Eternal Things

1. God

Romans 1:20

For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.

Romans 16:26

But has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith

2. The Holy Spirit

Hebrews 9:14

how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.

3. Life

Matthew 19:16

And behold, a man came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?”

Matthew 19:29

And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name's sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life.

Matthew 25:46

And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

John 3:16

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:35

The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand.

Romans 6:22

But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life.

The Grace of Christ

The Meaning of Grace

Favor – You have found favor:

Luke 1:30

And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.

Grace – And the grace of God:

Luke 2:40

And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.

Credit – What credit is that:

Luke 6:32

“If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.

Thank – Would he thank:

Luke 17:9

Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded?

Gift – Send…your gift:

1 Corinthians 16:3

And when I arrive, I will send those whom you accredit by letter to carry your gift to Jerusalem.

Benefit – You might benefit:

2 Corinthians 1:15

Because I was sure of this, I wanted to come to you first, so that you might have a second experience of grace.

Commendable – Commendable:

For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.

Our Response to God’s Goodness

To give thanks and praise to God:

Psalm 106:1

Praise the LORD! Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

To seek for his goodness:

Exodus 33:18-19

Moses said, “Please show me your glory.”  And he said, “I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name ‘The Lord.’ And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy.

To know his promise:

Romans 8:28

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

To submit to His Word:

Isaiah 39:8

Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “There will be peace and security in my days.”

To see what is good:

Micah 6:8

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

To let our light shine:

Matthew 5:16

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

To ask our Father:

Matthew 7:11

If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!

Father God…You are great!

Ephesians 1:18-19

18 I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,

19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength,

Obedience 

We don't have to know all the answers to remain faithful.

God 

It is truth alone that capacitates any soul to glorify God.

Matthew 9:21

[A desperate and lonely woman who had been ill for years came to Jesus for healing.] She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed."

Thoughts on This Verse....

The woman who said this to herself knew ostracism and loneliness because of her 12 year bout with an illness that made her unclean under Jewish law. She was imprisoned in isolation because of this condition. Just as Jesus freed her from her prison (vs. 22), he longs to free you from yours as well. What holds you captive?

 Jesus longs to give you freedom through five gifts: 1) the Scripture to help you know God's will,  2) your surrender to his lordship, 3) cleansing from your sin and guilt, 4) the gift of the Holy Spirit to empower you, and 5) a family of brothers and sisters in Christ to support you and hold you accountable. These are God's five precious keys to freedom.

Spiritual Quotes

"Man does not rule over evil except when he refuses to do it. When he has truly done evil, he is its servant." - Hildegard of Bingen

"If you cannot hate evil, you cannot love good." — Struthers Burt

"Good and evil both increase at compound interest. That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance." — C. S. Lewis

The Mercy of God

The significance of Mercy

Mercy triumphs over judgment:

James 2:13

For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

God desires mercy not sacrifice:

Matthew 9:13

Go and learn what this means, I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Divine wisdom is full of mercy:

James 3:17

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere

Mercy makes us trustworthy:

1 Corinthians 7:25

 Now concerning the betrothed, I have no command from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who by the Lord's mercy is trustworthy.

God’s mercy brings us salvation:

Titus 3:5

He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.

Isaiah 9:2

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

Thoughts on This Verse....

This great promise in Isaiah was fulfilled with the coming of Jesus (see Matthew 4:15-16; Luke 1:79). As darkness falls tonight, look out at a street light and capture it in your memory so that every time you see a light shining in the darkness it will remind you to do two things: give thanks to God for sending his light and commit yourself to sharing that light with those you know.

Fame and Humility

He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!—Philippians 2:8

Wherever Jesus went, crowds soon gathered. The miracles He performed drew people to Him. But when they tried to make Him a king by force, He slipped away by Himself (John 6:15). United in purpose with His Father, He repeatedly deferred to the Father’s will and timing (4:34; 8:29; 12:23). “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross” (Phil. 2:8).

Fame was never Jesus’s goal. His purpose was simple. As the Son of God, He humbly, obediently, and voluntarily offered Himself as the sacrifice for our sins.

Jesus came not to be famous, but to humbly offer Himself as the sacrifice for our sins.

Ecclesiastes 9:18

Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.

Thoughts on This Verse....

Just a little leaven and the whole lump is changed. A sinful person can have the same effect on a whole group of people committed to God. So let's be wise and reverence God by obeying him and his Word. Let's be insightful in the way we deal with sin and temptation in our lives.

Also, let's be sure to remember that we are at war with the evil one. Then let's praise God, because our Savior has already defeated our enemy and the Holy Spirit empowers us to stand up to Satan's attacks and resist his temptation.

Evangelism 

"Out of a very intimate acquaintance with D. L. Moody, I wish to testify that he was a far greater prayer than he was preacher. Time and time again, he was confronted by obstacles that seemed insurmountable, but he always knew the way to overcome all difficulties.

He knew the way to bring to pass anything that needed to be brought to pass. He knew and believed in the deepest depths of his soul that nothing was too hard for the Lord, and that prayer could do anything that God could do. “– R. A. Torrey.

Billy Graham 

- “Only God Himself fully appreciates the influence of a Christian mother i

Be an Encourager

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” Proverbs 12:25

Encouraging others is a way to stir them up to love and perform good works. That’s pretty powerful stuff especially in a world that seems geared toward tearing us down. Encouraging someone is easy, but powerful. It just doesn’t take much to encourage others.

How much effort is it really? Drop a note, send an email, publicly praise someone. None of these take much time, money or effort. Yet they can stir us up to love and good works.

Encourage someone today and be prepared to receive back even more. In addition to making others day, it will make you feel so good when you are in a mood of encouragement.

Pride

God's choice acquaintances are humble men.

Christian Cross 

You know you're on the right track when you're getting grief because of your faith.

1 Corinthians 9:19

Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.

Thoughts on This Verse....

Grace frees us from the law of sin and death. But, our freedom is not to be used for rebellion or for self-gratification. Instead, we are to use our freedom redemptively, just as Jesus did (cf. Philippians 2:5-11).
We can voluntarily limit that freedom to help others still caught in bondage to sin and false ideas about God. We can use the freedom of the Spirit to be transformed to be like Christ (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). Let's use our freedom to rejoice and to bless.

Christian Life

The only free people in this world are slaves to God.

Longing for Home

They were longing for a better country—a heavenly one.—Hebrews 11:16

The writer of Hebrews tells of others who were longing for home in a different way. Instead of looking backward, they were looking ahead with faith to their home in heaven. Even though what they hoped for seemed a long way off, they trusted that God was faithful to keep His promise to bring them to a place where they would be with Him forever (Heb. 11:13-16).

Philippians 3:20 reminds us that “our citizenship is in heaven,” and we are to “eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Looking forward to seeing Jesus and receiving everything God has promised us through Him help us keep our focus. The past or the present can never compare with what’s ahead of us!
The best home of all is our home in heaven.

Emotions 

Don't confuse every warm fuzzy feeling with love for God. God says "the one who loves me is the one who keeps my commandments."

Acts 9:4-5

He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"

"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied.

Thoughts on Today's Verse....

When Paul teaches that the Church is the Body of Christ, he isn't being theoretical. The Church is Jesus' presence, his Body in this world. What is done to the Church as a collective group of people is done to Jesus.

What is done to individual Christians is done to their Savior. Jesus is present in the world through us! The saying is true: the only Jesus many will see today is the Jesus they see through you and me.

Thoughts

"Good and evil both increase at compound interest. That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance." - C. S. Lewis

"The Bible tells us to love our neighbors, and also to love our enemies; probably because they are generally the same people." — G. K. Chesterton

"To ease another's heartache is to forget one's own." — Abraham Lincoln

God the Son

Minister of the sanctuary

Hebrews 8:2

A minister in the holy places, in the true tent that the Lord set up, not man.

Testator

Hebrews 9:16-17

For where a will is involved, the death of the one who made it must be established.  For a will takes effect only at death, since it is not in force as long as the one who made it is alive.

Author and finisher of faith

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.

Great Shepherd of the sheep

Hebrews 13:20

Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant,

Shepherd and Bishop of souls

1 Peter 2:25

For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Chief shepherd

1 Peter 5:4

And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

2 Peter 1:11

For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Prepare the way of the Lord,

Make His paths straight,

Open the gates

That He may enter freely into our life,

Hosanna! We cry to the Lord.

And we will fill the earth with the sound of His praise!

Jesus is Lord,

Let Him be adored!

Yes we will have this man to reign over us!

Hosanna! We follow the Lord.

Christmas Quotes from Charles Spurgeon:

“Do you not feel, my brethren, that the gospel of God is peace to man? Where else can peace be found but in the message of Jesus?”

 “But, now, when the new-born King made his appearance, the swaddling band with which he was wrapped up was the white flag of peace. That manger was the place where the treaty was signed, whereby warfare should be stopped between man’s conscience and himself, man’s conscience and his God.

It was then, that day, the trumpet blew—’Sheathe the sword, oh man, sheathe the sword, oh conscience, for God is now at peace with man, and man at peace with God.’ Do you not feel, my brethren, that the gospel of God is peace to man? Where else can peace be found but in the message of Jesus?”

Deuteronomy 9:17

[Moses reminds the Israelites of his reaction to seeing the golden calf by saying,] "So I took the two tablets and threw them out of my hands, breaking them to pieces before your eyes."

Thoughts on Today's Verse....

Anger, frustration, disappointment, and loss of self-control have sunk many of God's greatest leaders. Leading can sometimes be a horribly disappointing task. Yet God's people would perish without strong leaders full of godly conviction. Despite the failure of some of our leaders and the perils that can beset those who choose to lead, leadership is as honorable as it is vital!

Where would Israel have been without Moses or Joshua or Hezekiah or David...? So if the Lord is calling you to lead, don't accept his invitation lightly, but please, accept it! If you are not a leader, please remember to pray for your leaders and their families.

Fame and Humility

He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!—Philippians 2:8

Wherever Jesus went, crowds soon gathered. The miracles He performed drew people to Him. But when they tried to make Him a king by force, He slipped away by Himself (John 6:15). United in purpose with His Father, He repeatedly deferred to the Father’s will and timing (4:34; 8:29; 12:23). “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross” (Phil. 2:8).


Fame was never Jesus’s goal. His purpose was simple. As the Son of God, He humbly, obediently, and voluntarily offered Himself as the sacrifice for our sins.

Jesus came not to be famous, but to humbly offer Himself as the sacrifice for our sins.

Ecclesiastes 9:18

Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.

Thoughts on This Verse....

Just a little leaven and the whole lump is changed. A sinful person can have the same effect on a whole group of people committed to God. So let's be wise and reverence God by obeying him and his Word. Let's be insightful in the way we deal with sin and temptation in our lives.

Also, let's be sure to remember that we are at war with the evil one. Then let's praise God, because our Savior has already defeated our enemy and the Holy Spirit empowers us to stand up to Satan's attacks and resist his temptation.

Evangelism 

"Out of a very intimate acquaintance with D. L. Moody, I wish to testify that he was a far greater prayer than he was preacher. Time and time again, he was confronted by obstacles that seemed insurmountable, but he always knew the way to overcome all difficulties.

He knew the way to bring to pass anything that needed to be brought to pass. He knew and believed in the deepest depths of his soul that nothing was too hard for the Lord, and that prayer could do anything that God could do. “– R. A. Torrey.

Billy Graham 

- “Only God Himself fully appreciates the influence of a Christian mother in the molding of character in her children.”

Father God…You are Glorious!

Psalms 76:1-4

1 In Judah God is known; his name is great in Israel.

2 His tent is in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion.

3 There he broke the flashing arrows, the shields and the swords, the weapons of war.

4 You are resplendent with light, more majestic than mountains rich with game.

God Talk

What we have received is . . . the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. —1 Corinthians 2:12

We “hear” God through reading Scripture. The Bible tells us about Jesus and says that God “has spoken to us by his Son” who is “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being” (Heb. 1:2-3). Scripture tells us how to find salvation in Jesus and how to live in ways that please Him (2 Tim. 3:14-17). In addition to Scripture itself, we have the Holy Spirit.


First Corinthians 2:12 says that we are given the Spirit “so that we may understand what God has freely given us.”

Has it been a while since you’ve heard from God? Talk to Him and listen to the Spirit, who reveals Jesus to us through His Word. Tune in to the wonderful things God has to say to you.

God speaks through His Word when we take time to listen.

Evangelism

Quotes by Oswald Smith

.. The mission of the church is missions.

.. The Lord did not tell us to build beautiful churches, but to evangelize the world.

.. Oh my friends, we are loaded with countless church activities, while the real work of the church that of evangelizing and winning the lost is almost entirely neglected.

Thought

"The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved - loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves." — Victor Hugo

You must forget the past and press on for the prize.

Philippians 3:13-14 

13 Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,

14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Friends I greet you all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Forgetting the past and pressing on is a difficult thing to do. But as a believer you must do it. How? By concentrating and controlling your mind and by reaching forth to those things that are before you. Note the concentration and focus: - BUT THIS ONE THING I DO.

In one focused act, you must forget the past and reach forth to those things that are before you. This act involves two steps: both forgetting and reaching forth. The past cannot be forgotten without reaching forth to what lies ahead. You must not sit around moaning and regretting the past. You must not wallow around in self-pity when you come short or fail.

You must not allow the feelings of being unworthy grip you. This is not to excuse our failure and shortcoming. God holds us accountable.  But we are to confess and forsake sin and failure. This is what all believers of God must always do. Confess and repent and get up and begin to serve Christ with a renewed commitment.

What about You?

The tongue has the power of life and death.—Proverbs 18:21

Right away Emily felt uneasy with her attitude. You are part of that family. What would you like to do differently to change the day? She asked herself. She decided she wanted to privately tell each person she was thankful to the Lord that they were her sister, niece, brother, or great-niece. When the day arrived, she expressed her thankfulness for them one by one, and they all felt loved.

It wasn’t easy because it wasn’t normal conversation in her family, but she experienced joy as she shared her love for each of them.

“Let everything you say be good and helpful,” wrote the apostle Paul, “so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Eph. 4:29). Our words of thanks can remind others of their value to us and to God.

The human spirit fills with hope at the sound of an encouraging word.

Father God…You are Creative!

Isaiah 45:18

For this is what the LORD says— he who created the heavens, he is God; he who fashioned and made the earth, he founded it; he did not create it to be empty, but formed it to be inhabited— he says: “I am the LORD, and there is no other.

John 9:3

"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life."

Thoughts on This Verse....

Let's ask God to help us view people through the eyes of Jesus so that we will see them as people in whom the work of God needs to be done.

And just what is this work of God? Well, Jesus answered that question this way: To believe in the One he has sent! (John 6:28-29)

For lighter side...

Where is the first tennis match mentioned in the Bible?

When Joseph served in Pharaoh’s court.

Father God…You are Faithful!

Lamentations 3:21-24

21 Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope:

22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.

23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

24 I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”

Mark 9:7

Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!"

Thoughts on Today's Verse....

Who are you listening to in your life? We can hear all sorts of different voices, but we can follow only one. So who are you going to listen to as you make your decisions about morality, values, ethics, and character?
Who has earned the right to be heard regarding life, death, salvation, and sin? God makes it unmistakably clear; we must listen to his Son Jesus!

Sin 

There are only two kinds of persons: those dead in sin and those dead to sin.

Revival     

You never have to advertise a fire. Everyone comes running when there's a fire. Likewise, if your church is on fire, you will not have to advertise it. The community will already know it.

Father God…You are Wise!

Psalms 104:24

How many are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.

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.

All Together Now

With one mind and one voice . . . glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.—Romans 15:6

Unity with other believers enables us to broadcast God’s greatness and also helps us to endure persecution. Knowing that the Philippians would pay a price for their faith, Paul encouraged them to strive “together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you” (Phil. 1:27-28).
Satan loves to divide and conquer, but his efforts fail when, with God’s help, we “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3).

Dear God, please let Christians everywhere experience the blessing of unity in You. Remind us of what we have in common: one hope, one faith, and one Lord—Jesus Christ.

Our unity comes from our union with Christ.

Isaiah 11:9

They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.

Thoughts on This Verse....

What a glorious time of blessing! We will know God personally. But not just us, the vast chorus of the faithful will sing a song of joy because they know God. Let's anticipate that day and join our hearts together in pursuit of God.

Let's not settle for merely a factual knowledge about God, but let's come to really know him by sharing in his work, by sharing in his character, and seeking his presence in our lives.

Father God…You are Excellent!

Deuteronomy 33:29

Blessed are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will trample down their high places.”

Job 37:23

The Almighty is beyond our reach and exalted in power; in his justice and great righteousness, he does not oppress.

Deuteronomy 11:19

Teach them [God's commandments] to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Thoughts on This Verse....

Moses gives us three crucial messages about God's commandments. First, as parents, it is our responsibility to teach them to our children — not the responsibility of the government, or of the schools, nor even our churches. Second, we are to teach them in the everyday course of life as we go about our routines as a family. Third, we are to teach them continuously by both our words and our lives as we raise our children.

Now we can look at this as a job, a burden, a heavy responsibility, or we can see it as an opportunity to shape a life for the future and partner with God in raising a child to be a person that will make an eternal difference for the Kingdom of God. What a joy to be a part of such a partnership!

Spiritual Quotes

"Man does not rule over evil except when he refuses to do it. When he has truly done evil, he is its servant." - Hildegard of Bingen

"If you cannot hate evil, you cannot love good." — Struthers Burt

"Good and evil both increase at compound interest. That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance." — C. S. Lewis

Sky watcher

He . . . brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.—Isaiah 40:26
Some people look at the night sky and see nothing but nature. Others see a god as distant and cold as Jupiter. But the same God who “sits enthroned above the circle of the earth” also “brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name” (Isa. 40:22, 26). He knows His creation intimately.
It is this personal God who asked His people, “Why do you say, Israel, ‘My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God’?” Aching for them, God reminded them of the wisdom in seeking Him. “Do you not know? Have you not heard? . . . He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak” (vv. 27-29).

We are easily tempted to forget God. Our problems won’t disappear with an evening stroll, but we can find rest and certainty that God is always working toward His good purposes. “I’m here,” He says. “I’ve got you.”

We should give God the same place in our hearts that He holds in the universe.

Offer what you have and watch!

John 6:5&6

Is there a need that tugs at your heart yet you feel what you have to offer is too small to mention? Ask the Lord to help you bring it forward, even when it seems to make little sense. He may just be waiting to do a miracle through you!

Father God…You are Available!

Psalms 46:1-3

1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,

3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

Psalms 119:151-152

151 Yet you are near, O LORD, and all your commands are true.

152 Long ago I learned from your statutes that you established them to last forever.

Honorable Living

You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession. —1 Peter 2:9

As the apostle Paul phrased it in his letter to the Philippians, “Whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Phil. 4:8). Indeed, these are the characteristics of behavior that honor our Lord.

Lord, when we are honest with You, we understand how often we fall far short of honorable behavior. We know how much we need You. By Your Spirit, help us replace any selfish thoughts, words, and actions with things that please You and draw others to You.

We honor God’s name when we call Him our Father and live like His children.

The Power to Survive

We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed. —2 Corinthians 4:8

It’s like that in the life of a believer in Christ. Our power to survive challenges resides not in us but with God, who dwells within us. We’re not exempt from the punches that life throws at us nor from the storms that inevitably threaten our stability. But with full confidence in His power to sustain us, we can say with Paul, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor. 4:8-9).

Join the many travelers through life who through deep waters of pain and suffering embrace with unshakable confidence the truth that God’s grace is sufficient and that in our weakness He is made strong (12:9). It will be the ballast to your soul.

The power of God within you is greater than the pressure of troubles around you.

Remembering . . .

I have hidden your word in my heart. —Psalm 119:11

In Psalm 119:11, we read how the power of hiding God’s words in our heart can keep us from sinning. It can strengthen us, teach us obedience, and direct our footsteps (vv. 28, 67, 133). This in turn gives us hope and understanding (vv. 49, 130). Even when we begin to notice memory slips in ourselves or in the life of a loved one, God’s Word, memorized years earlier, is still there, “stored up” or “treasured” in the heart (v. 11 esv, nasb). Even as our minds lose the keen edge of youth, we know that God’s words, hidden in our hearts, will continue to speak to us.

Nothing—not even failing memories—can separate us from His love and care. We have His word on it.
Lord, You are such an amazing comfort to us. Thank You that our salvation and spiritual well-being does not depend on our failing minds and bodies, but on You and Your faithfulness to Your Word.

God’s promises never fail.

Deuteronomy 11:19

Teach them [God's commandments] to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Thoughts on This Verse....

Moses gives us three crucial messages about God's commandments. First, as parents, it is our responsibility to teach them to our children — not the responsibility of the government, or of the schools, nor even our churches. Second, we are to teach them in the everyday course of life as we go about our routines as a family. Third, we are to teach them continuously by both our words and our lives as we raise our children.
Now we can look at this as a job, a burden, a heavy responsibility, or we can see it as an opportunity to shape a life for the future and partner with God in raising a child to be a person that will make an eternal difference for the Kingdom of God. What a joy to be a part of such a partnership!

Prayer...

O LORD God, please bless me as I seek to impart my faith to others, especially to those in my family. Please bless me with a consistent and faithful witness to them and the right words to say when the time is right. Give me the strength and sensitivity to say it with loving respect, and the courage to live as a strong Christian example for my children and grandchildren. Most of all, may those I influence see my joy in living for you. In Jesus' name I pray.

Amen.

To be Ashamed

Sermon Outlines

To be Ashamed

1. I am not ashamed of the Gospel:

    Romans 1:16

2. be not ashamed of the testimony of the Lord:

    2 Timothy 1:8

3. I am not ashamed because I know him:

    2 Timothy 1:12

4. The Christian is not ashamed when he suffers:

    1 Peter 4:16

5. There is nothing of which I shall be ashamed:

    Philippians 1:20

6. Whoever is ashamed of Christ, Jesus will also be ashamed of him:

     Matthew 10:33, Mark 8:33, & Luke 9:26

We Had No Idea

Carry each other’s burdens.—Galatians 6:2

People who worship together have the privilege of assisting one another so no one in the body of Christ goes without help. As we get to know each other and care for each other, perhaps we won’t ever have to say, “We had no idea.”

Lord, help me to notice the needs of those around me and to do what I can to meet those needs.
Nothing costs as much as caring—except not caring.

Learning to Count

How precious to me are your thoughts, God!—Psalm 139:17

My ten fingers are not enough to count all that God gives me day by day. “Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare” (Ps. 40:5). How can we even begin to count all the blessings of salvation, reconciliation, and eternal life?

Let us join David as he praises God for all His precious thoughts about us and all He has done for us, when he says, “How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand” (139:17-18).

Lord, Your works are so many and good I can’t count them all. But I thank You for each one.

Let’s thank God for His countless blessings.

Quotes

-Reflecting Christ

 “Lord, make my life a window for your light to shine through and a mirror to reflect Your love to all I meet. Amen” - Unknown

-A Prayer for Wisdom
 “Father God, there are so many decisions to make and I don’t seem to know what is the best for now or for the future. You said if we lack wisdom, all we need to do is ask you. I really need you to pour wisdom into my mind today.

Thank you!” - Unknown

Give thanks to Lord in all the circumstances

(Read the same sentence in 53 translations)

1 THESSALONIANS 5:18

1.
KJ21
In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

2.
ASV
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus to you-ward.

3.
AMP
In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

4.
AMPC
Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].

5.
BRG
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

6.
CEB
Give thanks in every situation because this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

7.
CJB
In everything give thanks, for this is what God wants from you who are united with the Messiah Yeshua.

8.
CEV
Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do.

9.
DARBY
In everything give thanks, for this is [the] will of God in Christ Jesus towards you;

10.
DLNT
Be giving-thanks in everything. For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

11.
DRA
In all things give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all.

12.
ERV
Whatever happens, always be thankful. This is how God wants you to live in Christ Jesus.

13.
ESV
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

14.
ESVUK
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

15.
EXB
And give thanks •whatever happens [in all circumstances; in everything]. That is •what God wants [God’s will] for you in Christ Jesus.

16.
GNV
In all things, give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you.

17.
GW
Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God’s will in Christ Jesus that you do this.

18.
GNT
Be thankful in all circumstances. This is what God wants from you in your life in union with Christ Jesus.

19.
HCSB
Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

20.
ICB
Give thanks whatever happens. That is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus.

21.
ISV
In everything be thankful, because this is God’s will for you in the Messiah Jesus.

22.
JUB
In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

23.
KJV
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

24.
AKJV
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

25.
LEB
Give thanks in everything; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

26.
TLB
No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

27.
MSG
Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

28.
MEV
In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

29.
MOUNCE
Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

30.
NOG
Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God’s will in Christ Yeshua that you do this.

31.
NABRE
In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

32.
NASB
In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

33.
NCV
And give thanks whatever happens. That is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus.

34.
NET
In everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

35.
NIRV
Give thanks no matter what happens. God wants you to thank him because you believe in Christ Jesus.

36
NIV
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

37.
NIVUK
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

38.
NKJV
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

39.
NLV
In everything give thanks. This is what God wants you to do because of Christ Jesus.

40.
NLT
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

41.
NRSV
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

42.
NRSVA
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

43.
NRSVACE
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

44.
NRSVCE
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

45.
OJB
In everything offer hodayah, for this is the ratzon Hashem in Moshiach Yehoshua for you.

46.
RSV
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

47.
RSVCE
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

48.
TLV
In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Messiah Yeshua.

49.
VOICE
Give thanks to God no matter what circumstances you find yourself in. (This is God’s will for all of you in Jesus the Anointed.)

50.
WEB
In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you.

51.
WE
But test everything that is said. Keep what is good.

52.
WYC
In all things do ye thanking’s. For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus, in all you.

53.
YLT
In everything give thanks, for this [is] the will of God in Christ Jesus in regard to you.

Seeing Well

The way we see Jesus determines how we relate to Him. If we focus only on His power, we may treat Him with the detached worship we’d give a comic book superhero. Yet, if we overemphasize His kindness, we risk treating Him too casually. The truth is that Jesus is both at once—great enough to deserve our obedience yet humble enough to call us friends.

Jesus, thank You for the privilege of knowing You. I acknowledge Your gentle power. I worship You as the Son of God—full of grace and glory.

What we think of Jesus shows in how we relate with Him.

A New Purpose

Simon and his friends were fishermen on the Sea of Galilee. Then Jesus arrived and called them to follow Him. He gave them a new purpose. No longer would they fish for fish. As Jesus told them, “Come, follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people” (Mark 1:17).

With this new purpose set for their lives, these men were taught and trained by Jesus so that, after His ascension, they could be used by God to capture the hearts of people with the message of the cross and resurrection of Christ. Today, we follow in their steps as we share the good news of Christ’s love and salvation.

May our lives both declare and exhibit this love that can change the lives, purposes, and eternal destinies of others.

With our new life in Christ we have been given a new purpose.

Signs and Feelings

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.—Psalm 119:105

It’s wise to ask God for clear direction, but He may not always give it in ways that we expect or want. Perhaps the larger point of prayer is that we learn more about God’s nature and develop a relationship with our Father.

Lord, it is impossible for us to comprehend Your nature, and yet You welcome us to approach You in prayer. And so we seek Your guidance today and ask to know You in ways we haven’t seen before.
The best way to know God’s will is to say, “I will” to God.

A Ministry of Suffering

2 Corinthians 11:23

Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one—I am talking like a madman—with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death.

1 Corinthians 4:9

For I think that God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, like men sentenced to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.

Philippians 3:10

That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

Romans 8:18

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

2 Timothy 2:12

If we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us;

2 Timothy 3:12

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,  while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.

1 Peter 4:1

Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 

Romans 8:25

But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

Thoughts on Today's Verse....

I'm not good at waiting. But, my hope in the Lord gives me patience that is beyond my human tendency. As much as the Lord has blessed me, I'm fully confident that I can't even imagine the good things he has in store for me.

So while I wait, I try to stay busy; busy loving my Father in heaven and sharing his grace with others.

An Honest Ministry

2 Corinthians 8:21

For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man

Acts 6:3

Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.

Romans 12:17

Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.

Romans 13:13

Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

1 Timothy 2:2

for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 

An Unselfish Ministry

John 16:13-15

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.  He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.  All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

Philippians 1:12-19

I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel,  so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.  And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

  Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will.  The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.  The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment.  What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.    

To Live Is Christ

Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance

A Ministry of glory and righteousness

Romans 2:7-10

To those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury.  There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek, but glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek.  For God shows no partiality.

Romans 14:17

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 18:18

Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Deuteronomy 3:27b-28

Look at the land with your own eyes, since you are not going to cross this Jordan. But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see

Thoughts on Today's Verse....

Moses led the people of Israel out of Egypt and in the wilderness, but did not get to enter into the Promised Land because of his sin. Yet, for all those years, Moses nurtured and prepared the person who would do what he could not do.

That person was Joshua. Who are you training, molding, encouraging, motivating, and calling to do what you won't be able to do? What successor will take your dreams farther than you can? Who is your Joshua?

Who should praise the Lord?

Everything that hath breath.

Read Psalms.

The people of God:

Psalm 79:13

But we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever; from generation to generation we will recount your praise.

The righteous

Psalm 140:13

Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.

The saints

Psalm 145:10

All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, and all your saints shall bless you!

The redeemed:

Psalm 107:1-2

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
  Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble

Those who fear the Lord:

Psalm 22:23

 You who fear the LORD, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him, and stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!

Those who know and believe the truth:

1 Timothy 4:3

Who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.

The servants of God:

Psalm 113:1

Praise the LORD! Praise, O servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD!

Psalm 134:1

Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, who stand by night in the house of the LORD!

Psalm 135:1

Praise the LORD!  Praise the name of the LORD, give praise, O servants of the LORD,

All His angels:

Psalm 148:2
Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his hosts!

All nature:

Read - Psalm 148:3-10

A Ministry Commended by God

John 14:12

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.

Mark 16:17-20

And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

  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.  And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.]]

Acts 1:4-8

And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

 The Ascension

 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”  He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.  But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.

Hebrews 2:1-4

Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.  For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?
It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.

How Do We Wait?

–  Prayerfully –  Psalm 25:4-5

–  With strength and courage –  Psalm 27:14, 31:24

– Rejoicing and trusting in His holy name – Psalm 33:21

–  Based on the fear of the Lord and His unfailing love – Psalm 33:18,22

– With hope –  Psalm 33:20, 39:7

– Patiently –  Psalm 37:7, 40:1; Habakkuk 3:16, Romans 8:25, Hebrews 6:15

– Obediently –  Psalm 37:34, 119:166; Isaiah 26:8-9;

– Desiring Him –  Isaiah 26:8-9

– Single-mindedly – Psalm 62:5

–  Expectantly – Psalm 123:2, Micah 7:7

– Believing His Word – Psalm 130:5

–  Assured He is all we need, He is our portion – Lamentations 3:24

– Quietly – Lamentations 3:26

– Always – Hosea 12:6

– In anticipation of joy – John 3:29

– Eagerly – Romans 8:19,23

Matthew 6:6

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Thoughts on This Verse....

Prayer is an incredible invitation from God to share with him what is on our hearts. Even when we don't have words to say, he helps us through his Spirit in those moments. This incredibly intimate conversation, sustained by the very precious Spirit of God within us, must never be debased by crass showmanship or pride.
Prayer is not done to prove our piety, but to deepen our relationship with Almighty God!

A Legacy Life

A good name is more desirable than great riches. —Proverbs 22:1

Live to leave a legacy for God’s glory.

When We Don’t Understand

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. —Isaiah 55:8
God would not be worthy of our worship if He could be understood by our wisdom.

Thoughts

The best way to escape temptation is to run to God.

The Judgment of God

1 The judgments of God are true and righteous:

Revelation 16:7

So the first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth, and harmful and painful sores came upon the people who bore the mark of the beast and worshiped its image.

Revelation 19:2

for his judgments are true and just; or he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.”

1 peter 2:23

When he was reviled, hea did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.  He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that

2 He will bring every deed into judgment:

Ecclesiastes   12:14

For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.

Romans 3:5-6

But if our unrighteousness serves to show the righteousness of God, what shall we say? That God is unrighteous to inflict wrath on us? (I speak in a human way.)

3 He will judge the secrets of men:

Romans 2:6
 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

He will render to each one according to his works:

4 Felix was seized by fear when he heard of coming judgment:

Acts 24:25

And as he reasoned about righteousness and self-control and the coming judgment, Felix was alarmed and said, “Go away for the present. When I get an opportunity I will summon you.”

5 Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade me

2 Corinthians 5:11

Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others. But what we are is known to God, and I hope it is known also to your conscience.

The Holy Spirit...

The Holy Spirit is the one who tells what the Holy writings mean.

In 1 Corinthians 2:9-14 it says, “The Holy Writings say, ‘No eye has ever seen or no ear has ever heard or no mind has ever thought of the wonderful things God has made ready for those who love him.’ God has shown these things to us through His Holy Spirit.  It is the Holy Spirit Who looks into all things, even the secrets of God, and shows them to us. Who can know the things about a man, except a man’s own spirit that is in him? It is the same with God. Who can understand Him except the Holy Spirit? We have not received the spirit of the world. God has given us His Holy Spirit that we may know about the things given to us by Him.

We speak about these things also. We do not use words of man’s wisdom. We use words given to us by the Holy Spirit. We use these words to tell what the Holy Spirit wants to say to those who put their trust in Him. But the person who is not a Christian does not understand these words from the Holy Spirit. He thinks they are foolish. He cannot understand them because he does not have the Holy Spirit to help him understand.”
There are some special things the Holy Spirit did while Christ was on earth:

A.  He had an important part in bringing Christ to earth and in making Christ able to do His work here on earth. John 3:34b says, ‘God gives Him all of His Spirit.” (Matthew 1:18b; Luke 1:35)

B.  He was there when Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River, and He came down from heaven like a dove. (Luke 3:22; John 1:32).

C He was with Christ when He was tested by the devil in the desert. (Luke 4:1-13)

D.  He was there when God showed that He had put His hand on Christ and had chosen Him. (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:16-21)

E.  He was the One Who taught men when Christ spoke to them. (John 3:3-6; 14:25-26)

F.  His power was able to heal people. (Acts 10:38)

G. He showed His power in Christ’s life. (Luke 4:14-15)

H.  He had a part in raising Christ from the dead. Romans 8:11 says, ‘The Holy Spirit raised Jesus from the dead. If the same Holy Spirit lives in you, He will give life to your bodies in the same way.”

I. He told men they were guilty of their sins. The followers of Jesus knew they were guilty of sins and they trusted Christ. The Holy Spirit must have told them this.

The most important thing to remember is that the Holy Spirit, as one part of the Three-in-one God, has always been and always will be. The Holy Spirit was doing things before Christ came in the flesh to this earth. The Holy Spirit did things during the time Christ was on earth. The Holy Spirit is doing things today, and the Holy Spirit will do things forever.

Family Rules

Always be honest:

Proverbs 12:22

Count your blessings:

Psalm 34:1-3

Forgive and forget:

Micah 7:18

Be supportive of one another:

Acts 20:35

Be kind and tenderhearted:

Ephesians 4:32

Keep your promises:

Romans 4:21

Comfort one another:

1 Thess. 4:18

Love one another:

1 Peter 1:22

Bible Promise

Isaiah 45:22

Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.

Isaiah 1:18

“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”

Exodus 9:29

Moses replied, “When I have gone out of the city, I will spread out my hands in prayer to the LORD. The thunder will stop and there will be no more hail, so you may know that the earth is the LORD’s.

Thoughts on This Verse....

When Moses confronted Pharaoh and was met only by the hardness of Pharaoh's heart, God sent the plagues. Why? Because God wanted Pharaoh to know that Israel's God wasn't just another god, but that the LORD was the Only True and Living God. The nations, the seasons, and the earth are his.
All people must come to revere his name and receive his grace.

Run to Me

The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.—Proverbs 18:10
There are moments in our lives when God calls to us and says, “Run to Me!” Something troubling is on our heels. The faster and farther we go, the more closely it pursues us. We can’t shake it. We’re too afraid to turn and confront the trouble on our own.

But the reality is that we aren’t on our own. God is there, ready to help and comfort us. All we have to do is turn away from whatever scares us, and move in His direction. His Word says, “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Prov. 18:10).

Listen for Jesus

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know” Jeremiah 33:3

Are you listening and looking for Jesus? Keep your mind tuned to Him and He will direct your path. Call on Him. As His Word says: Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. Jeremiah 33:3

Lord, I want to hear you more, love you more and have you guide my every step. Help me to be more attentive to your voice and follow your directions in every step I take.

Nehemiah 9:5b

"Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise."

Thoughts on This Verse....

"Stand up and shout it if you love my Jesus..." That's a song our children love to sing! But what happens to that youthful exuberance and joy at worshiping the Lord? God doesn't want us to lose it. Read through the Bible and highlight all the physical acts used to reverence and praise our awesome and eternal God.

In a world which regularly uses God's name in vain, isn't it time we stood up and praised him — not only in church (our private worship) and in our daily devotionals (our personal worship), but also in our lives every day (our public worship)?!

Spiritual Quotes

"Man does not rule over evil except when he refuses to do it. When he has truly done evil, he is its servant." - Hildegard of Bingen

"If you cannot hate evil, you cannot love good." — Struthers Burt

"Good and evil both increase at compound interest. That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance." — C. S. Lewis

Lessons to learn from the Books of Job - 6

8. God will not utterly forsake the righteous in times of trial:

Psalm 34:6

This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles.

Psalm 37:23-24

The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him;  though he may stumble, he will not fall,  for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

2 Corinthians 4:8-12

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

2 Corinthians 6:5-10

in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.

James 5:10-11 

Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

Read Job 42:1-17