Anyone who has had fertility problems needs to hear this bible truth. I can not tell you how many times I have heard women say, I was told by doctors I would never have children. But they did not believe man. All things are not possible with man but they are with God.
2 Kings4:8-17 One day Elisha went on to Shunem, where a wealthy woman lived, who urged him to eat some food. So whenever he passed that way, he would turn in there to eat food. And she said to her husband, "Behold now, I know that this is a holy man of God who is continually passing our way. Let us make a small room on the roof with walls and put there for him a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp, so that whenever he comes to us, he can go in there."
One day he came there, and he turned into the chamber and rested there. And he said to Gehazi his servant, "Call this Shunammite." When he had called her, she stood before him. And he said to him, "Say now to her, 'See, you have taken all this trouble for us; what is to be done for you? Would you have a word spoken on your behalf to the king or to the commander of the army?'" She answered, "I dwell among my own people." And he said, "What then is to be done for her?" Gehazi answered, "Well, she has no son, and her husband is old." He said, "Call her." And when he had called her, she stood in the doorway. And he said, "At this season, about this time next year, you shall embrace a son." And she said, "No, my lord, O man of God; do not lie to your servant." But the woman conceived, and she bore a son about that time the following spring, as Elisha had said to her.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Elisha and the Widow's Oil
2 Kings4:1-7
Now the wife of one of the sons of the prophets cried to Elisha, "Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the LORD, but the creditor has come to take my two children to be his slaves." And Elisha said to her, "What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?" And she said, "Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil." Then he said, "Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few. Then go in and shut the door behind yourself and your sons and pour into all these vessels. And when one is full, set it aside." So she went from him and shut the door behind herself and her sons. And as she poured they brought the vessels to her. When the vessels were full, she said to her son, "Bring me another vessel." And he said to her, "There is not another." Then the oil stopped flowing. She came and told the man of God, and he said, "Go, sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on the rest."
Elisha was a servant of God. The widow knew he was a man of God and placed her faith in God to fulfill her needs.
Lord, I pray for this bible truth to touch a soul who is searching. Open their heart to receive Your gift. Amen
Now the wife of one of the sons of the prophets cried to Elisha, "Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the LORD, but the creditor has come to take my two children to be his slaves." And Elisha said to her, "What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?" And she said, "Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil." Then he said, "Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few. Then go in and shut the door behind yourself and your sons and pour into all these vessels. And when one is full, set it aside." So she went from him and shut the door behind herself and her sons. And as she poured they brought the vessels to her. When the vessels were full, she said to her son, "Bring me another vessel." And he said to her, "There is not another." Then the oil stopped flowing. She came and told the man of God, and he said, "Go, sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on the rest."
Elisha was a servant of God. The widow knew he was a man of God and placed her faith in God to fulfill her needs.
Lord, I pray for this bible truth to touch a soul who is searching. Open their heart to receive Your gift. Amen
Be Careful When You Mock God
This is a bible truth about Elisha, the prophet that was called by God, after Elijah was taken up to heaven in the chariots of fire. He had asked for a double portion of Elijah's spirit before he left.
2 Kings 2:19-22
Now the men of the city said to Elisha, "Behold, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord sees, but the water is bad, and the land is unfruitful." He said, "Bring me a new bowl, and put salt in it." So they brought it to him. Then he went to the spring of water and threw salt in it and said, "Thus says the LORD, I have healed this water; from now on neither death nor miscarriage shall come from it." So the water has been healed to this day, according to the word that Elisha spoke.
2 Kings 2:23-25
He went up from there to Bethel, and while he was going up on the way, some small boys came out of the city and jeered at him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!" And he turned around, and when he saw them, he cursed them in the name of the LORD. And two she-bears came out of the woods and tore forty-two of the boys. From there he went on to Mount Carmel, and from there he returned to Samaria.
2 Kings 2:19-22
Now the men of the city said to Elisha, "Behold, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord sees, but the water is bad, and the land is unfruitful." He said, "Bring me a new bowl, and put salt in it." So they brought it to him. Then he went to the spring of water and threw salt in it and said, "Thus says the LORD, I have healed this water; from now on neither death nor miscarriage shall come from it." So the water has been healed to this day, according to the word that Elisha spoke.
2 Kings 2:23-25
He went up from there to Bethel, and while he was going up on the way, some small boys came out of the city and jeered at him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!" And he turned around, and when he saw them, he cursed them in the name of the LORD. And two she-bears came out of the woods and tore forty-two of the boys. From there he went on to Mount Carmel, and from there he returned to Samaria.
Elijah the Prophet
Elijah the prophet was a very obedient servant of the Lord. He spoke the truth of God regardless the cost. He predicted the famine in Israel, was fed in the wilderness by ravens sent from God, raised to life a dead boy, defeated the Baal's prophets, and predicted a kings death, which came true, because he would not seek God's ways. Here is some of his story from God's word.
Kings2:1-12 Now when the LORD was about to take Elijah up to heaven by a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. And Elijah said to Elisha, "Please stay here, for the LORD has sent me as far as Bethel." But Elisha said,"As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you." So they went down to Bethel. And the sons of the prophets who were in Bethel came out to Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that today the LORD will take away your master from over you?" And he said, "Yes, I know it; keep quiet."
Elijah said to him, "Elisha, please stay here, for the LORD has sent me to Jericho." But he said "As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you." So they came to Jericho. The sons of the prophets who were at Jericho drew near to Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that today the LORD will take away your master from over you?" And he answered, "Yes, I know it; keep quiet."
Then Elijah said to him, "Please stay here, for the LORD has sent me to the Jordan." But he said, "As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you." So the two of them went on. Fifty men of the sons of the prophets also went and stood at some distance from them, as they both were standing by the Jordan. Then Elijah took his cloak and rolled it up and struck the water, and the water was parted to the one side and to the other, till the two of them could go over on dry ground.
When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, "Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you." And Elisha said, "Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me." And he said, "You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but if you do not see me, it shall not be so." And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it and he cried, "My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!" And he saw him no more.
Lord, what a wonderful glimpse of You and Your faithfulness we get in this bible truth. Lord, I pray for us to be obedient to Your word. Amen
Kings2:1-12 Now when the LORD was about to take Elijah up to heaven by a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. And Elijah said to Elisha, "Please stay here, for the LORD has sent me as far as Bethel." But Elisha said,"As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you." So they went down to Bethel. And the sons of the prophets who were in Bethel came out to Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that today the LORD will take away your master from over you?" And he said, "Yes, I know it; keep quiet."
Elijah said to him, "Elisha, please stay here, for the LORD has sent me to Jericho." But he said "As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you." So they came to Jericho. The sons of the prophets who were at Jericho drew near to Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that today the LORD will take away your master from over you?" And he answered, "Yes, I know it; keep quiet."
Then Elijah said to him, "Please stay here, for the LORD has sent me to the Jordan." But he said, "As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you." So the two of them went on. Fifty men of the sons of the prophets also went and stood at some distance from them, as they both were standing by the Jordan. Then Elijah took his cloak and rolled it up and struck the water, and the water was parted to the one side and to the other, till the two of them could go over on dry ground.
When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, "Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you." And Elisha said, "Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me." And he said, "You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but if you do not see me, it shall not be so." And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it and he cried, "My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!" And he saw him no more.
Lord, what a wonderful glimpse of You and Your faithfulness we get in this bible truth. Lord, I pray for us to be obedient to Your word. Amen
Captain of Fifty Men and His Fifty
2Kings:1
After the death of Ahab, Moab rebelled against Israel.
Now Ahaziah fell through the lattice in his upper chamber in Samaria, and lay sick; so he sent messengers, telling them, "Go, inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether I shall recover from this sickness." But the angel of the LORD said to Elijah the Tishbite, "Arise, go up to meet the messengers of the king of Samaria, and say to them, 'Is it because there is no God in Israel that you are going to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron? Now therefore thus says the LORD, You shall not come down from the bed to which you have gone up, but you shall surely die.'" So Elijah went.
The messengers returned to the king, and he said to them, "Why have you returned?" And they said to him, "There came a man to meet us, and said to us, 'Go back to the king who sent you, and say to him, Thus says the LORD, Is it because there is no God in Israel that you are sending to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron? Therefore you shall not come down from the bed to which you have gone up, but you shall surely die.'" He said to them, "What kind of man was he who came to meet you and told you these things?" They answered him, "He wore a garment of hair, with a belt of leather about his waist." And he said, "It is Elijah the Tishbite."
Then the king sent to him a captain of fifty men with his fifty. He went up to Elijah, who was sitting on the top of a hill, and said to him, "O man of God, the king says, 'Come down.'" But Elijah answered the captain of fifty, "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty." Then fire came down from heaven and consumed him and his fifty.
Three times the king sent a captain of fifty and his fifty. Each time, except the third time they were consumed by fire from God. The following verses tell of the third visit to Elijah.
Again the king sent the captain of a third fifty with his fifty. And the third captain of fifty went up and came and fell on his knees before Elijah and entreated him, "O man of God, please let my life, and the life of these fifty servants of yours, be precious in your sight. Behold, fire came down from heaven and consumed the two former captains of fifty men with their fifties, but now let my life be precious in your sight." Then the angel of the LORD said to Elijah, "Go down with him; do not be afraid of him." So he arose and went down with him to the king and said to him, "Thus says the LORD, 'Because you have sent messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron—is it because there is no God in Israel to inquire of his word? therefore you shall not come down from the bed to which you have gone up, but you shall surely die.'"
So he died according to the word of the LORD that Elijah had spoken
This bible truth is such a blessing to read. It shows that the truth of God is undeniable! There is only one God! He can call down fire from heaven as well as change a sinner's heart. How awesome is that?
Lord, You are truly our one and only living God. You are a wonder to us and we fear You but yet we still worship You.Amen
After the death of Ahab, Moab rebelled against Israel.
Now Ahaziah fell through the lattice in his upper chamber in Samaria, and lay sick; so he sent messengers, telling them, "Go, inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether I shall recover from this sickness." But the angel of the LORD said to Elijah the Tishbite, "Arise, go up to meet the messengers of the king of Samaria, and say to them, 'Is it because there is no God in Israel that you are going to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron? Now therefore thus says the LORD, You shall not come down from the bed to which you have gone up, but you shall surely die.'" So Elijah went.
The messengers returned to the king, and he said to them, "Why have you returned?" And they said to him, "There came a man to meet us, and said to us, 'Go back to the king who sent you, and say to him, Thus says the LORD, Is it because there is no God in Israel that you are sending to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron? Therefore you shall not come down from the bed to which you have gone up, but you shall surely die.'" He said to them, "What kind of man was he who came to meet you and told you these things?" They answered him, "He wore a garment of hair, with a belt of leather about his waist." And he said, "It is Elijah the Tishbite."
Then the king sent to him a captain of fifty men with his fifty. He went up to Elijah, who was sitting on the top of a hill, and said to him, "O man of God, the king says, 'Come down.'" But Elijah answered the captain of fifty, "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty." Then fire came down from heaven and consumed him and his fifty.
Three times the king sent a captain of fifty and his fifty. Each time, except the third time they were consumed by fire from God. The following verses tell of the third visit to Elijah.
Again the king sent the captain of a third fifty with his fifty. And the third captain of fifty went up and came and fell on his knees before Elijah and entreated him, "O man of God, please let my life, and the life of these fifty servants of yours, be precious in your sight. Behold, fire came down from heaven and consumed the two former captains of fifty men with their fifties, but now let my life be precious in your sight." Then the angel of the LORD said to Elijah, "Go down with him; do not be afraid of him." So he arose and went down with him to the king and said to him, "Thus says the LORD, 'Because you have sent messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron—is it because there is no God in Israel to inquire of his word? therefore you shall not come down from the bed to which you have gone up, but you shall surely die.'"
So he died according to the word of the LORD that Elijah had spoken
This bible truth is such a blessing to read. It shows that the truth of God is undeniable! There is only one God! He can call down fire from heaven as well as change a sinner's heart. How awesome is that?
Lord, You are truly our one and only living God. You are a wonder to us and we fear You but yet we still worship You.Amen
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Holy Marriage-Holy Sexual Relations
The song of Solomon goes into great detail about sexual relations in marriage. It is blessed by God and is meant to be greatly enjoyed. It is an intimate time for a husband and wife to be with each other away from all of life's cares. Heb.13:4 Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. Gen.2:24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
God has ordained marriage as holy between one man and one woman. I just heard a wonderful sermon from my pastor on Song of Solomon. He told us there is a connection between the marriage of man and woman and Christ and His bride, the church. We are to have exclusive, humble and continual devotion for both our relationship with our spouse and Christ.
Lord, I pray that we will never take our marriage or our relationship with You for granted. May we always be mindful that You have given us such sweet gifts. Amen
God has ordained marriage as holy between one man and one woman. I just heard a wonderful sermon from my pastor on Song of Solomon. He told us there is a connection between the marriage of man and woman and Christ and His bride, the church. We are to have exclusive, humble and continual devotion for both our relationship with our spouse and Christ.
Lord, I pray that we will never take our marriage or our relationship with You for granted. May we always be mindful that You have given us such sweet gifts. Amen
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Your Love Is Better Than Life
Ps.63:1-4 God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Where would we be without the love of God? I need Him as much as I need food and water to survive. Who would I turn to in times of sorrow or in times of joy? Who would calm my spirit when the world in in turmoil? I think about the time, when I was much younger, and the wonder of knowing who God is entered my mind. My mother, grandmother and numerous Sunday school teachers and youth Ministers gave various good answers but I needed to find out for myself. It has taken me many years of wonderful sermons, many hours of reading the bible and praying for understanding. If I have learned anything, it is God is always going to give you something different every time you read His word. He will keep you interested. He will become a dear friend whom you will never want to be without. We will never understand it all until Jesus comes back. The world may not go on too much longer, please get ready for Jesus to come and claim His bride.
Lord, I ask for Your blessings on us as we strive to follow Your will. Keep the evil one from us for we know he stands ready to try to stop us. Praise God he is defeated! Lord, I pray for our teams that go out all over the world in Your name, that You would reap a plentiful harvest. Some of us may not go now, but we will support, pray and serve locally. Lord, prepare us for Your service in mind and spirit. Amen
Where would we be without the love of God? I need Him as much as I need food and water to survive. Who would I turn to in times of sorrow or in times of joy? Who would calm my spirit when the world in in turmoil? I think about the time, when I was much younger, and the wonder of knowing who God is entered my mind. My mother, grandmother and numerous Sunday school teachers and youth Ministers gave various good answers but I needed to find out for myself. It has taken me many years of wonderful sermons, many hours of reading the bible and praying for understanding. If I have learned anything, it is God is always going to give you something different every time you read His word. He will keep you interested. He will become a dear friend whom you will never want to be without. We will never understand it all until Jesus comes back. The world may not go on too much longer, please get ready for Jesus to come and claim His bride.
Lord, I ask for Your blessings on us as we strive to follow Your will. Keep the evil one from us for we know he stands ready to try to stop us. Praise God he is defeated! Lord, I pray for our teams that go out all over the world in Your name, that You would reap a plentiful harvest. Some of us may not go now, but we will support, pray and serve locally. Lord, prepare us for Your service in mind and spirit. Amen
Friday, May 28, 2010
Count Your Blessings Name Them One By One
You all remember that old song, don't you? It is full of God's honest truth! We have so many blessings, we can not even count them all. When the devil starts his attacks on you, tell him to hit the road. He is defeated!
Don't let him steal your blessings God has given you. Fight for them. The devil likes for us to feel sorry for ourselves because it makes us an ineffective tool for the Lord. Our time here is limited so we must keep the faith. So when you feel overwhelmed, remember these verses always:
Phil. 4:11-13 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Now, back to the song! Read these precious words and rejoice!!!
When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey's end.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
Don't these words make you want to shout??? Lord, thank you!!!
Don't let him steal your blessings God has given you. Fight for them. The devil likes for us to feel sorry for ourselves because it makes us an ineffective tool for the Lord. Our time here is limited so we must keep the faith. So when you feel overwhelmed, remember these verses always:
Phil. 4:11-13 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Now, back to the song! Read these precious words and rejoice!!!
When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey's end.
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!
Don't these words make you want to shout??? Lord, thank you!!!
King Ahab and His Wicked Wife Jezebel
1Kings 21:1-29
Now Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel, beside the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. And after this Ahab said to Naboth,"Give me your vineyard, that I may have it for a vegetable garden, because it is near my house, and I will give you a better vineyard for it; or, if it seems good to you, I will give you its value in money." But Naboth said to Ahab, "The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers." And Ahab went into his house vexed and sullen because of what Naboth the Jezreelite had said to him, for he had said, "I will not give you the inheritance of my fathers." And he lay down on his bed and turned away his face and would eat no food.
But Jezebel his wife came to him and said to him, "Why is your spirit so vexed that you eat no food?" And he said to her, "Because I spoke to Naboth the Jezreelite and said to him, 'Give me your vineyard for money, or else, if it please you, I will give you another vineyard for it.' And he answered, 'I will not give you my vineyard.'" And Jezebel his wife said to him, "Do you now govern Israel? Arise and eat bread and let your heart be cheerful; I will give you the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite."
So she wrote letters in Ahab’s name and sealed them with his seal, and she sent the letters to the elders and the leaders who lived with Naboth in his city. And she wrote in the letters, "Proclaim a fast, and set Naboth at the head of the people. And set two worthless men opposite him, and let them bring a charge against him, saying, 'You have cursed God and the king.' Then take him out and stone him to death." And the men of his city, the elders and the leaders who lived in his city, did as Jezebel had sent word to them. As it was written in the letters that she had sent to them, they proclaimed a fast and set Naboth at the head of the people. And the two worthless men came in and sat opposite him. And the worthless men brought a charge against Naboth in the presence of the people, saying, "Naboth cursed God and the king." So they took him outside the city and stoned him to death with stones. Then they sent to Jezebel, saying, "Naboth has been stoned; he is dead."
As soon as Jezebel heard that Naboth had been stoned and was dead, Jezebel said to Ahab, "Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give you for money, for Naboth is not alive, but dead." And as soon as Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, Ahab arose to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take possession of it.
Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, "Arise, go down to meet Ahab king of Israel, who is in Samaria; behold, he is in the vineyard of Naboth, where he has gone to take possession. And you shall say to him, 'Thus says the LORD, "Have you killed and also taken possession?"' And you shall say to him, 'Thus says the LORD:
"In the place where dogs licked up the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick your own blood."'"
Ahab said to Elijah,"Have you found me, O my enemy?" He answered, "I have found you, because you have sold yourself to do what is evil in the sight of the LORD. Behold, I will bring disaster upon you. I will utterly burn you up, and will cut off from Ahab every male, bond or free, in Israel. And I will make your house like the house of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and like the house of Baasha the son of Ahijah, for the anger to which you have provoked me, and because you have made Israel to sin. And of Jezebel the LORD also said, 'The dogs shall eat Jezebel within the walls of Jezreel.' Anyone belonging to Ahab who dies in the city the dogs shall eat, and anyone of his who dies in the open country the birds of the heavens shall eat."
There was none who sold himself to do what was evil in the sight of the LORD like Ahab, whom Jezebel his wife incited. He acted very abominably in going after idols, as the Amorites had done, whom the LORD cast out before the people of Israel. And when Ahab heard those words, he tore his clothes and put sackcloth on his flesh and fasted and lay in sackcloth and went about dejectedly. And the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, "Have you seen how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself before me, I will not bring the disaster in his days; but in his son’s days I will bring the disaster upon his house."
This is a really good story! I can't say very much about it other than, God does change his mind, well sort of!He saved Ahab's punishment for his son. Men, if you have a wife, keep her out of your business. She will only cause you a lot of grief!!!!
Now Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel, beside the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. And after this Ahab said to Naboth,"Give me your vineyard, that I may have it for a vegetable garden, because it is near my house, and I will give you a better vineyard for it; or, if it seems good to you, I will give you its value in money." But Naboth said to Ahab, "The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers." And Ahab went into his house vexed and sullen because of what Naboth the Jezreelite had said to him, for he had said, "I will not give you the inheritance of my fathers." And he lay down on his bed and turned away his face and would eat no food.
But Jezebel his wife came to him and said to him, "Why is your spirit so vexed that you eat no food?" And he said to her, "Because I spoke to Naboth the Jezreelite and said to him, 'Give me your vineyard for money, or else, if it please you, I will give you another vineyard for it.' And he answered, 'I will not give you my vineyard.'" And Jezebel his wife said to him, "Do you now govern Israel? Arise and eat bread and let your heart be cheerful; I will give you the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite."
So she wrote letters in Ahab’s name and sealed them with his seal, and she sent the letters to the elders and the leaders who lived with Naboth in his city. And she wrote in the letters, "Proclaim a fast, and set Naboth at the head of the people. And set two worthless men opposite him, and let them bring a charge against him, saying, 'You have cursed God and the king.' Then take him out and stone him to death." And the men of his city, the elders and the leaders who lived in his city, did as Jezebel had sent word to them. As it was written in the letters that she had sent to them, they proclaimed a fast and set Naboth at the head of the people. And the two worthless men came in and sat opposite him. And the worthless men brought a charge against Naboth in the presence of the people, saying, "Naboth cursed God and the king." So they took him outside the city and stoned him to death with stones. Then they sent to Jezebel, saying, "Naboth has been stoned; he is dead."
As soon as Jezebel heard that Naboth had been stoned and was dead, Jezebel said to Ahab, "Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give you for money, for Naboth is not alive, but dead." And as soon as Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, Ahab arose to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take possession of it.
Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, "Arise, go down to meet Ahab king of Israel, who is in Samaria; behold, he is in the vineyard of Naboth, where he has gone to take possession. And you shall say to him, 'Thus says the LORD, "Have you killed and also taken possession?"' And you shall say to him, 'Thus says the LORD:
"In the place where dogs licked up the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick your own blood."'"
Ahab said to Elijah,"Have you found me, O my enemy?" He answered, "I have found you, because you have sold yourself to do what is evil in the sight of the LORD. Behold, I will bring disaster upon you. I will utterly burn you up, and will cut off from Ahab every male, bond or free, in Israel. And I will make your house like the house of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and like the house of Baasha the son of Ahijah, for the anger to which you have provoked me, and because you have made Israel to sin. And of Jezebel the LORD also said, 'The dogs shall eat Jezebel within the walls of Jezreel.' Anyone belonging to Ahab who dies in the city the dogs shall eat, and anyone of his who dies in the open country the birds of the heavens shall eat."
There was none who sold himself to do what was evil in the sight of the LORD like Ahab, whom Jezebel his wife incited. He acted very abominably in going after idols, as the Amorites had done, whom the LORD cast out before the people of Israel. And when Ahab heard those words, he tore his clothes and put sackcloth on his flesh and fasted and lay in sackcloth and went about dejectedly. And the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, "Have you seen how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself before me, I will not bring the disaster in his days; but in his son’s days I will bring the disaster upon his house."
This is a really good story! I can't say very much about it other than, God does change his mind, well sort of!He saved Ahab's punishment for his son. Men, if you have a wife, keep her out of your business. She will only cause you a lot of grief!!!!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Lord Give Us This Much Faith
Merciful God in heaven,
This bible truth has so much depth to it, our feeble minds can't grasp it. Teach us O Lord for You have power over life and death. We don't understand the term eternal and just what it means to us. Lord, wipe our fear away so we can do Your will. Amen
1 Kings17:17-22
After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill. And his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. And she said to Elijah, "What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance and to cause the death of my son!" And he said to her, "Give me your son." And he took him from her arms and carried him up into the upper chamber where he lodged, and laid him on his own bed. And he cried to the LORD, "O LORD my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by killing her son?" Then he stretched himself upon the child three times and cried to the LORD, "O LORD my God, let this child’s life come into him again." And the LORD listened to the voice of Elijah. And the life of the child came into him again, and he revived.
Lord, I know You are ruler over all. Your inspired word is such a gift to us. Give us understanding of Your word. Unleash your power into our hands, help us know how to use it. Lord, We know You are coming soon, help us ready Your harvest. Amen
This bible truth has so much depth to it, our feeble minds can't grasp it. Teach us O Lord for You have power over life and death. We don't understand the term eternal and just what it means to us. Lord, wipe our fear away so we can do Your will. Amen
1 Kings17:17-22
After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill. And his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. And she said to Elijah, "What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance and to cause the death of my son!" And he said to her, "Give me your son." And he took him from her arms and carried him up into the upper chamber where he lodged, and laid him on his own bed. And he cried to the LORD, "O LORD my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by killing her son?" Then he stretched himself upon the child three times and cried to the LORD, "O LORD my God, let this child’s life come into him again." And the LORD listened to the voice of Elijah. And the life of the child came into him again, and he revived.
Lord, I know You are ruler over all. Your inspired word is such a gift to us. Give us understanding of Your word. Unleash your power into our hands, help us know how to use it. Lord, We know You are coming soon, help us ready Your harvest. Amen
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
And We Call Ourselves Good!
So we will not forget and pat ourselves on the back!
Ecc.7:20 Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.
So we won't think we have any thing to be proud of! We are not gods!
Ecc.8:7-9
For he does not know what is to be, for who can tell him how it will be? No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death. There is no discharge from war, nor will wickedness deliver those who are given to it. All this I observed while applying my heart to all that is done under the sun, when man had power over man to his hurt.
So we will know who is truly good, by His obedience to the Father, by His sacrifice on the cross!
Lev.17:11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
So we will not forget our place and know who saves us!
1 Peter 5:5-11
Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Ecc.7:20 Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.
So we won't think we have any thing to be proud of! We are not gods!
Ecc.8:7-9
For he does not know what is to be, for who can tell him how it will be? No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death. There is no discharge from war, nor will wickedness deliver those who are given to it. All this I observed while applying my heart to all that is done under the sun, when man had power over man to his hurt.
So we will know who is truly good, by His obedience to the Father, by His sacrifice on the cross!
Lev.17:11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
So we will not forget our place and know who saves us!
1 Peter 5:5-11
Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Seek The Lord
2 Chron.12:14 And he did evil, for he did not set his heart to seek the LORD.
Did you ever stop to think that it is evil not to seek the Lord? We try to flee evil but it can be a subtle thing that we commit out of the act of omission. Our everything depends on our pursuit of the Lord!
1Chron.7:14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
We must keep God in our thoughts all the time. We must ponder the deeper meanings of His word. If we feel under attack from the evil one we must turn to prayer immediately. He will flee when we go into the word because he knows he is defeated. Lord, help us share Your love as we bow before You. Teach us Lord!
1 John 3:17-20 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything. God is greater than our heart, how awesome is this truth?
Lord God Almighty, we seek your face. You are our deliverer and ever present help in time of trouble. Have mercy on us and cleanse us from all sin. Lord, we need You more than we need breath. I have seen Your glory in the things that You do. You change people, ones that are hopeless, ones that have been tossed aside as trash, You make new! How can this be? Except that You are all powerful, all knowing and ever so merciful to a stiff necked-people. Lord, teach us Your ways through Your word. Open the mystery of You to us through Your word. Amen
Did you ever stop to think that it is evil not to seek the Lord? We try to flee evil but it can be a subtle thing that we commit out of the act of omission. Our everything depends on our pursuit of the Lord!
1Chron.7:14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
We must keep God in our thoughts all the time. We must ponder the deeper meanings of His word. If we feel under attack from the evil one we must turn to prayer immediately. He will flee when we go into the word because he knows he is defeated. Lord, help us share Your love as we bow before You. Teach us Lord!
1 John 3:17-20 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything. God is greater than our heart, how awesome is this truth?
Lord God Almighty, we seek your face. You are our deliverer and ever present help in time of trouble. Have mercy on us and cleanse us from all sin. Lord, we need You more than we need breath. I have seen Your glory in the things that You do. You change people, ones that are hopeless, ones that have been tossed aside as trash, You make new! How can this be? Except that You are all powerful, all knowing and ever so merciful to a stiff necked-people. Lord, teach us Your ways through Your word. Open the mystery of You to us through Your word. Amen
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The Tithe: Our Celebration of God's Love
I guess a lot of you will think that the title of today's blog comment is rather crazy! In your mind you will say, we are under a new grace covenant and that we need not tithe because it is not commanded by God for us now. Well, that is true, except that everything you have is already God's in the first place. Did you ever stop to think of that? By the grace of God, you have life, family, wealth, health, wisdom, knowledge, gifts etc. all are from the Lord God Almighty, creator of all things. My pastor gave the most wonderful sermon tonight on the tithe. It was about the old testament tithe and how it is still applicable today for us. We have also been talking about how we have lost out in our relationship with God by chasing the American dream of wealth. We have let the ways of the world change us in our pursuit of God. Do we ever just look around and see that there are people who need our help? I know that all of you know that when you die, you will not take one thing with you from here. God is the keeper of all things here and in heaven. Our material possessions should hold no place in our hearts.
Prov.28:6 Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways. Prov.28:27 Whoever gives to the poor will not want, but he who hides his eyes will get many a curse. Prov.11:4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.
Matt. 6:19-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Lord, I pray for our hearts to be captivated by You and You alone. In Your word give us courage to be content with what you have given us. Lord, let it be in our hearts to love people in Your name and to meet their needs by Your grace. Amen
Prov.28:6 Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways. Prov.28:27 Whoever gives to the poor will not want, but he who hides his eyes will get many a curse. Prov.11:4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.
Matt. 6:19-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Lord, I pray for our hearts to be captivated by You and You alone. In Your word give us courage to be content with what you have given us. Lord, let it be in our hearts to love people in Your name and to meet their needs by Your grace. Amen
Saturday, May 22, 2010
The Righteous and The Wicked Share the Same Events in Life
Ecc.9:1-6
But all this I laid to heart, examining it all, how the righteous and the wise and their deeds are in the hand of God. Whether it is love or hate, man does not know; both are before him. It is the same for all, since the same event happens to the righteous and the wicked, to the good and the evil, to the clean and the unclean, to him who sacrifices and him who does not sacrifice. As the good one is, so is the sinner, and he who swears is as he who shuns an oath. This is an evil in all that is done under the sun, that the same event happens to all. Also, the hearts of the children of man are full of evil, and madness is in their hearts while they live, and after that they go to the dead. But he who is joined with all the living has hope, for a living dog is better than a dead lion. For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Their love and their hate and their envy have already perished, and forever they have no more share in all that is done under the sun.
What thoughts to hold in your heart! It doesn't matter whether you believe in God or not, he has both believer and non-believers' fate in his hands. Won't you bow to Him and surrender your heart today? You may not have a tomorrow! Lord, I pray for the one who might read Your word today. Open their heart to it so that they may see the hope that is found only in You. Amen
But all this I laid to heart, examining it all, how the righteous and the wise and their deeds are in the hand of God. Whether it is love or hate, man does not know; both are before him. It is the same for all, since the same event happens to the righteous and the wicked, to the good and the evil, to the clean and the unclean, to him who sacrifices and him who does not sacrifice. As the good one is, so is the sinner, and he who swears is as he who shuns an oath. This is an evil in all that is done under the sun, that the same event happens to all. Also, the hearts of the children of man are full of evil, and madness is in their hearts while they live, and after that they go to the dead. But he who is joined with all the living has hope, for a living dog is better than a dead lion. For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Their love and their hate and their envy have already perished, and forever they have no more share in all that is done under the sun.
What thoughts to hold in your heart! It doesn't matter whether you believe in God or not, he has both believer and non-believers' fate in his hands. Won't you bow to Him and surrender your heart today? You may not have a tomorrow! Lord, I pray for the one who might read Your word today. Open their heart to it so that they may see the hope that is found only in You. Amen
Thursday, May 20, 2010
According To Your Will O God
Rev.4:11 "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created."
1 John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. When we pray, in our narrow little mind, I think we are asking God for things without considering His will. I know I am guilty of this. In my bible study and prayer, I have been convicted about this very thing. I have made a real effort to try to always say, Lord, if it is Your will, when I talk to Him. I think we don't consider that He is our Creator and His will is what matters. He does hear our pleas!
We are not alone and on our own. He gives us strength and knowledge. Our mission on this earth is to follow Him and to do His will. He has a plan for each and everyone of us to follow. And believe it or not, they all work together to bring him glory! What an awesome truth!!
1 John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. When we pray, in our narrow little mind, I think we are asking God for things without considering His will. I know I am guilty of this. In my bible study and prayer, I have been convicted about this very thing. I have made a real effort to try to always say, Lord, if it is Your will, when I talk to Him. I think we don't consider that He is our Creator and His will is what matters. He does hear our pleas!
We are not alone and on our own. He gives us strength and knowledge. Our mission on this earth is to follow Him and to do His will. He has a plan for each and everyone of us to follow. And believe it or not, they all work together to bring him glory! What an awesome truth!!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Praise His Name For He Alone Is Worthy
Ps.150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Ps.139:14 I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
1Chr. 16:25 For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; He is to be feared above all Gods.
Rev.5:2-11 And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?" But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. Then one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals."
Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. He came and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song:
"You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.
You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth." Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!"
O Lord, we praise You above all. Your name is precious beyond measure. Lord, forgive us and have mercy on us. We will praise you with our last breath. You are our King! Amen
Ps.139:14 I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
1Chr. 16:25 For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; He is to be feared above all Gods.
Rev.5:2-11 And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?" But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. Then one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals."
Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. He came and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song:
"You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.
You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth." Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!"
O Lord, we praise You above all. Your name is precious beyond measure. Lord, forgive us and have mercy on us. We will praise you with our last breath. You are our King! Amen
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Prayer and Fasting
Prayer and fasting is a celebration for God's goodness and mercy to His children.
Ps. 69:10 When I wept and humbled my soul with fasting, it became my reproach.
It may not be an easy thing to do but it will make you love the Lord even more. 2 Cor.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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. We serve an awesome God who cares for us. He wants us to know Him intimately. Prayer and fasting leads us to depend on the strength of His word and to seek Him earnestly. Food is a pleasure God has given us to keep body and soul together. We need to forgo this pleasure to receive God's deepest meaning for our lives.
Lord, most high God, we want You. We need You to be our God. Help us to really seek Your will for our lives. Pour out Your Spirit on our church so we may show Your love to the world. Give us courage to follow You to the ends of the earth. Break down the barriers of hard hearts so we may minister in Your name to the lost. Lord, we can't change anyone but You can. Put Your word in our hearts and minds and let it overflow to the hurting. Lord, reap your harvest. Amen
Romans 10:15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!"
Ps. 69:10 When I wept and humbled my soul with fasting, it became my reproach.
It may not be an easy thing to do but it will make you love the Lord even more. 2 Cor.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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. We serve an awesome God who cares for us. He wants us to know Him intimately. Prayer and fasting leads us to depend on the strength of His word and to seek Him earnestly. Food is a pleasure God has given us to keep body and soul together. We need to forgo this pleasure to receive God's deepest meaning for our lives.
Lord, most high God, we want You. We need You to be our God. Help us to really seek Your will for our lives. Pour out Your Spirit on our church so we may show Your love to the world. Give us courage to follow You to the ends of the earth. Break down the barriers of hard hearts so we may minister in Your name to the lost. Lord, we can't change anyone but You can. Put Your word in our hearts and minds and let it overflow to the hurting. Lord, reap your harvest. Amen
Romans 10:15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!"
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Job A Righteous Man
One of my favorite books of the bible is Job. I love this book more every time I read it. It is a story of great suffering by a righteous man of God. To show his sovereignty, God allows the devil to torment Job. Through no fault of his own, the devil attacks him, his family, possessions and his integrity in his community. Job's misery begins with his loss of his livestock, then his servants and all of his children were killed by a wind that collapsed the house on them. Job fell to the ground and tore his clothes and began to worship the Lord. In his anguish he cried; Job 1:21 Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised. Job never charged God with wrongdoing. Even when the devil attacks Jobs body with painful sores from his head to the bottom of his feet, he never sinned against God by cursing him. His own wife asked him why he did not just curse God and die. His reply was: will we only except good from God and not trouble? His own friends thought he was guilty of some horrible sin for God to strike him with such calamity. Job cursed the day he was born but still praised the Lord. The Lord blessed Job more in the latter part of his life than the first. He had seven sons and three daughters and thousands of livestock. He lived, by the Lord's will until he was one hundred and forty years old.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Rich and Poor
Prov.22:2 The rich and the poor have a common bond, the Lord is maker of them all. You just thought you had nothing in common with the poor. This verse better make you stop and think! You are in your circumstance only due to the Lord's command. Oh, how we take for granted where we live out our existence here on earth!
Ex.33:19 And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.
Listen to Jesus words, as he speaks of the poor.
Mark 14:7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. I am as guilty as you. It is ok to have a nice home, car etc. But we really need to have the mind set against bigger and better, and be better stewards of God's money. That's right it belongs to God! Most of us live well, we can afford to cut back and do some sharing. We need to be content with what we have.
Ex.33:19 And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.
Listen to Jesus words, as he speaks of the poor.
Mark 14:7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. I am as guilty as you. It is ok to have a nice home, car etc. But we really need to have the mind set against bigger and better, and be better stewards of God's money. That's right it belongs to God! Most of us live well, we can afford to cut back and do some sharing. We need to be content with what we have.
Worth
What bad things have you done? You keep having evil thoughts creeping into your mind? Besides, you are just having a little fun. Who could it hurt? Oh, the devil will whisper you are worthless. What a lie, you are like all the rest of us, a sinner. But God thought we had worth. He sent His only son to redeem us. There has been a struggle for man’s soul since Adam and Eve first brought sin into our world. The devil wanted to be God. He was punished in part for his rebellion; but his final judgment is soon to come. Praise God he is defeated! When the devil starts talking to you and you start to slip, read these words and you will hear a fraction of what the Lord thinks of you.
Ps. 139 13-17 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
Ps. 139 13-17 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
Words
Heb. 4:12-13 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of the soul and of the spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. We should therefore, take heed to think before we speak. Words can build up or tear down. The words of the bible can bring you to decision, to follow Christ or not. We can not prove to someone God is, even though creation shouts of his presence. But, they can’t disprove him either. Our faith comes from those precious words. Lord, I pray for you to give us faith and understanding of your word. Help us to guard our words. Let us be mindful that they do cut deep with wounds that may never heal. Amen
Thursday, May 13, 2010
The Lord Draws All People Unto Him
Do you believe that all people will go to heaven? It appears that some will and some will not. Is it that they, who are not going, were not predestined to go or simply that they never believed in or followed Holy God?
John 12:32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth will draw all people to myself. This verse says, draw all people, right? So, it states the invitation is open to all people. Then, why are some not going?
Deny God and His Son, that is the reason! God states very clearly that there is only one way!
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. I pray if you are not a believer in Christ Jesus, that you will get a bible and read it. Or attend a local God fearing church to be told about our good news, Jesus. Eternity awaits us on the other side of death. I will pray for you, I don't know you but God does.
Lord, draw all people to you. Give us a heart for the people who need you. Help us to love people in your name. Open our eyes to the ones who need us to love on them. We want the nations to fall in love with you. Amen
John 12:32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth will draw all people to myself. This verse says, draw all people, right? So, it states the invitation is open to all people. Then, why are some not going?
Deny God and His Son, that is the reason! God states very clearly that there is only one way!
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. I pray if you are not a believer in Christ Jesus, that you will get a bible and read it. Or attend a local God fearing church to be told about our good news, Jesus. Eternity awaits us on the other side of death. I will pray for you, I don't know you but God does.
Lord, draw all people to you. Give us a heart for the people who need you. Help us to love people in your name. Open our eyes to the ones who need us to love on them. We want the nations to fall in love with you. Amen
True Meaning of Love
Today is Feb.14th, Valentines Day. An appropriated day of love or so we have been told for generations. If you don’t show love to those you hold dear all the days you are here on this earth, then why make a big deal out of it for one special day? Almost every book of the bible speaks of love. Lord, your word even says to love your enemy and by doing so you will heap coals of fire on his head! Now it is easy to love those who are good to you but not so easy to love the unlovable. We should also love our neighbor. We are so wrapped up in our own little world, we ignore our neighbors. But most of all we should love the Lord our God with all our heart. This is not just loving Him but obeying Him. What about Jesus? While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Who can grasp that? I would say this word, love, is essential to following Christ. Do we ever stop and think about all the people who never get a hug or have a kind word spoken to them? We need to open our eyes to the lost and hurting around us. It may just make a huge difference in all our lives and others eternities!
1 Cor.13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 Cor.13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
The Lord before Us
Listen to the words of Moses as he was being obedient to the Lord.
Deut.31:8 It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. Although the words from Deut. were intended for Joshua who was to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, I believe these words are true for all who follow Christ. We have been given the command of the great commission, to make disciples of all nations, and we know the Lord leads the way. I really am being fed the truth from the Old Testament. I always thought it was not very full of stuff I needed but I was so very wrong. Some very spirit-filled words come from these books. Lord, help us not to ignore these precious books. Open our heart to these truths. All your words are good for meditation and passing along to others. You give them to hold in our heart for comfort and sometimes, conviction. Lord, you are a mystery and a wonder, but we get a glimpse of you in your Holy Word. Amen
Deut.31:8 It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. Although the words from Deut. were intended for Joshua who was to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, I believe these words are true for all who follow Christ. We have been given the command of the great commission, to make disciples of all nations, and we know the Lord leads the way. I really am being fed the truth from the Old Testament. I always thought it was not very full of stuff I needed but I was so very wrong. Some very spirit-filled words come from these books. Lord, help us not to ignore these precious books. Open our heart to these truths. All your words are good for meditation and passing along to others. You give them to hold in our heart for comfort and sometimes, conviction. Lord, you are a mystery and a wonder, but we get a glimpse of you in your Holy Word. Amen
The Fat King
Judges 3:15 Then the people of Israel cried out to the Lord, and the Lord raised up for them a deliverer, Ehud, son of Gera, the Benjaminite, a left handed man. The people of Israel sent tribute by him to Eglon, king of Moab. The Lord is ever merciful to the stiff-necked Israelites. When they went out from Him to worship other Gods, He gave them over to foreign rulers so they would have to serve them. When they repented of their sin, He set judges over them to lead them in the right way. Ehud was sent by the Lord to deliver the people of Israel from the king of Moab. The king of Moab was so very fat. Ehud went under the pretense to pay tribute to the king. Alone in his chambers, Ehud gave the message from the Lord, a sword buried deep into his fat guts, so it did not even stick out. The people of Israel, with the Lord giving them into their hand, attacked the Moabites and won their freedom which lasted 80 years.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Taming the Tongue
James 3:5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasts great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindles. I am the worlds worst about speaking my mind. I don't always do it with a kind spirit either. I have prayed a lot about my sharp tongue and the Lord has calmed it. I still fail though. I know many people who are so loving but struggle with sharp tongues. Men seen to have this problem towards their wives and wives towards their husbands. Words cut just as deep as knives. They take a little of your heart each time. I wish we all could think before we speak. I love my husband dearly and I know I have said mean things to him that he didn't deserve. He is very forgiving to me. I also think this verse speaks to spreading tales on others whether they are true or not. I wonder how many lives have been destroyed because of idle gossip? Prov.19:14&19 (14) Wise men store up knowledge but the mouth of a fool invites ruin. (19) When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.
Monday, May 10, 2010
The Door
I bet I got you to thinking about a house or car door, right? Wrong! I am talking about our Lord Jesus.
John 10:9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. He is the only way to heaven. There is no other way by which man can enter. Many will say there are many paths but they lie. His tomb is empty. All other supposed gods are found in their graves. Some even have shrines. We serve the only God who was conceived by a virgin through the Holy Spirit, led a sinless life, and was all God and all man, died on a cross and three days later arose from that death. And He is seated at the right hand of God the Father and is coming back soon to claim His own! This should be making you shout, halleluiah!! I can not convince you of some of the things which I have written nor can you not convince me. I would just say, look at the complexity of your own body. The tiny cells, veins and the intricate workings that go on inside you to keep your body functioning. This can not be explained by mere cells replicating themselves from one cell to form a human being. There is a Creator and He will sit in judgment on each and every one of us. Are you ready? Praise God I am, by the power of the blood of a spotless Lamb.
John 10:9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. He is the only way to heaven. There is no other way by which man can enter. Many will say there are many paths but they lie. His tomb is empty. All other supposed gods are found in their graves. Some even have shrines. We serve the only God who was conceived by a virgin through the Holy Spirit, led a sinless life, and was all God and all man, died on a cross and three days later arose from that death. And He is seated at the right hand of God the Father and is coming back soon to claim His own! This should be making you shout, halleluiah!! I can not convince you of some of the things which I have written nor can you not convince me. I would just say, look at the complexity of your own body. The tiny cells, veins and the intricate workings that go on inside you to keep your body functioning. This can not be explained by mere cells replicating themselves from one cell to form a human being. There is a Creator and He will sit in judgment on each and every one of us. Are you ready? Praise God I am, by the power of the blood of a spotless Lamb.
Sin Struggle
Paul is an awesome writer for the Lord. He is so very much like us; we can not deny our parallel. The things we want to do we don’t do, and the things we don’t want to do, we do! Sounds like a crazy person, huh? But this is the way we live out most of our life. I am reading a book called “What difference do it make”. It is a story of a homeless black man name Denver who meets a rich white couple, Ron and Debbie, at the downtown mission. There lives are forever changed when they step out of their comfort zone and actually be obedient and follow in Jesus footsteps. I guess this is the ultimate sin we repeat over and over, because we just don’t love people in Jesus name.
Romans 7:14-20 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me that is, my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I can not carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do, this is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
Romans 7:14-20 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me that is, my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I can not carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do, this is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
Blood That Satisfies
Salvation, do we really get the full meaning? We are sinners, due a Holy God’s wrath. Matt. 26:28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. My pastor David, stated it so well, “Blood that satisfies”! I can hardly grasp it. A merciful God would send His own Son, Jesus Christ, who went willingly in obedience to His Father, to pay the penalty for me and you. 2Cor. 5:21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. How awesome is that? You can’t buy it or bargain for it, it is a blood covered gift from a precious, spotless lamb. I am so glad we serve a merciful Holy God.
Anxiety
Ever have the feeling that you are going to come out of your skin? Well that my friend is anxiety! The old devil uses it against us to make us loose our bearings. He overwhelms us with life in hopes we will come apart and not listen to the Lord. The Holy Spirit is ever present guiding our path. Which leads me to this, always share the word with your brother. You will never know how many times the Lord wants you to give His word to someone. In times of distress or even when everything is going great, I just feel better to be able to hear Him speak to me. Prov.12:25 Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. Thank you Lord for your precious word. Amen
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Mothers and Grandmothers-Life Shapers with the Lord
Mother
My Mother Lucille, was a sweet caring person. She died in July of 1998. I miss her and in my mind I see her just like she was all those years ago. She taught me many things about life which I have taught to my daughters and now will try to teach to my grandchildren. One of my favorite things she taught me was that every job is important no matter what it is. They all work together to keep life running smoothly. Because of her teaching, I have never looked down on someones occupation. She also taught me to be kind to people who needed help. As a child, I saw her giving food and clothes to men who would come to our door.
Grandmothers are the best. They spoil you rotten and love you no matter how stinking rotten you are!! My grandmother, MomMe was the sweetest lady you could ever want to meet. She was a constant rock in my life. She taught me to cook when I was 11 years old. I am red-headed and have the temper that goes with it. My blessed MomMe got to see me pitch numerous temper fits when I was small. She was always there to spank those fits right out of me, all the while still loving me. I hope she would be proud of the woman she helped make me into. I miss her so much! Prov.31:10, 25-30 10An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. 25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. 27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29"Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Lord, thank you for the gift of being a mother and grandmother. It is so sweet I can't express with mere words. Lord, help me to love my children and grandchildren with the same unconditional love that you have shown me. Help me to be true to your words in thought and deed. Help me to teach them through your word and to show your love by my life's example. Amen
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Fear and Knowledge
Prov.1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Do we really think we have it all together? I think we live in our own little world and we have made ourselves king and queen! But the reality is, we are nothing without the fear of the Lord. He holds our next heartbeat and breath in His hands whether you are slave or master. Don't be puffed up with your own knowledge or trouble will follow. All knowledge comes from the Lord. Lean on His word and run from evil.
Prov.3:7-8 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Do we really think we have it all together? I think we live in our own little world and we have made ourselves king and queen! But the reality is, we are nothing without the fear of the Lord. He holds our next heartbeat and breath in His hands whether you are slave or master. Don't be puffed up with your own knowledge or trouble will follow. All knowledge comes from the Lord. Lean on His word and run from evil.
Prov.3:7-8 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Blessed
Ps. 119:37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.
Ps. 119:50 This is my comfort in my affliction that your promise gives me life.
Psalm 119 celebrates the gift of God's Torah, or covenant instruction, as the perfect guide for life. As a Christ follower, this is the way I feel about the bible, God's word. It has principles for us to learn and live by and to teach others. We need to study His word and keep it in our heart and memory. It will give us an insight into God's ways. We will not totally understand God's plans for us until Jesus returns to take us home. We will dwell with Him and He will give us wisdom. We must always be aware of the world's pull on us and our desire for worthless things. His words and His Spirit comfort us in every circumstance.
Lord, you are our comforter, friend and king. We long for Your return but until then, guide us through Your word and Spirit. We ask for your grace and mercy for all our failures. Teach us to love like You love and show mercy like You do. Open our eyes to the misery around us so that we may be Your hands and feet. Lord, we are only in our life circumstance by Your grace. May we never think we are above any other person. Let us always be grateful for every day we have to serve You. Amen
Ps. 119:50 This is my comfort in my affliction that your promise gives me life.
Psalm 119 celebrates the gift of God's Torah, or covenant instruction, as the perfect guide for life. As a Christ follower, this is the way I feel about the bible, God's word. It has principles for us to learn and live by and to teach others. We need to study His word and keep it in our heart and memory. It will give us an insight into God's ways. We will not totally understand God's plans for us until Jesus returns to take us home. We will dwell with Him and He will give us wisdom. We must always be aware of the world's pull on us and our desire for worthless things. His words and His Spirit comfort us in every circumstance.
Lord, you are our comforter, friend and king. We long for Your return but until then, guide us through Your word and Spirit. We ask for your grace and mercy for all our failures. Teach us to love like You love and show mercy like You do. Open our eyes to the misery around us so that we may be Your hands and feet. Lord, we are only in our life circumstance by Your grace. May we never think we are above any other person. Let us always be grateful for every day we have to serve You. Amen
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Old Birthday Girl
Ps.119:120 My flesh trembles for fear of You, and I am afraid of Your judgments. Lord,I cherish our time together. You are dear to me and I am captivated by Your word. Everyday is a new day in You and I will not look back at what could have been, only look forward at what can be if I yield to Your will. I feel like I fail You all too often, but there You are full of mercy! The world doesn't want You, they had rather have the things which are worthless and will fade in this vapor we call life. We are rich beyond measure and we can't be satisfied! Amen
Heb.13:5-6 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said," I will never leave you or forsake you." So we can confidently say,"The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?"
Real Worship
Do we really know what real worship is? We tend to think it is the act of going to church. God’s word is very specific on the act of worship.
John 4:24 God is spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth. It need not even be in a church.
Once we become Christ followers, our body is a temple.
I Cor.:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were brought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
There is one God. I Cor.8:6 yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. Rev.4:11 You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. O Lord, we praise You because You are holy. How can You love us who are so wicked? My heart cries out to You for forgiveness for all my sin. Lord, let Your word convict and set our hearts on You. Amen
John 4:24 God is spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth. It need not even be in a church.
Once we become Christ followers, our body is a temple.
I Cor.:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were brought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
There is one God. I Cor.8:6 yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. Rev.4:11 You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. O Lord, we praise You because You are holy. How can You love us who are so wicked? My heart cries out to You for forgiveness for all my sin. Lord, let Your word convict and set our hearts on You. Amen
My Redeemer Lives
Lord Most High God, your words are deep and rich. They go into our very souls of which you are the owner. How can we not believe when the witness of you is everywhere? The sky, water, rain, stars, snow, hail, frost, the birth of a child, planets that hang in mid air, need I say more? The more I read your truth, the more I thirst for it and its deep meaning. This is my continual prayer for you to give me an unquenchable thirst for you. You are like a dear friend whom I long to be with every day. I am blessed by the family and friends you have put around me. Help me to always show you to those I see in my walk through this life. Help me not to judge for only you have that right. I stand amazed at your love for us, a sinful, stiff-necked people. Thank you for your son, Jesus Christ, who gave his life, in obedience to you, for our debt which we could not pay. Jesus is our redeemer and what a gift he gave.
Ps. 25:4-7
Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Remember, O Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from old. Remember not my sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O Lord.
Ps. 25:4-7
Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Remember, O Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from old. Remember not my sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O Lord.
Lawbreakers and the Bible
The Lord meant for lawlessness to be punished. He is a forgiving God but he knew that to keep order in society, you must have leaders and laws. He has told us to follow laws and to honor our leaders. Rom.13:1 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Our legal system is very warped. We take too long to administer our laws. Ecc.8:11 Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed quickly, therefore the hearts of the sons of men among them are given fully to do evil. The rights of the law abiding citizen are not protected but the evil lawbreakers are protected. God never intended for this to be. We have gotten everything turned backwards. Our children are not safe because we let perverts roam the streets. The crime is not getting the correct punishment. You may be forgiven if you repent but you will still have to pay the price you owe society. It should be death if you meant to take a life. Gen.9:6 ‘Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man.”
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
In Sickness - In Death - In Trouble
God is in control! He is supreme Creator, all-knowing and all-powerful. The story of Job is one of complete obedience, to God, from a righteous man in good times and bad. The devil is roaming around the earth to see who he can lead astray. God mentions Job, and oh, the devil delights in telling God, Job has a hedge of protection from You, that is why he is obedient to You. Well, that was all it took for God to tell the devil to test Job. If you don’t know this story, please read it for you will be blessed by it. Is.41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
I AM
Is.43:10 You are my witness declares the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen so that you may know and believe me, and understand that I am He. Before me there was no God formed, and there will be none after.
What an amazing bible verse! God has no beginning and no end. He was and is! He is I Am. How wondrous and terrifying at the same time. I don’t think we can grasp this in our little human mind, to have no beginning or end. Lord, we bow humbly before you. We can not begin to understand You. Your majesty is so beyond our comprehension and your mystery is captivating. Lord, thank you for your word and the desire you have given us to search its meanings. Forgive us when we ignore you and are disobedient. Amen
What an amazing bible verse! God has no beginning and no end. He was and is! He is I Am. How wondrous and terrifying at the same time. I don’t think we can grasp this in our little human mind, to have no beginning or end. Lord, we bow humbly before you. We can not begin to understand You. Your majesty is so beyond our comprehension and your mystery is captivating. Lord, thank you for your word and the desire you have given us to search its meanings. Forgive us when we ignore you and are disobedient. Amen
Grieving Not Reaching Out and Touching Someone
Do you ever think about missed opportunities? I am not talking about just any kind of opportunities but tender touch ones! Like, seeing a crying lady coming out of a Doctor’s office when you know she has gotten some bad news, or seeing a mother in a store with a mentally challenged child who is throwing a fit and the whole store is giving her the look!!! But, you just cry in your heart for them and do nothing. Lord, help us to step out into a lost and hurting world for you without thinking. I pray for boldness for us as your servants. I pray for wide open eyes so we might be your hands and feet. Give us a heart for your people for we are all equal at the foot of the Cross. Amen
Matt.25:40 And the King will answer them,” Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me”.
Matt.25:40 And the King will answer them,” Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me”.
Monday, May 3, 2010
God’s House
My pastor did a sermon a few weeks ago on “Where Glory Dwells”. He asked us if we knew the purpose of our salvation. It is for the worship of the most high God. He told of the Garden of Eden, where God put His first creation of people, Adam and Eve. He told about the beautiful relationship God had with them and how they enjoyed his presence. Sin entered the garden and changed our relationship with God until eternity. He then went on to talk to us about our study in Exodus and about God dwelling in the cloud by day and fire by night so he could lead His chosen people, Israel. He told the people, in great detail, how to build His Tabernacle, where He would dwell and that the Levites would be His priest. He told us about in the Gospels, how Jesus is God’s dwelling place. And in present day, our worship of God in the church is through His indwelling Spirit in us. And by us having His spirit in us, we will take Him to the nations. We need to always remember that we need to run from sin. We need to strive for holiness. God deserves nothing less from His people. Ps.19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight. O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. In the new creation, after God completes judgment, He will dwell in heaven and come down with the New Jerusalem and we will dwell with Him, and be able to delight in His presence. All creation will be filled with His Glory! John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. Rev.21:3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,” Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. Halleluiah and Amen!!!!
From Everlasting to Everlasting
The Lord is and was and will be!! If that does not humble you, then you are not fearful of the Lord. He set the stars, the moon and the sun, and the planets in the sky and they stay there. How awesome is that? And what about the very air we breathe? Or, how did the Lord give us gravity? The Lord reigns eternally. All things are possible with God but not so with man. Ps. 90:1-2 Lord you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
Dying to Live
To keep life in the proper perspective one needs to keep in mind,” The minute you are born, you begin to die”. This is God’s plan for us here on this earth but not for eternity. John 14:1-3 Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. Sweet Jesus, thank you for these words. The trials of this world knock us down but your words lift us up. Our hope is you alone. O Lord, show us mercy. Let your words penetrate to the depth of our soul. Amen James 4: 13-17 Come now, you who say” Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit: Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that. As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
My Shepherd Jesus
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
How awesome are these words? If you know Jesus as your Savior, this Psalm should comfort you in the midst of any trial or trouble. Pastor David preached on this today and I was blessed by his message. He spoke of how our Shepherd cares for us in a personal way, how He never stops giving and how it is based on His grace. By His grace, we are refreshed, restored, and made righteous. Our Shepherd's grace results in our Shepherd's glory. By Him, we have nothing to fear! He satisfies us as well as sustains us and pursues us with a love that will never end. His goodness to us is eternal and his fellowship with us is everlasting. In obedience to the Father, he laid down His life and had the authority to pick it up again. Soon He will come and wipe away all our tears and Shepherd us for eternity. Amen
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
How awesome are these words? If you know Jesus as your Savior, this Psalm should comfort you in the midst of any trial or trouble. Pastor David preached on this today and I was blessed by his message. He spoke of how our Shepherd cares for us in a personal way, how He never stops giving and how it is based on His grace. By His grace, we are refreshed, restored, and made righteous. Our Shepherd's grace results in our Shepherd's glory. By Him, we have nothing to fear! He satisfies us as well as sustains us and pursues us with a love that will never end. His goodness to us is eternal and his fellowship with us is everlasting. In obedience to the Father, he laid down His life and had the authority to pick it up again. Soon He will come and wipe away all our tears and Shepherd us for eternity. Amen
Consequences or Judgment, Call it what you like!!!
Everything has a cause and effect. If you step in front of a moving car, you will be hit unless the driver sees you and has time to stop. If you put your finger in a fire, it will burn you. If you get drunk and drive, you may kill someone or be killed yourself. If you sin, remain unrepentant, and never get covered by Jesus blood, you will go to hell! Sin separates you from God. 1 John 1:8-10 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives. You can’t remain in sin and follow Christ. 2 Cor.7:10 For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death. We must have an acceptable payment to God. The only acceptable payment was God’s, Son Jesus Christ. 1Peter1:18-19 Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways you inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. You can believe God’s holy word or not. You can accept it or not. You can fall to your knees and ask for mercy, or not. God is calling to you if you will listen. Your judgment awaits!! Do you want to face judgment without Christ? Heb.9:27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once and after that comes judgment.
Disasters and Such
Many people will tell you their opinion on whether the Lord causes or allows disasters. Well, I think what matters is what God himself says through his word. In my bible study in Isaiah, This verse really stood out to me. Is.45:7 The one forming light and creating darkness, causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the Lord who does all these. But, his word also says, Ex.33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name, The Lord. And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. So does a merciful God cause or allow disasters and such? I would say he most certainly does according to his word and his will!!!
By God’s Power
Do you ever think, boy did I do a good job? Well, we actually think we did that good thing on our own. We really need to reconsider just where our power and knowledge come from. Deut. 8:17-18 Beware lest you say in your heart,’ My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth’. You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth that he may confirm his covenant he swore to your fathers as it is this day. We need to be careful not to exempt God from our thinking when we are trying to figure out problems. He is in our mind all the time giving us ideas, warnings etc. I think the more we speak with God, the more we will want to. I drive a 2001 Jetta which is still in good condition, thanks to the Lord who constantly gives my husband the knowledge to work on it. Sometimes, when my husband can’t figure it out, the Lord even gives me the knowledge of the right thing to type in Google for help. It is a blessing to know God cares for us in this way. He really wants us to depend on him and him alone. Thank you Lord for the care you give us everyday. Your word is a comfort to us. Your knowledge we can’t even fathom. Lord, your blessings we don’t deserve. You give us mercy when we should get judgment. You are truly the one and only living God. Amen
Saturday, May 1, 2010
A Lady Prophet Deborah and the Lady with a tent peg
King Jabin of Canaan was a cruel and wicked man. He and his army commander Sisera did evil to the Israelites for 20 years. They cried out to the Lord for deliverance and he heard their plea. A lady prophet, Deborah, judged the people and she heard from the Lord to get Barak, one of the tribe men, to take 10,000 men and to fight the Canaanites. He was not brave and would not go to fight unless she went with him to battle, which she did but she mocked him. Judges 4:8 Barak said to her, “If you will go with me, I will go, but if you will not go with me, I will not go.” And she said, “I will surely go with you.” Nevertheless, the road on which you are going will not lead to your glory, for the Lord will sell Sisera into the hand of a woman. The battle ensued and the whole army was slain except the commander Sisera, who fled on foot to the tent of Jael, who was a friend to King Jabin. She offered Sisera a hiding place and drink. She covered him with a rug to hide him. She then took a tent peg and drove it into his temple, all the way through to the ground. Barak the Israelite arrived in pursuit and met Jael. She led him to the dead Sisera.
A Clean Heart
Ps. 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
These words are spoken by David, in a prayer, after he had sinned with Bathsheba. He begins the prayer with “Have mercy on me O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions”. He is in anguish about his sin. Do we have anguish over our sin? I think we are very flippant about our sin. We do not even think about what sin does to our relationship with a Holy God. He will not tolerate it and we need to run from it at all cost! These words that follow should tear at your hearts for the debt we owe, and the precious one who paid it for us, Col. 2:14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This He set aside, nailing it to the cross.
These words are spoken by David, in a prayer, after he had sinned with Bathsheba. He begins the prayer with “Have mercy on me O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions”. He is in anguish about his sin. Do we have anguish over our sin? I think we are very flippant about our sin. We do not even think about what sin does to our relationship with a Holy God. He will not tolerate it and we need to run from it at all cost! These words that follow should tear at your hearts for the debt we owe, and the precious one who paid it for us, Col. 2:14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This He set aside, nailing it to the cross.
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