Daniel 3:25

“He said, "Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods."

I love the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel 3. Their faith is solid whether God chooses to save them from the fire, or not. God not only saves them, but those who intended to execute them become the key witnesses of their faith and God's miraculous deliverance. They are not only sons of the One True God, but they are also examples to all of us who are tempted to compromise our faith to get along in a society that has lost all respect for the Almighty God.

Galatians 4:19

“My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you...”
What was Paul's goal for the new Christians he worked with? He wanted them to come to full maturity in Christ (see Colossians 1:28-29). He knew the Holy Spirit would help them in this process if they would focus their hearts on Jesus and seek to reflect Jesus' character in their lives (2 Corinthians 3:18). So as we go through our daily activities, let's honor his goal — let's let Jesus come to life in us.

Romans 4:25

“He [Jesus] was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.”
Why are the Cross and the Empty Tomb so important? Because everything important and truly lasting in life depends upon them!

1 Thessalonians 5:12

“Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.”

What are you doing to bless the lives of your spiritual leaders? Do you pray daily for them? Do you send them notes of encouragement? Do you thank them for their loving attention? Do you respond to their rebukes and take heart in their affirmations? Leaders don't need to be followed blindly, but often they get no support for their efforts. Let's make their work a blessing and not a burden! (Hebrews 13:17)

Conspiracy

2 Samuel 15:12 

While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he also sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, to come from Giloh, his hometown. And so the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom's following kept on increasing.

2 Kings 12:20 

His officials conspired against him and assassinated him at Beth Millo, on the road down to Silla.

2 Kings 14:19 

They conspired against him in Jerusalem, and he fled to Lachish, but they sent men after him to Lachish and killed him there.

2 Kings 15:15 

The other events of Shallum's reign, and the conspiracy he led, are written in the book of the annals of the kings of Israel.

2 Kings 15:30 

Then Hoshea son of Elah conspired against Pekah son of Remaliah. He attacked and assassinated him, and then succeeded him as king in the twentieth year of Jotham son of Uzziah.

2 Kings 17:4 

But the king of Assyria discovered that Hoshea was a traitor, for he had sent envoys to So king of Egypt, and he no longer paid tribute to the king of Assyria, as he had done year by year. ThereforeShalmaneser seized him and put him in prison.

2 Chronicles 25:27 

From the time that Amaziah turned away from following the LORD, they conspired against him in Jerusalem and he fled to Lachish, but they sent men after him to Lachish and killed him there.

Jeremiah 11:9 

Then the LORD said to me, “There is a conspiracy among the people of Judah and those who live in Jerusalem.

Ezekiel 22:25

The conspiracy of her prophets in her midst is like a roaring lion tearing the prey; they have devoured human lives; they have taken treasure and precious things; they have made many widows in her midst.

Acts 23:13

There were more than forty who made this conspiracy

Deuteronmomy 25:19

“When you are harvesting in your field and you overlook a sheaf, do not go back to get it. Leave it for the alien, the fatherless and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.”

This is clearly a passage old Scrooge hadn't seen! God has always set aside a provision for the poor. In this time of the year when many people world over take special time to look after those who are less fortunate, let's open our date books and schedule a week to dedicate time for special generosity in May and in August to go with a heart committed to be generous all the time. Let's not let generosity and concern for those less fortunate be a once a year thing!

Ephesians 1:17-20

“I pray ... also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know ... his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead…”

I still don't understand resurrection. I get the concept. I believe God did raise Jesus. Every once in a while, I experience that power through the Spirit's work in my life strengthening me for ministry, helping me love others in tough situations, comforting me when I'm broken, giving me insight when I study the Word, and strengthening me in the face of temptation.

I am humbled, thrilled, and left longing for more. I want others I love to experience this awesome power. I'm sure it's the same with you. So let's join together today, thousands of us all around world, and let's pray for God to empower those closest to us to discover his power and to do great things through his Spirit who lives in them.

Philemon 1:25

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”

Have you noticed how words of blessing are in such short supply? There is something about our fallen state that makes sarcasm and ridicule easier to use than blessing. But, in God's family, words are always to be used for the benefit and blessing of others.

What simpler or kinder words do we need to use to bless others than these words Paul sent to Philemon? Let's find a way to say them ... and say them again ... and again ...

The Book of Jeremiah

Notes on - Ch.13:12-14

Wine Jars

We fill our wine jars … I will smash them; someone who has drunk too much wine becomes wobbly and can’t think straight. In the same way the people of Judah and Jerusalem have drunk from the cup of unfaithfulness, so they can no longer see straight. Note that Jeremiah singles out the rulers who descended from King David.

The LORD will destroy Judah’s people like wine jars being smashed against each other, unless they return to God and confess their sins (13:16).

Christian Brothers and Sisters – 11 

Hebrews 10:19

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus,

Hebrews 13:1

Let brotherly love continue.

Hebrews 13:22

I appeal to you, brothers, bear with my word of exhortation, for I have written to you briefly.

James 1:2

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds

James 1:16

Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.

James 1:19

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;

James 2:1

My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.

James 2:5

Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?

The Witness of the Holy Spirit

 [Peter said,] “We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him." - Acts 5:32 NIV

The apostles, and a few others very close to Jesus, were witnesses of Jesus' presence after his resurrection from the dead. However, if we listen carefully to this statement of Peter, there is a great promise for those of us who live centuries after Jesus' resurrection. We have living in us a witness of Jesus' resurrection — the Holy Spirit.

Jesus promises to send this witness — sometimes called our Anointing from the Holy One, the Spirit of truth, the Comforter, Advocate, or Counselor — to us to live in his followers. This promise is not just for those of the first century, but this is a forever promise to anyone who loves Jesus and obeys his teaching! (See John 14:16-23.) Just as Peter said, the Holy Spirit is the witness God gives to those who obey Jesus! Do we want to hear testimony to the resurrection of Jesus? Then, let's listen and look for the work of the Spirit in our own lives!

Holy Spirit – Reminder of Jesus’ Resurrection

[Peter said,]  "Exalted to the right hand of God, he [Jesus] has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear." - Acts 2:33 NIV

I believe in the resurrection of Jesus. I believe because of the testimony of Scripture. I believe because of the change in fearful men and women who become bold and courageous witnesses to Jesus and his resurrection. I believe because otherwise unimportant people turn the world upside down with the message of Jesus.
I believe because timid people are willing to endure persecution and death for the cause of Christ. One of the greatest testimonies to Jesus' resurrection is the gift of the Holy Spirit. To see the Spirit work in the lives of people — convicting them, transforming them, teaching them to love, and empowering them to serve — is a great reminder of Jesus' resurrection power. Jesus, at the Father's directive, poured out the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

He does the same for us at conversion (Titus 3:3-7). The work of the Holy Spirit in our lives is a constant reminder of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus

Think it over…

~ You will find, as you look back upon your life, that the moments that stand out, the moments when you have really lived, are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of Love. - Henry Drummond

~ There's no such thing as a successful marriage.  There are marriages that give up, and marriages that keep on trying; that's the only difference. - Garrison Keillor

~ Confusion and impotence are the inevitable results when the wisdom and resources of the world are substituted for the presence and power of the Spirit. - Samuel Chadwick

Holy Spirit – Jesus still calls us

[Jesus said,] “John baptized in water; you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit. And soon." - Acts 1:5
"Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised!" These were Jesus' words to his closest followers. Now we understand why. When John the Baptizer came, he spoke of one who would baptize in the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:7-8). Soon after Jesus ascended back to heaven, the kingdom of God would break into the world with fresh power. In the kingdom, the Holy Spirit is given to every true follower of Jesus.

The early disciples stood on the edge of Pentecost and the beginning of a new movement of God that would sweep up all sorts of people into his kingdom. And we are part of that great movement. We, too, are filled with this same Holy Spirit. Jesus still calls us to live out the good news of God's kingdom in our world by the power of the Holy Spirit... and to do it now!

Our Story

Nehemiah did not return to reminisce but to rebuild. It’s a powerful lesson for us as we consider the damaged parts of our past that need repair. It is our faith in Christ and His power that enables us to look ahead, move forward, and rebuild.

We cannot change the past, but God is changing us for the future.

Galatians 6:9

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. —

Weariness is a part of life. Weariness is a part of ministry. Weariness is definitely something that overtakes us when we set our hearts on doing good for others. The wonderful blessing of God, however, is that he will renew us and sustain us and rekindle us. He does it through the encouraging word of a friend.

He does it through his presence in us, the Holy Spirit. He does it through songs that lift our hearts. He does it through Scripture and prayer. So while our bodies and spirits may bet weary, let's not let our hands fall idle. If we will serve with faithfulness, discipline, and integrity, God's grace will empower us to do what he has called us to do.

Evangelism

Every sphere of life cries for the Gospel, like a fish gasping on the river bank for water. Personally, socially, globally, religiously, the only hope for us is in the Gospel.

God's Holy Fire: 'Deep-Spirited Friends'

If you've gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care — then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends.
— Philippians 2:1-2 (Message)

We have so many blessings being in Jesus. One of those blessings is the fellowship we have based on the Holy Spirit. Paul calls this blessing, "being in a community of the Spirit." Our relationship in the Spirit must affect the way we treat each other! As "deep-spirited friends" who are brothers and sisters through the Spirit's work in us, let's agree to treat each other with loving respect and support.
This commitment will be empowered by the Holy Spirit and becomes even more essential when relationships are strained and tough. Being filled with the Spirit is more than just having a special power for difficult times and great opportunities; it also means always treating those in Christ — and, indeed, everyone else also — in ways that honor Christ!

Think it over…

~ You will find, as you look back upon your life, that the moments that stand out, the moments when you have really lived, are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of Love. - Henry Drummond

~ There's no such thing as a successful marriage.  There are marriages that give up, and marriages that keep on trying; that's the only difference. - Garrison Keillor

~ Confusion and impotence are the inevitable results when the wisdom and resources of the world are substituted for the presence and power of the Spirit. - Samuel Chadwick

Psalm 37:1-2

“Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither; like green plants they will soon die away.”

Frustration and envy... hmmm, isn't that our reaction to those who are evil and yet seem to prosper? We're reminded to not let the apparent and short-lived successes of evil people derail our faith or dampen our spirits. Their victories are temporary, their wealth is like a flower that will wilt, and their life is like the grass which withers and is soon gone.

Investments worth Making - Psalms 78:1-8

Leaving a monetary inheritance for our children isn’t nearly as important as preparing a spiritual legacy that is invested over the course of their lives. But how much we choose to devote to the formation of our heirs’ faith is up to us.

In truth, everything a parent does and says—along with everything left undone and unsaid—contributes to the legacy. A child’s understanding of the world and of God develops as he or she takes note of Mom and Dad’s pattern of life, the principles that govern their actions, and the power of their words. Kids observe whether parents value obedience to God and notice what happens when they do (or don’t) follow His Word. Their first lessons in forgiveness, generosity, and service to others are learned at home, whether taught intentionally or not. What’s more, your child will notice if your principles and words fail to line up.

Investing in a spiritual legacy does not end when a child reaches adulthood. As our sons and daughters head out into the world, we continue to have responsibility to pass on the lessons we’ve learned as God’s children. Every day of her life, my own mother taught me about unwavering faith and absolute obedience to the Lord. Her lessons have continued beyond her lifetime, as they have been passed down to new generations.

If asked about a legacy, my mother would have said, “I don’t have anything to leave to Charles.” But that isn’t true. She poured her life into mine, ensuring that I knew what it was to be loved, to know God, and to live wisely in His will. That is my treasured spiritual inheritance

Luke 6:27

"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you..."
Jesus was the perfect example of this command in his life and death. Love has such redemptive, life-changing power. While not everyone responds, many do. While being kind in our deeds and loving in our hearts to our enemies is not easy, God's Spirit can fill us with Jesus' love and help us live powerful lives of grace even in the presence of those who hate us.

Matthew 5:13

"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men."

Jesus never wanted us to give up our moral distinctiveness, our redemptive influence, nor our loving impact on those around us.

The purpose of our presence in the world is to preserve our culture from further decay and season the bitter, dog-eat-dog world, with grace and mercy.

The twelve ordained

Luke 6:12

In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.

Matthew 10:1

And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction

Mark 3:13

And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him.

Mark 6:7-13


And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.  He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts—  but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics.  And he said to them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. 

And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.”  So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent.  And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.

Isaiah 30:18

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! —

God is slow to exercise his justice when that justice demands his people's punishment. "Gracious and slow to anger" is a phrase repeatedly used to describe God in the Old Testament. God longs to be gracious and bless his people.

He extends time for us to repent and turn to him. In Jesus, God even gives us his own Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Let's hear the heart of God, and respond by turning our lives and our hearts to the God who longs for us.

Psalm 138:8

The LORD will fulfill [his purpose] for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever — do not abandon the works of your hands. —

First there is conviction: the LORD will finish his work in us! (cf. Phili. 1:6). Second, there is declaration: the LORD's love endures and doesn't fail (cf. 1 Cor. 13:8). Finally, there is supplication: O Lord, don't forget me, your creation (cf. Ps. 139:13-16). What beautiful balance for our walk with the Lord.

Stay away from the evil

Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. — Proverbs 3:7

Let's keep this simple. First, we need to admit that with the complexities and perplexities of life, even the smartest of us is not all that brilliant. Second, the LORD our God is awesome in holiness, majesty, power, wisdom, and grace; he is far beyond us and all we can truly grasp of him is the smallest of glimpses of glory.

Finally, let's stay away from anything that smacks of evil knowing that evil infects and confuses us, as well as separates us from God.

Wisdom 

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. — James 3:13
Wisdom isn't shown by our "book learning," smart comments, or arrogance. No, true wisdom is shown by the godly character of our life lived with humility and kind deeds.

God’s glory

However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." — 1 Corinthians 2:9

Kids look forward to Christmas, Disneyland, and summer vacation. They imagine how great those things could be. Christians look forward to heaven and dream of seeing the Lord face to face, of being reunited with those we love that have gone home to the Lord before us, and of sharing in the glory of Jesus and his angels. But we can't even begin to imagine the great things that God has prepared for us.

They are far more glorious than anything we can dream or imagine. So let's anticipate being surprised and live with passion for the cause of the Kingdom knowing that any loss, any wound, any trouble, will "not be worth comparing to the glory to be revealed in us." (Rom. 8:18)

Repentance 

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. – 2 Peter 3:9
God wants all people brought to repentance so they can receive his grace and live with him in glory. If that is God's passion, how can we not make it our passion?

What Are You Known For?

[Moses] regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.—Hebrews 11:26

What will we be remembered for? Our academic achievements, job position, or financial success may get us recognized by others. But it is the quiet work we do in the lives of people that will live long after we are gone.

Moses is remembered in the faith chapter of the Bible, Hebrews 11, as someone who chose to align himself with the people of God instead of enjoying the treasures of Egypt (v. 26). He led and served God’s people by faith.

Ask God to show you how you can make a difference in the lives of others. For what would you like to be remembered?

Faithfulness to God is true success.

Time to Celebrate

 “He will destroy death forever.” Isaiah 25:8

Jesus explained that the river of death was nothing to fear. The people wouldn’t believe him. He touched a boy and called him back to life . . . He let a dead man spend four days in a grave and then called him out. Is that enough? Apparently not. For it was necessary for him to . . . submerge himself in the water of death before people would believe that death had been conquered.
After he . . . came out on the other side of death’s river . . . it was time to celebrate.

Another Perspective

There is a story of a beggar who was sitting across the street from an artist's studio. The artist saw him and thought he would make an interesting portrait study so from a distance he painted the defeated man whose shoulders drooped, and whose eyes were downcast and sad. When he was finished, he took the portrait over to the beggar so he could look at it.

"Who is that?" the beggar questioned. The painting bore a slight resemblance to himself, but in the painting before him he saw a person of dignity, with squared shoulders and bright uplifted eyes, almost handsome! He asked the artist, "Is that me? I don't look like that." But the artist replied, "but that is the person I see in you."

The Anointing Teaches You Truth

I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray. As for you, the anointing you received from him [the Holy One] remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit — just as it has taught you, remain in him.

— 1 John 2:26-27

We live in a world of competing voices, many of them deceptive. How do we filter these voices and know the truth about Jesus? We know the truth because the anointing we received from the Holy Spirit teaches us the truth about Jesus. The Spirit is very presence of God that Jesus poured into our hearts when we came to him in faith and baptism (Titus 3:5-6). The Spirit teaches us to build a home for our hearts in the truth of Jesus. The practical questions that arise out of this anointing are pretty simple:

How much time am I spending with Jesus?

Am I spending time in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) so I know the Lord's teachings and see the way that the Lord ministered?

Am I intentional about doing what I do to honor the Lord?

And am I inviting the Holy Spirit into my daily conversation to help me know the truth about Jesus as I seek to "remain in him"?

1 Corinthians 2:9

However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." —

Kids look forward to Christmas, Disneyland, and summer vacation. They imagine how great those things could be. Christians look forward to heaven and dream of seeing the Lord face to face, of being reunited with those we love that have gone home to the Lord before us, and of sharing in the glory of Jesus and his angels. But we can't even begin to imagine the great things that God has prepared for us.

They are far more glorious than anything we can dream or imagine. So let's anticipate being surprised and live with passion for the cause of the Kingdom knowing that any loss, any wound, any trouble, will "not be worth comparing to the glory to be revealed in us." (Rom. 8:18)

Life Wounds

Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart – Acts 2:37

How can these pricks be healed?

. Only One who is divine can heal wounded heart.

. The only hand to apply it is that which was pierced.

. The only medicine is the blood of his heart.

. The only fee required is gladly to receive him.

Let us ask the question, “Men and brethren, what shall we do? Let us then obey the gospel, and believe in the Lord Jesus.

May 16, 17

God is working while you wait...

“I wait expectantly, trusting God to help, for he has promised” Psalm 130:5

God wants you to wait patiently for him to answer your prayer, but he also wants you to wait expectantly. Have faith. Trust God to hear and to answer. When you wait expectantly, you show God that you believe his promises. You believe he’s going to keep his word.

When God doesn’t answer your prayers, you need to remember a couple very important truths. First, God is in control, and you’re not. He knows better what you need than you do. There is no mountain too tall that he can’t move it. There is no problem so big that he can’t solve it. There is no sorrow so deep he cannot soothe it. God is in control, and he has a plan.

The second thing you need to remember is that, whether or not you ever receive your answer, God will honor your patience — if not in this world then in eternity.

“I wait expectantly, trusting God to help, for he has promised” (Psalm 130:5

Proverbs 10:17

He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.
Discipline is not only important to us, but also to those who are influenced by our actions. So often we undervalue the impact of our personal decisions on others. But God has placed each of us in a circle of influence to be a blessing and a redemptive influence on those around us.

To choose what is foolish, to ignore godly correction, not only jeopardizes our own future, but also the future of others.

Burned Out or Left Out

“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, … So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together … Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”  Acts 6:1a; 2a; 3-4

No matter what size of church we attend, we can take a lesson from the early church as it grew. They multiplied their efforts by divvying up the tasks, each according to their gifts and talents. And that is the key.

Everyone’s service to the Body of Christ is of equal importance. When it comes to the ship called the church, it should be all hands on deck.

Hebrews 10:24-25

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Thoughts on Today's Verse....

We need each other. We cannot make it on our own. God calls us to get together regularly to encourage and to motivate each other to live vibrant lives of service and faith. With the day of Jesus' return and our ultimate victory on the horizon, we should be motivated even more to help and to encourage each other.

Don’t Let Jesus Walk Away

“…he passed straight through the crowd and walked away.”  Luke 4:30

How many times does Jesus walk through the crowds today when people resist and refuse his message of love? How many times does Jesus tenderly walk away from me when I have resisted his message? My heart is humbled and comforted to know that he always walks back when I recognize my rebellion, ask for forgiveness and return to his loving arms.

Don’t miss him. Don’t deny him the opportunity to do what Jesus did in the next town where the people were amazed at his authoritative teaching and saw him do miracles. Jesus can walk straight through but oh, how he desires to stop and have sweet fellowship with us.

Help me, Lord Jesus, to recognize your presence in the midst of the crowds. Teach me to sense when you want me to join you there.

Old and New Covenant Contrasts - 11

Works wrath:

Romans 4:15

For the law brings wrath, but where there is no law there is no transgression

Saves from wrath:

Romans 5:9

Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.

Could not redeem:

Hebrews 10:4

For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

Redeems:

Galatians 3:13

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”—

Could not satisfy: Hebrews 9:12-15

he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.  For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, 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.

  Therefore, he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant

Isaiah 1:13-14

Bring no more vain offerings; incense is an abomination to me. New moon and Sabbath and the calling of convocations—

I cannot endure iniquity and solemn assembly. Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hates; they have become a burden to me; I am weary of bearing them.

The Perfect Church

Those of us who are part of the Church know we are not what Jesus called us to be. We spend too much and share too little; we judge too many and love too few; we wait too long and act too late. Perhaps you are saying, "Show me a church where ministers aren't self¬-serving; where hypocrisy has been purged away; where church members don't waste time and energy squabbling over petty details; where love is genuine, and I'll become a member." You'll wait a long time, my friend, for such a church takes up no space on this earth. It has floated up, up, up and disappeared beyond Oz.
Or perhaps, such a church lives as a memory -- a time when disciples believed, when faith could move mountains, and motives were pure.

Psalm 143:8

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.

In nearly every disciple's life, there comes a time of loneliness and doubt. It seems as if our prayer requests just bounce off the ceiling and fall in broken pieces at our feet. God seems distant, hiding, asleep, or unsympathetic to our cries for mercy and help. Thankfully God gives us the Psalms. In the Psalms we can find words for almost all of life's ups and downs.

It is nice when we are down to know that others have been there before us and have recovered their faith and vitality. But, there are just some moments in life when we need to have God's reminders of his love and guidance. This psalm, and these words are made for such a time. If the request is not relevant to your need, then please, pray these words for someone

Thoughts 

. But as many as received him, to them gave the power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: (John 1:12)

. When God is about to do something great, he starts with a difficulty.  When he is about to do something truly magnificent, he starts with an impossibility…Armin Gesswei

. The master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his information and his recreation, his love and his religion.  He hardly knows which is which.  He simply pursues his vision of excellence at whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing.  To him he's always doing both. - James A. Michener

Old and New Covenant Contrasts - 10

No inheritance:

Romans 4:13

For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith

Eternal inheritance:

Hebrews 9:15

Therefore, he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.

Ratified by animal blood:

Hebrews 9:16-22

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.  Therefore not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.  For when every commandment of the law had been declared by Moses to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, with water and scarlet wool and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book itself and all the people,  saying, “This is the blood of the covenant that God commanded for you.”  And in the same way he sprinkled with the blood both the tent and all the vessels used in worship.  Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.

Ratified by the blood of Christ:

Matthew 26:28

for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Law of works:

Romans 3:31

Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law.

Law of grace:

John 1:17

For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

What To Do?

‘The Lord Himself will fight for you. Just stay calm” Exodus 14:14

Facing a battle?

DON’T TRY TO -

Figure your way through,

Reason your way through,

Guess your way through,

Feel your way through,

Push your way through,

Manipulate your way through;

Fake your way through.

WHAT SHOULD YO DO?

Trust your way through!

We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You. 2 Chronicles 20:12

Pray your way through!

Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance. Ephesians 6:18

Believe your way through!

This is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith.

Walk your way through!

When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:2-3

PRAISE YOUR WAY THROUGH!

So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat.
Joshua 6:20

Quotes 

.. Men may spurn our appeals, reject our message, oppose our arguments, despise our persons, but they are helpless against our prayers. - J. Sidlow Baxter

.. Most Christians know what they are saved from.  Very few know what they are saved for. - Unknown

'Test the Spirits'

Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. - 1 John 4:1
Occasionally, we hear someone say something, preach something, or teach something that doesn't sit well in our hearts. We have a nagging feeling that something just isn't quite right with what was said. The Holy Spirit within us gives us what I call "the greasies" — that sick feeling in the pit of our stomachs that something isn't quite right.

The things said could be very pleasing to us, they could be difficult for us to hear, or they could be the culturally acceptable point of view. No matter on what trajectory the comments reach us, we need to pray and seek the Spirit's leading and then open the Scriptures to check and see if what we heard is really from God. Spiritual discernment is an important work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Meditation 

When you think about a problem over and over in your mind that is called worry. When you think about God’s word over and over again in your mind that is meditation. So, if you know how to worry then you already know how to meditate

Romans 12:2

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Sooner or later we all have to make a decision: Will I be a nonconformist? Will I refuse to be squeezed into the mold of the world? (J.B. Phillips terminology) Will I be part of a Christian counter-culture? (John R.W. Stott terminology) Will I be God's own person, an alien and an exile in the world, put here to have a redemptive influence?

(The apostle Peter's terminology) Jesus simply calls us his disciples. Bottom line: until we are really ready to cross the line and live totally for the Lord, we're not going to be able to fully recognize God's will for us. There are no arm-chair quarterback Christians. There are no sideline disciples. There are no back-seat driver Christians. We either choose the Lordship of Jesus, or else we reject it. So what's your decision?

God's Holy Fire: 'United in the Spirit'

Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. - Ephesians 4:3

When we open the book of Acts, we hear Jesus promise twice in the first few verses to send the Holy Spirit to empower the early disciples as they go to all nations to share the good news of Jesus. As we read further, we see the Holy Spirit at work to break down every barrier — geographical, cultural, racial, economic, political, and social — to make the people who come to Jesus into one new people. Paul reflects on the great grace of God in Ephesians chapters 1-3.

In today's verse, he challenges Jesus' followers to make every effort to keep what the Holy Spirit and the grace of God had worked to create: a people united by the Holy Spirit and held together with the bond of peace. He wanted them to "wage peace"! He wanted them to be peacemakers and not just "peacewanters." Making peace only can happen when we allow the Spirit to control our hearts while we earnestly and diligently strive to be united through the Spirit as God's children.

Matthew 5:14

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

Darkness dominates our world. Despite appearances, darkness controls so much of what is said and how it is viewed by the world. When someone lives for Christ, they will be noticed. Their allegiance to Jesus and his righteousness cannot be ignored. So what are we going to do with that light?

Are others going to see and be drawn to our Father in Heaven who sent his Son as Savior? Or, are they going to reject the way of Christ because our walk is all talk and not much service? Let's let them see God's grace through our lives so they will come to know the Savior!

Thoughts 

. My children, the three acts of faith, hope, and charity contain all the happiness of man upon the earth…John Vianney

. The next time you are called to suffer, pay attention.  It may be the closest you'll ever get to God…Max Lucado

. When the dream planted in our heart is one that God has planted there, a strange happiness flows into us.  At that moment all of the spiritual resources of the universe are released to help us…Catherine Marshall

. A happy marriage is a long conversation that always seems too short…Andre Maurois

The Tempter

The Tempter Turns Our Strengths against us

One night a well-known and highly respected preacher was working on his sermon for the following Sunday. His little son came in and asked his daddy to come tuck him in. The father told him to get into bed and he would come in a few minutes to give him a goodnight kiss and tuck him in.

But then, he became engrossed in his preparation, and much later, he remembered the promise. He went into his son's bed room only to discover that the little fellow was already asleep. That story is heart-breaking because it has a familiar ring to it.

His passion to be a good preacher - a good thing - had tempted him that night to be a bad father. Do you see what happened? The tempter even turns our strengths against us if we are not careful.

The Temptation of His Life - Matthew 4:1-11

Two thousand years earlier a man from Galilee said, "What would it profit a man if he gained the whole world and lost his soul?" Perhaps when He made that statement He was not only addressing it to those who heard Him, but also was looking back to a time of decision in His own life.

There is something so very curious about the man from Galilee. He has captivated the imaginations of people throughout twenty centuries. He transcends time and place, culture and custom, race and language. Something there is in Him that always speaks clearly to us. We see it throughout the gospels, everywhere He went, in everything He said and did. Son of God and Son of Man, we know He became one of us.

While He is the answer to all our struggles, we see Him struggling with the things He faced. And, as He finds the way for Himself He finds the way for us as well...

Faith Quotes

Smith Wigglesworth - “There is a place where God, through the power of the Holy Ghost, reigns supreme in our lives.”

Smith Wigglesworth - “I never get out of bed in the morning without having communion with God in the Spirit.”

What Jesus Believed

We want to know what Jesus believed when He walked among us, because that is exactly what we should believe. We cannot go astray when we follow Him. He is the perfect example. But more than that, He himself gives the power to believe and do as we should. He is both example and empowerer.
Just what did Jesus demonstrate that He believed while here on earth? Both by precept and practice He has demonstrated that –

He believed more in mercy than might;

He believed that love is stronger law;

He believed that service is greater than status;

He believed that faith is greater than fear.

He demonstrated it. He proved it. Let us also believe and practice the same.

The Promises and the Promiser

“Exceeding great and precious promises” 2 Peter 1:4, (KJV)

If you would like to put into practice the preciousness of God’s promises, and enjoy them personally, meditate on them. God’s promises are like grapes in a wine-press: If you tread on them the juice will flow. Thinking over God’s holy words will often lead to their fulfillment in your own life.
While you ponder them, the blessing you seek will often come to you in ways you don’t even expect. Many Christians who have thirsted for God’s promises have found the divine favor which they ensure gently brings comforting into their soul and causes great rejoicing in their hearts.

Therefore, seeing that it is the word of a God true, unchangeable, powerful, and so incomparably wise, I will and must believe His promises. If we meditate on His promises, and consider the Promiser, we will experience their sweetness and fulfillment.

Think it over…

Faith gathers strength by waiting and praying. - E. M. Bounds

Eternity is primary.  Heaven must become our first and ultimate point of reference.  We are built for it, redeemed for it, and on our way to it.  Success demands that we see and respond to now in the light of then.  All that we have, are, and accumulate must be seen as resources by which we can influence and impact the world beyond.  Even our tragedies are viewed as events that can bring eternal gain. - Joseph Stowell

(Message No: 5631)

Book of Acts

Lessons for Leaders:

2:42-47 = Leaders, incorporate four elements into your congregation’s life. Believe evangelism will result from a church living in obedience to Jesus’ invitations.

4:24-31 = Leaders, frequently pray this fervent prayer in your congregational worship.

6:1-6 = Leaders, share your ministry. Do not weaken your life and ministry by doing work others should do.

12:5 = Leaders, give prayer a central place in your church life.

13:1-3 = Leaders, submit to the Sprit’s guidance when confronting decisions. Call leadership to prayer and fasting in such times. Release ministry freely when asked to do so by the Holy Spirit.

14:14-18 = Leaders, do not receive inordinate praise from people. Dispel unrighteous adulteration by admirers.

16:1-5 = Leaders, personally train young men who are called to ministry.

20:28-32 = Leaders, guard against disloyalty. Insure that no one makes disciples for himself. Assume the responsibility of guarding the flock of God from “savage wolves.”

20:27 = Leaders, make certain that you teach “the whole counsel of God.” Live in obedience to the gospel, and see the results in evangelism and spiritual growth.

From the Book of Nehemiah

Guidelines for growing in Godliness:

Living God’s way means making God’s priorities our priorities, realizing that they often are different from ours. God still accomplishes all things through His Word.

Therefore, the Scriptures are a guide for ordering our lives according to God’s will. Understanding and obeying them brings joy. They also teach us to acknowledge God’s hand in all our success.  

Quote:

"In darkness there is no choice. It is light that enables us to see the differences between things; and it is Christ who gives us light." - C. T. Whitemell

Mark 9:23

“All things are possible to him that believeth.”

The "all things" do not always come simply for the asking, for the reason that God is ever seeking to teach us the way of faith, and in our training in the faith life there must be room for the trial of faith, the discipline of faith, the patience of faith, the courage of faith, and often many stages are passed before we really realize what is the end of faith, namely, the victory of faith.

Keep on believing God's Word; never be moved away from it by what you see or feel, and thus as you stand steady, enlarged power and experience is being developed. The fact of looking at the apparent contradiction as to God's Word and being unmoved from your position of faith make you stronger on every other line.

Often God delays purposely, and the delay is just as much an answer to your prayer as is the fulfillment when it comes.

From the Book of Job

Steps in Developing Humility:

The knowledge of God leads to humility. Humility is not the self-deprecation with which many of us are often acquainted. Rather, it is the refusal to trust oneself for fulfilment of needs, looking instead of the Lord.

Action Job Invites:

Understand that man’s own righteousness is a vain hope.

Believe that only Christ’s imputed righteousness can allow us to stand before God.
Diligently avoid any form of self-righteousness.

Understand that it makes one unteachable and un-shapable in God’s hand.
Humble yourself regularly in the presence of the Lord. Do not be hasty to reply against God.

Thoughts 

.  I live in the spirit of prayer.  I pray as I walk about, when I lie down, and when I rise up.  And the answers are always coming. - George Muller

. We all need grace sooner or later and most likely sooner. If Scripture tells us there is no condemnation in Christ, then our wounded brothers and sisters surely don’t need condemnation from you or me.

. Never leave a lamb behind.

Examples of Honesty

Jesus Christ

Matthew 22:16

And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances.

Samuel

1 Samuel 12:3

Here I am; testify against me before the Lord and before his anointed. Whose ox have I taken? Or whose donkey have I taken? Or whom have I defrauded? Whom have I oppressed? Or from whose hand have I taken a bribe to blind my eyes with it? Testify against me and I will restore it to you.”

Nathanael

John 1:47

Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!”

Paul

1 Thessalonians 2:3

For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive,

1, 44,000 people

Revelation 14:5

And in their mouth no lie was found, for they are blameless.

Think it over…

~ I need Christ, not something that resembles Him. - C. S. Lewis
~ Often, without being at all aware of it, men judge themselves, not by God's rule, but by their own. - Charles Finney

~ Genuine, hearty laughter is one of the greatest gifts imparted to us by our Father. It has the amazing power to diminish our pain, lifting our souls in joyous good cheer, while providing bright hope for the unknown days ahead. - W. Phillip Keller

~ God will answer all our questions in one way and one way only- namely, by showing us more of his Son. - Watchman Nee

~ God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with Him. - Warren Wiersbe

When we are not honest

Satan fills lie in the heart: Acts 5:2-3

And with his wife's knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles' feet.  But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land?

We test the Spirit of the Lord: Acts 5:8-9

And Peter said to her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much.” And she said, “Yes, for so much.”  But Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.”

We deceive ourselves: 1 John 1:8

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

We make God a liar: 1 John 1:10

If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

We become Pharisees: Matthew 23:27-28

Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness.  So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

We will not be saved: 2 Thessalonians 2:10

And with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.

Romans 5:6-7

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.

Christ died for the ungodly. Christ died for me. Without his sacrificial death, without God's grace, I am powerless to save myself or make myself righteous. Jesus did for me what I could not do and paid off my debt to sin which I could not pay. He did it for me; not because I was good enough to be worthy of his death, but because I couldn't be worthy without him.

Importance of Honesty

Come near to God: Hebrews 10:22

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water

Foundation to Fellowship: 1 John 1:7

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.

Brings the Lord near to us: Psalm 145:18

The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

Brings delights to the Lord: Proverbs 11:1

A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.

It’s God’s desire for us: Psalm 51:6

Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

It leads to Guidance: Proverbs 11:3

The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.

It leads to Stability: Psalm 15:2

He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart;

Psalm 15:5

Who does not put out his money at interest and does not take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be moved.

Unity in the Church: Psalm: 15:1-2

O LORD, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart;

 It is a protection: Psalm 25:21

May integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you.

Rev. Dr. Emmanuel James

Rev. Dr. Emmanuel James - M.A., B.D., S.T.M, Ph. D, D.D.

(March 1, 1937 to June 6, 2017)

Has served as Pastor, Administrator, Teacher, Preacher, Professor and writer for the last 50 years. He served at various Theological Colleges, Seminaries, and Universities in India and U.S.A.

He was the first Director of Asian Institute of Theology, Bangalore, Chief Editor of Theological Book Trust and Visiting Professor at ACTS Academy of Higher Education and other Theological institutions in India and abroad.

He is the Author of several books in English, Kannada and Hindi, such as Bible Quiz Time, Ethics: A Biblical Perspective, God's Word for God's People (a book of sermons), A Study of Religions; "Igo  Ninna Rashakanu" in Kannada and Pastri Manovigyan, Bible Bhashyashastra: Siddanth our Paddit in Hindi etc.

His book, "Bible Hermeneutics" in Hindi was awarded a National Award by the Government of India in 1986.

Note:

Rev. Dr. Emmanuel James is my eldest brother. He has been called by our Lord back to home on June 06, 2017.

I was away from Mumbai to Bangalore for​ attending his funeral service and other needs of the family.

Hence, I could not post any messages for some time.

Meaning of Honesty

Truth: Psalm 51:6

Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

Integrity: Proverbs 11:3

The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.

Sincerity: 2 Corinthians 1:12

For our boast is this, the testimony of our conscience, that we behaved in the world with simplicity and godly sincerity, not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God, and supremely so toward you

No Lie: Revelation 14:5

And in their mouth no lie was found, for they are blameless.

Walk in the light: 1 John 1:7

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.

Test of Honesty

Adam: Genesis 3:11

He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten of the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?”

Cain: Genesis 4:9

Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” He said, “I do not know; am I my brother's keeper?”

Jacob: Genesis 32:27

And he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob

Genesis 32:30

So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, saying, “For I have seen God face to face, and yet my life has been delivered.”

Samaritan Woman: John 4:6

Jacob's well was there; so Jesus, wearied as he was from his journey, was sitting beside the well. It was about the sixth hour.

Bartimaeus: Mark 10:51

And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.”

They Matter

“Love your neighbor as yourself” Matthew 22:39

They Matter

  …No matter who, they matter

    No matter when, they matter

    No matter where, they matter

    They matter, they do

    No matter how, they matter

    No matter why, they matter

    No matter what, they matter

    They matter, they do.

Two simple words “they matter” and how much difference these words would make to so many people in a world where often there is little hope?  How much more did we matter to God that He gave his only beloved son to die on the cross just for us?  Our lives are forever changed because of this incredible act of His.  It is up to us to show everyone that they matter and in doing so we change people’s lives by showing them God’s love and making sure that they know how much more they matter to the One who loves, gives us strength and sustains us through all our trials and persecution.

Book of Acts

Truth Acts Invites -

How to insure Complete Conversion:

In Acts we find the historical record of the first conversions to faith in Jesus Christ. Here in detail is the message of the apostles and the response of the people. Here, also, is found the promise of the gift of the Holy Spirit to all who believe, an experience of empowering that was normative in the early churchy. Our message today should be the same as this, regarding the gift of the Holy Spirit and the life He produces.

Faith Quotes

Smith Wigglesworth – “Before God could bring me to this place He has broken me a thousand times.”

Smith Wigglesworth - “I am never happier in the Lord than when I am in a bedroom with a sick person.”

A Model Prayer Meeting

Acts 1:14

If the prayer-meeting is the thermometer of the Church, then the first Christian prayer-meeting registers a high degree of spiritual life existing just after the departure of Christ. This was a model in point of —

I. ATTENDANCE. There were one hundred and twenty present.

1. All the office-bearers were there. Are modern elders and deacons as exemplary?

2. The male members were there. Business or pleasure did not hinder them.

3. The female members were there. "The women" still form a large proportion of the attendants at prayer-meetings.

II. THE SPIRIT. Peace and unity prevailed. The day of "murmuring" had not yet come (Acts 6:1.) Union is strength. A divided Church cannot long remain a praying Church. God answers prayer when it is offered by few or many "with one accord." The promise is addressed to those who are "agreed."
III. THE RESULTS (see chap. Acts 2.). The Church was born at a prayer meeting, which should encourage us to sustain our often thinly attended and cold-spirited prayer-meetings. The prayer-meeting is more than the thermometer of the Church, it is the source of her spiritual power. There is as intimate a relation between the prayer-meeting and the outpouring of the Spirit as between the gathering of the cloud and the downpour of the shower. Pentecostal revivals must be preceded by ante-Pentecostal prayer-meetings.

Psalm 3:8

From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

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.