[by Bill Crowder]
1) Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters,[a] of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it. 2) It is this Good News that saves you if you continue to believe the message I told you—unless, of course, you believed something that was never true in the first place.[b] 3) I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4) He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5) He was seen by Peter[c] and then by the Twelve. 6) After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers[d] at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7) Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. 8) Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him. 9) For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I’m not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God’s church. 10) But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me—and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace. 11) So it makes no difference whether I preach or they preach, for we all preach the same message you have already believed. 1COR. 15: 1-11 (NLT)
Not many years ago, we watched as the “WWJD” craze swept through the Christian community. The bracelet-emblazoned theme “What Would Jesus Do?” was a valuable reminder to many people that we should consider the heart and mind of Jesus when making choices. As we seek to live in a way that honors the Savior, it is appropriate to measure our attitudes and decisions against the example our Lord set for us.
Recently, however, I was in a church where I saw a slightly different message. This church’s sign read, “WDJD—What Did Jesus Do?” That is indeed the more important question, because our salvation depends on it. Paramount among the remarkable deeds of the Son of God are the events described in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.”
What did Jesus do? He took the suffering and guilt for our wrongdoing and paid our penalty. He died and conquered death so we could live. And the fact is, we will never be able to fully consider what Jesus would do until we have embraced what He did do for us on the cross.
To follow Christ in all we do Can be a worthy goal If first we’ve put our trust in Him To save our sinful soul. —Sper
We are saved not by what we do but by trusting what Christ has done. We do what we do because we love Him.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Wear Your Helmet!
[By Greg Laurie]
Paul tells us we are to take "the helmet of salvation" (Ephesians 6:17). The two most sought-after and vulnerable targets on the ancient battlefield were the heart and the head. With our heart and other vital organs ably protected by the breastplate of righteousness, the enemy will try to strike the head. One well-placed blow to the head and the battle is over.
What does it mean to wear the helmet of salvation? It would seem to me that the apostle is telling us to watch our thoughts in general. Most temptation comes through the gateway of the mind and imagination.
This is why Paul tells us, "But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:3 NIV).
When those "flaming arrows" of ungodly thoughts come, we need to have our guard up.
Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 10:5–6: "We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity" (MSG).
So watch what you allow into your thought-life. Our minds, thoughts, and imaginations must be protected. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us, "As a man thinks, so is he."
Satan recognizes the value of first getting a foothold in the realm of the thoughts and imagination, as this will "prepare the way" for that thought to translate into action! As it's been said:
Sow a thought and reap an act. Sow an act and reap a habit. Sow a habit and reap a character.
Sow a character and reap a destiny. So think "heavenly thoughts" this week!
Be Blessed!!!
Dawn
Paul tells us we are to take "the helmet of salvation" (Ephesians 6:17). The two most sought-after and vulnerable targets on the ancient battlefield were the heart and the head. With our heart and other vital organs ably protected by the breastplate of righteousness, the enemy will try to strike the head. One well-placed blow to the head and the battle is over.
What does it mean to wear the helmet of salvation? It would seem to me that the apostle is telling us to watch our thoughts in general. Most temptation comes through the gateway of the mind and imagination.
This is why Paul tells us, "But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:3 NIV).
When those "flaming arrows" of ungodly thoughts come, we need to have our guard up.
Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 10:5–6: "We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity" (MSG).
So watch what you allow into your thought-life. Our minds, thoughts, and imaginations must be protected. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us, "As a man thinks, so is he."
Satan recognizes the value of first getting a foothold in the realm of the thoughts and imagination, as this will "prepare the way" for that thought to translate into action! As it's been said:
Sow a thought and reap an act. Sow an act and reap a habit. Sow a habit and reap a character.
Sow a character and reap a destiny. So think "heavenly thoughts" this week!
Be Blessed!!!
Dawn
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Be Narrow-Minded
Let whoever is wise understand these things, and whoever is insightful recognize them. For the ways of the LORD are right, and the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them. Hosea :14:9
"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." Matthew 7:13–14
If you are worried about fitting in and being cool and being culturally acceptable, you will have a hard time being a follower of Christ, because it means taking a narrow road. Jesus said, "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it" (Matthew 7:13-14).
There are two gates and two ways we can take in life: the narrow or the broad. And when we read, "Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life," it means we are to be-in a strict sense-narrow-minded.
What does it mean to be narrow-minded? It does not mean that we are self-righteous, arrogant, know-it-alls. We should have humility as we share the truth of God with others. But we are to recognize there is a specific road we must walk on to reach a particular destination. It is as simple as that.
Yet when it comes to the most important issues of life, like where we will spend eternity, people will say things along the lines of, "Well, I believe that all roads lead to God as long as a person is sincere." But Jesus said, "Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life . . . " (Matthew 7:14).
If you have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, then you can know with certainty you will be welcomed into heaven. But if you have taken the broad road, the popular road, the ultra-cool road, it will lead to destruction. And it will be too late on that final day.
[by Greg Laurie]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." Matthew 7:13–14
If you are worried about fitting in and being cool and being culturally acceptable, you will have a hard time being a follower of Christ, because it means taking a narrow road. Jesus said, "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it" (Matthew 7:13-14).
There are two gates and two ways we can take in life: the narrow or the broad. And when we read, "Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life," it means we are to be-in a strict sense-narrow-minded.
What does it mean to be narrow-minded? It does not mean that we are self-righteous, arrogant, know-it-alls. We should have humility as we share the truth of God with others. But we are to recognize there is a specific road we must walk on to reach a particular destination. It is as simple as that.
Yet when it comes to the most important issues of life, like where we will spend eternity, people will say things along the lines of, "Well, I believe that all roads lead to God as long as a person is sincere." But Jesus said, "Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life . . . " (Matthew 7:14).
If you have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, then you can know with certainty you will be welcomed into heaven. But if you have taken the broad road, the popular road, the ultra-cool road, it will lead to destruction. And it will be too late on that final day.
[by Greg Laurie]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Friday, November 26, 2010
Living With Thanksgiving
By Dr. Tony Beam
Scripture Of The Day: "Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name." - Hebrews 13:15 (ESV)
Believe it or not, not everyone is looking forward to Thanksgiving. My mother-in-law was in the Department of Motor Vehicles the other day and she overheard someone say they wished they had to work on Thanksgiving so they could avoid having to spend time with their in-laws.
Why do some people have such a negative feeling about such a positive holiday?
It would seem there are plenty of people who go through life looking only at the disappointments or the painful experiences refusing to see the blessings that surround many of life's challenges. I don't know
who should receive the credit for the following witticism to but I agree with its underlying philosophy.
"As you travel down life's pathway, may this ever be your goal...keep you eye on the donut, and not on the hole."
The first Thanksgiving took place in the midst of some of the worst trials imaginable for those who braved the crossing of the Atlantic to begin a new life in the new world. One hundred and two pilgrims landed
at Plymouth in December of 1620. Less than six months later only fifty-five were still alive. Their chances of survival rested fully upon the fruit of the fall harvest.
There in the middle of devastating circumstances with their very lives hanging on the quality of the harvest that small band of believers were able to praise God for what they believed were His abundant blessings.
King David understood this principle when he wrote Psalm 103. David begins by exalting the name of the Lord and by encouraging himself to remember who God is and what He has done. "Bless the Lord O my soul and all that is within me bless His holy name. Bless the Lord O my soul and forget not all His benefits."
The key to an attitude of thanksgiving that transcends the season is our ability to remember the blessing of our God. David emphasizes the fact we must respond to God in a personal way. We must personally
bless the Lord as we remember His goodness.
Jesus understood this principle well for John's Gospel records that before Jesus multiplied the loaves and the fish to feed the five thousand, He lifted his eyes toward heaven and gave thanks for what He had in His hand.
I am afraid if I had been holding nothing but a few loaves and a few small fish I would have been too focused on my lack of supply to be thankful for what God had already supplied.
When our praise becomes personal it does so because we are consumed with an attitude of thanksgiving for what we have rather than focusing on what we need.
Those blessings are profound, in that they are blessings that proceed from the soul. Being thankful for our blessings should proceed from the very fiber of our being. It isn't the mere material and temporary blessings that David is speaking about but rather the eternal blessings that flow from God who is eternal.
This week, as we sit around a bountiful table surrounded by the blessings of God, let us not forget all His benefits.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Scripture Of The Day: "Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name." - Hebrews 13:15 (ESV)
Believe it or not, not everyone is looking forward to Thanksgiving. My mother-in-law was in the Department of Motor Vehicles the other day and she overheard someone say they wished they had to work on Thanksgiving so they could avoid having to spend time with their in-laws.
Why do some people have such a negative feeling about such a positive holiday?
It would seem there are plenty of people who go through life looking only at the disappointments or the painful experiences refusing to see the blessings that surround many of life's challenges. I don't know
who should receive the credit for the following witticism to but I agree with its underlying philosophy.
"As you travel down life's pathway, may this ever be your goal...keep you eye on the donut, and not on the hole."
The first Thanksgiving took place in the midst of some of the worst trials imaginable for those who braved the crossing of the Atlantic to begin a new life in the new world. One hundred and two pilgrims landed
at Plymouth in December of 1620. Less than six months later only fifty-five were still alive. Their chances of survival rested fully upon the fruit of the fall harvest.
There in the middle of devastating circumstances with their very lives hanging on the quality of the harvest that small band of believers were able to praise God for what they believed were His abundant blessings.
King David understood this principle when he wrote Psalm 103. David begins by exalting the name of the Lord and by encouraging himself to remember who God is and what He has done. "Bless the Lord O my soul and all that is within me bless His holy name. Bless the Lord O my soul and forget not all His benefits."
The key to an attitude of thanksgiving that transcends the season is our ability to remember the blessing of our God. David emphasizes the fact we must respond to God in a personal way. We must personally
bless the Lord as we remember His goodness.
Jesus understood this principle well for John's Gospel records that before Jesus multiplied the loaves and the fish to feed the five thousand, He lifted his eyes toward heaven and gave thanks for what He had in His hand.
I am afraid if I had been holding nothing but a few loaves and a few small fish I would have been too focused on my lack of supply to be thankful for what God had already supplied.
When our praise becomes personal it does so because we are consumed with an attitude of thanksgiving for what we have rather than focusing on what we need.
Those blessings are profound, in that they are blessings that proceed from the soul. Being thankful for our blessings should proceed from the very fiber of our being. It isn't the mere material and temporary blessings that David is speaking about but rather the eternal blessings that flow from God who is eternal.
This week, as we sit around a bountiful table surrounded by the blessings of God, let us not forget all His benefits.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Reasons to Be Thankful
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. — Psalm 107:1
It seems as though merchants really don't know what to do with Thanksgiving. They market Halloween and Christmas and make a lot of money off these holidays. But they don't really know what to do with Thanksgiving, which is really very spiritual in its origins. It was designated by President George Washington in 1789 as a national day for giving thanks to God.
In the midst of all our feasting, it is very easy to forget about the one we are celebrating. Sometimes we even forget to give thanks altogether. You might be thinking, Well, I don't have a lot to give thanks for. Maybe you are having financial troubles or health problems. Maybe there is conflict in your family. But we need to put things into perspective.
As someone wrote,
If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the million who won't survive the week. If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 20 million people around the world. If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death, you are more blessed than almost three billion people in the world. If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head, and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75 percent of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace, you are among the top 8 percent of the world's wealthy.
There is a lot to give thanks for. And the primary reason we were put on this earth as human beings is to glorify God and to give Him thanks.
[By Greg Laurie]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
It seems as though merchants really don't know what to do with Thanksgiving. They market Halloween and Christmas and make a lot of money off these holidays. But they don't really know what to do with Thanksgiving, which is really very spiritual in its origins. It was designated by President George Washington in 1789 as a national day for giving thanks to God.
In the midst of all our feasting, it is very easy to forget about the one we are celebrating. Sometimes we even forget to give thanks altogether. You might be thinking, Well, I don't have a lot to give thanks for. Maybe you are having financial troubles or health problems. Maybe there is conflict in your family. But we need to put things into perspective.
As someone wrote,
If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the million who won't survive the week. If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 20 million people around the world. If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death, you are more blessed than almost three billion people in the world. If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head, and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75 percent of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace, you are among the top 8 percent of the world's wealthy.
There is a lot to give thanks for. And the primary reason we were put on this earth as human beings is to glorify God and to give Him thanks.
[By Greg Laurie]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The Ultimate Father-Son Relationship
19) So Jesus explained, “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does. 20) For the Father loves the Son and shows him everything he is doing. In fact, the Father will show him how to do even greater works than healing this man. Then you will truly be astonished. John 5: 19-20 (NLT)
God is called by a variety of names in the Bible, and each one sheds light on an aspect of His nature. Jesus’ favorite title for Him was Father. Surprisingly, this name is used of Him only 15 times in the Old Testament, but in the New Testament, it’s recorded 245 times!
Many of God’s names speak of His majestic and lofty attributes that separate Him from mankind, but Father conveys intimacy. Jesus used this name not only because He was God’s Son, but also to help people realize that Jehovah isn’t some unapproachable Deity gazing down on them from a distance. Rather, He is their loving heavenly Father, who cares about them and wants to be involved in their everyday lives.
Throughout His time on earth, Christ revealed by example what this kind of love relationship was like. He depended completely on His Father for daily direction, power, and provision and obediently carried out every instruction. He often left the demands of ministry just to find a secluded place to be alone with Jehovah. We know Jesus successfully conveyed the riches of this relationship to His disciples, because in John 14:8, Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father”—he wanted to know Him the way Christ did.
Do you long for that kind of intimacy with God? He wants to relate to you as a Father to His child, and He’s given you the privilege of drawing near to Him. In fact, He chose you before the foundation of the world and waits with open arms for you to enter His loving embrace.
[ By Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
God is called by a variety of names in the Bible, and each one sheds light on an aspect of His nature. Jesus’ favorite title for Him was Father. Surprisingly, this name is used of Him only 15 times in the Old Testament, but in the New Testament, it’s recorded 245 times!
Many of God’s names speak of His majestic and lofty attributes that separate Him from mankind, but Father conveys intimacy. Jesus used this name not only because He was God’s Son, but also to help people realize that Jehovah isn’t some unapproachable Deity gazing down on them from a distance. Rather, He is their loving heavenly Father, who cares about them and wants to be involved in their everyday lives.
Throughout His time on earth, Christ revealed by example what this kind of love relationship was like. He depended completely on His Father for daily direction, power, and provision and obediently carried out every instruction. He often left the demands of ministry just to find a secluded place to be alone with Jehovah. We know Jesus successfully conveyed the riches of this relationship to His disciples, because in John 14:8, Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father”—he wanted to know Him the way Christ did.
Do you long for that kind of intimacy with God? He wants to relate to you as a Father to His child, and He’s given you the privilege of drawing near to Him. In fact, He chose you before the foundation of the world and waits with open arms for you to enter His loving embrace.
[ By Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Monday, November 22, 2010
What Can I Give to God?
By Greg Laurie
Have you ever received a gift that far exceeded what you could have expected? Something so nice that just saying "thank you" seemed inadequate? If anything, you feel like you want to do something special for that person, to show your appreciation.
In the same way, when you consider all that Christ did for us on the cross and what He continues to do for us today, it feels so inadequate to simply tell Him, "Thank you." He has given us eternal life when we didn't deserve it. And if you look back at the last year, I'm sure you'll find countless things He has done in your life.
In fact, it's hard not to say, "Wow, God is great! How can I thank Him for everything He has done for me? What can I possibly do to show my appreciation to Him?"
Fortunately, Scripture gives us a good blueprint for some ways that we can show our thanks to God.
1.) We can give Him our praise. The Psalmist says in Psalm 63:3–4, "Because your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus will I bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name" (NKJV).
It's funny that we think it's perfectly normal for people to wear their favorite team's jersey to a sporting event, and go wild when their team scores. But when you come to church on Sunday morning and someone is lifting their hands up during the worship time, people stare and call them a fanatic.
Is there a place for verbally praising God, for lifting our hands in worship? Yes. It is biblical to lift your hands to the Lord. It is a good thing to do. You shouldn't be reluctant to lift your hands in praise to God.
2.) I should keep my promises to God. Psalm 116:18 says, "I will keep my promises to the Lord in the presence of all His people" (NLT).
When you prayed to receive Christ, you made a promise to God that you would turn away from your previous sinful lifestyle. You pledged to follow His commands, just as Jesus said: "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you" (John 15:14 NKJV).
Now, of course, we are still flawed humans and we won't always do exactly as He says, but we still need to be obedient to His will and keep that promise we made to Him.
3.) We can honor the Lord by bringing our offerings to the Lord. 1 Chronicles 16:28 says, "O nations of the world, recognize the LORD, recognize that the LORD is glorious and strong. Give to the LORD the glory He deserves! Bring your offering and come to worship Him. Worship the LORD in all His holy splendor" (NLT).
When you are a child, it is hard to wrap your mind around the idea that giving is better than receiving. You're more concerned about what people are going to give you. But as you get older and become a parent, you discover the joy of giving. You actually find more pleasure in giving a gift than in receiving one.
Jesus gives us another reason why giving is so important to Christians in Matthew 6:19–21:
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and 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. (NKJV)
In other words, Jesus is saying that it is wrong to put all of our hope in earthly treasures with nothing waiting for us on the other side. Why? Because these earthly treasures simply will not last.
When you play Monopoly, it's fun to put up hotels and collect money and try to win. But once the game is over, that Monopoly money isn't worth anything. You can't go down to the car dealer, pull out those orange bills, and buy a new car. Monopoly money can't do a thing for you in the real world.
When we get to heaven, all we have on earth will have no value if we do not invest it properly. You can't take it with you, but you can send it on ahead. How? By investing in the work of the kingdom of God.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Have you ever received a gift that far exceeded what you could have expected? Something so nice that just saying "thank you" seemed inadequate? If anything, you feel like you want to do something special for that person, to show your appreciation.
In the same way, when you consider all that Christ did for us on the cross and what He continues to do for us today, it feels so inadequate to simply tell Him, "Thank you." He has given us eternal life when we didn't deserve it. And if you look back at the last year, I'm sure you'll find countless things He has done in your life.
In fact, it's hard not to say, "Wow, God is great! How can I thank Him for everything He has done for me? What can I possibly do to show my appreciation to Him?"
Fortunately, Scripture gives us a good blueprint for some ways that we can show our thanks to God.
1.) We can give Him our praise. The Psalmist says in Psalm 63:3–4, "Because your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus will I bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name" (NKJV).
It's funny that we think it's perfectly normal for people to wear their favorite team's jersey to a sporting event, and go wild when their team scores. But when you come to church on Sunday morning and someone is lifting their hands up during the worship time, people stare and call them a fanatic.
Is there a place for verbally praising God, for lifting our hands in worship? Yes. It is biblical to lift your hands to the Lord. It is a good thing to do. You shouldn't be reluctant to lift your hands in praise to God.
2.) I should keep my promises to God. Psalm 116:18 says, "I will keep my promises to the Lord in the presence of all His people" (NLT).
When you prayed to receive Christ, you made a promise to God that you would turn away from your previous sinful lifestyle. You pledged to follow His commands, just as Jesus said: "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you" (John 15:14 NKJV).
Now, of course, we are still flawed humans and we won't always do exactly as He says, but we still need to be obedient to His will and keep that promise we made to Him.
3.) We can honor the Lord by bringing our offerings to the Lord. 1 Chronicles 16:28 says, "O nations of the world, recognize the LORD, recognize that the LORD is glorious and strong. Give to the LORD the glory He deserves! Bring your offering and come to worship Him. Worship the LORD in all His holy splendor" (NLT).
When you are a child, it is hard to wrap your mind around the idea that giving is better than receiving. You're more concerned about what people are going to give you. But as you get older and become a parent, you discover the joy of giving. You actually find more pleasure in giving a gift than in receiving one.
Jesus gives us another reason why giving is so important to Christians in Matthew 6:19–21:
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and 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. (NKJV)
In other words, Jesus is saying that it is wrong to put all of our hope in earthly treasures with nothing waiting for us on the other side. Why? Because these earthly treasures simply will not last.
When you play Monopoly, it's fun to put up hotels and collect money and try to win. But once the game is over, that Monopoly money isn't worth anything. You can't go down to the car dealer, pull out those orange bills, and buy a new car. Monopoly money can't do a thing for you in the real world.
When we get to heaven, all we have on earth will have no value if we do not invest it properly. You can't take it with you, but you can send it on ahead. How? By investing in the work of the kingdom of God.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Friday, November 19, 2010
Say No And Yes
When we wash our hands to clean off the grime and germs, do we actually clean them ourselves? No and yes. To be precise, the soap and water does the job—not us. But we make the choice to use the soap and water to clean our hands.
In 2 Timothy 2, the apostle Paul tells us, “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself . . . he will be a vessel for honor” (v.21). This does not mean that we on our own have the power to cleanse ourselves from sin. Rather, we use the cleansing provided by Jesus Christ, who died for us on the cross.
Philippians 3:9 tells us that we are “found in Him, not having [our] own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith.”
When we receive Christ, His death and resurrection sets us free from the penalty and the power of sin, thus enabling us to say no and yes in everyday life. We can say no to the desires of the flesh, or “youthful lusts” that Paul mentioned (2 Tim. 2:22). And we can say yes to “righteousness” (right behavior), “faith” (right belief), “love” (right response), and “peace” (right focus).
As we’re cleansed daily, we’ll be “useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (v.21).
Lord, help us to think of the right and the true, The pure and the noble—it all points to You; For if we consider what’s worthy of praise, We’ll then want to live for You all of our days. —Fitzhugh
20-21) In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing. 22-26)Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God's servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil's trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands. 2Tim. 2: 20-26
Right thinking leads to right living.
[by Albert Lee]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
In 2 Timothy 2, the apostle Paul tells us, “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself . . . he will be a vessel for honor” (v.21). This does not mean that we on our own have the power to cleanse ourselves from sin. Rather, we use the cleansing provided by Jesus Christ, who died for us on the cross.
Philippians 3:9 tells us that we are “found in Him, not having [our] own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith.”
When we receive Christ, His death and resurrection sets us free from the penalty and the power of sin, thus enabling us to say no and yes in everyday life. We can say no to the desires of the flesh, or “youthful lusts” that Paul mentioned (2 Tim. 2:22). And we can say yes to “righteousness” (right behavior), “faith” (right belief), “love” (right response), and “peace” (right focus).
As we’re cleansed daily, we’ll be “useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (v.21).
Lord, help us to think of the right and the true, The pure and the noble—it all points to You; For if we consider what’s worthy of praise, We’ll then want to live for You all of our days. —Fitzhugh
20-21) In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing. 22-26)Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God's servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil's trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands. 2Tim. 2: 20-26
Right thinking leads to right living.
[by Albert Lee]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Prerequisites for Answered Prayer
By Brent Barnett
Scripture Of The Day: "And this is the confidence that we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him." - 1 John 5:14-15
Here are five elements that the Bible says are essential to having God both hear and answer our prayers. If we do these things we can be sure that our prayers will be answered. That is not to say that we can use these principles as spiritual "magic charms" to make God accomplish our will on earth. The whole point is to accomplish His will on earth as it is in heaven. Thus, central to praying properly is the idea of aligning our hearts and minds with the heart and mind of God. He will then enable us to pray rightly, properly, and in accordance with His will.
1. Faith
Mark 11:22-24 says, "And Jesus answered saying to them, 'Have faith in God. Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, "Be taken up and cast into the sea," and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted him. Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you.'" The principle here is that we must have faith that we have received what we have asked of God in order to receive it. There is no room for doubt (see James 1:5-8). This kind of faith is not forced or contrived, but it flows from a heart and mind that is abiding in Christ (John 15:7).
2. Persistence
Luke 11:5-10 says, "Then He said to them, 'Suppose one of you has a friend, and goes to him at midnight and says to him, "Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him"; and from inside he answers and says, "Do not bother me; the door has already been shut and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything." I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs. So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened.'" The clear lesson in this story is that God honors persistence in prayer. If we want to see answers to our prayers, we need to tarry in prayer, not just one time, but over and over again, not losing heart all the while.
3. Without Ceasing
1 Thessalonians 5:17 gives us another qualification for answered prayer. It says that we must "pray without ceasing." This command is echoed in Ephesians 6:18 which says, "With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints." Since Jesus Himself wasn't literally praying constantly but only at certain times, it would be unwise to conclude that we should spend our entire lives actively praying. The idea here is that everything we do, say, and want in life must be filtered through the will of God according to the grid of Scripture. This will require that we are faithful to make time to pray because we will realize that prayer is inseparable from a lifestyle that depends fully on Christ.
4. Righteousness
James 5:16 says, "The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much." The principle which this passage exposes is that the church's prayer, as well as the individual's, is hindered by the presence of unconfessed sin. If we want to discern the will of God and pray rightly, we must first confess our sin to God and to those whom we have sinned against.
5. According to God's Will
1 John 5:14-15 says, "And this is the confidence that we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him." To pray according to God's will is to pray according to what God wants done. This is something the Spirit of God will enable us to do (see Romans 8:26-27) if we are humble and willing to listen and be changed according to the Scripture.
Answered prayer is possible and the desire of God, but we must do it God's way by His Spirit and according to His Word and guiding principles therein. May God make us effective and powerful prayers.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Scripture Of The Day: "And this is the confidence that we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him." - 1 John 5:14-15
Here are five elements that the Bible says are essential to having God both hear and answer our prayers. If we do these things we can be sure that our prayers will be answered. That is not to say that we can use these principles as spiritual "magic charms" to make God accomplish our will on earth. The whole point is to accomplish His will on earth as it is in heaven. Thus, central to praying properly is the idea of aligning our hearts and minds with the heart and mind of God. He will then enable us to pray rightly, properly, and in accordance with His will.
1. Faith
Mark 11:22-24 says, "And Jesus answered saying to them, 'Have faith in God. Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, "Be taken up and cast into the sea," and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted him. Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you.'" The principle here is that we must have faith that we have received what we have asked of God in order to receive it. There is no room for doubt (see James 1:5-8). This kind of faith is not forced or contrived, but it flows from a heart and mind that is abiding in Christ (John 15:7).
2. Persistence
Luke 11:5-10 says, "Then He said to them, 'Suppose one of you has a friend, and goes to him at midnight and says to him, "Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him"; and from inside he answers and says, "Do not bother me; the door has already been shut and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything." I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs. So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened.'" The clear lesson in this story is that God honors persistence in prayer. If we want to see answers to our prayers, we need to tarry in prayer, not just one time, but over and over again, not losing heart all the while.
3. Without Ceasing
1 Thessalonians 5:17 gives us another qualification for answered prayer. It says that we must "pray without ceasing." This command is echoed in Ephesians 6:18 which says, "With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints." Since Jesus Himself wasn't literally praying constantly but only at certain times, it would be unwise to conclude that we should spend our entire lives actively praying. The idea here is that everything we do, say, and want in life must be filtered through the will of God according to the grid of Scripture. This will require that we are faithful to make time to pray because we will realize that prayer is inseparable from a lifestyle that depends fully on Christ.
4. Righteousness
James 5:16 says, "The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much." The principle which this passage exposes is that the church's prayer, as well as the individual's, is hindered by the presence of unconfessed sin. If we want to discern the will of God and pray rightly, we must first confess our sin to God and to those whom we have sinned against.
5. According to God's Will
1 John 5:14-15 says, "And this is the confidence that we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him." To pray according to God's will is to pray according to what God wants done. This is something the Spirit of God will enable us to do (see Romans 8:26-27) if we are humble and willing to listen and be changed according to the Scripture.
Answered prayer is possible and the desire of God, but we must do it God's way by His Spirit and according to His Word and guiding principles therein. May God make us effective and powerful prayers.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The Wages of Sin
By Pastor Charles Stanley
Rom 6: 20-23
20-21) As long as you did what you felt like doing, ignoring God, you didn't have to bother with right thinking or right living, or right anything for that matter. But do you call that a free life? What did you get out of it? Nothing you're proud of now. Where did it get you? A dead end. 22-23) But now that you've found you don't have to listen to sin tell you what to do, and have discovered the delight of listening to God telling you, what a surprise! A whole, healed, put-together life right now, with more and more of life on the way! Work hard for sin your whole life and your pension is death. But God's gift is real life, eternal life, delivered by Jesus, our Master.
God sent His Son to take your punishment by dying in your place. Unless believers understand this provision, they will doubt their salvation. We can’t be good enough to earn heaven. Man is born with a corrupted nature; therefore, we will at times sin, no matter how hard we try not to. The Bible compares our attempts at righteous deeds to filthy rags (Isa. 64:6).
On its own, mankind has but one option with regard to sin: to die in it and spend eternity separated from God. But the Father so loved the world that He chose to punish His Son in our place (John 3:16). It was a severe price to pay. Holy God cannot look upon the filth of sin, so when Jesus became sin for all mankind, the Father had to turn away (2 Cor. 5:21). The physical suffering of crucifixion was terrible, but nothing compared to Jesus’ wrenching horror when the Father turned His back. The devastated Messiah cried out, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Mark 15:34).
Throughout eternity past, the Father and Son had never been separated. Jesus accepted this ultimate punishment so we wouldn’t have to. When Paul said that the wages of sin was death, he was referring to eternal separation from God (Rom. 6:23). We are saved and live forever with the Lord because of what Jesus has done.
The Savior took our place and accepted humanity’s punishment for sin. He and the Father have done the hard work of salvation so we can reap the benefits and rewards of faith. If you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and He died for your sins, then you are saved.
...the very message about faith that we preach: 9 ) If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10) For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11) As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.”[b] 12) Jew and Gentile[c] are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. 13) For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”[d]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Rom 6: 20-23
20-21) As long as you did what you felt like doing, ignoring God, you didn't have to bother with right thinking or right living, or right anything for that matter. But do you call that a free life? What did you get out of it? Nothing you're proud of now. Where did it get you? A dead end. 22-23) But now that you've found you don't have to listen to sin tell you what to do, and have discovered the delight of listening to God telling you, what a surprise! A whole, healed, put-together life right now, with more and more of life on the way! Work hard for sin your whole life and your pension is death. But God's gift is real life, eternal life, delivered by Jesus, our Master.
God sent His Son to take your punishment by dying in your place. Unless believers understand this provision, they will doubt their salvation. We can’t be good enough to earn heaven. Man is born with a corrupted nature; therefore, we will at times sin, no matter how hard we try not to. The Bible compares our attempts at righteous deeds to filthy rags (Isa. 64:6).
On its own, mankind has but one option with regard to sin: to die in it and spend eternity separated from God. But the Father so loved the world that He chose to punish His Son in our place (John 3:16). It was a severe price to pay. Holy God cannot look upon the filth of sin, so when Jesus became sin for all mankind, the Father had to turn away (2 Cor. 5:21). The physical suffering of crucifixion was terrible, but nothing compared to Jesus’ wrenching horror when the Father turned His back. The devastated Messiah cried out, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Mark 15:34).
Throughout eternity past, the Father and Son had never been separated. Jesus accepted this ultimate punishment so we wouldn’t have to. When Paul said that the wages of sin was death, he was referring to eternal separation from God (Rom. 6:23). We are saved and live forever with the Lord because of what Jesus has done.
The Savior took our place and accepted humanity’s punishment for sin. He and the Father have done the hard work of salvation so we can reap the benefits and rewards of faith. If you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and He died for your sins, then you are saved.
...the very message about faith that we preach: 9 ) If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10) For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11) As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.”[b] 12) Jew and Gentile[c] are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. 13) For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”[d]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Surrendered to God
Read Ephesians 5:15-17
To make us useful servants for His kingdom, God desires to break our self-will—our independent streak that puts “self” first. He doesn’t want to break us; He just wants to transform those parts of us that do not reflect Jesus Christ.
Our heavenly Father sees who we really are, so He targets those areas in our life that will hinder Christian growth. Attitudes of pride, jealousy, anger, and unforgiveness need to be dealt with so that His divine love and truth will flow through us to others (Eph. 4:31-32). To promote change, He will bear down on us and maintain pressure until we respond. The Lord desires what is good for us and will do what is necessary to bring transformation in our thought life, attitudes, actions, and priorities.
I remember when our church staff were few in number. We had two live television programs to produce along with the rest of the responsibilities, so we all worked very hard. Eventually, great weariness forced me to stop serving for three months. I wondered what would happen in the congregation during my absence. It turns out the church grew in attendance, giving, and serving without me. The Lord knew that pride in my pastoral position would be a hindrance to future service. So He took steps to change me.
Through that time of brokenness, the Lord taught me a great lesson. Being yielded and obedient to God is what makes my service valuable to Him. Have you been cooperating with His work in your life? Transformation will take place when you surrender to the Father and cooperate with His Spirit.
[via Pastor Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
To make us useful servants for His kingdom, God desires to break our self-will—our independent streak that puts “self” first. He doesn’t want to break us; He just wants to transform those parts of us that do not reflect Jesus Christ.
Our heavenly Father sees who we really are, so He targets those areas in our life that will hinder Christian growth. Attitudes of pride, jealousy, anger, and unforgiveness need to be dealt with so that His divine love and truth will flow through us to others (Eph. 4:31-32). To promote change, He will bear down on us and maintain pressure until we respond. The Lord desires what is good for us and will do what is necessary to bring transformation in our thought life, attitudes, actions, and priorities.
I remember when our church staff were few in number. We had two live television programs to produce along with the rest of the responsibilities, so we all worked very hard. Eventually, great weariness forced me to stop serving for three months. I wondered what would happen in the congregation during my absence. It turns out the church grew in attendance, giving, and serving without me. The Lord knew that pride in my pastoral position would be a hindrance to future service. So He took steps to change me.
Through that time of brokenness, the Lord taught me a great lesson. Being yielded and obedient to God is what makes my service valuable to Him. Have you been cooperating with His work in your life? Transformation will take place when you surrender to the Father and cooperate with His Spirit.
[via Pastor Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Monday, November 15, 2010
God’s Pathway of Brokenness
Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
To the human mind, the word “brokenness” can mean something needs to be fixed, is not as good as it was, or is no longer usable. In God’s kingdom, the word refers to a key element of the sanctification process—one that is beneficial for us.
At salvation, we received a new nature that desires to please God, but we still have our old selfish ways. These ingrained habits, attitudes, and values are based on a common theme—an inward desire to act independently of the Lord.
To become effective servants for God, we must let go of our self-righteousness that says, “I know what is right,” our self-will that claims, “I know what is best for me,” and our self-centeredness that declares, “What I want is most important.” Brokenness is one of the Lord’s tools for replacing self-serving attitudes with Christlike ones. During this difficult but vitally important process, the Holy Spirit works to remove every obstacle that prevents our complete surrender to Christ’s lordship and obedience to Him.
Why do we resist letting go of our own plan and embracing God’s? Sometimes we’re wrapped up in worldly entanglements and don’t want to release them. At other times we may fear what will happen if we follow God’s way.
When we resist the Holy Spirit’s leading, our relationship with the heavenly Father will suffer, and our influence and service will be negatively affected. But if we cooperate with the transformation process, we’ll discover that God’s power to change lives will be visible in our brokenness.
[via Pastor Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
To the human mind, the word “brokenness” can mean something needs to be fixed, is not as good as it was, or is no longer usable. In God’s kingdom, the word refers to a key element of the sanctification process—one that is beneficial for us.
At salvation, we received a new nature that desires to please God, but we still have our old selfish ways. These ingrained habits, attitudes, and values are based on a common theme—an inward desire to act independently of the Lord.
To become effective servants for God, we must let go of our self-righteousness that says, “I know what is right,” our self-will that claims, “I know what is best for me,” and our self-centeredness that declares, “What I want is most important.” Brokenness is one of the Lord’s tools for replacing self-serving attitudes with Christlike ones. During this difficult but vitally important process, the Holy Spirit works to remove every obstacle that prevents our complete surrender to Christ’s lordship and obedience to Him.
Why do we resist letting go of our own plan and embracing God’s? Sometimes we’re wrapped up in worldly entanglements and don’t want to release them. At other times we may fear what will happen if we follow God’s way.
When we resist the Holy Spirit’s leading, our relationship with the heavenly Father will suffer, and our influence and service will be negatively affected. But if we cooperate with the transformation process, we’ll discover that God’s power to change lives will be visible in our brokenness.
[via Pastor Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Weekend Devotional: Guided Missiles
This was sent to me and of course as always, I had to share it with you!
As we fight the spiritual battle, we need spiritual weaponry. Let's consider our shield. The apostle Paul writes, "above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one" (Ephesians 6:16). The words above all mean that faith is of paramount importance. The other armor won't function apart from faith.
The shields that Roman soldiers would use were made of wood and then covered with cloth and leather. They were large, rectangular objects about four feet high and two feet wide. By crouching behind it, the soldier could completely hide himself.
The term fiery darts that Paul uses refers to one of the most commonly-used enemy tactics of his day. Prior to a face-to-face engagement with the enemy, a warrior would often encounter a barrage of flaming arrows coming from all directions. Their sole purpose was to demoralize and confuse him.
Our modern equivalent might be guided missiles or rockets.
The Roman soldier had to hold up his shield to protect himself from those fiery arrows. Sometimes, he would dip his shield in water so the fire-tipped arrows would be extinguished when they struck the shield.
Satan has his "flaming arrows," or "guided missiles," which he shoots our way. They are swift and silent and we receive no advance warning of their arrival. You can wake up in the morning, and the enemy will hit you with a flaming arrow before your feet even hit the floor.
It might be an impure thought or a thought of complete despair. You may be gripped with intense fear and terror. "What if this happens, or if that happens?"
It might be a thought of hatred toward someone. It might even be a blasphemous thought or a thought of doubt.
When do these "flaming arrows" come? At strategic times—like when you decide to read the Bible.
Isn't it amazing that you can open the newspaper and maintain your full ability to concentrate with no distractions? You can get through the whole thing—the want ads, the comics, and all the advertisements—with no disruption whatsoever.
Or you may watch some mindless TV program and you'll get through it with no phone calls, no distractions, and no problems.
But try opening the Bible and watch as "all hell breaks loose" and those flaming arrows start flying!
It might be an inability to concentrate. It might be a hundred and one things you should be doing that come to mind. They aren't necessarily evil thoughts per se—just things like: "Oh boy! I forgot to go do this" or "I've got to pick up the cleaning," or "I need to return that phone call," etc.
Listen—the enemy's primary objective is to keep you from the Word of God.
These "guided missiles" will also come during times of trial and hardship. Satan will whisper in your ear, "God has abandoned you. He's left you. He doesn't love you!"
I know about this personally and so do many of you. It is then that I hold up the shield of faith.
Here, faith means the ability to quickly apply what we believe so as to repel everything the devil attempts to do to us.
My relationship with God is not built on fleeting emotions or feelings, but on faith in what He has said to me in His Word. The "shield of faith" is turning to God and His Word in time of attack, and not focusing on our fluctuating feelings or emotions.
Scripture does not say, "Resist Satan, steadfast in your emotions," but rather, "Resist him, steadfast in the faith" (1 Peter 5:9 NKJV).
So use your shield today! It could make all the difference.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
As we fight the spiritual battle, we need spiritual weaponry. Let's consider our shield. The apostle Paul writes, "above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one" (Ephesians 6:16). The words above all mean that faith is of paramount importance. The other armor won't function apart from faith.
The shields that Roman soldiers would use were made of wood and then covered with cloth and leather. They were large, rectangular objects about four feet high and two feet wide. By crouching behind it, the soldier could completely hide himself.
The term fiery darts that Paul uses refers to one of the most commonly-used enemy tactics of his day. Prior to a face-to-face engagement with the enemy, a warrior would often encounter a barrage of flaming arrows coming from all directions. Their sole purpose was to demoralize and confuse him.
Our modern equivalent might be guided missiles or rockets.
The Roman soldier had to hold up his shield to protect himself from those fiery arrows. Sometimes, he would dip his shield in water so the fire-tipped arrows would be extinguished when they struck the shield.
Satan has his "flaming arrows," or "guided missiles," which he shoots our way. They are swift and silent and we receive no advance warning of their arrival. You can wake up in the morning, and the enemy will hit you with a flaming arrow before your feet even hit the floor.
It might be an impure thought or a thought of complete despair. You may be gripped with intense fear and terror. "What if this happens, or if that happens?"
It might be a thought of hatred toward someone. It might even be a blasphemous thought or a thought of doubt.
When do these "flaming arrows" come? At strategic times—like when you decide to read the Bible.
Isn't it amazing that you can open the newspaper and maintain your full ability to concentrate with no distractions? You can get through the whole thing—the want ads, the comics, and all the advertisements—with no disruption whatsoever.
Or you may watch some mindless TV program and you'll get through it with no phone calls, no distractions, and no problems.
But try opening the Bible and watch as "all hell breaks loose" and those flaming arrows start flying!
It might be an inability to concentrate. It might be a hundred and one things you should be doing that come to mind. They aren't necessarily evil thoughts per se—just things like: "Oh boy! I forgot to go do this" or "I've got to pick up the cleaning," or "I need to return that phone call," etc.
Listen—the enemy's primary objective is to keep you from the Word of God.
These "guided missiles" will also come during times of trial and hardship. Satan will whisper in your ear, "God has abandoned you. He's left you. He doesn't love you!"
I know about this personally and so do many of you. It is then that I hold up the shield of faith.
Here, faith means the ability to quickly apply what we believe so as to repel everything the devil attempts to do to us.
My relationship with God is not built on fleeting emotions or feelings, but on faith in what He has said to me in His Word. The "shield of faith" is turning to God and His Word in time of attack, and not focusing on our fluctuating feelings or emotions.
Scripture does not say, "Resist Satan, steadfast in your emotions," but rather, "Resist him, steadfast in the faith" (1 Peter 5:9 NKJV).
So use your shield today! It could make all the difference.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Friday, November 12, 2010
"When We Put God First"
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
— Matthew 6:33
When Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, ascended to the throne after his father died, he was overwhelmed by the task at hand. So he prayed, and God appeared to him in a dream and told him, "Ask! What shall I give you?" (1 Kings 3:5). If God appeared to you tonight and told you to ask for whatever you wanted, what would you pray for? Fortunately, Solomon asked for wisdom to rule God's people: "Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?" (1 Kings 3:9).
Because he had not asked for a long life, riches, or even the death of his enemies, God told Solomon He would give him just what he requested and more: "And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days" (1 Kings 3:13).
Solomon had his priorities in order. He sought God's kingdom first, and all of those things were added to him.
And when we put God and His kingdom first, our lives will find the proper balance as well. When Jesus said, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you," what things was He speaking of? In context, these "things" are what you will wear, what you will drink, and what you will eat. But let me take it a step further. It is also where you will work, where you will live, and even whom you will marry.
The basic issues of life will be taken care of by God when we put Him first.
[via Walk in the Word]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
— Matthew 6:33
When Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, ascended to the throne after his father died, he was overwhelmed by the task at hand. So he prayed, and God appeared to him in a dream and told him, "Ask! What shall I give you?" (1 Kings 3:5). If God appeared to you tonight and told you to ask for whatever you wanted, what would you pray for? Fortunately, Solomon asked for wisdom to rule God's people: "Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?" (1 Kings 3:9).
Because he had not asked for a long life, riches, or even the death of his enemies, God told Solomon He would give him just what he requested and more: "And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days" (1 Kings 3:13).
Solomon had his priorities in order. He sought God's kingdom first, and all of those things were added to him.
And when we put God and His kingdom first, our lives will find the proper balance as well. When Jesus said, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you," what things was He speaking of? In context, these "things" are what you will wear, what you will drink, and what you will eat. But let me take it a step further. It is also where you will work, where you will live, and even whom you will marry.
The basic issues of life will be taken care of by God when we put Him first.
[via Walk in the Word]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Thursday, November 11, 2010
"First Things First"
"Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven." ~ Matthew 6:10
A verse every Christian should commit to memory is Matthew 6:33: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
What does it mean to seek first the kingdom of God? God's kingdom is the rule and reign of Christ in our lives. Jesus taught us to pray, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). This is praying for a day when God will bring heaven to earth and will bring His rule on this planet. God still has a plan for planet Earth. He will rule and reign here, and as believers, we will rule and reign with Him. So that is in the future.
But when we pray, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven," we are also praying for the rule and reign of the kingdom of God in our lives. This is when Jesus is in charge. On one occasion Jesus said, "For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you" (Luke 17:21), where He was speaking of himself. When you are under His lordship, and when He is in control of your life, that is the kingdom of God. It is not rules and regulations, but "righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17).
Have you, as a Christian, surrendered your life to Christ? Have you said, "Lord, I want Your will more than I want my own will. I am willing to surrender to You now"? Because you cannot pray, "Your kingdom come" until you first pray, "My kingdom go." Have you done that yet?
A lack of faith can bring a lot of anxiety into our lives. So instead of worrying, we should put God and His will first in our lives. "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to"
[via Harvest Ministries]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
A verse every Christian should commit to memory is Matthew 6:33: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
What does it mean to seek first the kingdom of God? God's kingdom is the rule and reign of Christ in our lives. Jesus taught us to pray, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). This is praying for a day when God will bring heaven to earth and will bring His rule on this planet. God still has a plan for planet Earth. He will rule and reign here, and as believers, we will rule and reign with Him. So that is in the future.
But when we pray, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven," we are also praying for the rule and reign of the kingdom of God in our lives. This is when Jesus is in charge. On one occasion Jesus said, "For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you" (Luke 17:21), where He was speaking of himself. When you are under His lordship, and when He is in control of your life, that is the kingdom of God. It is not rules and regulations, but "righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17).
Have you, as a Christian, surrendered your life to Christ? Have you said, "Lord, I want Your will more than I want my own will. I am willing to surrender to You now"? Because you cannot pray, "Your kingdom come" until you first pray, "My kingdom go." Have you done that yet?
A lack of faith can bring a lot of anxiety into our lives. So instead of worrying, we should put God and His will first in our lives. "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to"
[via Harvest Ministries]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
"Wandering from the Word"
God's thoughts are not our thoughts; neither are His
ways our ways. Since we desire to live our lives pleasing
to Him we need to read the
B.I.B.L.E.: Basic Instructions Before Life Eternal
9) How can(A) a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. 10) (B) With my whole heart I seek you; let me not(C) wander from your commandments! 11) I have(D) stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. 12) Blessed are you, O LORD; (E) teach me your statutes! 13) With my lips I(F) declare all the rules[a] of your mouth. 14)In the way of your testimonies I(G) delight as much as in all(H) riches. 15)I will(I) meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your(J) ways.
16) I will(K) delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word. ~ Psalm 119: 9 -16 (ESV)
Stan bought his grandchildren a new toy. After glancing at the directions, he set the booklet aside to get busy building. A few frustrating hours later, Stan humbly opened the instructions again and followed the steps to assemble the toy. Soon he was done, and the grandkids were playing happily.
Stan knew that the manufacturer had a plan for putting together the toy. But he’s a smart fellow, so he assumed he could figure it out too. Many people take the same approach to the Scriptures that Stan took to those directions. Instead of treating God’s Word like a manual to live by, they glance at it occasionally when they aren’t sure what to do next.
The Bible is like the Father’s diagram of Himself. He teaches believers who He is, what He thinks, and how He acts. Knowing the ways of the Lord ensures that we make wise decisions, which honor Him.
The Bible is also God’s instruction book for living. I emphasize reading it every day because believers cannot be spiritually successful or victorious without it. In today’s passage, we read that if a person wants to be righteous, his or her life must comply with the principles of Scripture. Of course, the only way to know what those principles are is to read, study, and meditate upon the Word.
God’s Word is our most valuable possession. Casting it aside is as foolish as tossing away a wallet full of money. Among the Bible’s riches are stories teaching us how to serve the Lord and principles about pleasing Him. And there is a wealth of instruction for building a righteous and meaningful life.
By: Dr. Charles Stanley
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Don't Put it Off
By Dr. James MacDonald
Salvation
Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called "today," that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. As it is said, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion." Hebrews 3:12-15
On Sunday night, October 8, 1871, D. L. Moody was preaching the gospel in downtown Chicago. He challenged the listening crowd to go home and “think about what I’ve said about the gospel and come back tomorrow and tell me what you’ve decided about following the Lord.” Sounds OK, right? “It’s a big decision. Don’t rush into it. Weigh your options.”
About the same hour that meeting was breaking up, a few blocks west of downtown, a blaze had begun in Patrick O’Leary’s cow barn. By midnight the fire had jumped the Chicago River’s south branch and by 1:30 a.m., the entire business district (where Moody had been preaching) was in flames. By 3:00 a.m., the inferno had raced northward, jumped the main river, and devoured over 100,000 homes. Not until after midnight the following day was the fire extinguished as a steady rain left Chicago smoldering and in rubbles—with hundreds dead.
Many of the people who had heard the gospel on Sunday night perished in the flames. By not deciding to follow Jesus the moment they heard the invitation, they had missed their opportunity to respond to God’s good news.
D.L. Moody’s ministry was changed forever. He said, “From now on, every chance I get I will urge upon people a decision today, today. Today, sir, make a decision today. Although you can choose your actions; you cannot choose the consequences.”
“Today if you hear His voice, don’t harden your heart.” The writer of Hebrews repeats that warning three times (3:7, 3:15, 4:7). And while it applies to those who would respond to God’s call of salvation, it also applies to followers of Christ at some point of obedience.
It all comes down to this: when you hear what God’s Word says, do something about it. God often uses this in my own heart. If you want to go further with God than you have in years gone by, decide today that every time God shows you something, you’re going to get after it. If He lays it out for you, don’t put it off.
What action or point of surrender has God been prompting you to make that you haven’t acted on yet? What are you waiting for? Do you feel the weight of obedience right now in some area of your life? Don’t ignore His prompting. How quickly this life will end; how soon eternity will begin.
Get on doing God’s thing right away. You don’t know how long the opportunity will be yours.
12 So brothers and sisters, be careful that none of you has an evil, unbelieving heart that will turn you away from the living God.13 But encourage each other every day while it is "today."[a] Help each other so none of you will become hardened because sin has tricked you.14 We all share in Christ if we keep till the end the sure faith we had in the beginning. 15 This is what the Scripture says: "Today listen to what he says. Do not be stubborn as in the past when you turned against God." — see Psalm 95:7–8
[Via The Weekly Walk]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Salvation
Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called "today," that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. As it is said, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion." Hebrews 3:12-15
On Sunday night, October 8, 1871, D. L. Moody was preaching the gospel in downtown Chicago. He challenged the listening crowd to go home and “think about what I’ve said about the gospel and come back tomorrow and tell me what you’ve decided about following the Lord.” Sounds OK, right? “It’s a big decision. Don’t rush into it. Weigh your options.”
About the same hour that meeting was breaking up, a few blocks west of downtown, a blaze had begun in Patrick O’Leary’s cow barn. By midnight the fire had jumped the Chicago River’s south branch and by 1:30 a.m., the entire business district (where Moody had been preaching) was in flames. By 3:00 a.m., the inferno had raced northward, jumped the main river, and devoured over 100,000 homes. Not until after midnight the following day was the fire extinguished as a steady rain left Chicago smoldering and in rubbles—with hundreds dead.
Many of the people who had heard the gospel on Sunday night perished in the flames. By not deciding to follow Jesus the moment they heard the invitation, they had missed their opportunity to respond to God’s good news.
D.L. Moody’s ministry was changed forever. He said, “From now on, every chance I get I will urge upon people a decision today, today. Today, sir, make a decision today. Although you can choose your actions; you cannot choose the consequences.”
“Today if you hear His voice, don’t harden your heart.” The writer of Hebrews repeats that warning three times (3:7, 3:15, 4:7). And while it applies to those who would respond to God’s call of salvation, it also applies to followers of Christ at some point of obedience.
It all comes down to this: when you hear what God’s Word says, do something about it. God often uses this in my own heart. If you want to go further with God than you have in years gone by, decide today that every time God shows you something, you’re going to get after it. If He lays it out for you, don’t put it off.
What action or point of surrender has God been prompting you to make that you haven’t acted on yet? What are you waiting for? Do you feel the weight of obedience right now in some area of your life? Don’t ignore His prompting. How quickly this life will end; how soon eternity will begin.
Get on doing God’s thing right away. You don’t know how long the opportunity will be yours.
12 So brothers and sisters, be careful that none of you has an evil, unbelieving heart that will turn you away from the living God.13 But encourage each other every day while it is "today."[a] Help each other so none of you will become hardened because sin has tricked you.14 We all share in Christ if we keep till the end the sure faith we had in the beginning. 15 This is what the Scripture says: "Today listen to what he says. Do not be stubborn as in the past when you turned against God." — see Psalm 95:7–8
[Via The Weekly Walk]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Monday, November 8, 2010
Recognizing God’s Voice
Read John 10:14-16
Children seem to have special hearing when it comes to their parents’ voices. They recognize when their mother or father is talking, regardless of how many other people are around.
In a similar way, Jesus assures us that we will be able to distinguish His voice among the insistent cries and conflicting opinions of our world (John 10:27). He promises we will be able to “hear” Him, even though He doesn’t speak in audible words—one reason is that He has given us His Holy Spirit, who knows exactly what Christ is saying and will provide us with the wisdom to understand.
Have you ever noticed the way some children pretend not to hear their parents so they won’t have to obey? Sometimes we can be like that—we might fail to recognize the heavenly Father’s direction because of our own self-centeredness. We intently focus on what we want and ignore any opposing instruction.
There is another obstacle to hearing the Lord: impatience. Just like the culture we live in, we want answers right now. This tendency can cause us to listen to the wrong speaker. Surrendering our personal desires and fixing our attention on what matters to God will make it easier for us to discern His voice.
When Peter acted on his own ideas, he encountered difficulty. But when he gave up his way and listened to Jesus, he became a disciple to whom Christ could entrust kingdom work (John 21:17). Have you learned to distinguish the Lord’s voice from the noise around you?
[via Pastor Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Children seem to have special hearing when it comes to their parents’ voices. They recognize when their mother or father is talking, regardless of how many other people are around.
In a similar way, Jesus assures us that we will be able to distinguish His voice among the insistent cries and conflicting opinions of our world (John 10:27). He promises we will be able to “hear” Him, even though He doesn’t speak in audible words—one reason is that He has given us His Holy Spirit, who knows exactly what Christ is saying and will provide us with the wisdom to understand.
Have you ever noticed the way some children pretend not to hear their parents so they won’t have to obey? Sometimes we can be like that—we might fail to recognize the heavenly Father’s direction because of our own self-centeredness. We intently focus on what we want and ignore any opposing instruction.
There is another obstacle to hearing the Lord: impatience. Just like the culture we live in, we want answers right now. This tendency can cause us to listen to the wrong speaker. Surrendering our personal desires and fixing our attention on what matters to God will make it easier for us to discern His voice.
When Peter acted on his own ideas, he encountered difficulty. But when he gave up his way and listened to Jesus, he became a disciple to whom Christ could entrust kingdom work (John 21:17). Have you learned to distinguish the Lord’s voice from the noise around you?
[via Pastor Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Christians in the Workplace
Read Philippians 2:5-8
One of the greatest hindrances to the gospel’s effectiveness is Christians who act one way at church and another way elsewhere. The way we live for God should permeate all areas of life. The workplace is no exception.
The way we act reflects our faith. So if we claim to be Christians, our coworkers, bosses, and employees will equate our attitudes and actions with Jesus. Do those around you at the office see a positive reflection of God in your work ethic?
Let’s look at a scriptural model for the believer to follow. For one thing, we should view ourselves as servants. Next, our true boss is Christ; therefore, we work diligently and with integrity, knowing that our reward
is from Him. Then, since all authority on earth is God-given (John 19:11), we should obey our superiors gladly—unless, of course, our boss tells us to do something that goes against Scripture. And finally, all those we work with and for have worth from the Creator, and we should treat them with respect.
Think about how the golden rule—“Do unto others as you’d have others do unto you”—applies here. Putting it a different way, imagine yourself as the boss and ask, How would I like employees to work, even when I wasn’t watching them?
Even when jobs or coworkers are hard to like, we are to work as though God is our boss. That means doing tasks with joy, a servant attitude, respect for others, diligence, and obedience to those in authority. Imagine what the workplace could be if all believers approached their jobs this way.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
One of the greatest hindrances to the gospel’s effectiveness is Christians who act one way at church and another way elsewhere. The way we live for God should permeate all areas of life. The workplace is no exception.
The way we act reflects our faith. So if we claim to be Christians, our coworkers, bosses, and employees will equate our attitudes and actions with Jesus. Do those around you at the office see a positive reflection of God in your work ethic?
Let’s look at a scriptural model for the believer to follow. For one thing, we should view ourselves as servants. Next, our true boss is Christ; therefore, we work diligently and with integrity, knowing that our reward
is from Him. Then, since all authority on earth is God-given (John 19:11), we should obey our superiors gladly—unless, of course, our boss tells us to do something that goes against Scripture. And finally, all those we work with and for have worth from the Creator, and we should treat them with respect.
Think about how the golden rule—“Do unto others as you’d have others do unto you”—applies here. Putting it a different way, imagine yourself as the boss and ask, How would I like employees to work, even when I wasn’t watching them?
Even when jobs or coworkers are hard to like, we are to work as though God is our boss. That means doing tasks with joy, a servant attitude, respect for others, diligence, and obedience to those in authority. Imagine what the workplace could be if all believers approached their jobs this way.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Thursday, November 4, 2010
When Faith Falters
Mark 9:17-29
James 1:5 tells us that God offers wisdom to anyone who asks. However, he goes on to warn that if we doubt, our prayers will not be answered. But at times, don’t all of us struggle with some degree of doubt?
Let’s explore some reasons for our disbelief. First, faith usually defies human reasoning. For example, when we are in financial difficulty, logic says to save every penny, whereas God says He will bless the generous giver. Second, feelings of fear, inadequacy, or guilt can interfere with trusting biblical truth. Third, we often focus on the circumstance rather than our heavenly Father. He is at work, yet we fail to notice His hand. And finally, uncertainty about God’s will can lead us to doubt Him.
Wavering faith has severe consequences: missed blessings, lack of peace and joy, and a heart that is easily thrown off course when difficulty arises. How, then, can we avoid faltering in our faith?
In Mark 9, a man pleaded with Jesus to rebuke the spirit possessing his son. When Christ replied that “all things are possible to him who believes,” the father said, “I do believe; help my unbelief” (vv. 23-24). And Jesus granted his request. Like that man, we can ask the Lord to increase our faith. But we should also spend time reading God’s Word and meditating on His promises.
From the story in Luke, we know that doubt is common—and that God is patient and understanding. Faith comes from Him. So when you are at a crossroads and the right response requires faith, or when you pray and notice doubt, ask Him to help you believe.
[via Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
James 1:5 tells us that God offers wisdom to anyone who asks. However, he goes on to warn that if we doubt, our prayers will not be answered. But at times, don’t all of us struggle with some degree of doubt?
Let’s explore some reasons for our disbelief. First, faith usually defies human reasoning. For example, when we are in financial difficulty, logic says to save every penny, whereas God says He will bless the generous giver. Second, feelings of fear, inadequacy, or guilt can interfere with trusting biblical truth. Third, we often focus on the circumstance rather than our heavenly Father. He is at work, yet we fail to notice His hand. And finally, uncertainty about God’s will can lead us to doubt Him.
Wavering faith has severe consequences: missed blessings, lack of peace and joy, and a heart that is easily thrown off course when difficulty arises. How, then, can we avoid faltering in our faith?
In Mark 9, a man pleaded with Jesus to rebuke the spirit possessing his son. When Christ replied that “all things are possible to him who believes,” the father said, “I do believe; help my unbelief” (vv. 23-24). And Jesus granted his request. Like that man, we can ask the Lord to increase our faith. But we should also spend time reading God’s Word and meditating on His promises.
From the story in Luke, we know that doubt is common—and that God is patient and understanding. Faith comes from Him. So when you are at a crossroads and the right response requires faith, or when you pray and notice doubt, ask Him to help you believe.
[via Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Truth
"I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. " - John 17:14-17
I would suggest to you that John 17:17 is a great verse to put to memory. It has three little parts to it. Jesus prayed, Sanctify them. The word sanctify means change. Sanctification is God's transforming process in the life of every believer. Jesus prayed, "Change them, Father, all My disciples."
The second phrase is, in the truth. Do you want to change and grow? The fuel for transformation has always been and always will be truth. Sanctify them in the truth.
Where is truth found? Jesus didn't leave any doubt about that. The last phrase in verse 17 was, your word is truth. This is the Son praying to the Father. Every word that proceeds from the mouth of God is absolute, authoritative, binding truth.
The world can shout that it has discovered other truth, but what God says is still true! Within the last few years psychology has promoted the concept that if you really want to get healthy, if you want to get healed from the past, you have to dig it up. Joseph in the Old Testament and the Apostle Paul in the New Testament make God's heart abundantly clear: freedom from my past comes not from remembering and reviewing, but from forgetting and putting behind me and forgiving and moving on. This is the living, abiding, Word of God – always true, always reliable:
"But you are near, O Lord, and all your commandments are true" (Psalm119:151).
"The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever" (Psalms 119:160).
Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away" (Luke 21:33).
This is the greatest book that has ever been written because it is the only book that God has written. He has preserved, protected, and promoted it. It has the endorsements of the greatest minds of human history. This book has never been tried and found lacking. Never!
[via Walk in the Word]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
I would suggest to you that John 17:17 is a great verse to put to memory. It has three little parts to it. Jesus prayed, Sanctify them. The word sanctify means change. Sanctification is God's transforming process in the life of every believer. Jesus prayed, "Change them, Father, all My disciples."
The second phrase is, in the truth. Do you want to change and grow? The fuel for transformation has always been and always will be truth. Sanctify them in the truth.
Where is truth found? Jesus didn't leave any doubt about that. The last phrase in verse 17 was, your word is truth. This is the Son praying to the Father. Every word that proceeds from the mouth of God is absolute, authoritative, binding truth.
The world can shout that it has discovered other truth, but what God says is still true! Within the last few years psychology has promoted the concept that if you really want to get healthy, if you want to get healed from the past, you have to dig it up. Joseph in the Old Testament and the Apostle Paul in the New Testament make God's heart abundantly clear: freedom from my past comes not from remembering and reviewing, but from forgetting and putting behind me and forgiving and moving on. This is the living, abiding, Word of God – always true, always reliable:
"But you are near, O Lord, and all your commandments are true" (Psalm119:151).
"The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever" (Psalms 119:160).
Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away" (Luke 21:33).
This is the greatest book that has ever been written because it is the only book that God has written. He has preserved, protected, and promoted it. It has the endorsements of the greatest minds of human history. This book has never been tried and found lacking. Never!
[via Walk in the Word]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
How to Apply Biblical Principles
Read
Psalm 119:17-24
The idea of applying biblical principles is often misunderstood. It is not so simple as hear, believe, apply—as if one were putting on a new doctrine like a borrowed overcoat. Two steps are missing between believe and apply: explore and discover.
To explore a biblical principle means studying Scripture to understand 1) what the surrounding context is, 2) what the principle means for you, and 3) what it reveals about God. Furthermore, we must consider how this lone principle relates to rest of the Bible. Digging in the Word softens hearts and minds so that the new doctrine gets planted deep.
As we plow further into Scripture to explore, the new concept rises off the page and becomes real to us. We discover how the principle works and the way to apply it properly in our life. In this way, the rich truth becomes our own. It isn’t simply tacked onto our actions as an external influence; rather, we take the truth into our hearts and minds so that it impacts us from the inside out.
Making God’s principles an integral part of our lives is a delightful experience. Instead of feeling a passing fancy for a new concept, people who make an idea their own rejoice in it. And they dig back into the Word to learn more of the Lord’s statutes.
A believer who has little to say about God’s work in his life is probably not applying Scripture. Simply hearing and believing doesn’t make a concept yours. A principle is yours when you explore the truth, discover its place in your life, and apply the concept so that God can make it work.
[By Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Psalm 119:17-24
The idea of applying biblical principles is often misunderstood. It is not so simple as hear, believe, apply—as if one were putting on a new doctrine like a borrowed overcoat. Two steps are missing between believe and apply: explore and discover.
To explore a biblical principle means studying Scripture to understand 1) what the surrounding context is, 2) what the principle means for you, and 3) what it reveals about God. Furthermore, we must consider how this lone principle relates to rest of the Bible. Digging in the Word softens hearts and minds so that the new doctrine gets planted deep.
As we plow further into Scripture to explore, the new concept rises off the page and becomes real to us. We discover how the principle works and the way to apply it properly in our life. In this way, the rich truth becomes our own. It isn’t simply tacked onto our actions as an external influence; rather, we take the truth into our hearts and minds so that it impacts us from the inside out.
Making God’s principles an integral part of our lives is a delightful experience. Instead of feeling a passing fancy for a new concept, people who make an idea their own rejoice in it. And they dig back into the Word to learn more of the Lord’s statutes.
A believer who has little to say about God’s work in his life is probably not applying Scripture. Simply hearing and believing doesn’t make a concept yours. A principle is yours when you explore the truth, discover its place in your life, and apply the concept so that God can make it work.
[By Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Monday, November 1, 2010
Wandering from the Word
Read
Psalm 119:9-16
Stan bought his grandchildren a new toy. After glancing at the directions, he set the booklet aside to get busy building. A few frustrating hours later, Stan humbly opened the instructions again and followed the steps to assemble the toy. Soon he was done, and the grandkids were playing happily.
Stan knew that the manufacturer had a plan for putting together the toy. But he’s a smart fellow, so he assumed he could figure it out too. Many people take the same approach to the Scriptures that Stan took to those directions. Instead of treating God’s Word like a manual to live by, they glance at it occasionally when they aren’t sure what to do next.
The Bible is like the Father’s diagram of Himself. He teaches believers who He is, what He thinks, and how He acts. Knowing the ways of the Lord ensures that we make wise decisions, which honor Him.
The Bible is also God’s instruction book for living. I emphasize reading it every day because believers cannot be spiritually successful or victorious without it. In today’s passage, we read that if a person wants to be righteous, his or her life must comply with the principles of Scripture. Of course, the only way to know what those principles are is to read, study, and meditate upon the Word.
God’s Word is our most valuable possession. Casting it aside is as foolish as tossing away a wallet full of money. Among the Bible’s riches are stories teaching us how to serve the Lord and principles about pleasing Him. And there is a wealth of instruction for building a righteous and meaningful life.
[via Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Psalm 119:9-16
Stan bought his grandchildren a new toy. After glancing at the directions, he set the booklet aside to get busy building. A few frustrating hours later, Stan humbly opened the instructions again and followed the steps to assemble the toy. Soon he was done, and the grandkids were playing happily.
Stan knew that the manufacturer had a plan for putting together the toy. But he’s a smart fellow, so he assumed he could figure it out too. Many people take the same approach to the Scriptures that Stan took to those directions. Instead of treating God’s Word like a manual to live by, they glance at it occasionally when they aren’t sure what to do next.
The Bible is like the Father’s diagram of Himself. He teaches believers who He is, what He thinks, and how He acts. Knowing the ways of the Lord ensures that we make wise decisions, which honor Him.
The Bible is also God’s instruction book for living. I emphasize reading it every day because believers cannot be spiritually successful or victorious without it. In today’s passage, we read that if a person wants to be righteous, his or her life must comply with the principles of Scripture. Of course, the only way to know what those principles are is to read, study, and meditate upon the Word.
God’s Word is our most valuable possession. Casting it aside is as foolish as tossing away a wallet full of money. Among the Bible’s riches are stories teaching us how to serve the Lord and principles about pleasing Him. And there is a wealth of instruction for building a righteous and meaningful life.
[via Dr. Charles Stanley]
Be Blessed!
Dawn
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