Only One Name

In the name of Jesus there is found –

+ Salvation

Acts 4:12

Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

+ Forgiveness

1 John 2:12

write to you, little children,

  Because your sins are forgiven you for His name's sake.

+ Strength

Acts 3:16

And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

+ Eternal Life

1 John 5:13

These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.

+ Sonship

John 1:12

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:

+ Answered Prayer

John  14:13-14

And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.

+ Leading 

Psalm 23:3

He restores my soul;

 He leads me in the paths of righteousness

 For His name's sake.

[Message No:7875]

Names of God - 2

. Bishop of Souls – 1 Peter 2:25

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

. Branch – Zechariah 3:8

Hear, O Joshua, the high priest,

 You and your companions who sit before you,

 For they are a wondrous sign;

 For behold, I am bringing forth My Servant the BRANCH.

. Bread of Life – 

John 6:35

And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.

John 6:48

I am the bread of life.

Bridegroom – Matthew 9:15

And Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.

. Carpenter – Mark 6:3

Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him.

. Chief Shepherd – 1 Peter 5:4

and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

. The Christ – Matthew 1:16

And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ.

. Comforter – Jeremiah 8:18

You who are my Comforter in sorrow,

 my heart is faint  within me.

[Message No: 7874]

Marriage at the Resurrection

 Mark 12:18-27 — Mt 22:23-33; Lk 20:27-38

  Then the Sadducees,  who say there is no resurrection,  came to him with a question.   “Teacher,” they said, “Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother.    Now there were seven brothers. The first one married and died without leaving any children.   The second one married the widow, but he also died, leaving no child. It was the same with the third.   In fact, none of the seven left any children. Last of all, the woman died too.   At the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?”

    Jesus replied, “Are you not in error because you do not know the Scriptures  or the power of God?   When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.    Now about the dead rising—have you not read in the Book of Moses, in the account of the burning bush, how God said to him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’?    He is not the God of the dead, but of the living. You are badly mistaken!”

Two Kingdoms 

. Flesh and blood inherits it, for it is for earth  natural people – 

Psalm 37:11

But the meek will inherit the land 

 and enjoy peace and prosperity.

Matthew 5:5

Blessed are the meek,

 for they will inherit the earth.

Matthew 25:34

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom  prepared for you since the creation of the world.

Thought  

. The smallest supper of all is laid on the table.  A mere morsel of bread and a mere sip of wine become the drama of our redemption.  His body broken to nourish our famine.  His blood spilt as the greatest transfusion in history.  So that we belong to a new ancestor now.  The bread of life and the wine assures us:  “Apart from me ye can do nothing.”  Every church in every land regularly says “Thank you” in the eucharist in grateful remembrance. – Unknown

[Message No: 7873]

Leaders work must be blessing not burden

Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. — 1 Thessalonians 5:12

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)

Divine Certainties 

. Death of the Sinner

Romans 2:12

All who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law.

2 Peter 2:12-15

But these people blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like unreasoning animals, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like animals they too will perish. 

    They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight.  They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you.    With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce  the unstable;  they are experts in greed —an accursed brood!    They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam  son of Bezer, who loved the wages of wickedness.

He is mine! He is mine!

Though it is wonderful, yet it is true,

That He is mine!

Depths of that love so true

No tongue can tell!

God watcheth over you—

All is well!

Thought 

. he greater perfection a soul aspires after, the more dependent it is upon Divine Grace. - Brother Lawrence

[Message No: 7872]

JESUS - 4

. Matthew  9:23

When Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing,

. Matthew 9:27

When Jesus departed from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out and saying, “Son of David, have mercy on us!”

. Matthew 9:28

And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?”

  They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.”

. Matthew 9:30

And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, saying, “See that no one knows it.”

. Matthew 9:35

Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.

. Matthew  10:5

These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans.

. Matthew 11:1

Now it came to pass, when Jesus finished commanding His twelve disciples, that He departed from there to teach and to preach in their cities.

. Matthew 11:4

Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see:

. Matthew 11:7

As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind?

. Matthew 11:25

At that time Jesus answered and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes.

. Matthew 12:1

At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath. And His disciples were hungry, and began to pluck heads of grain and to eat.

[Message No: 7871]

In Relation to God the Father - 2

= Heavenly Citizenship

Philippians 3:20

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ

= Heir of God

Romans 8:17

and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

Galatians 3:29

And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

= New Creation

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Galatians  3:29

And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

= Servant of God

Romans 6:22

But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life.

= Priest of God

1 Peter 2:5

you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Thought

Spiritual life is a matter of becoming who you truly are.  It’s not becoming Catherine of Siena, or some other saint, but who you are.  It sounds easy enough, but being who you truly are is work, courage and faith. - Richard Rohr

[Message No: 7870]

His Kingdom Belongs to Us

But the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and will possess it forever — yes, for ever and ever. — Daniel 7:18

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

Lovely

. Philippians 4:3

Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers,  whose names are in the book of life.

. Proverbs 5:19

A loving doe, a graceful deer —

 may her breasts satisfy you always,

 may you ever be intoxicated with her love.

. Psalm 84:1

How lovely is your dwelling place, 

 Lord Almighty!

. Esther 2:7

Mordecai had a cousin named Hadassah, whom he had brought up because she had neither father nor mother. This young woman, who was also known as Esther,  had a lovely figure  and was beautiful. Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter when her father and mother died.

. 2 Samuel 1:23

Saul and Jonathan—

 in life they were loved and admired,

 and in death they were not parted.

 They were swifter than eagles, 

 they were stronger than lions.

. Genesis 29:17

Leah had weak eyes, but Rachel  had a lovely figure and was beautiful.

[Message No: 7869]

Generous and Concerned People

Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people, making widows their prey and robbing the fatherless. — Isaiah 10:1-2

God wants us to be a generous and concerned people. We are not to be concerned about our "stuff" but the work of God and the needs of others, especially those who are powerless and can't defend themselves.

Maid

Genesis 30:3

Then she said, “Here is Bilhah,  my servant.  Sleep with her so that she can bear children for me and I too can build a family through her.”

Exodus 2:5

Then Pharaoh’s daughter went down to the Nile to bathe, and her attendants were walking along the riverbank.  She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her female slave to get it.

Psalm 123:2

As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master,

 as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress,

 so our eyes look to the Lord  our God,

 till he shows us his mercy.

John 18:16

but Peter had to wait outside at the door. The other disciple, who was known to the high priest, came back, spoke to the servant girl on duty there and brought Peter in.

Acts 12:13

Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door.

Thought 

. It seems as if God gives us hints each day about what he’d like us to do.  If you look closely around you, or if you listen carefully to what a friend says, I bet you will recognize a potential hint as to what God would like you to do.  Listen carefully.  Observe.  God is pointing the direction. - Christopher de Vinck

[Message No: 7868]

Forgive – Reconcile

"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. — Ephesians 4:26-27

Pent up anger is an explosion waiting to happen. Sooner or later, the pent up frustration will explode, either in our own life or into the life of someone else. Jesus taught us to forgive and to reconcile (Matthew 18). Anger must be dealt with. Otherwise, the devil will use it to abuse us as well as others in our lives. Don't give him a foothold in your life. If you give him an inch (2.54 cm), he'll take a mile (1.61 km)!

Thoughts 

. When Christ comes into the human heart, a process begins that the Bible calls sanctification.  You begin to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ toward spiritual maturity.  Sanctification actually means “separated” or “clean.”  In one sense, sanctification is instantaneous.  The moment you receive Christ as Saviour, the Holy Spirit comes into your heart.  There is also a sense in which sanctification is progressive.  You grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. - Billy Graham

. Believing Christ died, that’s history.  Believing Christ died for me, that’s salvation. – Unknown

Do you want a pilot?

Signal then to Jesus 

Do you want a Pilot?

Bid Him come on board;

For He will safely guide

Across the ocean wide,

Until you reach at last

The Heav’nly Harbour. 

Bible Tells Us  – 

. Acquaint yourself with Him

Job 22:21

“Submit to God and be at peace  with him; 

 in this way prosperity will come to you.

. Something for everyone

Matthew 25:19

After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them.

[Message No: 7867]

Emblems of the Holy Spirit - 2

. Water is freely given

Isaiah 55:1

“Come, all you who are thirsty, 

 come to the waters; 

 and you who have no money,

 come, buy  and eat!

 Come, buy wine and milk 

 without money and without cost.

John 4:14

but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.  Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water  welling up to eternal life.”

Revelation 22:17

The Spirit  and the bride  say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.

. Water cleanses

Ephesians 5:26

that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,

. Water is abundant

John 7:37-38

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”

Fire 

Matthew 3:11

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

. Fire illuminates

John 5:35

He was the burning and shining lamp, and you were willing for a time to rejoice in his light

[Message No: 7866]

Don’t live as unwise but wise

Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. — Ephesians 5:15

Living with urgency doesn't mean living recklessly. It means living with a holy abandon to honor God and with a holy passion to make each moment count for righteousness. That means we must be intentional about our choices, taking care that we use our moments wisely as we live a life of character different from the world around us because we are dedicated to Jesus.

Lips

. Psalm 2:3

Let us break their chains 

 and throw off their shackles.”

. Psalm 31:18

Let their lying lips  be silenced,

 for with pride and contempt

 they speak arrogantly  against the righteous.

. Proverbs 10:21

The lips of the righteous nourish many,

 but fools die for lack of sense.

. 1 Corinthians 14:21

In the Law  it is written:

  “With other tongues

 and through the lips of foreigners

 I will speak to this people,

 but even then they will not listen to me, 

 says the Lord

. 1 Peter 3:10

For   “Whoever would love life

 and see good days

 must keep their tongue from evil

 and their lips from deceitful speech.

[Message No: 7865]

Christians are Perfect

Once you were alienated from God ... but now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. — Colossians 1:22

"Christians aren't perfect, just forgiven!" You've probably seen this bumper sticker or something similar. In one sense this is absolutely true. But, from God's point of view, Christians ARE perfect. That's the incredible message Paul gives the Colossians. Because of Jesus' sacrifice, God does not see our imperfections. He sees us through Christ's perfection. Look at these concepts and marvel! Look at how God views you and give thanks! Be humbled by God's grace to us in Jesus and rejoice! Holy, without blemish, and free from accusation — there's nothing left to say but "Hallelujah!"

The Balanced Life

2 Corinthians 12:9

Our life is often like that. God gives us enough difficulties to help us appreciate the joys of life. He gives us the hard times so that we may enjoy the good ones. Times of trouble are times for spiritual growth.

God gives us times of weakness to develop the spiritual muscles needed for times of strength. God gives us a balanced life to prepare us for an eternity with Him where there will be no more tears and an eternity of joy with Him.

Two Kingdoms 

. Dispensational in Purpose –

1 CorThen the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom  to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power.    For he must reign  until he has put all his enemies under his feet.    The last enemy to be destroyed is death.    For he “has put everything under his feet.”  Now when it says that “everything” has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ.    When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him,  so that God may be all in all.inthians 15:24-28

. Eternal Purpose –

Ephesians 3:11

according to his eternal purpose  that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.

[Message No: 7864]

Be honest with God

"Therefore I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul." — Job 7:11

We sometimes think of God as too fragile, too distant, or too brooding to speak with him honestly about our dilemmas. Job wasn't so shy. He is the great reminder that God prefers us to maintain our relationship with him, even if it is stormy. No matter where you are in your struggles, be honest with God — not disrespectfully, but sincerely. Let him minister to your truest hurts, frustrations, and fears, not just the simple and sanitized ones.

Yoked 

Numbers 25:3

So Israel yoked themselves to  the Baal of Peor.  And the Lord’s anger burned against them.

Numbers 25:5

So Moses said to Israel’s judges, “Each of you must put to death  those of your people who have yoked themselves to the Baal of Peor.”

1 Samuel 6:10

So they did this. They took two such cows and hitched them to the cart and penned up their calves.

Whoever 

Leviticus 7:27

Anyone who eats blood  must be cut off from their people.’”

Leviticus 17:14

because the life of every creature is its blood. That is why I have said to the Israelites, “You must not eat the blood of any creature, because the life of every creature is its blood; anyone who eats it must be cut off.”

Psalm 107:43

Let the one who is wise  heed these things

 and ponder the loving deeds  of the Lord.

Hebrew 4:10

for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works,  just as God did from his.

1 John 3:10

This is how we know who the children of God  are and who the children of the devil  are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love  their brother and sister.

[Message No: 7863]

Ability

Daniel 1:4

young men without any physical defect, handsome,  showing aptitude for every kind of learning,  well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace. He was to teach them the language  and literature of the Babylonians.

Matthew 25:15

To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability.  Then he went on his journey.

2 Corinthians 8:3

For I testify that they gave as much as they were able,  and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,

1 Peter 4:11

If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God.  If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides,  so that in all things God may be praised  through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Excellent

. Job 37:23

Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: He is excellent in power; And in justice and plenteous righteousness he will not afflict.

. Psalm 141:5

Let the righteous smite me, it shall be a kindness; And let him reprove me, it shall be as oil upon the head; Let not my head refuse it: For even in their wickedness shall my prayer continue.

. Proverbs 8:6

Hear, for I will speak excellent things; And the opening of my lips shall be right things.

. Song of Solomon 5:15

His legs are as pillars of marble, set upon sockets of fine gold: His aspect is like Lebanon, excellent as the cedars.

. Isaiah 12:5

Sing unto Jehovah; for he hath done excellent things: let this be known in all the earth

[Message No: 7862]

Younger

1 Chronicles 24:31

They also cast lots,  just as their relatives the descendants of Aaron did, in the presence of King David and of Zadok, Ahimelek, and the heads of families of the priests and of the Levites. The families of the oldest brother were treated the same as those of the youngest.

Romans 9:12

not by works but by him who calls—she was told, “The older will serve the younger.”

Titus 2:6

Similarly, encourage the young men  to be self-controlled.

1 Timothy 5:2

older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity.

Genesis 27:15

Then Rebekah took the best clothes  of Esau her older son,  which she had in the house, and put them on her younger son Jacob.

We are secured 

O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure. — Psalm 7:9

In a world of organized crime, gangs, and predators, we have some real work cut out for us if we are going to influence the violent part of contemporary culture to change its ways. Maybe the place to start is down on our knees before the Father, asking him to use us to make a difference in our violent world!

God’s Word for God’s People

. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. - Psalm 51:10

. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. - Psalm 37:5

. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. - Romans 14:19

. Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. - Psalm 40:4

. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6

[Message No: 7861]

Waiting Patiently

But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. — Romans 8:25

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.

Death Can’t Stop …

I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. — John 5:25

Aren't you glad that not even death can stop us from hearing Jesus' promised words to us: "RISE!"? We will hear his voice and live with him forever. That sure puts a lift in my future plans; what about you?

Prayer for the Church

Colossians 1:1-8

 Faith - God’s salvation is something we should never take for granted. Thank Him for bringing the gospel to the people in your church and giving them the faith to believe.

 Love  - Ask the Lord to increase their love for one another so they can respond—both inside and outside the church—as Christ would.

Treat others with dignity

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

Ah! The "Golden Rule" is so straightforward, isn't it? Sometimes we make things, especially religious things, far too complicated and complex. I love the Bible because it is so often practical and plain when God deals with our behavior. You want to know how to treat someone? Then do for them what would be a blessing if it was done to you! If it wouldn't bless, encourage, build up, support, comfort, or help you, then don't do it to them.

 If it would hurt, wound, depress, spite, or discourage you, then don't do it to them. Treat others with the same dignity, kindness, love, respect, and tenderness with which you would like to be treated. Simple to understand; revolutionary to do!

[Message No: 7860]

Understanding the Psalm 44

We do not know who wrote Psalm 44. We do not know when they wrote it. When we read the psalm, two things are clear:

·   someone had hurt the Jews

  ·   the Jews had done nothing wrong.

We do not know when this happened. Perhaps it was when David was king, or up to 500 years after.

What Psalm 44 means

The psalm is in 3 parts. Verses 1-8 tell us what God did for the Jews when they came into their country. It was not the Jews that won the land for them, but God. His hand (verses 2 and 3) and his arm (verse 3) mean "what God did". (Some Christians say that God’s hand is "the *Holy Spirit" and his arm is Jesus.) The "light on your face" (verse 3) means "the good way that God looked at people so that he did good things for them". The enemies of the Jews were the people that lived in the land before they did.

But in verses 9 to 22 we read that something bad has happened.

The Jews had done nothing wrong, but their enemies had done bad things to them. This often happens to Christian people. Why does God let it happen? He does it to make his people strong. Sheep were animals that people killed for the meat. "Thrown us into other countries" means "put us in countries where we did not live before". The *covenant in verse 17 is what God agreed to do if his people obeyed him. Here, in verses 17-22, the people are saying that they kept their part of the *covenant, but God did not keep his. In other words, they obeyed God, but he did not care for them. We often feel *like this. When it happens we must remember that:

  ·   God lets it happen to make us strong

  ·   we must go on believing in God.

It happened to Jesus, and we must be *like him!

In verses 23 - 26 the person that wrote the psalm prays. He (or she) asks God to wake up and send help! Whatever happens, we must always ask God to send help!

Something to do

Listen to the news on the radio or watch it on the television. When you hear about or see bad things happening to people, pray for them. If they are God’s people, pray harder! It does not mean that they are bad people, but it does mean that God is wanting to make them stronger.

[Message No: 7859]

The grace of God

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. — Ephesians 6:24

Ephesians makes some of the greatest declarations in the entire Bible about the grace of God. This one, however, may be the very richest. Grace is offered to us whether we accept it or not. But, grace is with us in rich abundance and blessing as we love Jesus and hang on to his love with a grip of faith that is unwavering.

~

Dedicated Disciplining

“Therefore, as we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”  Galatians 6:10

~

JOY!

“Thou wilt show me the path of life; in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” Psalm 16:11

~

TRUST and DOUBT

“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” Psalm 37:5

~

What are You Afraid of?

“Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT)

~

Christ in You Gives You Confidence

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20 (NIV)

~

Forgiveness

. You will start putting the past behind you. We cannot change anything that has happened in the past. Forgiving someone can be the start of the healing process, which will enable us to move on with our lives. As forgiveness is more for ourselves, we’ll be able to move forward and leave the past behind us.

~

Resting, Knowing, Waiting

‘Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all Your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6

[Message No: 7858]

Son

Genesis 4:17

Cain made love to his wife,  and she became pregnant and gave birth to Enoch. Cain was then building a city,  and he named it after his son  Enoch.

Exodus 20:10

but the seventh day is a sabbath  to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.

Leviticus 24:10

Now the son of an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father went out among the Israelites, and a fight broke out in the camp between him and an Israelite.

Numbers 1:10

from the sons of Joseph:

 from Ephraim,  Elishama son of Ammihud; 

 from Manasseh,  Gamaliel son of Pedahzur;

Deuteronomy 18:10

Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire,  who practices divination  or sorcery,  interprets omens, engages in witchcraft

Joshua 22:20

When Achan son of Zerah was unfaithful in regard to the devoted things,  did not wrath  come on the whole community  of Israel? He was not the only one who died for his sin.’”

Psalm 72:20

This concludes the prayers of David son of Jesse.

Matthew 1:20

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.

1 John 5:20

We know also that the Son of God has come  and has given us understanding,  so that we may know him who is true.  And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.

[Message No: 7857]

Result of Praising God

I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. This will please the LORD more than an ox, more than a bull with its horns and hoofs. The poor will see and be glad — you who seek God, may your hearts live! Psalm 69:30-32

Our praise should not only please God, it should also produce joy and gladness in the streets among the poor! Why? Because praise invites us to not only applaud God for what he does, but to also join him in partnership as he does it. God's generosity, which evokes our praise, should stir our generosity, which in turn blesses others and leads them to praise God!

God is my Abba Father

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. — 1 John 4:18

While I approach God with reverence and awe because he is the holy and majestic God, I don't have to fear his presence. Because of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, I know God is my Abba Father. He longs for me to draw near him. He has shown me his heart by sending Jesus. He has shown me his love by having Jesus die for me. If he loves me that much, then I can trust that his desire is to save and bless me. I don't have to fear his presence or his judgment. As his child, his love has driven fear from my heart and replaced it with love from his abiding presence, the Holy Spirit.

Think it Over

Are you uncertain about which direction you should go?  Take your question to God and receive guidance from either the light of His smile or the cloud of His refusal.  You must get alone with Him, where the lights and the darkness’s of this world cannot interfere and where the opinions of others cannot reach you. 

You must also have the courage to wait in silent expectation, even when everyone around you is insisting on an immediate decision or action.  If you will do these things, the will of God will become clear to you.  And you will have a deeper concept of who He is, having more insight into His nature and His heart of love. – Unknown

We are in His hands

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. — 1 Peter 5:6-7

In a universe so incomparably vast, in a world so marvellously diverse, we can be paralyzed by our insignificance and impotence in the face of such staggering enormity. But in moments of simple faith, we can be calmed by our reverence and dependence on the Creator and Sustainer of such wonders and find great comfort that our lives are in his hands.

[Message No: 7856]

Questions in 2 Kings – 7:3

7:3

Now there were four men with leprosy  at the entrance of the city gate. They said to each other, “Why stay here until we die?

7:19

The officer had said to the man of God, “Look, even if the Lord should open the floodgates  of the heavens, could this happen?” The man of God had replied, “You will see it with your own eyes, but you will not eat any of it!”

8:8

And the king said to Hazael, “Take a present in your hand, and go to meet the man of God, and inquire of the Lord by him, saying, ‘Shall I recover from this disease?’ ”

8:9So Hazael went to meet him and took a present with him, of every good thing of Damascus, forty camel-loads; and he came and stood before him, and said, “Your son Ben-Hadad king of Syria has sent me to you, saying, ‘Shall I recover from this disease?’ ”

8:12

And Hazael said, “Why is my lord weeping?”

  He answered, “Because I know the evil that you will do to the children of Israel: Their strongholds you will set on fire, and their young men you will kill with the sword; and you will dash their children, and rip open their women with child.”

8:13

So Hazael said, “But what is your servant—a dog, that he should do this gross thing?”

  And Elisha answered, “The Lord has shown me that you will become king over Syria.”

8:14

Then he departed from Elisha, and came to his master, who said to him, “What did Elisha say to you?” And he answered, “He told me you would surely recover.”

8:23

Now the rest of the acts of Joram, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

9:5

And when he arrived, there were the captains of the army sitting; and he said, “I have a message for you, Commander.”

  Jehu said, “For which one of us?”

  And he said, “For you, Commander.”

[Message No: 7855]

Paul’s Confidence

What do we know of Christ?

. Is He our Saviour to save?

Luke 1:47

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

. Our power to keep?

1 Peter 1:5

who through faith are shielded by God’s power  until the 

of the salvation  that is ready to be revealed  in the last time.

. Our victor to overcome?

Revelation 12:11

They triumphed over  him

 by the blood of the Lamb 

 and by the word of their testimony; 

 they did not love their lives so much

 as to shrink from death.

. Our satisfier to fill?

Deuteronomy 32:23

“I will heap calamities  on them

 and spend my arrows  against them.

. Our Lord to given?

1 Peter 3:15

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer  to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope  that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,   

. Our hope to attract

Titus 2:13

while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing  of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,

[Message No: 7854]

On Your Knees …

O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure. — Psalm 7:9

In a world of organized crime, gangs, and predators, we have some real work cut out for us if we are going to influence the violent part of contemporary culture to change its ways. Maybe the place to start is down on our knees before the Father, asking him to use us to make a difference in our violent world!

Saved

. By Christ Risen – The Security

Romans 5:10

For if, while we were God’s enemies,  we were reconciled  to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!

. In Hope – The Consummation

Romans 8:24 

For in this hope we were saved.  But hope that is seen is no hope at all.  Who hopes for what they already have?

Jesus Saith, Said, Spake, and Cried

. A Divine Intention

. A Divine Explanation

John 11:13

Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep.

. A Divine Statement

John 11:14

So then he told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead,

. A Divine Promise

John 11:23

Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”

Thought 

. We are never more easily offended than when we behold in others the evil that is in ourselves. - Donald Mallough

[Message No: 7853]

Names of God - 1

. Advocate – 1 John 2:1

My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.

. Almighty – Revelation 1:8

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Alpha – Revelation 1:8

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Amen – Revelation 3:14

“And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write,

  ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God:

Angel of the Lord – Genesis 16:7

Now the Angel of the Lord found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, by the spring on the way to Shur.

Anointed One – Psalm 2:2

The kings of the earth set themselves,

 And the rulers take counsel together,

 Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,

Apostle – Hebrews 3:1

Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus,

Author and Perfecter of our Faith – Hebrews 12:2

looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Beginning – Revelation 21:6

And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.

[Message No: 7852]

Manifold

. An Observing God

Amos 5:12

For I know how many are your offenses

 and how great your sins.

. A Merciful Lord

Nehemiah 9:19

“Because of your great compassion you did not abandon  them in the wilderness. By day the pillar of cloud  did not fail to guide them on their path, nor the pillar of fire by night to shine on the way they were to take.

Nehemiah 9:27

So you delivered them into the hands of their enemies,  who oppressed them. But when they were oppressed they cried out to you. From heaven you heard them, and in your great compassion  you gave them deliverers,  who rescued them from the hand of their enemies.

. A Surprising Worker

Ephesians 3:10

His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God  should be made known  to the rulers and authorities  in the heavenly realms,

. A Weighty Stricture

1 Peter 4:10

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others,  as faithful  stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

. A Trying Time

1 Peter 1:6

In all this you greatly rejoice,  though now for a little while  you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.

. An Overflowing Reward

Luke 18:30

will fail to receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come  eternal life.”

[Message No: 7851]

Lead an exemplary life

[In talking about others having the right to be supported in their ministry, the apostle Paul says,] But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this in the hope that you will do such things for me. I would rather die than have anyone deprive me of this boast. — 1 Corinthians 9:15

Paul was careful not to take support from the Corinthians even though it was his right as a minister of the Gospel. Instead, he knew their problems with generosity and showed them a great example in living for Jesus without obvious and instant reward. Oftentimes we must show our values before others will share them. Paul was a master at reading the needs around him and living in a way that was an example. Let's make a commitment to do the same!

How to love the Church

. Thank God for the Church

Ephesians 5:25-26

Husbands, love your wives,  just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her    to make her holy,  cleansing her by the washing  with water through the word,

1 Corinthians 1:4

I always thank my God for you  because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 1:15-16

For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus  and your love for all God’s people,    I have not stopped giving thanks for you,  remembering you in my prayers.

Philippians 1:3-4

I thank my God every time I remember you.    In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray  with joy

Colossians 1:3

We always thank God,  the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3

We always thank God for all of you  and continually mention you in our prayers.    We remember before our God and Father  your work produced by faith,  your labor prompted by love,  and your endurance inspired by hope  in our Lord Jesus Christ.

+ What can wash away my stain?

Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

[Message No: 7850]

Killed

1 Samuel 18:27

David arose and went, along with his men, and killed two hundred of the Philistines. And David brought their foreskins, which were given in full number to the king, that he might become the king's son-in-law. And Saul gave him his daughter Michal for a wife.

1 Chronicles 19:18

And the Syrians fled before Israel, and David killed of the Syrians the men of 7,000 chariots and 40,000 foot soldiers, and put to death also Shophach the commander of their army.

Nehemiah 9:26

Nevertheless, they were disobedient and rebelled against you and cast your law behind their back and killed your prophets, who had warned them in order to turn them back to you, and they committed great blasphemies.

Luke 11:47

Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets whom your fathers killed.

1 Thessalonians 2:15

who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and drove us out, and displease God and oppose all mankind

Revelation 2:13

“‘I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.

Revelation 11:13

And at that hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the rest were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven.

Thought -  

I look forward, not to what lies ahead of me in this life and will surely pass away, but to my eternal goal.  I am intent upon this one purpose, not distracted by other aims, and with this goal in view I press on, eager for the prize, God’s heavenly summons.  Then I shall listen to the sound of Your praises and gaze at Your beauty ever present, never future, never past.  But now my years are but sighs.  

[Message No: 7849]

JESUS - 3

. Matthew 8:20

And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.”

. Matthew 8:22

But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”

. Matthew 8:34

And behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus. And when they saw Him, they begged Him to depart from their region.

. Matthew 9:2

Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.”

. Matthew 9:4

But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts?

. Matthew 9:9

As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the . 

Matthew 9:10

Now it happened, as Jesus sat at the table in the house, that behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples.

. Matthew 9:15

And Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.

. Matthew 9:19

So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples.

. Matthewv9:22

But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, “Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And the woman was made well from that hour.

[Message No: 7848]

In the midst of Injustice

"Prepare chains, because the land is full of bloodshed and the city is full of violence." — Ezekiel 7:23

God hates it when the innocent are afflicted with violence and bloodshed. He hates evil and political corruption. He hates courts that are false and leaders who are abusive of their power. We need to rest assured that he will provide deliverance for his faithful followers and administer justice to those who "Prepare chains, because the land is full of bloodshed and the city is full of violence." — Ezekiel 7:23

Zeeb 

Judges 7:25

They also captured two of the Midianite leaders, Oreb and Zeeb . They killed Oreb at the rock of Oreb,  and Zeeb at the winepress of Zeeb. They pursued the Midianites  and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon, who was by the Jordan.

Judges 8:3

God gave Oreb and Zeeb,  the Midianite leaders, into your hands. What was I able to do compared to you?” At this, their resentment against him subsided.

Psalm 83:11

Make their nobles like Oreb and Zeeb, 

 all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna,

Thoughts   

. I shuddered to think how many times in the past several years I’d made the mistake of confusing faith in myself with faith in God. - Christi Paul

. The one principle of hell is-I am my own. - George Macdonald

. A beggar one day came up to me and said, “Mother Teresa, everybody gives you things for the poor, I also want to give you something.  But today, I am only able to get ten pence.  I want to give that to you.”  I said to myself, “If I take it, he might have to go to bed without eating.  If I don’t take it, I will hurt him.”  So I took it.  And I’ve never seen so much joy on anybody’s face who has given his money or food, as I saw on that man’s face.  He was happy that he too could give something.  This is the joy of loving. - Mother Teresa

[Message No: 7847]

How do you call Jesus?

"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ." — Mark 8:29

The sweetest confession we will ever make is this: I believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and I want him to be Lord of my life. Let's say it again, out loud, to the glory of God the father. 

Then, let's commit that before our last day, we're going to help someone else come to say it for the first time!

Divine Certainties 

. Salvation of the Sinner

Romans 10:9

If you declare  with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,”  and believe  in your heart that God raised him from the dead,  you will be saved.

Isaiah 12:2

Surely God is my salvation; 

 I will trust  and not be afraid.

 The Lord, the Lord himself,  is my strength  and my defense;

 he has become my salvation.

Questions in Prayer 

9] What kind of man was Cornelius? – Acts 10:12

It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles and birds.

10] Should we pray in the Holy Spirit? – Jude 1:20

But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up  in your most holy faith  and praying in the Holy Spirit,

11] Should we have faith? – James 1:6

But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt,  because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

Thoughts   

. The victory lies not with us, but with Christ, who hast taken on him both to conquer for us and to conquer in us. - Richard Sibbes

. If a man wins God’s race, it doesn’t matter where else he loses.  If a man loses God’s race, it matters not where else he may win. - Steven Lawson

. O Christ, I see thy crown of thorns in every eye, thy bleeding, naked, wounded body in every soul; thy death liveth in every memory; thy crucified Person is embalmed in every affection; thy pierced feet are bathed in everyone’s tears; and it is my privilege to enter with thee into every soul. - Thomas Traherne

[Message No:7846]

Timing …

Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. — Acts 7:25

Timing is everything. Well, not everything, but an important thing. God's plan and power provide us with everything. Finding his timing for that plan and power is crucial. When Moses took it upon himself to redeem God's people, he failed. After being humbled in the wilderness, God called him back to deliver the people at the divine moment and according to the Almighty's plan. The results led to the Exodus — the redemption and rebirth of God's holy people.

Encouragement 

. Acts 4:36

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas  (which means “son of encouragement”),

. Acts 20:2

He travelled through that area, speaking many words of encouragement to the people, and finally arrived in Greece,

. Romans 15:4

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us,  so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

. 1 Corinthians 15:4

that he was buried,  that he was raised  on the third day  according to the Scriptures

. 1 Corinthians 14:3

But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening,  encouraging  and comfort.

.  Philippians 2:1

Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit,  if any tenderness and compassion,

. Hebrews 6:18

God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie,  we who have fled to take hold of the hope  set before us may be greatly encouraged.

[Message No: 7845]

God’s Encouragement in Tough Times

Judges 7:8-15

God graciously used that incident to strengthen one man’s confidence in Him, and He encourages His children in similar ways today. The unexpected, hopeful circumstances that show up in our darkest moments are not accidents but precious assurance builders from the Lord. When we remember past evidence of His faithfulness, we can boldly face the future, knowing that God is always with us.

Long Term Security 

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. — Matthew 6:20

Where's your treasure? What are you doing to invest in long term security? Why not make sure your most important investments are guaranteed a great return!

He is our ultimate Genesis        

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. — Genesis 1:1

We are creatures of the earth. Yes, we are much more than that, but occasionally we need to be reminded of that! We can't truly understand existence before time, yet before the beginning of time as we know it, God existed — he has revealed himself as "I Am," the one who was and who is and who is to come. Before there was an ordered universe to provide the basis of our existence, God is "I Am." 

He had existence before, beyond, and without our created universe. We can't even truly comprehend this in its entirety. That's why every new beginning — whether it is a day, a week, a year, or a millennium — should begin with God. He alone is the ultimate Genesis, our beginning.

Bible Tells Us  – 

. He’s Still Knocking

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.”  Revelation 3:20

. Begin where you are -Psalm 19:1

The heavens  declare  the glory of God; 

 the skies  proclaim the work of his hands.

The heavens  declare  the glory of God; 

 the skies  proclaim the work of his hands.

[Message No: 7844]

Who God Really Is ? - 3 .

 Who God Really Is? - 3

. Cornerstone – Ephesians 2:20

having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone

. Dayspring – Luke 1:78

Through the tender mercy of our God,

 With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;

. Day Star – 2 Peter 1:19

And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts;

. Deliverer – Romans 11:26

And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written:

  “The Deliverer will come out of Zion,

 And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob;

. Desire of Nations – Haggai 2:7

and I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory,’ says the Lord of hosts.

. Emmanuel – Matthew 1:23

Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”

. End – Revelation 21:6

And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.

. Everlasting Father – Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a Child is born,

 Unto us a Son is given;

 And the government will be upon His shoulder.

 And His name will be called

 Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God,

 Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

[Message No: 7843]

Cried

Numbers 11:2

Then the people cried out to Moses, and when Moses prayed to the Lord, the fire was quenched. So

Judges 6:7

And it came to pass, when the children of Israel cried out to the Lord because of the Midianites,

2 Samuel 19:4

But the king covered his face, and the king cried out with a loud voice, “O my son Absalom! O Absalom, my son, my son!”

Mark 6:49

And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out;

John 19:15

But they cried out, “Away with Him, away with Him! Crucify Him!”

  Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?”

  The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar!”

Bible Tells Us  – 

. Lord, Draw Me into a Closer Walk with You

John 14:16-17

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

James 4:14

whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.

Jeremiah 3:15

And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.

[Message No: 7842]

Bible Tells Us – 1

. Lord, Cleanse Me and Make My Heart Right before You

James 5:16

Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 

Psalm 32:5

I acknowledged my sin to You,

 And my iniquity I have not hidden.

 I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”

 And You forgave the iniquity of my sin.

 Selah

1 John 3:21-22

Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.

. Lord, help me to be a forgiving person

Luke 6:37

“Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

Proverbs 19:11

A person’s wisdom yields patience; 

 it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.

Matthew 5:44-45

But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,    that you may be children  of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

. Lord, teach me to walk in obedience to your ways

John 14:21

Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me.  The one who loves me will be loved by my Father,  and I too will love them and show myself to them.”

1 John 3:24

The one who keeps God’s commands  lives in him,  and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.

[Message No: 7841]

Who God Really Is? - 2

. Branch – Zechariah 3:8

Hear, O Joshua, the high priest,

 You and your companions who sit before you,

 For they are a wondrous sign;

 For behold, I am bringing forth My Servant the BRANCH.

. Bread of Life – 

John 6:35

And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst

John 6:48

I am the bread of life.

. Bridegroom – Matthew 9:15

And Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.

. Carpenter – Mark 6:3

Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him.

. Chief Shepherd – 1 Peter 5:4

and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

. The Christ – Matthew 1:16

And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ.

. Comforter – Jeremiah 8:18

I would comfort myself in sorrow;

 My heart is faint in me.

. Consolation of Israel – Luke 2:25

And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

[Message No: 7840]

Fruits of the Spirit

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. — Galatians 5:22-23

Where the Holy Spirit lives, human character is changed and spiritual fruit can be seen. Certainly this maturity isn't found overnight! It is, however, noticeable over the long haul of life. What fruit is the Spirit bearing in your life? In what ways have you matured? In what areas do you want the Spirit to exercise greater control? Why not take a moment and consciously yield those areas in which you struggle to him now, as you pray?

The Believer Has In Heaven

. A Saviour – Philippians 3:20 

But our citizenship  is in heaven.  And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,

. An Inheritance – 1 Peter 1:4

and into an inheritance  that can never perish, spoil or fade.  This inheritance is kept in heaven for you,

. His name written there – Luke 10:20

However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

. His citizenship is there – Philippians 3:20

But our citizenship  is in heaven.  And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,

. His hope laid up – Colossians 1:5

the faith and love that spring from the hope  stored up for you in heaven  and about which you have already heard in the true message  of the gospel

. His Master is there – Ephesians 6:9

And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours  is in heaven, and there is no favouritism  with him.

. His home is there – Hebrews 11:16

Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one.  Therefore God is not ashamed  to be called their God,  for he has prepared a city  for them.

[Message No: 7839]

Evening

Genesis 1:5

God called  the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.”  And there was evening, and there was morning —the first day.

Genesis 1:8

God called  the vault “sky.”  And there was evening, and there was morning —the second day.

Genesis 19:1

The two angels  arrived at Sodom  in the evening, and Lot  was sitting in the gateway of the city.  When he saw them, he got up to meet them and bowed down with his face to the ground.

Genesis 24:11

He had the camels kneel down near the well  outside the town; it was toward evening, the time the women go out to draw water.

Luke 24:29

But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.

Matthew 27:57

As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus.

Matthew 8:16

When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick.

Psalm 55:17

Evening,  morning  and noon 

 I cry out in distress,

 and he hears my voice.

Psalm 107:23

Some went out on the sea  in ships; 

 they were merchants on the mighty waters.

1 Kings 17:6

The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning  and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook.

[Message No: 7838]

Elizabeth

Luke 1:5

In the time of Herod king of Judea  there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah;  his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron

Luke 1:13

But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid,  Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.

Luke 1:36

Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child  in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month.

Luke 1:40

where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.

Luke 1:57

When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son.

Lay

Deuteronomy 4:39

Acknowledge  and take to heart this day that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other.

Judges 4:22

Just then Barak came by in pursuit of Sisera, and Jael  went out to meet him. “Come,” she said, “I will show you the man you’re looking for.” So he went in with her, and there lay Sisera with the tent peg through his temple—dead.

Job 21:5

Look at me and be appalled;

 clap your hand over your mouth.

Psalm 83:3

With cunning they conspire  against your people;

 they plot against those you cherish.

Acts 28:8

His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer,  placed his hands on him  and healed him.

[Message No: 7837]

In Relation to God the Father - 1

= Access to God’s grace

Ephesians 2:18

For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.

Ephesians 3:12

in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.

= Adoption as a son into Gpd’s family

Galatians 4:5

to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.

Ephesians 1:5

having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to

= Inheritance

Acts 26:18

to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’

= Elected 

1 Peter 1:2

elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ:

  Grace to you and peace be multiplied.

Ephesians 1:4

just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love,

= Child of God

John 1:12

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:

[Message No: 7836]

Caring for the God’s servants

In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. — 1 Corinthians 9:14

One of the great tragedies of our modern world is that while some who preach and teach the gospel are charlatans and cheats, the vast majority of God's servants work just barely scraping by financially. Why not find some underpaid and forgotten Kingdom servant and share a little of the blessings God has given you?

Questions in Prayer 

1] In whose name are we to pray? – John 16:23

In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

2] How can we keep from temptation – Luke 22:40

On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.”

3] How did He pray in the garden of Gethsemane? – Luke 22:42-45

Father, if you are willing, take this cup  from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”    An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.    And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.

    When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow.

Warning Against the Teachers of the Law

Mark 12:38-40

  As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces,   and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.    They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”

Thought 

. We bless God our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gathers together in one the children of God that are scattered abroad.  We are divided from one another not only in matters of faith, order, and tradition, but also by pride of nation, class, and race.  But Christ has made us one, and He is not divided.  In seeking Him we find one another. - First Assembly of the World Council of Churches

[Message No: 7835]

Be honest with God

"Therefore I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul." — Job 7:11

We sometimes think of God as too fragile, too distant, or too brooding to speak with him honestly about our dilemmas. Job wasn't so shy. He is the great reminder that God prefers us to maintain our relationship with him, even if it is stormy. No matter where you are in your struggles, be honest with God — not disrespectfully, but sincerely. Let him minister to your truest hurts, frustrations, and fears, not just the simple and sanitized ones.

His Gifts and Grace

. His Bestowed Life – 1 John 5:11

And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life,  and this life is in his Son

. His Sufficient Grace – 2 Corinthians 12:9

But he said to me, “My grace  is sufficient for you, for my power  is made perfect in weakness. ”  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

. His Mighty Hand – 1 Peter 1:5

who through faith are shielded by God’s power  until the coming of the salvation  that is ready to be revealed  in the last time.

. His Garrisoning Peace – Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God,  which transcends all understanding,  will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Bible Tells Us  – 

. I will rebuke the devourer –

Malachi 3:11

I will prevent pests from devouring  your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe, ” says the Lord Almighty.

. City to finish the –

Daniel 9:24

Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city  to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone  for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness,  to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the Most Holy Place.

. Not in Vain – 1 Corinthians 15:58

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord,  because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

[Message No: 7834]

Jesus Saith, Said, Spake, and Cried

. A Divine Revelation

John 11:25

Jesus said to her, “I am  the resurrection and the life.  The one who believes  in me will live, even though they die;

. A Divine Inquiry

John 11:34

Where have you laid him?” he asked.

 “Come and see, Lord,” they replied.

. A Divine Direction

John 11:39

Take away the stone,” he said.

 “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.”

. A Divine Reminder

John 11:40

Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe,  you will see the glory of God?”

. A Divine Attitude

John 11:41

So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up  and said, “Father,  I thank you that you have heard me.

. A Divine Mandate

John 11:43

When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”

. A Divine Loosing

John 11:44

The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen,  and a cloth around his face. 

 Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

[Message No: 7833]

Is our Father is disappointed in us

If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. — Luke 9:26

Some of the saddest words a loving child ever can hear are these: "I'm so disappointed in you." We don't want that to be the reaction of our Heavenly Father. We want the world to know that we love and honor Jesus as Lord so they can come to know our Savior, too, and so that we can bring delight to our Father in Heaven!

Forgiveness

. You will become emotionally stronger. It takes a lot of courage and mental strength to forgive someone that caused us significant pain. When we practice forgiveness, we’re allowing any negative emotions we’ve been holding onto to release. This can make us feel mentally and emotionally lighter, which can be very freeing. The practice of forgiveness will enable us to grow mentally and emotionally stronger.

Bible Tells Us  – 

.  Painting a Portrait – Philippians 2:5

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

. Home – Ephesians 2:19

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers,  but fellow citizens  with God’s people and also members of his household,

. Mayday – Psalm 86:7

When I am in distress,  I call  to you,

 because you answer  me.

. After You – Genesis 13:9

Is not the whole land before you? Let’s part company. If you go to the left, I’ll go to the right; if you go to the right, I’ll go to the left.”

. A small Fire – James 3:5

Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts.  Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.

. Running and Rest – Mark 6:31

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat,  he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

. Cradled in Comfort – Isaiah 66:13

As a mother comforts her child, 

 so will I comfort  you;

 and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.”

[Message No: 7832]

How to love the Church - 1

. Keep the Church in your Heart

Philippians 1:7

It is right  for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart  and, whether I am in chains  or defending  and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.

2 Corinthians 3:2

You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone.

2 Corinthians 7:3

I do not say this to condemn you; I have said before that you have such a place in our hearts  that we would live or die with you

. Open your heart in love to the Church

2 Corinthians 6:11

We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you.

2 Corinthians 2:4

For I wrote you  out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you.

1 Corinthians 16:24

My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 3:12

My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.

2 Corinthians 11:11

Colossians 2:5

For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit  and delight to see how disciplined  you are and how firm  your faith in Christ  is.

. Have constant holy longings for the Church

Philippians 4:1

For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit  and delight to see how disciplined  you are and how firm  your faith in Christ  is.

[Message No: 7831]

Emblems of the Holy Spirit - 1

. Water

John 3:5

Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.

John 7:38-39

Whoever believes  in me, as Scripture has said,  rivers of living water  will flow from within them.”    By this he meant the Spirit,  whom those who believed in him were later to receive.  Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.

. Water fertilizes

Psalm 1:3

That person is like a tree  planted by streams  of water, 

 which yields its fruit  in season

 and whose leaf  does not wither—

 whatever they do prospers.

. Water refreshes

John 4:14

but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.  Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water  welling up to eternal life.”

Psalm  46:4

There is a river  whose streams  make glad the city of God, 

 the holy place where the Most High  dwells.

Isaiah 41:17-18

The poor and needy search for water, 

 but there is none;

 their tongues are parched with thirst. 

 But I the Lord will answer  them;

 I, the God of Israel, will not forsake  them.

    I will make rivers flow  on barren heights,

 and springs within the valleys.

 I will turn the desert  into pools of water, 

 and the parched ground into springs.

[Message No: 7830]

An Awareness of God

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The three commands in today’s passage may look simple because they’re short, but many people find them challenging to obey. Our lives are so full of responsibilities and activities that it’s all we can do to keep up our schedules, let alone live as these verses command. There’s only one way to succeed—not by trying harder but by focusing on Christ. When He becomes the center of our attention, our attitude and behavior will change. 

Rejoice Always

Pray without ceasing

Give thanks in everything

These three admonitions are a call to become preoccupied with Christ. If we are consumed with other thoughts, it’s easy to feel irritated, worry unceasingly, and complain about everything. But when we begin each day in God’s Word, we are reminded of His instructions and His care.

Questions in 2 Chronicles 

16:8

Were the Ethiopians and the Lubim not a huge army with very many chariots and horsemen? Yet, because you relied on the Lord, He delivered them into your hand.

18:3

So Ahab king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat king of Judah, “Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?”

  And he answered him, “I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will be with you in the war.”

18:5

Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, four hundred men, and said to them, “Shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead, or shall I refrain?”

  So they said, “Go up, for God will deliver it into the king's hand.”

Thoughts 

. I want to adorn myself, not out of a worldly pride, but for the love of God alone. - Elizabeth of Hungary

. It is certain because it is impossible. – Tertullian

[Message No: 7829]