels us to follow God.

. Be grateful to God for even the smallest gift.

. Simple gestures can bring powerful comfort.

. Gracious words are always the right words.

Deuteronomy 7:19

“You saw with your own eyes the great trials, the miraculous signs and wonders, the mighty hand and outstretched arm, with which the LORD your God brought you out. The LORD your God will do the same to all the peoples you now fear.”

So often we look at the past work of God and think we will not see the display of his power like our predecessors did. But, just as God reminded a new generation of his people that he would go with them and empower them like he had their parents, we also need to expect him to do more than all we can ask or even imagine by his power at work within us! (cf. Ephesians 3:20)

Prayers 

. O LORD, please be near me today. Make your presence known in my life. Father, I also ask that you bless those I know who are struggling with their faith, and with broken and disappointed hearts. Please be active in their lives and make your presence known in their lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Add

What the Bible says -

Add

Deuteronomy 4:2

You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.

Proverbs 30:6

Do not add to His words,

 Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.

Egg

Job 6:6

Can flavorless food be eaten without salt?
 Or is there any taste in the white of an egg?
 
Luke 11:12

Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?

Spiritual Quote

"Sometimes God sends
the brilliant light of a
rainbow to remind us
of His presence, lest we
forget in our personal
darkness His great and
gracious promises to
never leave us alone."
— Verdell Davis —

Holy Bible

First Samuel 

Author: Uncertain

Date: Between 931 and 722 BC

Theme: God is  working in History

Key Words: Samuel, Saul, David

God’s Word

1 Corinthians 1:20-22

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.

 Psalm 100:4

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

 1 Chronicles 16:34

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

1 Peter 5:8

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

 3 John 1:11

Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.

Psalm 106:1

Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Holy Bible 

Numbers 

Author: Traditionally Moses
Date: About 1400 B.C.
Theme: Yahweh’s guiding presence for the journey from Sinai to Transjordan
Key Words: Census, Murmuring, Purity, Tabernacle of meeting

Deuteronomy 

Author: Traditionally Moses
Date: Approximately 1400 B.C.
Theme: Obedience bring blessing, Disobedience cursing
Key Words: Cursed

Bond

Ezekiel 20:37

I will make you pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant;

Ephesians 4:3

to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Colossians 3:14

But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection

Keys lessons of faith

Daniel 2:14

Daniel and his friends provide the model for a faithful testimony under the threat of torture and death. Although relatively few  believers are required  to face this ultimate test, those who do are consistently given the highest honour in the heavenly rolls. (Heb. 11:33-34)

Admonish

Romans 15:14

Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

2 Thessalonians 3:15

Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother

Romans 7:24-25

What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God — through Jesus Christ our Lord!

Our bodies are mortal and flawed. They are tainted with our weakness and sin. But, by the grace of God given us in Jesus Christ, our future does not rest in the dust with our bodies, but in the power of our perfecting Lord.

Quotes 

.Nothing taken for granted; everything received with gratitude; everything passed on with grace. - G. K. Chesterton

. Don’t pray when you feel like it.  Have an appointment with the Lord and keep it.  A man is powerful on his knees. - Corrie Ten Boom

Positive Thinking

Attitude  is the first quality that marks the successful man. If he has a positive attitude and is a positive thinker, who likes challenges and difficult situations, then he has half his success achieved. – Lowell Peacock

There is little difference in people, but the little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude. The big difference is whether it is positive or negative. – Clement Stone

Our Attitudes:

1. Our attitude towards life determine life’s attitude towards us.

2. Our attitude towards others will determine their attitude towards us.

3. Out attitude at the beginning of a task will determine the success of its outcome more than anything else.

4. The higher you go in any organization of value, the better attitude you’ll find.

Think it Over:

. You are only an attitude away from success!

. I have never seen a continuing, successful person with a bad attitude.

. Spending long periods of tine with negative people will begin to affect you.

. Nothing is as hard as it looks; everything is more rewarding than you expect; and if anything can go right, it will and at the best possible moment.

. Where there is no hope in the future there is no power in the present.

. The bottom line is that positive thinking can be learned by anyone, regardless of circumstances, temperament, or intellect.

. Attitude follows action.

. Give your thoughts to what’s positive and successful. Don’t feed the weeds.

. The attitude you bring with you is the attitude you get from others.

Bible Quiz: Arks, Boats and Ships

1. Whose family was saved during the great Flood?
Ans: Noah’s family [Gen. 7:1]

2. How many persons travelled in Noah’s Ark?
Ans: Eight persons [Gen. 7:13]

3. A three month old baby was placed in a tiny boat to escape death. What kind of boat was it? What was the baby’s name?
Ans: Papyrus basket [Exd. 2:2-3; Moses [Exd. 2:10]

4. By what kind of transportation did Jonah travel to Tarshish?
Ans: Ship [Jonah 1:3]

5. Where were James and John when Jesus called them?
Ans: They were in a boat [Matthew 4:21]

6. From where did Jesus tell the parable of the Sower and the seed?
Ans: From the boat [Matthew  13:2]

7. Where did Jesus enter after walking on the sea?
Ans: He entered a boat [John 6:21]

8. Which king built many ships? In what kind of tiny boat was?
Ans: King Solomon [1 Kings 9:26]

9. When the storm came suddenly, where was Jesus sleeping?
Ans: In a boat [Matthew 8:24]

10. How many times did Paul suffer shipwreck?
Ans: Three times [2 Cor. 11:25]

Prayers 

. Dear God, thank you for family, friends, and colleagues you have placed around me. Help me pour into them things that matter, and may I hold, with open hands, my expectations for payback. May I know your grace in showing loyalty and love. Amen.

. Father, thank you for making clean and whole by the purifying work of your Holy Spirit. Teach me to be righteous. Help me develop a revulsion for what is sinful and evil. Use me to help someone caught in the evil one's work to find deliverance. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Jesus Touched and Made Me Whole

We are not simply physical beings in a material world; we are God’s own handy work. With His hands He touched us: He created us, and He breathed life into us. We are eternal beings made from His own hands. We are sons and daughters of the living God. I want you to say with me, “I know I am because, “Jesus touched me”, and made me His own. The truth is living a happy fulfilled life, is dependent on understanding who we are in Christ.

We go through life and we never hear what the Spirit of God is saying to us. We are so busy with our lives, that we cannot hear God; many times, our words do not reflect God in our lives. We are bound, our hearts are not free to express with our voice the richness and goodness of God, because we cannot hear His voice with everything going on around us. God gently takes us by the hand, and walks us away from all the distractions in our life. He does this so He can be alone and intimate with us. Jesus touched a deaf man’s ears, and immediately he could hear and speak plainly. God wants to do the same with you and I. He wants to be alone with us, intimate. He wants to touch our spiritual ears so that we can hear our Masters voice. And if we can hear His voice, our mouths will speak forth of His goodness, salvation and mercy. As a result our lives and the lives of others will be changed by His touch, as we become His beacons of hope to a lost and dying world.

{You can follow my daily messages on my blog: www.ejabidinginchrist.blogspot.com}

Psalm 103:12

As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

Now that's a long way - from sun rising to sun setting, that's how far God has removed our sins. But the key word is removed. When we sin and come to God in repentance, God doesn't just forgive our sin; he purifies us of all unrighteousness.

What was unholy in me is made righteous in him. What was impure is now clean. What was stained is spotless. Why? How? We can now see more fully what the Psalmist could know only in part. God doesn't see our sin, but Jesus' sacrifice. His blood purifies and cleanses us! Our sin is gone and we are clean.1

Prayers 

  . Forgive me, Righteous Father, for the times that I have been careful and guarded with my love of your children. Please help me to love others as you have loved me. I ask especially for today, that I might touch someone’s life with love that especially needs it whether they respond favorably to that love or not. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

 . Lord, forgive me for placing my trust and dependence on the things of this world. Help me to fix my eyes on things above and take the focus off of myself. Strengthen me spiritually as I look to you for trust and dependence day by day.

Offering Eaten in the Holy Place - 2

Remainder of leper’s log of oil:

Leviticus 14:10-13

And on the eighth day he shall take two male lambs without blemish, one ewe lamb of the first year without blemish, three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering, and one log of oil. Then the priest who makes him clean shall present the man who is to be made clean, and those things, before the Lord, at the door of the tabernacle of meeting.

And the priest shall take one male lamb and offer it as a trespass offering, and the log of oil, and wave them as a wave offering before the Lord. Then he shall kill the lamb in the place where he kills the sin offering and the burnt offering, in a holy place; for as the sin offering is the priest's, so is the trespass offering. It is most holy.

The 2 wave loaves:

Leviticus 23:17-20

You shall bring from your dwellings two wave loaves of two-tenths of an ephah. They shall be of fine flour; they shall be baked with leaven. They are the first fruits to the Lord. And you shall offer with the bread seven lambs of the first year, without blemish, one young bull, and two rams. They shall be as a burnt offering to the Lord, with their grain offering and their drink offerings, an offering made by fire for a sweet aroma to the Lord.

Then you shall sacrifice one kid of the goats as a sin offering, and two male lambs of the first year as a sacrifice of a peace offering. The priest shall wave them with the bread of the first fruits as a wave offering before the Lord, with the two lambs. They shall be holy to the Lord for the priest.

The showbread:

Leviticus 24:9

And it shall be for Aaron and his sons, and they shall eat it in a holy place; for it is most holy to him from the offerings of the Lord made by fire, by a perpetual statute.”

Quotes 

. The Snake and the Tricycle: Genuine faith is rooted in reason.

. Made Clean: The Lord makes us clean.

. Promise of a Peaceful Home: God promises His children a peaceful home in His kingdom.

. You’re an Original: Spiritual growth occurs when faith is cultivated.

Offering Eaten in the Holy Place - 1

Remnant of meat offerings:

Leviticus 2:1-3

“When anyone offers a grain offering to the Lord, his offering shall be of fine flour. And he shall pour oil on it, and put frankincense on it. He shall bring it to Aaron's sons, the priests, one of whom shall take from it his handful of fine flour and oil with all the frankincense. And the priest shall burn it as a memorial on the altar, an offering made by fire, a sweet aroma to the Lord. The rest of the grain offering shall be Aaron's and his sons’. It is most holy of the offerings to the Lord made by fire.

Leviticus 7:14

And from it he shall offer one cake from each offering as a heave offering to the Lord. It shall belong to the priest who sprinkles the blood of the peace offering.

Meat offerings of Israel:

Leviticus 2:4-10

“And if you bring as an offering a grain offering baked in the oven, it shall be unleavened cakes of fine flour mixed with oil, or unleavened wafers anointed with oil. But if your offering is a grain offering baked in a pan, it shall be of fine flour, unleavened, mixed with oil. You shall break it in pieces and pour oil on it; it is a grain offering.

   “If your offering is a grain offering baked in a covered pan, it shall be made of fine flour with oil. You shall bring the grain offering that is made of these things to the Lord. And when it is presented to the priest, he shall bring it to the altar. Then the priest shall take from the grain offering a memorial portion, and burn it on the altar. It is an offering made by fire, a sweet aroma to the Lord. And what is left of the grain offering shall be Aaron's and his sons’. It is most holy of the offerings to the Lord made by fire.

Flesh of Sin Offerings:

Leviticus 7:6

Every male among the priests may eat it. It shall be eaten in a holy place. It is most holy.

Flesh of peace offerings:

Leviticus 7:15-17

“The flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offering for thanksgiving shall be eaten the same day it is offered. He shall not leave any of it until morning. But if the sacrifice of his offering is a vow or a voluntary offering, it shall be eaten the same day that he offers his sacrifice; but on the next day the remainder of it also may be eaten; the remainder of the flesh of the sacrifice on the third day must be burned with fire.

Church – Ministry – 2

. Quality refers to the  kind of disciples a church produces. Quantity refers to the number of disciples a church produces.

. Asking for commitment doesn’t turn people off; but  it is the way many churches ask for it.

. Jesus never lowered his standards but he always started where people were.

. It takes  more than dedication to lead a church to grow,  it takes  skill.

. Churches grow by the power of God through the skilled effort of people.

. While  we wait for God to work for us, God is waiting, to work through us.

. Never confuse methods with the message. The message must never  change, but the methods must change with each new generation.

. Ministry must be both faithful. God expects both from us.

. Success is bearing  as much fruit as possible given your gifts,  opportunities, and potential.

. God has  not called us to be original at everything He has called us to be effective.

. You can learn from other churches without becoming a clone.

. the church should be seeker, sensitive but  it must not be seeker driven.

. Plans, programs, and personalities don’t last. But God’s purpose will last.

. Absolutely nothing will revitalize a discouraged church faster than rediscovering its purpose.

. Your  church’s  foundation will determine both its size and strength. You can never build larger than your foundation can handle.

. A clear purpose not only defines what we do, it defines what we don’t do.

. Evaluate your church by asking “What is our business?” and then, “Have’s business?”

. It isn’t our job to create the purposes of the church but to discover them.

. We may be innovative with the style of ministry, but we must never alter the substance of it.

. A Great commitment to the Great commandment and the Great commission will grow a Great chur.

. As Christians we’re called to belong not just to believe.

. Don’t focus on growing a church with programs, focus on growing people with a purpose.

Presumptuous Sins - 2

2 Peter 2:10

and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority. They are presumptuous, self-willed. They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries,

Hebrews 10:26-31

For if we sin wilfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries. Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. And again, “The Lord will judge His people.” It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Luke 2:8-11

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."
Shepherds and the glory of the Lord in the same sentence. Shepherds enjoyed a great heritage in Israel with Abraham, Moses, and David as notable shepherds and God being identified through Psalm 23 as a great shepherd. But by this time in Israelite history, they were not highly regarded. They smelled like sheep.

They spent their time with sheep. They were not really clean and religious enough to be considered spiritual. So when God chose to announce the birth of Jesus to shepherds with his contingent of angels he makes his point clear: Everyone is loved by God, everyone has access to God, and everyone is! desired by God.

Presumptuous Sins - 1

Exodus 21:14

“But if a man acts with premeditation against his neighbour, to kill him by treachery, you shall take him from My altar, that he may die.

Numbers 15:30

‘But the person who does anything presumptuously, whether he is native-born or a stranger, that one brings reproach on the Lord, and he shall be cut off from among his people.

Deuteronomy 1:43

So I spoke to you; yet you would not listen, but rebelled against the command of the Lord, and presumptuously went up into the mountain.

Deuteronomy 17:12-13

Now the man who acts presumptuously and will not heed the priest who stands to minister there before the Lord your God, or the judge, that man shall die. So you shall put away the evil from Israel. And all the people shall hear and fear, and no longer act presumptuously.

Deuteronomy 18:20-22

the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die.’ And if you say in your heart, ‘How shall we know the word which the Lord has not spoken?’— when a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.

Psalm 19:13

Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins;
 Let them not have dominion over me.
 Then I shall be blameless,
 And I shall be innocent of great transgression.

Quotes 

. God’s Radiant Beauty: The beauty of creation reflects the beauty of our Creator.

. Paying Attention: Only a life given away for love’s sake is worth living. Frederick Buechner

. Overflowing Fruit: The fruit of the Spirit changes us so we can impact the lives of those around us.

Church – Ministry – 1

. Ministry is a marathon. It’s  not  how you start that matters but  how you end.

. Vision is the ability to see the opportunities within your current circumstances.

. to design  the right strategy you must ask the right questions.

. Most healthy, large churches are led by a Pastor who has been there a long time.

. A Churches  health is measured by its  sending capacity, not its sending capacity.

. God always  uses imperfect people  in imperfect standards to accomplish His will.

. Wherever God guides, He provides.

. The Church must offer people something they cannot get anywhere else.

. Churches grow warmer through fellowship:

Churches grow  deeper through dealership.
Churches grow stronger through worship.
Churches grow broader through ministry.
Churches grow larger through evangelism.

Exodus 15:13

In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling.

As a minister, I am privileged to be present at many of the most important events in people's lives. Good or bad, to be there at the crossroads of life is a sacred trust. In those moments that are hardest, dying and death, verses like this one fill my heart with strength and remind me why I answered a call to serve in waters way above my head. God's promise here is a great reminder that what he began when he redeemed his people out of Egypt, he would also complete by bringing them into the Promised Land.

As a minister, I am privileged to be present at many of the most important events in people's lives. Good or bad, to be there at the crossroads of life is a sacred trust. In those moments that are hardest, dying and death, verses like this one fill my heart with strength and remind me why I answered a call to serve in waters way above my head. God's promise here is a great reminder that what he began when he redeemed his people out of Egypt, he would also complete by bringing them into the Promised Land.

Now, we can hear a more powerful promise behind these words. We can find it even more reasonable to trust them. God did what he said for Israel. Since he did for them, can't we say with confidence, "I know you will guide us to your holy dwelling?"


Now, we can hear a more powerful promise behind these words. We can find it even more reasonable to trust them. God did what he said for Israel. Since he did for them, can't we say with confidence, "I know you will guide us to your holy dwelling?"

Sins of Ignorance – 2

Numbers 15:24-29

then it will be, if it is unintentionally committed, without the knowledge of the congregation, that the whole congregation shall offer one young bull as a burnt offering, as a sweet aroma to the Lord, with its grain offering and its drink offering, according to the ordinance, and one kid of the goats as a sin offering. So the priest shall make atonement for the whole congregation of the children of Israel, and it shall be forgiven them, for it was unintentional; they shall bring their offering, an offering made by fire to the Lord, and their sin offering before the Lord, for their unintended sin. It shall be forgiven the whole congregation of the children of Israel and the stranger who dwells among them, because all the people did it unintentionally.

   “And if a person sins unintentionally, then he shall bring a female goat in its first year as a sin offering. So the priest shall make atonement for the person who sins unintentionally, when he sins unintentionally before the Lord, to make atonement for him; and it shall be forgiven him. You shall have one law for him who sins unintentionally, for him who is native-born among the children of Israel and for the stranger who dwells among them.

Prayers 

.. Through your Spirit, Abba Father, please empower me to be patient for you to right injustices committed against me. Please help me to be more concerned about the salvation of those who may have wronged me than I am about getting even. Please give me more of a heart like your Son, Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.

. O LORD God Almighty, please give me wisdom and courage to see your will for my life. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Quotes 

. When God forgives, our guilt is gone.

. Be Still: Each day we need to be still and listen to the Lord.

. Lured Away: Pray your way past the urge to do wrong.

. Ripe for Harvest: We can reap what others have sown.

. The Turn: Our surprising God often shows His presence when we least expect Him.

. Love for Children: Be an expression of the love of Jesus.

Sins of Ignorance - 1

Leviticus 4:2

Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘If a person sins unintentionally against any of the commandments of the Lord in anything which ought not to be done, and does any of them

Leviticus 4:13-14

Now if the whole congregation of Israel sins unintentionally, and the thing is hidden from the eyes of the assembly, and they have done something against any of the commandments of the Lord in anything which should not be done, and are guilty; when the sin which they have committed becomes known, then the assembly shall offer a young bull for the sin, and bring it before the tabernacle of meeting.
Leviticus 4:22-23
“When a ruler has sinned, and done something unintentionally against any of the commandments of the Lord his God in anything which should not be done, and is guilty, or if his sin which he has committed comes to his knowledge, he shall bring as his offering a kid of the goats, a male without blemish

Leviticus 4:27-28

“If anyone of the common people sins unintentionally by doing something against any of the commandments of the Lord in anything which ought not to be done, and is guilty, or if his sin which he has committed comes to his knowledge, then he shall bring as his offering a kid of the goats, a female without blemish, for his sin which he has committed.

Leviticus 5:15

“If a person commits a trespass, and sins unintentionally in regard to the holy things of the Lord, then he shall bring to the Lord as his trespass offering a ram without blemish from the flocks, with your valuation in shekels of silver according to the shekel of the sanctuary, as a trespass offering.

Leviticus 5:18

And he shall bring to the priest a ram without blemish from the flock, with your valuation, as a trespass offering. So the priest shall make atonement for him regarding his ignorance in which he erred and did not know it, and it shall be forgiven him. It is a trespass offering; he has certainly trespassed against the Lord.”

Communion with Jesus

 He took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray, and as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering... they saw his glory (Luke 9:29-32).

If I have found grace in thy sight, show me thy glory (Exodus 33:13).

When Jesus took these three disciples up into that high mountain apart, He brought them into close communion with Himself. They saw no man but Jesus only; and it was good to be there. Heaven is not far from those who tarry on the mount with their Lord.

Who has not in moments of meditation and prayer caught a glimpse of opening gates? Who has not in the secret place of holy communion felt the rush of some white surging wave of emotion--a foretaste of the joy of the blessed?

Bible Promises

James 1:17

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

 Colossians 3:17

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 4:2

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

1 Corinthians 3:3

You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?

The Corinthians boasted in their wisdom, giftedness, and tolerance. But, no matter how gifted a church, no matter how full of earthly wisdom, no matter how tolerant, if the people of that church are caught up in petty arguments, cliquishness and ugly quarrels, they are immature. Rather than being a place where Christ is known and shown, their meetings are no more than just a gathering of "mere humans. “We are recreated in Christ to be more!

Abortion

Most evangelical Christians feel that no medical doctor or practitioner  has the right to play God in terminating human life through abortion. No woman has the “right” over her own body to the extent that she has the freedom to destroy arbitrarily her unborn child. The embryo growing inside her body is  more than just another part of her. It has separate existence. It is another life!

The Scriptures place the highest value on human life. It is sacred and of inestimable worth to God, who created it “in his own image” [Genesis 1:26-27], who sustains it [“In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind” Job 12:10, and who redeemed it [2 Cor. 5:19].
Abortion is wrong because the Bible says, “Thou shalt not kill” [Deut. 5:17]. It is wrong because every fetus has the potential of becoming a fully developed person, ultimately accountable before God. David wrote thousands of years ago, “You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in your Book” [Psalm 139:16].

Prayers 

. Almighty God, creator and owner of everything, please give me a love for righteousness and a disdain for greed and covetousness. I want to serve you with an undivided heart that cannot be swayed by the material value of a decision. Please help me make my decisions based on what is pleasing to your will. Amen.

Matthew 3:1-2

In those days John the Baptist came ... saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." —
These words sound strange in a world that is afraid to tell the truth about sin, wickedness, and evil. Yet every lost person desperately needs to repent — to change his or her heart and life, seek after God, and live for Jesus as Lord. Yes, salvation is given to us by God's incredible grace. On the other hand, grace that leaves us unchanged is not true grace. Grace not only forgives us through Jesus' sacrificial death on the Cross, but it also liberates us from the empty and destructive life without God and his guidance.

Quotes 

. Lord, when our struggles feel bigger than what we can handle, help us to find comfort and strength in how You’ve carried us before.

. God is lovingly working toward restoration and joy in and through the pain of our lives.

. God seeks His beloved children.

Remember Who You Are – 2

He is God who hears.

Exodus 22:27 When he cries out to me, I will hear…

You are seen by God.

Psalm 33:13-14 The LORD looks… he sees all the sons of men. He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth.

He is God who sees (Elroi).

Genesis. 16:13 You are the God who sees me…

You are prayed for.

John 17:20 My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.

He is your intercessor.

Hebrews 7:25 He always lives to intercede for them

You are filled with joy.

John 17:13 … that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.

He heals the broken-hearted.

Psalm 147:3 He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.
You are satisfied.

Isaiah 58:11 The Lord … will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land.

He is satisfaction.

Psalms 107:9 He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.

You are not afraid.

Psalm 27:1 The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

The LORD is your light and your salvation.

Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?

You have authority to overcome.

Luke 10:19 I have given you authority to … overcome all the power of the enemy.

He has all authority.

Matthew 28:18 All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

You are a tree planted by streams of water.

Jeremiah 17:8 He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.

He is the Living Water.

John 7:37-39 Whoever believes in me… streams of living water will flow from within him. By this he meant the Spirit…

Remember who you are…because of who your Father is!

Remember Who You Are – 1

You are Abba’s child.

Galatians 4:6 Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.”

He is Abba, Father.

Romans 8:15 You received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”

You are on the winning side.

Colossians 2:15 Having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

He is the victorious warrior.

Exodus 15:3 The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is his name.
You are crowned with love and compassion.

Psalm 103:4 … who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion…
He is a glorious crown.

Isaiah 28:5 The Lord Almighty will be a glorious crown.
You are rich in his grace.

2 Corinthians 8:9 You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor…

He is God of all grace.

1 Peter 5:10 The God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ… will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

You are free from condemnation.

Romans 8:1 There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…
Jesus is the friend of sinners.

Mathew 11:19 The Son of Man [is] a friend of tax collectors and “sinners.”

You are heard.

Isaiah. 65:24 Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.
Remember who you are…because of who your Father is!

Future Tribulation

[Even in the future tribulation men will be saved and baptized in the Holy Spirit].

Joel 2:28

And it shall come to pass afterward
 That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
 Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
 Your old men shall dream dreams,
 Your young men shall see visions.

Zechariah 12:10

 And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.

Zechariah 13:7

Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd,
 Against the Man who is My Companion,”
 Says the Lord of hosts.
 “Strike the Shepherd,
 And the sheep will be scattered;
 Then I will turn My hand against the little ones.

 Revelation 6:9-11

When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held. And they cried with a loud voice, saying, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed.

Revelation 7:14

And I said to him, “Sir, you know.”
  So he said to me, “These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb

The Urgency of Your Prayer Now

God’s timetable of the ages may be rapidly nearing the countdown toward Christ’s  return. God’s great plan, for which he created the world and man, has been delayed and frustrated by the long reign of sin and Satan since Adam’s fall. But according to  the Bible, the delay of Christ’s return is not so much because God is patiently waiting for the world to repent as because He is patiently  waiting for us to lead them to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

This is further emphasized by the fact that, of all the  conditions and signs that must precede Christ’s coming, perhaps only one remains to be fulfilled: “This gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and  then the end will come” (Matt. 24:14).

Proverbs 15:23

A man finds joy in giving an apt reply — and how good is a timely word! –

Knowing the right word at the right time is a great gift. But even the best of speakers has to admit that the best of his or her words are not nearly as good as those the Spirit gives. Nevertheless, we must not excuse ourselves for our insensitive speech, unkindness, or missed opportunities. Not paying attention to what was said is no excuse. Not being spiritually in tune with the needs of our companions is a cop out.

Simply not knowing Scripture well enough to bless others with gracious speech at the appropriate time is self-deception. Listening to others after having listened to God in his Word is what tunes our ears and our hearts to bless others.

Quotes / Prayers

Thank You, Lord, that Your love is stronger than our greatest difficulties—even our worst doubts or fears!

God gives us the power and the privilege to enjoy the rewards of doing things His way.

Jesus, please help us remember You are our living King of Kings and Lord of Lords, almighty and worthy of our loving obedience and trust.

God is lovingly working toward restoration and joy in and through the pain of our lives.
Lord, when our struggles feel bigger than what we can handle, help us to find comfort and strength in how You’ve carried us before.

Spirit Baptism - 2

 Acts 2:33

Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear.

Acts 5:32

And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”

Acts 11:16

Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, ‘John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’

Galatians 3:14

that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

1 Timothy 5:3

Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need.

Practical loving concern for those who are powerless and forgotten is rooted in the heart of God and championed in Old Testament Law. One of the first internal problems the early church urgently and positively dealt with was prejudice and neglect of the Greek speaking widows in Jerusalem. It was important to God and to them! Paul further reminds us that we better have the same concern for widows today! (Notice that James extends that same concern for both widows and orphans! James 1:27)

Quotes / Prayers

Only God can make us new.

Lord, I now know that changes on the outside—behaviour, looks, attitude—don’t change me inside. I put my faith in Jesus, who died on the cross and rose again to forgive my sins. Make me new on the inside—in my soul.

God can change our doubts into bold statements of faith.

Spirit Baptism - 1

 Fulfilment of the promise of God and of Christ in giving the Spirit Baptism to men.

Luke 24:49

Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”

John 1:33

I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’

John 7:37-39

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

John 14: 16-17

And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.

John 14:26

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

John 15:26

But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.

Acts 1:4-8

And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 

And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Christ’s exaltation at the right hand of God – 2

Hebrews 8:3

For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; thus it is necessary for this priest also to have something to offer.

Hebrews 12:2

looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

1 Peter 3:22

who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

Spirit Baptism – 1

Fulfilment of promise  of God and  of Christ in giving the Spirit Baptism to men.

Luke 24:49

And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”

John 1:33

And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”

John 7:37-39

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.  Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”  Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Romans 6:3

Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?
More than an outward symbol, baptism is coming to the core of the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) and sharing in it by grace (Romans 6:1-15). What an incredible blessing to be able to do what Jesus did at the beginning of his ministry to please God (Luke 3:21-22), and also know that through our faith in God's power to raise him from the dead, our lives can be joined with his until we can share fully in his glory! (Colossians 2:12; 3:1-4).

Christ’s exaltation at the right hand of God – 1

Matthew 26:64

Jesus said to him, “You have said so. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

Mark 16:19

So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God

Acts 7:56

And he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

Romans 8:34

Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.

Ephesians 1:20

that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,

Colossians 3:1

 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.

Hebrews 1:3

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,

Galatians 6:2

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

"I didn't know Jesus had a law!" Well, he doesn't have a written one like we find in the Old Testament (2 Corinthians 3). No, his is Spirit-imprinted on our hearts and transforms our character. This law gives us liberty from written law (James 2:12-17) and emphasizes the undergirding principle that guided Jesus' life — sacrifice and service for others (Philippians 2:5-11). Far more than a written law, this is a passion for Christ and a commitment to be like him.

Christlike thing !

Let us run with patience (Hebrews 12:1).

To run with patience is a very difficult thing. Running is apt to suggest the absence of patience, the eagerness to reach the goal. We commonly associate patience with lying down. We think of it as the angel that guards the couch of the invalid. Yet, I do not think the invalid's patience the hardest to achieve.

There is a patience which I believe to be harder--the patience that can run. To lie down in the time of grief, to be quiet under the stroke of adverse fortune, implies a great strength; but I know of something that implies a strength greater still: It is the power to work under a stroke; to have a great weight at your heart and still to run; to have a deep anguish in your spirit and still perform the daily task. It is a Christlike thing!

Bible Promises

Genesis 17:8

And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.”

Genesis 22:12

He said, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.”

Genesis 24:48

Then I bowed my head and worshiped the Lord and blessed the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who had led me by the right way to take the daughter of my master's kinsman for his son.

Matthew 6:1

"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven."
Compassion is not for personal glory, just as it is not a private internal emotion. Christian compassion must always motivate us to act in the best interest and for the greater good of those in need, without calling attention to ourselves or our sacrifices. God provides what we need to bless others and takes care of the reward when our goal is to please him and to be used by him to bless others who are in need.

.. Submission to Spiritual Leaders – 2

Let them pray for the Holy Spirit:

Acts 9:17

Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on  Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”

Let them Baptize you:

Acts 9:18

Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,

Let them commission you:

Acts 13:3

So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them  and sent them off.

Let them guide you:

1 Timothy 5:17

The elders  who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honour,  especially those whose work is preaching and teaching

Let them rebuke you:

Psalm 141:5

Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness;
 let him rebuke me —that is oil on my head.
 My head will not refuse it,
 for my prayer will still be against the deeds of evildoers.

Follow them as they follow Christ:

Hebrew 13:7

Remember your leaders,  who spoke the word of God  to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate  their faith

1Corinthians 11:1

Follow my example,  as I follow the example of Christ.

.. Submission to Spiritual Leaders – 1

Obey your spiritual leader:

Hebrews 13:17

Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Submit to their authority:

Hebrews 13:17

Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Obey to make them joyous:

Hebrews 13:17

Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Let them lay hands:

1 Timothy 4:14

Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.

Let them prophecy over you:

1 Timothy 4:14

Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.

Let them watch over you:

Hebrews 13:17

Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Results of Not Submitting – 3

It is rebellion against God:

Romans 13:2-3

Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted,  and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.   For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended

The unsubmissive were killed:

Luke 20:9-16

He went on to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard,  rented it to some farmers and went away for a long time.    At harvest time he sent a servant to the tenants so they would give him some of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants beat him and sent him away empty-handed.   He sent another servant, but that one also they beat and treated shamefully and sent away empty-handed.   He sent still a third, and they wounded him and threw him out.

    “Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my son, whom I love;  perhaps they will respect him.’

    “But when the tenants saw him, they talked the matter over. ‘This is the heir,’ they said. ‘Let’s kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’   So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him.
 “What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them?   He will come and kill those tenants  and give the vineyard to others.”

 When the people heard this, they said, “God forbid!”

Fear and Punishment:

Romans 13:3-5

For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.    For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.    Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

Bible Quiz on Animals – 2

13. What animal  did Abraham sacrifice in place of Isaac?

Ans: Ram (Gen. 22:13)

14. What animal  did Samson kill with his bare hands?

Ans: Lion (Judges 14:5-6)

15. What animal did Elijah sacrifice on Mount Carmel?

Ans: Bullock (1 Kings 18:33)

16. To what animal is Satan compared in 1 Peter 5:8?
Ans: A Roaring Lion (1 Peter 5:8)
17. What animal crushed a prophet’s foot  against a wall?

Ans: Balaam’s Ass (Num. 22:25)

18. In the Parable of the Rich man and Lazarus, what animals licked the sores of Lazarus?

Ans: Dogs (Luke 16:21)

19. What constituted part of the wealth of the patriarchs?
Ans: Animals (Job 1:3)

Ephesians 6:4

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction
Malachi 4:6 promised that fathers and children would be reunited in heart. Let's make that true in our homes by nurturing and correcting our children — with a balance between nurture and correction. Let's not make our faith so full of rules and restrictions that it becomes impossible for our children to hear that they are our beloved children, with whom we are very pleased! Let's not grant so much freedom that our children feel neglected and uncertain. Let's turn our hearts toward them and pray for God to turn their hearts toward their home with us and their home with you!

Prayer

. Loving and Tender Shepherd, the great Guardian of the Flock, please be glorified in my life. Please physically and spiritually protect the following people for whom I have deep concerns. In the name of Jesus.