Our God

Hebrews 12:29
for our “God is a consuming fire.”

. The God of Patience to console us
Romans 15:5
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind  toward each other that Christ Jesus had,

. The God of Peace to calm us
Romans 15:33
The God of peace  be with you all. Amen.

. The God of Hope to cheer us
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace  as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

. The God of all Comfort to comfort us
2 Corinthians 1:3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,  the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,

. The God of Love to sustain us
2 Corinthians 13:11
Finally, brothers and sisters,  rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace.  And the God of love  and peace  will be with you.

. The God of all Grace

1 Peter 5:10
And the God of all grace, who called you  to his eternal glory  in Christ, after you have suffered a little while,  will himself restore you and make you strong,  firm and steadfast.

. God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
Ephesians 1:3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,  who has blessed us in the heavenly realms  with every spiritual blessing in Christ.

[Message No: 7696]

It’s Not Me

1 Peter 4:7-11

Serving for God's Glory

    But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Divines of the Gospel

Divine life imparted
John 1:13
who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Divine promises assured
2 Corinthians 1:20
For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.

Casting Down of Satan - Plagues of Revelation

Revelation 21:8
But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

Revelation 22:15
But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.

[Message No: 7695]

Finding Glory in Death

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. — Psalm 23:4

Death is the ultimate profanity in today's world. We don't like to think about it, much less talk about it. However, death is that one reality that will not leave us alone. We lose friends and family members to death. At one point in our lives, we too, will face this inevitability unless Jesus comes before our passing. So what is our assurance as we face the inescapable? Our Sheperd!

He will walk us through, guiding and protecting and comforting us in our journey. And as Christians, this promise is only intensified because we know Jesus as our Good Shepherd, and he has taken the walk ahead of us to assure us that our walk through death's valley doesn't end in death, but in glory.

Better than the Best

All verses from Hebrews…

. He is the Son of God and God the Son – 1:2
but in these last days  he has spoken to us by his Son,  whom he appointed heir  of all things, and through whom  also he made the universe.

. The brightness of God’s Glory – in beauty – 1:3
The Son is the radiance of God’s glory  and the exact representation of his being,  sustaining all things  by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins,  he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

. The object of Angel’s Worship – 1:6
And again, when God brings his firstborn  into the world,  he says,
  “Let all God’s angels worship him.”

Everlasting

. Deuteronomy 2:14
Thirty-eight years  passed from the time we left Kadesh Barnea  until we crossed the Zered Valley. By then, that entire generation  of fighting men had perished from the camp, as the Lord had sworn to them.

. Psalm 90:2
Before the mountains were born
 or you brought forth the whole world,
 from everlasting to everlasting  you are God.

[Message No: 7694]

Submitting to Holy Spirit

What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted. — Proverbs 10:24

The wicked fear the triumph of goodness, holiness, and righteousness. They fear not being in control. They fear death overtaking them. The righteous desire the triumph of goodness, holiness, and righteousness. They offer their life to be controlled by the Holy Spirit of God.
They recognize death is an enemy, but one that has been conquered by their Savior. In times like these, isn't it comforting to know that the fear of the wicked is really all the wicked can be sure of receiving!

Am I carnally minded?

1 Corinthians 3:3
for you are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men?
The most delicate mission on earth

John 3:29
He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled.

Vision by personal character

Revelation 4:1
After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven. And the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me, saying, “Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this.”

Heedfulness Hypocrisy in Ourselves

1 John 5:16
If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin which does not lead to death, he will ask, and He will give him life for those who commit sin not leading to death. There is sin leading to death. I do not say that he should pray about that.

The Unheeded Secret

John 18:36
Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.”

[Message No: 7693]

In order to change, follow Jesus

Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all men. He did not need man's testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man. — John 2:24-25

If we've spent a bunch of time reading the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John in the New Testament), we probably have already come to the conclusion stated in our verses. So, if we want to know how to better live as a person, the place to start is Jesus. We need to follow his example and follow his teachings. It is not an easy path, but it is an authentic and transformational journey. As we learn that we can trust him because he knows us, we see our lives take on a greater depth and richer meaning.

Following Jesus 

Down in the valley with my Savior I will go,
Where the flow'rs are blooming and the sweet waters flow;
Everywhere He leads me I will follow, follow on,
Walking in His footsteps till the crown be won.
Follow! follow! I will follow Jesus!
Anywhere, everywhere, I will follow on!
Follow! follow! I will follow Jesus!
Everywhere He leads me I will follow on!
Down in the valley with my Savior I will go,
Where the storms are sweeping and the dark waters flow;
With His hand to lead me I will never, never fear,
Danger cannot fright me if my Lord is near.
Follow! follow! I will follow Jesus!
Anywhere, everywhere, I will follow on!
Follow! follow! I will follow Jesus!
Everywhere He leads me I will follow on!
Down in the valley, or upon the…

Thought 

There is nothing anybody else can do that can stop God from using us.  We can turn everything into a testimony. - Corrie ten Boom

[Message No: 7692]

God Alone

Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries." — Daniel 2:27-28

What is the bedrock of your faith in uncertain times? Who knows where all the upheaval, tumult, and uncertainty are truly heading? In whom can you find the solution to your most perplexing problems?
For Daniel and his friends, there was one solid and true answer: the Lord God of Israel. It wasn't in the so-called wise teachers of the day. It wasn't in the religions of the East. It wasn't in the super-spiritualists. It was in God alone.

Comfort

Psalm 27:1
The Lord is my light  and my salvation —
 whom shall I fear?
 The Lord is the stronghold  of my life—
 of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 61:2
From the ends of the earth I call to you,
 I call as my heart grows faint;
 lead me to the rock  that is higher than I.

1 Timothy 4:9-10
This is a trustworthy saying  that deserves full acceptance.   That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God,  who is the Savior of all people,  and especially of those who believe.

Isaiah 65:17
“See, I will create
 new heavens and a new earth.
 The former things will not be remembered,
 nor will they come to mind.

Assurance

1 John 5:13
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God  so that you may know that you have eternal life.

[Message No: 7691]

The Laws in Bible

So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. — Galatians 3:24

Galatians reminds us again and again that law cannot make us righteous or save us, not even the Old Testament Law. However, the Law does one very important thing. It leads us to Christ. We recognize right and wrong because of the Law. We recognize our failures, imperfections, sins, transgressions, and weaknesses because of the Law.

Most of all, we recognize our need for a Savior because of the Law. Praise God for the Law. Praise God a hundred times more for Jesus!

What to Commit?

. Parts of our bodies – Romans 6:13

Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness,  but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.

. Our beloved ones – Genesis 22:2
Then God said, “Take your son , your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah.  Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering  on a mountain I will show you. ”

. Our rewards – Revelation 4:10
the twenty-four elders  fall down before him  who sits on the throne  and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:

The “HOWs” of Commitment

. By Obedience – Romans 6:16
Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey —whether you are slaves to sin,  which leads to death,  or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?

. Through Love – Ephesians 5:2
and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us  and gave himself up for us  as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

. In Slavery – Romans 6:19
I am using an example from everyday life  because of your human limitations. Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so no
w offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness  leading to holiness.

[Message No: 7690]

Hunger and Thirst

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” Matthew 5:6 (KJV )

When we receive Christ into our lives, we experience a new birth and are also indwelt by the Holy Spirit. From that point on, everything we need – including wisdom, love, power – to be men and women of God and fruitful witnesses for Christ is available to us simply by faith, by claiming this power in accordance with God’s promise.

Witnessing that Can’t Fail

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14

Ask the Lord to give you the right words to say. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been sharing my faith with someone–and frantically asking God to give me just the right words.  And He puts the very words in my mouth that needed to be said.

Success in witnessing is simply taking the opportunity to share Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit… Then, leave the results to God.  When you obey God–motivated by love–you cannot fail!

The secret of Spiritual Coherence 

Galatians 6:14
But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

Calm and Confident

“John replied, ‘No one can receive anything unless it is given from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said that I’m not the Christ but that I’m the one sent before him. The groom is the one who is getting married. The friend of the groom stands close by and, when he hears him, is overjoyed at the groom’s voice. Therefore, my joy is now complete. He must increase and I must decrease.” John 3:27-30

Calm and confidence will invade your life when you understand that God is in control, even when the circumstances do not seem to be lining up the way you want. When you intentionally commit to honoring Christ in all circumstances, a profound joy will follow. Are you willing to release control and trust God to be Lord over all? Can you be content to honor Christ and give Him greater reach into your life and circumstances?

[Message No: 7689]

Words of Blessings

Do not let any unwholesome

 talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. — Ephesians 4:29

We can use our words to be cute. We can use our words to appear impressive. We can use our words to win arguments. We can use our words to defend ourselves. We can use our words to lie and distort. We can use our words to do many things, but God wants us to use our words to bless. So when we speak, if our words do not bless and benefit those to whom we direct them, then we are to simply not say anything. Grandma was right. "If you can't say something nice, then don't say anything at all."

Who Will Fight For You

Deuteronomy 3:22
You must not fear them, for the Lord your God Himself fights for you.’

Confident In God’s Promises

Numbers 13:30
Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.”

The inevitable penalty

Matthew 5:26
Assuredly, I say to you, you will by no means get out of there till you have paid the last penny.
The conditions of discipleship

Luke 14:26-27
“If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.

Luke 14:33
So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.

[Message No: 7688]

Guidance

We see in John 13:13 – Ye call me Master and Lord; and ye say well; for so I am.

He the [Spirit] will never lead you contrary to the Word of God. I hear people saying, “The Lord led to do this … The Lord  told me thus and so … I  am always a little suspicious  unless what the Lord has said  is in keeping with His Word.

God never directs  us to do anything contrary to His Word. The prophet Samuel once said, “Obedience is better than sacrifice.” The Scripture teaches, “He that willeth  to do His will shall know the doctrine.” When you find yourself up a blind alley, no knowing  which way to turn, if you are willing to do His will, He will reveal Himself. He conceals His will only from those who, before they consent to do His bidding, seek to know what He is going to say.

Be an obedient Christian. Remember that “where God guides, He provides. Where He leads, He supplies all needs!”

What’s God’s Will

. To have eternal life
John 6:40
For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son  and believes in him shall have eternal life,  and I will raise them up at the last day.”

. To be sanctified
1 Thessalonians 4:3
It is God’s will  that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality

. To give thanks
1 Thessalonians 5:18
give thanks in all circumstances;  for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

. To do good
1 Peter 2:15
For it is God’s will  that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.

. Little ones not to be lost
Matthew 18:14
When Jesus came into Peter’s house, he saw Peter’s mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever.

[Message No: 7687]

Calling God as our Abba Father

... the Holy Spirit descended on him [Jesus] in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." — Luke 3:22

God spoke these wonderful words to his Son when Jesus was baptized. God feels the same about us when we follow our Savior's example and are baptized, too! Jesus pours out his Spirit on us (Titus 3:4-7) guaranteeing that we are God's children (cf. Ephesians 1:13-14). No matter what Satan may do to make us doubt it (cf. Luke 4:3), we can confidently know that we are God's beloved children, with whom he is well pleased! Because of the Spirit, we can call God our Abba Father (Galatians 4:6) knowing that the Spirit intercedes for us making even our inexpressible thoughts known to our Father (Romans 8:26-27).

Facts about Commitment

. Our commitment is to God – Hebrews 9:14
How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit  offered himself  unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences  from acts that lead to death,  so that we may serve the living God!
. Our commitment is for one another – 1 John 3:16
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.  And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.
. Our commitment is to the ministry – 1 Timothy 4:15
Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.

Questions in Job 

40:9
Do you have an arm like God’s,
 and can your voice  thunder like his?

41:1
“Can you pull in Leviathan  with a fishhook
 or tie down its tongue with a rope?

41:2
Can you put a cord through its nose
 or pierce its jaw with a hook?

[Message No: 7686]

Two Portraits

John 16:19-24

Now Jesus knew that they desired to ask Him, and He said to them, “Are you inquiring among yourselves about what I said, ‘A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me’? Most assuredly, I say to you that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy. A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.

   “And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.

D R E A M

D – Delight in His presence. Enjoying time for worship and renewal in the presence of God who made and sustaining all creation.
R – Rest in His grace. Finding rest with God because of the assurance we are forgiven and loved because  of God’s great sacrifice to include us.
E – Expect His guidance. Not just wanting that as we offer ourselves to God, He will lead us by His Spirit and give us wisdom.
A – Apply His Word to our lives. opening ourselves to God’s word in Scripture with the commitment that we will change our lives based upon its truth.
M – Minister with His love. Re-enter our world with the commitment that we  will fulfil His will  in our lives and minister to the people He places in our path.

Do you walk in white?

Romans 6:4
Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

[Message No: 7685]

Abounding in Hope

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

If we listen to the daily news, it can make us feel hopeless — if our focus is on the things of this world. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit has inspired (breathed) a precious book we call the Bible. It contains the redemption story of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was God, he became flesh so he might fulfill God’s promise to save humankind from their sins. This he did by sacrificing himself on the cross for our sins and rising to eternal life to demonstrate that death no longer has power over us. We now have the hope that we can live forever with him in heaven! What good news!
Christians never have to feel hopeless

— no matter what is happening in their lives or on the news. The Holy Spirit has made sure the Bible will help us abound in hope through the power of the Gospel (or good news) about Jesus. All we have to do is read what the Spirit has written! “I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his Word I hope” (Psalm 130:5).

The Great Deliverer

From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people. — Psalm 3:8

God is The Great Deliverer! That's his chosen expertise. Whether it was delivering the Israelites through the Red Sea from Pharaoh's army ages ago, or it is rescuing a sinner from sin and death through Christ today, our God is The Great Deliverer! So let's use today to repeatedly pray for people who need God's deliverance from sin, death, disease, family conflict, addiction, financial concerns, legal matters, mental illness, abuse, and temptation.

Thoughts 

. God’s peace is that existence-form in which our lives as Christians, in all their totality are set.  We like to imagine that peace is a delicate thing, which we must lock up within ourselves, and protect, and hide in the depths of our hearts, so that it may not be lost or be evaporated.  But in the Scriptures peace is spoken of in an utterly different way. 

There it is said that God’s peace is a mighty power, which of itself can keep our hearts and our thoughts.  God’s peace is a mighty fortress, in which we are well defended and safe against all hostile powers of destruction.  It is not we who are to protect peace, but rather it is peace which is to protect us. - Anders Nygren

[Message No: 7685]

Shining in Darkness

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe. — Philippians 2:14-15

We shouldn't be surprised that unbelievers around us have a different set of values than we do. After all, a star isn't surprised to find that it shines in the great expanse of darkness surrounding it. You see, a star and a disciple of Jesus share one basic purpose: shining our light in the darkness, no matter how great that darkness!

Mysteries of God’s Word

. Knowing Christ – Colossians 2:2
My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart  and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery  of God, namely, Christ,

. Life of Godliness – 1 Timothy 1:6
Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk.

. Truth of the Gospel – Ephesians 6:19
Pray also for me,  that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly  make known the mystery  of the gospel,

. Speaking in a Tongue – 1 Corinthians 14:2
For anyone who speaks in a tongue  does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them;  they utter mysteries  by the Spirit.

. Believer’s Transformation – 1 Corinthians 15:51
Listen, I tell you a mystery:  We will not all sleep,  but we will all be changed

Effect of High Price 

I will betroth you to me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion. I will betroth you in faithfulness, and you will acknowledge the LORD. — Hosea 2:19-20

God longed for Israel to be faithful to him. Despite the unfaithfulness in the past, God offered his people forgiveness and hope that they could be restored to relationship with him again. If God was willing to pay such an incredibly high price to do this, shouldn't we do the same with each other? But, let's go one step further; let's be faithful to each other and to God in the first place!

[Message No: 7683]

Because of JESUS

Be not afraid, O land; be glad and rejoice. Surely the LORD has done great things. — Joel 2:21

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!

Bible 

Proverbs 13:13
Whoever scorns instruction will pay for it,
 but whoever respects  a command is rewarded.

Comfort

Psalm 27:1
The Lord is my light  and my salvation —
 whom shall I fear?
 The Lord is the stronghold  of my life—
 of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 61:2
From the ends of the earth I call to you,
 I call as my heart grows faint;
 lead me to the rock  that is higher than I.

1 Timothy 4:9-10
This is a trustworthy saying  that deserves full acceptance.   That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God,  who is the Savior of all people,  and especially of those who believe.

Isaiah 65:17
“See, I will create
 new heavens and a new earth.
 The former things will not be remembered,
 nor will they come to mind.

[Message No: 7682]

Pride goes before a fall.

The arrogance of man will be brought low and the pride of men humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day, and the idols will totally disappear. — Isaiah 2:17-18

Sometimes when we get "too big for our britches," we find ourselves humbled by a natural disaster, world war, incurable disease, economic depression, or widespread social disorder. Our arrogance can be a predictor of our own impending disasters. Is there a general principle of our universe at work here? ("Pride goes before a fall.") Or is this the active discipline of God at work? I guess the answer is "Yes!" to both of these questions. Both God and his world remind us that there is so much about our lives we can't control. This passage, however, goes beyond the general principles and it promises an ultimate day when human arrogance will be eliminated and all false gods disappear.

 On that day, God's children will rejoice and be glad! Until then, let's walk humbly with our God.

Be In the Moment

Mark 13:11
Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.

Three Things To Believe Today

Isaiah 43:10
You are my witnesses, ” declares the Lord,
 “and my servant  whom I have chosen,
 so that you may know  and believe me
 and understand that I am he.
 Before me no god  was formed,
 nor will there be one after me.

 No Fear

1 Samuel 17:45
David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin,  but I come against you in the name  of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.

[Message No: 7681]

Steps in Christian Life

. The Christian life begins by receiving Christ
John 1:12
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed  in his name,  he gave the right to become children of God —

. Then follows confession of Him
Romans 10:10
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.

. Abiding in Him
John 15:4
Remain in me, as I also remain in you.  No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

. Fidelity to Him
Revelation 3:10
Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you  from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world  to test  the inhabitants of the earth.

. Service for Him
Romans 12:11
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor,  serving the Lord.

. Fellowship with Him
Philippians 3:10
want to know  Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings,  becoming like him in his death,

What’s Restoration?

Restore us to yourself, O LORD, that we may return; renew our days as of old. — Lamentations 5:21

When these words were first spoken, they focused on God's restoration of Israel back to its place, its prominence, its life, and its Temple. Yet from our vantage point, this prayer can be ours as well. Restoration can mean Christ's return which brings us home to God. On that day, every barrier standing between God and us will fall. Our mortality will be swallowed up in victory. We will see God face to face and get to walk with him in the cool of the day as his perfect children. May that day come soon!

[Message No: 7680]

Break Up!

"I hate divorce," says the LORD God of Israel, ... "So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith." — Malachi 2:16

In a throw-away world, God wants us to know that he hates it when we throw away people. Let's call each other to God's standard, to God's holiness. Let's not let our spirits be corrupted by selfishness and resentment. Let's not break faith with God by treating those closest to us with contempt.
And in a world where people get broken by divorce, let's go find them, include them, and bring them home to God's family for healing.

Questions in 2 Chronicles 

32:14
Who was there among all the gods of those nations that my fathers utterly destroyed that could deliver his people from my hand, that your God should be able to deliver you from my hand?

32:15
Now therefore, do not let Hezekiah deceive you or persuade you like this, and do not believe him; for no god of any nation or kingdom was able to deliver his people from my hand or the hand of my fathers. How much less will your God deliver you from my hand?’ ”

32:21
Then the Lord sent an angel who cut down every mighty man of valor, leader, and captain in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned shamefaced to his own land. And when he had gone into the temple of his god, some of his own offspring struck him down with the sword there.

36:23
Thus says Cyrus king of Persia: All the kingdoms of the earth the Lord God of heaven has given me. And He has commanded me to build Him a house at Jerusalem which is in Judah. Who is among you of all His people? May the Lord his God be with him, and let him go up!

Thoughts 

. Frustration is not the will of God.  There is time to do anything and everything that God wants us to do. - Elisabeth Elliot

. Lord, make me see your glory in every place. - Michelangelo

. A man’s self is his greatest cross. - Francois Fenelon

[Message No: 7679]

Women’s Ministry in the Church

— Acts 17:4
“Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and not a few prominent women.”

Women have always played an important role in the work of God. This was especially true in Macedonia (Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea) in the first century. In each of these places, many of the leading women of the community were touched by the Gospel. We know they played important roles in supporting the missionary enterprise (Lydia) and sharing the Gospel with those around them (Euodia and Syntyche). Why not take time today to let a godly woman in your congregation know how important she is to the Lord's work and to you.

You Make a Difference

2 Corinthians  9:8
And God is able  to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need,  you will abound in every good work

Enough of This Frenzy

Matthew 11:28
“Come to me,  all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

When Confusion Prevails

1 Cor. 14:33
For God is not a God of disorder  but of peace —as in all the congregations  of the Lord’s people.
Jesus calms the storm

Matthew 8:27
The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!”

Thrown in the Deep End

Ezekiel 47:5
He measured off another thousand, but now it was a river  that I could not cross, because the water had risen and was deep enough to swim in—a river that no one could cross.

Winding roads and centre lines 

Jeremiah 31:3
The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying:
  “I have loved  you with an everlasting love;
 I have drawn  you with unfailing kindness.

(Message No: 7678)

A Prayer for God - done

to be Glorified

Dear God,
It’s Your name that is honored from generation to generation. You alone are worthy of all glory and praise.

And You are not shocked by the state of the world right now. Your ways are not our ways, and You are not at a loss about what to do. Nothing is impossible for You.

So today, we are proclaiming that You will be glorified through this pandemic. That Your name will be known and praised throughout the earth.
Pierce the darkness with Your light. Shine brighter than the fear of death, economic ruin, or a long quarantine.

When we look back on this moment in history, would we be filled with joy as we remember the revival, hope, and peace that came out of this season.
Continue to draw this hurting world back to You.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Rend Your Heart

Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity. — Joel 2:13

One of the most amazing things about our God is that he is so gracious and compassionate. This is true even when we've "blown it big time." In fact, when we sin, he longs to forgive and cleanse, not condemn and punish. His grace rushes to greet our genuine heartbreak and heart-change with forgiveness, cleansing, and redemption.

Promises in Matthew

Acts 2:38-39
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized,  every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.  And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.    The promise is for you and your children  and for all who are far off —for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Acts 11:16
Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water,  but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’

Galatians 3:14
He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus,  so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.

[Message No: 7677]

Spectacle

1 Corinthians 4:9
For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die  in the arena. We have been made a spectacle  to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings

Colossians 2:15

And having disarmed the powers and authorities,  he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them  by the cross.

Come, Sinners, To The Gospel Feast,

1 COME, sinners, to the gospel feast,
Let every soul be Jesu's guest;
Ye need not one be left behind,
For God hath bidden all mankind.
2 Sent by my Lord, on you I call,
The invitation is to ALL:
Come, all the world; come, sinner, thou!
All things in Christ are ready now.
3 Come, all ye souls by sin opprest,
Ye restless wanderers after rest,
Ye poor, and maimed, and halt, and blind,
In Christ a hearty welcome find.
4 Come, and partake the gospel feast;
Be saved from sin; in Jesus rest;
O taste the goodness of your God,
And eat his flesh, and drink his blood!

Sticks

Proverbs 18:24
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
 but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

[Message No: 7676]

Impact of God’s Grace

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. — 1 Timothy 1:12

We minister by grace. We are saved and made holy by God's grace given us in Jesus. We are declared holy and blameless before God because of the grace of Jesus. We are given a gift to use in ministry for the Church because of the grace of Jesus. We are given strength from the Holy Spirit to persevere during difficult times because of the grace of God in Jesus. So what ministry we find ourselves capable of performing, what opportunities we have to serve and make a difference in people's lives, and what power we have in fulfilling our ministry are all given to us. It is not something to boast about. The Lord's power is made perfect in weakness as we offer ourselves to him to be used for his glory.

Mysteries of Word of God

. God’s Kingdom – Mark 4:11
He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God  has been given to you. But to those on the outside  everything is said in parables

. Hardness of the Israelites -  Romans 11:25
I do not want you to be ignorant  of this mystery,  brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited:  Israel has experienced a hardening  in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in,

. Gospel of Christ – Romans 16:25
Now to him who is able  to establish you in accordance with my gospel,  the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery  hidden for long ages past,

. Wisdom of God – 1 Corinthians 2:7
No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery  that has been hidden  and that God destined for our glory before time began.

Thoughts 

. God does not dispense strength and encouragement like a druggist fills your prescription.  The Lord doesn’t promise to give us something to take so we can handle our weary moments.  He promises us Himself.  That is all.  And that is enough. - Charles Swindoll

. It is vanity to desire a long life and to take no heed of a good life. - Thomas Kempis

[Message No: 7675]

False God Disappear

The arrogance of man will be brought low and the pride of men humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day, and the idols will totally disappear. — Isaiah 2:17-18

Sometimes when we get "too big for our britches," we find ourselves humbled by a natural disaster, world war, incurable disease, economic depression, or widespread social disorder. Our arrogance can be a predictor of our own impending disasters. Is there a general principle of our universe at work here? ("Pride goes before a fall.") Or is this the active discipline of God at work? I guess the answer is "Yes!" to both of these questions.

Both God and his world remind us that there is so much about our lives we can't control. This passage, however, goes beyond the general principles and it promises an ultimate day when human arrogance will be eliminated and all false gods disappear. On that day, God's children will rejoice and be glad! Until then, let's walk humbly with our God.

Promises in Matthew

. Salvation
Matthew 1:21
She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,  because he will save his people from their sins.”

. Spirit Baptism
Matthew 3:11
I baptize you with water for repentance.  But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit  and fire.

Luke 3:16
John answered them all, “I baptize you with water.  But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Luke 24:49
I am going to send you what my Father has promised;  but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

John 1:33
And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water  told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’

[Message No: 7674]

We can trust on Jesus Christ

But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. — Romans 3:21-22

The Old Testament looks forward to a new time, a time when law is not the basis of righteousness. The Law and Prophets testify to this time. This righteousness comes from God and is built on the sacrificial work of Jesus who liberates us from law and brings us God's grace. The real issue for us is trust — many today confuse believing with simply thinking something in one's head, while the Bible sees belief as something that involves our heart and changes our behavior. So what is the basis on which you are building your life today? What is the measure of your righteousness? On what is your security tied? Thank God we can trust our life, our future, and our salvation to Jesus Christ and not to law-keeping.

Questions in Job 

41:3
Will it keep begging you for mercy?
 Will it speak to you with gentle words?

41:4
Will it make an agreement with you
 for you to take it as your slave for life?

41:5
Can you make a pet of it like a bird
 or put it on a leash for the young women in your house?

Time and manner of resurrection

1 Thessalonians 4:16
For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

Philippians 3:21
Who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Colossians 3:4
When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

[Message No: 7673]

Faith That Stands

For everyone born of God  overcomes  the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. - 1 John 5:4

Life circumstances have visited a stressful season on all of us.
Where is our hope? Where is our comfort?
Will our faith stand strong through it all?
My faith stands strong knowing I belong to God and that is an invaluable truth that will never change. He has been immeasurably faithful to me and the relationship we have means more to me than anything or anyone else.

I am saved by the cleansing power of the blood Jesus shed for me and I have eternal life because He rose again after shedding the precious blood that washed away my sin.

My life was changed forever when He came into my heart. The faith by which I believed for salvation is the faith I live by every day, in the good and difficult times and all the in between.
Faith is this invisible mystery I cannot touch, I cannot hold, I cannot see or hear. Faith is a gift from God that keeps me believing He is worthy of all my trust that’s placed in Him.
Faith is where I stand and why I can stand strong today.

Let’s 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

I'm not sure what we fear about repentance (turning our hearts and lives to God)? God will not only receive us; he will also redeem us and remake us. But that repentance is often so hard for us to do. We get stuck in old patterns of destructive and addictive behavior. We believe Satan's deceptive lies. We use self-deprecating thoughts to defeat the Spirit's work in ourselves. So why not come clean and confess our sins and truly turn our lives over to God? If we will, we will find something truly refreshing!

God’s Power on Display

Ezekiel 17:24
All the trees of the forest  will know that I the Lord bring down  the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish.

 “‘I the Lord have spoken, and I will do it. ’”
[Message No: 7672]

Give Glory to God

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. — Ephesians 3:20-21

We have far greater power than we often realize. That incredible power is at work within us (see Ephesians 1:18-19). This promise of power, however, is tied to two opportunities God gives us daily. First, it is based on actively asking for God to do great things based upon a holy charged imagination. Second, it is based on our living to bring God glory.

So let's ask, imagine, and give God glory; then let's praise him for doing far greater things than what we ask or even imagine!

The “HOWs” of Commitment

. As a pure virgin – 2 Corinthians 11:2
I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband,  to Christ, so that I might present you  as a pure virgin to him.

. By Faith – Hebrews – 11:4
By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended  as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings.  And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.

. As living sacrifices – Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you,  brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,  holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

. Through the Spirit – Hebrews 9:14
How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit  offered himself  unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences  from acts that lead to death,  so that we may serve the living God!

Thoughts 

. Our sanctification did not depend upon changing our works, but in doing that for God’s sake which we commonly do for our own. - Brother Lawrence

. Have a great day, or do you have other plans? - Church sign

. God often takes a course for accomplishing His purposes directly contrary to what our narrow views would prescribe.  He brings a death upon our feelings, wishes and prospects when He is about to give us the desire of our hearts. - John Newton

[Message No: 7671]

What is our Lifestyle?

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. — Colossians 3:12

What an incredible thought! We are dearly loved as God's chosen and holy children. No wonder God calls us to a lifestyle of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience! Think of how often our Father needs to use these qualities with us! How can we not share with others what God so abundantly shares with us?

Questions in Job 

41:14
Who dares open the doors of its mouth,
 ringed about with fearsome teeth?

42:3
You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
 Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
 things too wonderful for me to know.

Receiving God’s Gifts

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast. — Ephesians 2:8-9

As a child, I loved to receive gifts. In such a simple time of life, a gift meant I was loved. I didn't worry about the significance or hidden message in a gift. I wasn't concerned about the "strings attached" to the gift. It was just a gift — a free expression of love I didn't deserve, given to me by someone who truly cared for me. Isn't it great to get to be God's child and receive his gift and know we can receive it as a child?!

Thoughts 

. It is vanity to desire a long life and to take no heed of a good life. - Thomas Kempis

. Faithfulness today is the best preparation for the demands of tomorrow. -Elisabeth Elliot

. What has Jesus Christ ever asked you to do that wasn’t for your own good? - Billy Sunday

[Message No: 7670]

How do you know what God’s calling you to do

Here are seven ways:

There’s a burden on your heart you can’t shake.
There is a specific person you know of who needs your help.
The Scripture passage that you read encourages you to have faith and step out.
When you pray, you have a sense that God is asking you to act.
You don’t have time, but you have a seed of faith.
God brings someone into your life to encourage your calling (your spouse, your pastor, a godly friend.)

You feel as if you can’t do it alone.

There are many things that can occupy our time—there always will be. There are good things we can devote our lives to, but the most important things are the God things.

When you do decide to step out, your schedule won’t automatically clear. It never does. Instead, God will show up. He will give you extra wisdom, energy, resources and strength. But mostly He will give you Himself!

And when you have Him, you have everything. And when you give others the knowledge of Him, they can have Him too. And when lives around you are transformed, all the stuff you were busy with doesn’t seem as important any more.

And God is glorified because it’ll be clear to everyone that it’s Him doing the work!

Meaning of John 3:16 – Jesus Saves

For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. — 1 Corinthians 3:11

There is only one foundation on which the Church and the Christian life can be built. That foundation is Jesus Christ (cf. 1 Peter 2:4-7; Ephesians 2:20). He is the one whom God sent to save us (John 3:16). He is the "way, the truth, and the life," the only way to God (John 14:6). The Lord Jesus Christ is the name above all names, the name at which every knee will bow (Philippians 2:5-11).

His is the only name by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Let's take time today to specifically honor Jesus as Lord with our hearts, our words, and our actions.

[Message No: 7669]

Mere Humans

You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarrelling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans? — 1 Corinthians 3:3

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!

For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).

Let's live up to what God has made us to be!

Never Alone

“Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you everywhere you go.” Joshua 1:9
The Lord is with us.

And, since the Lord is near, everything is different.  Everything!
You may be facing death, but you aren’t facing death alone; the Lord is with you.
You may be facing unemployment, but you aren’t facing unemployment alone; the
Lord is with you.  You may be facing marital struggles, but you aren’t facing them alone;
the Lord is with you. You may be facing debt,but you aren’t facing debt alone; the Lord is with you.

God … Real God

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. — Jeremiah 2:28

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?

[Message No: 7668]

Staying in the Light

1 John 1:5-10

Fellowship with Him and One Another

    This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.

   If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.

1 John 2:1-2
My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world.

Thoughts 

. Decisions can take you out of God’s will but not out of His reach. - Unknown
. he reality of knowing Jesus comes as a result of hidden prayer, and personal Bible study that is devotional and consistent in nature.  Christ becomes more real to those who persist in cultivation of His presence. - L. B. Cowman

. Exercise daily—walk with the Lord! - Church sign
. But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” - Matthew 4:4

This is the Bread

Exodus 16:15
When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, “What is it?” For they did not know  what it was.
 Moses said to them, “It is the bread  the Lord has given you to eat.

[Message No: 7667]

Questions in Luke -2

23:40
But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?

24:5
And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?

24:17
And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad.

24:18
Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”

24:19
And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people,

24:26
Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?”

24:32
They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?”

24:38
And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?

24:41
And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?”

[Message No: 7666]

do’s – do - 2

. All to God’s Glory –

1 Corinthians 10:31
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.    Do not cause anyone to stumble,  whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God —   even as I try to please everyone in every way.  For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many,  so that they may be saved.      Follow my example,  as I follow the example of Christ.

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 3:23
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters

. All things without murmuring and disputing –
Philippians 2:14
Do everything without grumbling  or arguing,

. Those things seen and heard in me [Paul] –
Philippians 4:9

. Your own business –

1 Thessalonians 4:11
and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own
and work with your hands,  just as we told you,

. Work of an evangelist –
2 Timothy 4:5
But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship,  do the work of an evangelist,  discharge all the duties of your ministry.

Thought 

. The life of the Spirit is not our life, but the life of God within us. - Teresa of Avila
. Man needs but little for his body; but all his strength is insufficient to elevate his soul. – Michelangelo

[Message No: 7665]

“do’s – do” - 1

. Good to than that hate you –

Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
Luke 6:27
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,

. To others what you except of them –

Matthew 7:12
So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you,  for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Luke 6:31
Do to others as you would have them do to you.

. Violence to no man –

Luke 3:14
Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?”
 He replied, “Don’t extort money
don’t accuse people falsely —be content with your pay.”

. Good –

Luke 6:35
But love your enemies, do good to them,  and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children  of the Most High,  because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.
Romans 13:3
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.

. This [put God first] and live –

Luke 10:28
You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”

[Message No: 7664]

True Spiritual Growth Requires God’s Wor

1 Corinthians 3:1-5

And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able; for you are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men? For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not carnal?
    Watering, Working, Warning
    Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one?

Questions in 1 Kings

19:20
And he left the oxen and ran after Elijah, and said, “Please let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you.”
  And he said to him, “Go back again, for what have I done to you?”

20:13
Suddenly a prophet approached Ahab king of Israel, saying, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Have you seen all this great multitude? Behold, I will deliver it into your hand today, and you shall know that I am the Lord.’ ”

20:14
So Ahab said, “By whom?”
  And he said, “Thus says the Lord: ‘By the young leaders of the provinces.’ ”
  Then he said, “Who will set the battle in order?”
  And he answered, “You.”

“Covenant” First appears with Noah 

Genesis 8:20

Then Noah built an altar to the Lord, and took of every clean animal and of every clean bird, and offered burnt offerings on the altar.

[Message No: 7663]