Psalm 46; ASV
1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore will we not fear, though the earth do change, and though the mountains be shaken into the heart of the seas;
3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains tremble with the swelling thereof. (Selah)
4 There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God will help her, and that right early.
6 The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved: He uttered his voice, the earth melted.
7 Jehovah of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. (Selah)
8 Come, behold the works of Jehovah, what desolations he hath made in the earth.
9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; He breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; He burneth the chariots in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
11 Jehovah of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. (Selah)
Friday, December 20, 2013
Thursday, December 19, 2013
The Great House of Jehovah
Psalm 27; ASV
1 Jehovah is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Jehovah is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evil-doers came upon me to eat up my flesh, (even) mine adversaries and my foes, they stumbled and fell.
3 Though a host should encamp against me, My heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, even then will I be confident.
4 One thing have I asked of Jehovah, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of Jehovah all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of Jehovah, and to inquire in his temple.
5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me secretly in his pavilion: in the covert of his tabernacle will he hide me; He will lift me up upon a rock.
6 And now shall my head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me. And I will offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto Jehovah.
7 Hear, O Jehovah, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
8 (When thou saidst), seek ye my face; My heart said unto thee, Thy face, Jehovah, will I seek.
9 Hide not thy face from me; put not thy servant away in anger: Thou hast been my help; cast me not off, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then Jehovah will take me up.
11 Teach me thy way, O Jehovah; and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine adversaries: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13 (I had fainted), unless I had believed to see the goodness of Jehovah in the land of the living.
14 Wait for Jehovah: be strong, and let thy heart take courage; yea, wait thou for Jehovah.
1 Jehovah is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Jehovah is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evil-doers came upon me to eat up my flesh, (even) mine adversaries and my foes, they stumbled and fell.
3 Though a host should encamp against me, My heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, even then will I be confident.
4 One thing have I asked of Jehovah, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of Jehovah all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of Jehovah, and to inquire in his temple.
5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me secretly in his pavilion: in the covert of his tabernacle will he hide me; He will lift me up upon a rock.
6 And now shall my head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me. And I will offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto Jehovah.
7 Hear, O Jehovah, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
8 (When thou saidst), seek ye my face; My heart said unto thee, Thy face, Jehovah, will I seek.
9 Hide not thy face from me; put not thy servant away in anger: Thou hast been my help; cast me not off, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then Jehovah will take me up.
11 Teach me thy way, O Jehovah; and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine adversaries: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13 (I had fainted), unless I had believed to see the goodness of Jehovah in the land of the living.
14 Wait for Jehovah: be strong, and let thy heart take courage; yea, wait thou for Jehovah.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Jehovah is My Shepherd
Psalm 23; ASV
1 Jehovah is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: He guideth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of Jehovah for ever.
1 Jehovah is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: He guideth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of Jehovah for ever.
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
The Suffering of the Messiah
Psalm 22; ASV
1 My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (Why art thou so) far from helping me, (and from) the words of my groaning?
2 O my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou answerest not; and in the night season, and am not silent.
3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.
4 Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them.
5 They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not put to shame.
6 But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.
7 All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, (saying),
8 Commit (thyself) unto Jehovah; let him deliver him: let him rescue him, seeing he delighteth in
him.
9 But thou art he that took me out of the womb; Thou didst make me trust (when I was) upon my
mother's breasts.
10 I was cast upon thee from the womb; Thou art my God since my mother bare me.
11 Be not far from me; for trouble is near; for there is none to help.
12 Many bulls have compassed me; strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round.
13 They gape upon me with their mouth, (as) a ravening and a roaring lion.
14 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: My heart is like wax; it is melted
within me.
15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought
me into the dust of death.
16 For dogs have compassed me: a company of evil-doers have inclosed me; they pierced my hands
and my feet.
17 I may count all my bones; they look and stare upon me.
18 They part my garments among them, and upon my vesture do they cast lots.
19 But be not thou far off, O Jehovah: O thou my succor, haste thee to help me.
20 Deliver my soul from the sword, My darling from the power of the dog.
21 Save me from the lion's mouth; yea, from the horns of the wild-oxen thou hast answered me.
22 I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the assembly will I praise thee.
23 Ye that fear Jehovah, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and stand in awe of him, all
ye the seed of Israel.
24 For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face
from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.
25 Of thee cometh my praise in the great assembly: I will pay my vows before them that fear him.
26 The meek shall eat and be satisfied; they shall praise Jehovah that seek after him: let your heart
live for ever.
27 All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn unto Jehovah; and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.
28 For the kingdom is Jehovah's; and he is the ruler over the nations.
29 All the fat ones of the earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him, even he that cannot keep his soul alive.
30 A seed shall serve him; it shall be told of the Lord unto the (next) generation.
31 They shall come and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done it.
1 My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (Why art thou so) far from helping me, (and from) the words of my groaning?
2 O my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou answerest not; and in the night season, and am not silent.
3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.
4 Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them.
5 They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not put to shame.
6 But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.
7 All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, (saying),
8 Commit (thyself) unto Jehovah; let him deliver him: let him rescue him, seeing he delighteth in
him.
9 But thou art he that took me out of the womb; Thou didst make me trust (when I was) upon my
mother's breasts.
10 I was cast upon thee from the womb; Thou art my God since my mother bare me.
11 Be not far from me; for trouble is near; for there is none to help.
12 Many bulls have compassed me; strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round.
13 They gape upon me with their mouth, (as) a ravening and a roaring lion.
14 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: My heart is like wax; it is melted
within me.
15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought
me into the dust of death.
16 For dogs have compassed me: a company of evil-doers have inclosed me; they pierced my hands
and my feet.
17 I may count all my bones; they look and stare upon me.
18 They part my garments among them, and upon my vesture do they cast lots.
19 But be not thou far off, O Jehovah: O thou my succor, haste thee to help me.
20 Deliver my soul from the sword, My darling from the power of the dog.
21 Save me from the lion's mouth; yea, from the horns of the wild-oxen thou hast answered me.
22 I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the assembly will I praise thee.
23 Ye that fear Jehovah, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and stand in awe of him, all
ye the seed of Israel.
24 For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face
from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.
25 Of thee cometh my praise in the great assembly: I will pay my vows before them that fear him.
26 The meek shall eat and be satisfied; they shall praise Jehovah that seek after him: let your heart
live for ever.
27 All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn unto Jehovah; and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.
28 For the kingdom is Jehovah's; and he is the ruler over the nations.
29 All the fat ones of the earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him, even he that cannot keep his soul alive.
30 A seed shall serve him; it shall be told of the Lord unto the (next) generation.
31 They shall come and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done it.
Monday, December 16, 2013
Jehovah's Perfect Revelation
Psalm 19; ASV
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork.
2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge.
3 There is no speech nor language; their voice is not heard.
4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run his course.
6 His going forth is from the end of the heavens, and his circuit unto the ends of it; and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
7 The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring the soul: the testimony of Jehovah is sure, making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of Jehovah are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 The fear of Jehovah is clean, enduring for ever: the ordinances of Jehovah are true, (and) righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the droppings of the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: in keeping them there is great reward.
12 Who can discern (his) errors? Clear thou me from hidden (faults).
13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous (sins); let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be clear from great transgression.
14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Jehovah, my rock, and my redeemer.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork.
2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge.
3 There is no speech nor language; their voice is not heard.
4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run his course.
6 His going forth is from the end of the heavens, and his circuit unto the ends of it; and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
7 The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring the soul: the testimony of Jehovah is sure, making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of Jehovah are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 The fear of Jehovah is clean, enduring for ever: the ordinances of Jehovah are true, (and) righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the droppings of the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: in keeping them there is great reward.
12 Who can discern (his) errors? Clear thou me from hidden (faults).
13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous (sins); let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be clear from great transgression.
14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Jehovah, my rock, and my redeemer.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Imitate What is Good
“Beloved, do not
imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but
he who does evil has not seen God” (3
John 11; NKJV).
We are to do good, to imitate good, because God is
good. Evil is not of God. Evil is of the Devil. As the
children of God we are to imitate our Father by doing good.
Diotrephes was not of God.
He was concerned with things that are not of God: preeminence among
brethren, not receiving brethren, prating against brethren with malicious
words, forbidding others to receive brethren (3 John 9-10). Diotrephes
was of his father the Devil: “You are of your father the devil, and the
desires of your father you want to do.
He was a murderer and a liar from the beginning, and does not stand in
the truth, because there is no truth in him.
When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar
and the father of it” (John 8:44; NKJV).
Demetrius had “a good testimony from all, and from the
truth itself” (3 John 12). Demetrius
had a good testimony because he imitated God.
What about me? Do I
imitate my good God or do I imitate the evil one? Let us see God and
imitate what we see for “he who does evil
has not seen God” (3 John 11).
Monday, December 9, 2013
Progressive and 2 John 9
“Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son.” (2 John 9; ASV)
Proago – to precede (Strong’s); to go before (Thayer’s)
Traveling onward and away from the teaching of Christ hath not God.
“At least we are doing something.”
Perhaps you are “doing something” without God…
One can “progress” to the point that one loses the light of truth.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105; KJV)
“…hath not God…” (2 John 9; KJV)
Proago – to precede (Strong’s); to go before (Thayer’s)
Traveling onward and away from the teaching of Christ hath not God.
“At least we are doing something.”
Perhaps you are “doing something” without God…
One can “progress” to the point that one loses the light of truth.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105; KJV)
“…hath not God…” (2 John 9; KJV)
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
These Three Agree As One
1. Water - Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River, when the Father spoke from Heaven - Matthew 3:13-17
2. Blood - the historical death of Jesus on the cross - John 12:28-33
3. The Spirit - given to bear witness of Christ - John 15:26; 16:14
1 John 5:6-13; NKJV
6 This is He who came by water and blood — Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who bears witness, because the Spirit is truth.
7 For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.
8 And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.
9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son.
10 He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son.
11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.
2. Blood - the historical death of Jesus on the cross - John 12:28-33
3. The Spirit - given to bear witness of Christ - John 15:26; 16:14
1 John 5:6-13; NKJV
6 This is He who came by water and blood — Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who bears witness, because the Spirit is truth.
7 For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.
8 And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.
9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son.
10 He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son.
11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
How We Can Know That We Love the Brethren
Question: How can we know that we love the brethren?
The Two-Fold Answer: 1) We love God 2) We keep our Father's commandments
1 John 5:1-5; NKJV
1 Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him.
2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments.
3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.
4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith.
5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
The Two-Fold Answer: 1) We love God 2) We keep our Father's commandments
1 John 5:1-5; NKJV
1 Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him.
2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments.
3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.
4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith.
5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
Monday, December 2, 2013
Why We Love Him
Apart from Him we would not know love.
Apart from Him loving us we would not know how to love.
Apart from Him we would not love Him or others.
1 John 4:17-21; NKJV
17 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.
19 We love Him because He first loved us.
20 If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?
21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.
Apart from Him loving us we would not know how to love.
Apart from Him we would not love Him or others.
1 John 4:17-21; NKJV
17 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.
19 We love Him because He first loved us.
20 If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?
21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
In Everything Give Thanks
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; NKJV)
To give thanks is to express gratitude. Thankfulness is gratefulness expressed to another. Thanksgiving is the expression of gratitude. Tis the season of thankgiving. Our Heavenly Father is to be the recipient of our thanksgiving.
Our GOD created us in His image (Genesis 1:26-27). We share in His likeness. He is worthy of praise because He is the Creator: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created” (Revelation 4:11; NKJV). Thank Him!
Our GOD sustains us (Colossians 1:17). In Him we “live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Apart from Him there is no life or breath (Acts 17:25). He upholds us “by the word of His power” (Hebrews 1:3). Thank Him!
Our GOD has redeemed us through His dear Son (Revelation 5:9-10; Ephesians 1:3-14). Created in His image with the ability to think, reason and choose, each of us has defaced that image by falling short of His glory (Romans 3:10-18, 23). Sin defaces the image of GOD in our lives. Love compels Him to restore His image in each of us: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8)! Christ Jesus has “redeemed us to God” by His blood (Revelation 5:9). Thank Him!
Indeed, “Every good and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17; NKJV). It is all about Him, it is all from Him, it is all returning to Him! Thank Him!
Tis the season, therefore, let us thank Him!
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Hidden in My Heart
"But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." (Jude 20-21; NKJV)
Friday, November 22, 2013
Does Not Sin
"Does not sin" is in the durative present tense in the Greek which means it is describing a walk, a lifestyle. A literal translation would be, "Whoever abides in Him does not sin on and on." Our Father doesn't expect us to never sin, but He does expect us to sin less and less.
1 John 3:4-9; NKJV
4 Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.
5 And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.
6 Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him.
7 Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.
8 He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.
9 Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.
1 John 3:4-9; NKJV
4 Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.
5 And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.
6 Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him.
7 Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.
8 He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.
9 Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
We Shall Be Like Him
His Part - He will make us like Him!
Our Part - Purify ourselves!
1 John 3:1-3; NKJV
1 Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.
2 Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
3 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
Our Part - Purify ourselves!
1 John 3:1-3; NKJV
1 Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.
2 Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
3 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
He Has Promised Us
A lot of folks make a lot of promises. Promises that they can't keep. Promises, that if they were kept, would still be insufficient to meet our needs.
This is the promise that the Father has promised us - eternal life. If we abide in Him and His Son, we will keep this promise. Eternal life with them is exactly what we need.
1 John 2:24-29; NKJV
24 Therefore let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father.
25 And this is the promise that He has promised us — eternal life.
26 These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you.
27 But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.
28 And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.
29 If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.
This is the promise that the Father has promised us - eternal life. If we abide in Him and His Son, we will keep this promise. Eternal life with them is exactly what we need.
1 John 2:24-29; NKJV
24 Therefore let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father.
25 And this is the promise that He has promised us — eternal life.
26 These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you.
27 But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.
28 And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.
29 If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Those Who Go Out From Us
At times there are those among us who are not of us. We may not know that they are not of us until they go out from us. We only know that they are not of us when they no longer continue with us.
There are many antichrists. The one who denies the Father and The Son is antichrist. To deny Jesus as the Christ is to lie and make oneself a liar and an antichrist.
In this last hour, let us know through the anointing that we have from the Holy One that Jesus is the Christ and that we have a Father in Heaven who longs for us to overcome by faith.
1 John 2:18-23; NKJV
18 Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour.
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us.
20 But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things.
21 I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.
22 Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.
23 Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either; he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also.
There are many antichrists. The one who denies the Father and The Son is antichrist. To deny Jesus as the Christ is to lie and make oneself a liar and an antichrist.
In this last hour, let us know through the anointing that we have from the Holy One that Jesus is the Christ and that we have a Father in Heaven who longs for us to overcome by faith.
1 John 2:18-23; NKJV
18 Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour.
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us.
20 But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things.
21 I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.
22 Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.
23 Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either; he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also.
Monday, November 18, 2013
The World is Passing Away
You will never influence the world trying to be like it. Don't love it. Do the will of the God and abide forever.
1 John 2:15-17; NKJV
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world — the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — is not of the Father but is of the world.
17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.
1 John 2:15-17; NKJV
15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world — the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — is not of the Father but is of the world.
17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
That Your Joy May Be Full
What the apostles did in the flesh, we do in the spirit.
They walked with Him in the flesh, we walk with Him by faith.
Their joy was full in the flesh, ours will be full in the spirit.
1 John 1:1-4; NKJV
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life —
2 the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us —
3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.
They walked with Him in the flesh, we walk with Him by faith.
Their joy was full in the flesh, ours will be full in the spirit.
1 John 1:1-4; NKJV
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life —
2 the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us —
3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
The Day of the Lord
The First Coming of Christ - Salvation
The Second Coming of Christ - Judgment
Receive His salvation so that you can escape His judgment.
2 Peter 3:10-18; NKJV
10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.
11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,
12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?
13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless;
15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation — as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you,
16 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
17 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;
18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.
The Second Coming of Christ - Judgment
Receive His salvation so that you can escape His judgment.
2 Peter 3:10-18; NKJV
10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.
11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,
12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?
13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless;
15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation — as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you,
16 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
17 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;
18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.
Monday, November 11, 2013
Why He Delays
Question: What keeps Jesus from coming again?
Answer: His longsuffering.
2 Peter 3:1-9; NKJV
1 Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder),
2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior,
3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts,
4 and saying, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation."
5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water,
6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water.
7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
8 But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
Answer: His longsuffering.
2 Peter 3:1-9; NKJV
1 Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder),
2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior,
3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts,
4 and saying, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation."
5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water,
6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water.
7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
8 But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Friday, November 8, 2013
It Woud Have Been Better
To build a meaningful relationship with God only to return to the pollutions of the world is worse than never knowing Him. Imagine going from being near Him to being without Him. Imagine going from being near Him in time to being away from Him for all of eternity.
Draw near to God an continuing drawing until Jesus comes.
2 Peter 2:12-22; NKJV
12 But these, like natural brute beasts made to be caught and destroyed, speak evil of the things they do not understand, and will utterly perish in their own corruption,
13 and will receive the wages of unrighteousness, as those who count it pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are spots and blemishes, carousing in their own deceptions while they feast with you,
14 having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, enticing unstable souls. They have a heart trained in covetous practices, and are accursed children.
15 They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness;
16 but he was rebuked for his iniquity: a dumb donkey speaking with a man's voice restrained the madness of the prophet.
17 These are wells without water, clouds carried by a tempest, for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.
18 For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error.
19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage.
20 For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning.
21 For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them.
22 But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: "A dog returns to his own vomit," and, "a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire."
Draw near to God an continuing drawing until Jesus comes.
2 Peter 2:12-22; NKJV
12 But these, like natural brute beasts made to be caught and destroyed, speak evil of the things they do not understand, and will utterly perish in their own corruption,
13 and will receive the wages of unrighteousness, as those who count it pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are spots and blemishes, carousing in their own deceptions while they feast with you,
14 having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, enticing unstable souls. They have a heart trained in covetous practices, and are accursed children.
15 They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness;
16 but he was rebuked for his iniquity: a dumb donkey speaking with a man's voice restrained the madness of the prophet.
17 These are wells without water, clouds carried by a tempest, for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.
18 For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error.
19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage.
20 For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning.
21 For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them.
22 But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: "A dog returns to his own vomit," and, "a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire."
Thursday, November 7, 2013
False Teachers Among You
Not everybody wants to build a meaningful relationship with God. There will be those who oppose God and seek to keep us from Him. Be encouraged that the Lord knows how to deliver those who would be with Him from those who do not!
2 Peter 2:1-11; NKJV
1 But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.
2 And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed.
3 By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber.
4 For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment;
5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly;
6 and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly;
7 and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked
8 (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds) —
9 then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,
10 and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority. They are presumptuous, self-willed. They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries,
11 whereas angels, who are greater in power and might, do not bring a reviling accusation against them before the Lord.
2 Peter 2:1-11; NKJV
1 But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.
2 And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed.
3 By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber.
4 For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment;
5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly;
6 and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly;
7 and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked
8 (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds) —
9 then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,
10 and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority. They are presumptuous, self-willed. They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries,
11 whereas angels, who are greater in power and might, do not bring a reviling accusation against them before the Lord.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
The Holy Spirit and the Scripture
The Holy Spirit moved holy men of God to speak and to write the word of God. When we read the Scripture, we are reading the mind of God revealed. Listen to the Holy Spirit; read His word.
2 Peter 1:16-21; NKJV
16 For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty.
17 For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory:"This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
18 And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.
19 And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts;
20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation,
21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
2 Peter 1:16-21; NKJV
16 For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty.
17 For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory:"This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
18 And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.
19 And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts;
20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation,
21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Arise and Add
Throughout the year we have considered our part and His part. 2 Peter 1:5-11 presents our part. A failure on our part to do our part jeopardizes our entrance into His kingdom...
1 Peter 1:5-11; NKJV
5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge,
6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness,
7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
8 For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.
10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble;
11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 1:5-11; NKJV
5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge,
6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness,
7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
8 For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.
10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble;
11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Partakers of the Divine Nature
Consider this as you consider building a more meaningful relationship with Jehovah God...
The desire of Jehovah is not just that we would know Him and have a relationship with Him...
He desires that we partake (koinonos - a sharer) of His divine nature (phusis - one's essential characteristics and qualities).
2 Peter 1:1-4; NKJV
1 Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,
3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,
4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
The desire of Jehovah is not just that we would know Him and have a relationship with Him...
He desires that we partake (koinonos - a sharer) of His divine nature (phusis - one's essential characteristics and qualities).
2 Peter 1:1-4; NKJV
1 Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,
3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,
4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Friday, November 1, 2013
The Devil and the God of All Grace
1. The Devil can be resisted.
2. The God of All Grace will perfect, establish, strengthen and settle.
3. Resist the Devil and Glorify God!
1 Peter 5:8-11; NKJV
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
2. The God of All Grace will perfect, establish, strengthen and settle.
3. Resist the Devil and Glorify God!
1 Peter 5:8-11; NKJV
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
In His Time, In Due Time
In order to build a meaningful relationship with God we must recognize that it is to be done...
1. In His time.
2. In due time.
1 Peter 5:5-7; NKJV
5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for
"God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble."
6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,
7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
1. In His time.
2. In due time.
1 Peter 5:5-7; NKJV
5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for
"God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble."
6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,
7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Reproach and the Godhead
"If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified." (1 Peter 4:14; NKJV)
Reproached - to defame, i.e. rail at, chide, taunt (Strong's)
When you are reproached for the name of Christ, know that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are glorified!
Reproached - to defame, i.e. rail at, chide, taunt (Strong's)
When you are reproached for the name of Christ, know that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are glorified!
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Why We Serve
We serve to glorify God the Father through Jesus Christ. If we serve for any other reason we do not glorify the right person. The glory belongs to them.
1 Peter 4:7-11; NKJV
7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.
8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."
9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:7-11; NKJV
7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.
8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."
9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Why He Suffered
If you would build a meaningful relationship with God, consider why Christ suffered for us.
"For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit..." (1 Peter 3:18; NKJV).
Christ suffered for us that he might bring us to God the Father. He was put to death for us. He was made alive by the Spirit.
"For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit..." (1 Peter 3:18; NKJV).
Christ suffered for us that he might bring us to God the Father. He was put to death for us. He was made alive by the Spirit.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Hidden In My Heart
"He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:24; NKJV)
Friday, October 25, 2013
His Ears Are Open
To draw near to God we must be righteous. His face is against those who do evil. His ears are open to the prayers of those who choose to be like Him.
1 Peter 3:8-12; NKJV
8 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;
9 not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.
10-12 For
"He who would love life
And see good days,
Let him refrain his tongue from evil,
And his lips from speaking deceit.
Let him turn away from evil and do good;
Let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their prayers;
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
1 Peter 3:8-12; NKJV
8 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;
9 not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.
10-12 For
"He who would love life
And see good days,
Let him refrain his tongue from evil,
And his lips from speaking deceit.
Let him turn away from evil and do good;
Let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their prayers;
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Who Trusted in God
To trust in God is to think His way. To trust in God is to speak His way. To trust in God is to behave in His way.
1 Peter 3:1-7; NKJV
1 Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives,
2 when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.
3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward — arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel —
4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.
5 For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands,
6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.
7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
1 Peter 3:1-7; NKJV
1 Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives,
2 when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.
3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward — arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel —
4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.
5 For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands,
6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.
7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Christ Suffered for Us
Would you draw near to Jesus? Consider what He did for you.
1 Peter 2:18-25; NKJV
18 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh.
19 For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully.
20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God.
21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
22 "Who committed no sin,
Nor was deceit found in His mouth";
23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;
24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness — by whose stripes you were healed.
25 For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
1 Peter 2:18-25; NKJV
18 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh.
19 For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully.
20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God.
21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
22 "Who committed no sin,
Nor was deceit found in His mouth";
23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;
24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness — by whose stripes you were healed.
25 For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
God and Government
1 Peter 2:13-17; NKJV
13 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme,
14 or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good.
15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men —
16 as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.
17 Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.
If we are to draw near to God, we must be about the business of being good citizens in whatever form of government we find ourselves. The Christians of the first century who lived under the rule of Rome were called to submit, do good, and honor the king, Caesar. Let us not let the imperfections of our government keep us from a more meaningful relationship with our King.
13 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme,
14 or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good.
15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men —
16 as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.
17 Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.
If we are to draw near to God, we must be about the business of being good citizens in whatever form of government we find ourselves. The Christians of the first century who lived under the rule of Rome were called to submit, do good, and honor the king, Caesar. Let us not let the imperfections of our government keep us from a more meaningful relationship with our King.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Taste and See
1 Peter 2:1-3; NKJV
1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,
2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,
3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
Would you build a more meaningful relationship with the true and living God? "Oh taste and see that Jehovah is good" (Psalm 34:8; ASV). If we will experience Him, then we shall see that He is good and gracious.
1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,
2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,
3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
Would you build a more meaningful relationship with the true and living God? "Oh taste and see that Jehovah is good" (Psalm 34:8; ASV). If we will experience Him, then we shall see that He is good and gracious.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Hidden in My Heart
"He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:24; NKJV)
Friday, October 18, 2013
Some Who Wander Are Lost
James 5:19-20; NKJV
19 Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back,
20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.
There is truth. Absolute truth. A standard of right and wrong. We can wander from it. When we do we are in danger of sin and death.
When you turn someone back who is wandering from the truth you participate in their salvation.
Know the truth. Abide in it. Encourage others to turn back when they wander.
19 Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back,
20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.
There is truth. Absolute truth. A standard of right and wrong. We can wander from it. When we do we are in danger of sin and death.
When you turn someone back who is wandering from the truth you participate in their salvation.
Know the truth. Abide in it. Encourage others to turn back when they wander.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Elijah and You and Me
"Elijah was a man just like us..." (James 5:17; NIV)
1. He prayed that it would not rain - it didn't rain.
2. He prayed that it would rain - it did rain.
Pray without ceasing...(1 Thessalonians 5:17).
1. He prayed that it would not rain - it didn't rain.
2. He prayed that it would rain - it did rain.
Pray without ceasing...(1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Don't Lose Heart
1. Be patient - He's coming!
2. Establish your heart - His coming is near!
3. Don't grumble against others - The Judge is standing at the door!
4. Consider the prophets - The Lord is very compassionate and merciful!
5. Don't swear - Judgment is coming!
James 5:7-12; NKJV
7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.
8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
9 Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!
10 My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.
11 Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord — that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.
12 But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your "Yes" be "Yes," and your "No," "No," lest you fall into judgment.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Hidden in My Heart
"He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:24; NKJV)
Friday, October 11, 2013
If the Lord Wills
You are not in control. I am not in control. He is in control.
Don't boast in arrogance. With the time that you have been given, do good. Do His will.
James 4:13-17; NKJV
13 Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit";
14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
15 Instead you ought to say,"If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that."
16 But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Draw Near to God
Here is the promise of promises. If we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. What are you waiting for..?
James 4:6-10; NKJV
6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says:
"God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble."
7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
9 Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Two Types of Wisdom
If we are to build a meaningful relationship with God we must learn to recognize the difference between the wisdom that is from above and the wisdom that is from below. His wisdom will draw us to Him. The wisdom that is from below will take us far from Him.
James 3:13-18; NKJV
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.
14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.
15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.
16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.
17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
James 3:13-18; NKJV
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.
14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.
15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.
16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.
17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Things That Ought Not Be
We use the tongue to praise God the Father and to curse those who bear His image. "My brethren, these things ought not to be so" (James 3:10; NKJV). Use your speech for good!
James 3:1-12; NKJV
1 My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.
2 For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body.
3 Indeed, we put bits in horses' mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body.
4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires.
5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles!
6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.
7 For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind.
8 But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
9 With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.
10 Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.
11 Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening?
12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.
James 3:1-12; NKJV
1 My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.
2 For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body.
3 Indeed, we put bits in horses' mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body.
4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires.
5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles!
6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.
7 For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind.
8 But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
9 With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.
10 Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.
11 Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening?
12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Faith Without Works is Dead
We are not saved by "faith only." We are not saved by anything "only." We are saved by everything that God has purposed to save us with working together as one.
James 2:14-26; NKJV
14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him?
15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food,
16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?
17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
18 But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe — and tremble!
20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?
21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar?
22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?
23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." And he was called the friend of God.
24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
James 2:14-26; NKJV
14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him?
15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food,
16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?
17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
18 But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe — and tremble!
20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?
21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar?
22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?
23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." And he was called the friend of God.
24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Hidden In My Heart
"He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:24; NKJV)
Friday, October 4, 2013
Jehovah and the Law
"For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all." (James 2:10; NKJV)
This is true because Jehovah God is behind every law.
Consider the law. Consider Him. Be like Him and be innocent.
This is true because Jehovah God is behind every law.
Consider the law. Consider Him. Be like Him and be innocent.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Obedience and Nearness
"But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does." (James 1:25; NKJV)
If you would draw near to God, "receive with meekness" His word (James 1:21).
Be a doer of His word (James 1:22, 25).
Be blessed with His nearness through obedience.
If you would draw near to God, "receive with meekness" His word (James 1:21).
Be a doer of His word (James 1:22, 25).
Be blessed with His nearness through obedience.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Every
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning" (James 1:17; NKJV).
Every - pas - including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole (Strong's).
Consider how "every good gift and every perfect gift" is from Him and draw near to Him in praise and thanksgiving.
Every - pas - including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole (Strong's).
Consider how "every good gift and every perfect gift" is from Him and draw near to Him in praise and thanksgiving.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
If Any of You
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5; NKJV)
James 1:5 is funny. "If any of you lacks wisdom." That's funny.
I lack wisdom. I need wisdom. My God invites me to receive by asking.
James 1:5 is funny. "If any of you lacks wisdom." That's funny.
I lack wisdom. I need wisdom. My God invites me to receive by asking.
Monday, September 30, 2013
When God is Silent
Malachi 4:1-6 are Jehovah's last words to His people before the four hundred years of divine silence.
When God is silent, strangely silent and there is a seemingly endless void between you and Him, turn to Him in faith and cling to His promises.
"I wait for Jehovah, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope" (Psalm 130: 4; ASV).
When God is silent, strangely silent and there is a seemingly endless void between you and Him, turn to Him in faith and cling to His promises.
"I wait for Jehovah, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope" (Psalm 130: 4; ASV).
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Hidden In My Heart
"He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it." (1 Thessalonians 5:24; NKJV)
Friday, September 27, 2013
The Last Verse of Hosea
Hosea 14:9; NKJV
Who is wise?
Let him understand these things.
Who is prudent?
Let him know them.
For the ways of the Lord are right;
The righteous walk in them,
But transgressors stumble in them.
Jehovah is still looking for wise folks who will understand His will. Prudent people who will know that the ways of Jehovah are right and who choose to walk in them.
Be wise and understand the will of the Lord (Ephesians 5:17).
Walk in His truth and love (2 John 4-6)
Who is wise?
Let him understand these things.
Who is prudent?
Let him know them.
For the ways of the Lord are right;
The righteous walk in them,
But transgressors stumble in them.
Jehovah is still looking for wise folks who will understand His will. Prudent people who will know that the ways of Jehovah are right and who choose to walk in them.
Be wise and understand the will of the Lord (Ephesians 5:17).
Walk in His truth and love (2 John 4-6)
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Hosea 13:14 & 1 Corinthians 15:54-55
Hosea 13:14; NKJV
"I will ransom them from the power of the grave;
I will redeem them from death.
O Death, I will be your plagues!
O Grave, I will be your destruction!
Pity is hidden from My eyes."
1 Corinthians 15:54-55; NKJV
54 So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory."
55 "O Death, where is your sting?
O Hades, where is your victory?"
"I will ransom them from the power of the grave;
I will redeem them from death.
O Death, I will be your plagues!
O Grave, I will be your destruction!
Pity is hidden from My eyes."
1 Corinthians 15:54-55; NKJV
54 So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory."
55 "O Death, where is your sting?
O Hades, where is your victory?"
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
He Will Help Us Repent
"So you, by the help of your God, return; Observe mercy and justice, And wait on your God continually." (Hosea 12:6; NKJV)
When we sin against God He calls us to repent. Sometimes repentance is hard. Hosea helped Gomer repent (see Hosea 3). Jehovah promises to help us.
"...and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come." (1 Thessalonians 1:10; NKJV)
When we sin against God He calls us to repent. Sometimes repentance is hard. Hosea helped Gomer repent (see Hosea 3). Jehovah promises to help us.
"...and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come." (1 Thessalonians 1:10; NKJV)
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
The Difference Between Gomer and Israel
Gomer was willing to repent when Hosea offered her forgiveness.
Israel was unwilling to repent when Jehovah offered her forgiveness.
"He shall not return to the land of Egypt; But the Assyrian shall be his king, Because they refused to repent" (Hosea 11:5; NKJV).
Be willing to receive the forgiveness that Jesus offers at Calvary: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!" (Matthew 23:37; NKJV)
Israel was unwilling to repent when Jehovah offered her forgiveness.
"He shall not return to the land of Egypt; But the Assyrian shall be his king, Because they refused to repent" (Hosea 11:5; NKJV).
Be willing to receive the forgiveness that Jesus offers at Calvary: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!" (Matthew 23:37; NKJV)
Monday, September 23, 2013
A Divided Heart
"Their heart is divided; Now they are held guilty. He will break down their altars; He will ruin their sacred pillars." (Hosea 10:2; NKJV)
Jehovah would have us love Him with a single heart. Their can be no divided loyalties. We must love Him and Him alone in order to glorify Him and Him alone.
"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." (Matthew 6:24; NKJV)
Jehovah would have us love Him with a single heart. Their can be no divided loyalties. We must love Him and Him alone in order to glorify Him and Him alone.
"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." (Matthew 6:24; NKJV)
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Hidden In My Heart
"Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build
it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman stays awake in vain." (Psalm 127:1; NKJV)
Friday, September 20, 2013
The Days Have Come
"The days of punishment have come; The days of recompense have come. Israel knows! The prophet is a fool, The spiritual man is insane, Because of your iniquity and great enmity." (Hosea 9:7; NKJV)
The days of punishment and recompense were upon the northern kingdom of Israel in the time of Hosea.
These are days that you do not want to come upon you. These days are coming again. We can escape them only through the Lord Jesus.
2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; NKJV
7 and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,
8 in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,
10 when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed.
The days of punishment and recompense were upon the northern kingdom of Israel in the time of Hosea.
These are days that you do not want to come upon you. These days are coming again. We can escape them only through the Lord Jesus.
2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; NKJV
7 and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,
8 in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,
10 when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Sowing the Wind
"They sow the wind, And reap the whirlwind." (Hosea 8:7; NKJV)
Choices have consequences. We are free to choose, but slaves to the consequences. Choose wisely.
The Law of Sowing and Reaping
1. I have to sow to reap - Proverbs 20:4
2. I will reap the same kind as I sowed - Genesis 1:11; Job 4:8; Proverbs 22:8
3. I will reap more than I sow - Hosea 8:7; Mark 10:29-30
4. I will reap in proportion to what I sow - Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6
5. I will reap in a different season than when I sowed - James 4:7; Numbers 32:23; 2 Peter 3:10
"Sow for yourselves righteousness; Reap in mercy..." (Hosea 10:12; NKJV)
Choices have consequences. We are free to choose, but slaves to the consequences. Choose wisely.
The Law of Sowing and Reaping
1. I have to sow to reap - Proverbs 20:4
2. I will reap the same kind as I sowed - Genesis 1:11; Job 4:8; Proverbs 22:8
3. I will reap more than I sow - Hosea 8:7; Mark 10:29-30
4. I will reap in proportion to what I sow - Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6
5. I will reap in a different season than when I sowed - James 4:7; Numbers 32:23; 2 Peter 3:10
"Sow for yourselves righteousness; Reap in mercy..." (Hosea 10:12; NKJV)
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Though I Redeemed Them
"Woe to them, for they have fled from Me! Destruction to them, Because they have transgressed against Me! Though I redeemed them, Yet they have spoken lies against Me." (Hosea 7:13; NKJV)
Hosea redeemed Gomer and she repented of her sin.
Jehovah redeemed Israel and they fled from Him, transgressed and spoke lies against Him.
What will you do with the redemption that is in Christ Jesus?
Hosea redeemed Gomer and she repented of her sin.
Jehovah redeemed Israel and they fled from Him, transgressed and spoke lies against Him.
What will you do with the redemption that is in Christ Jesus?
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Jehovah's Desire
"For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, And the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings." (Hosea 6:6; NKJV)
Desire - to be pleased with
Mercy - kindness, faithfulness
Sacrifice & Burnt Offerings - worship without Godly living
The Knowledge of God - a proper understanding of and experiencing of the true and living God
Desire - to be pleased with
Mercy - kindness, faithfulness
Sacrifice & Burnt Offerings - worship without Godly living
The Knowledge of God - a proper understanding of and experiencing of the true and living God
Monday, September 16, 2013
Remove Not the Ancient Landmarks
"The princes of Judah are like those who remove a landmark; I will pour out My wrath on them like water." (Hosea 5:10; NKJV)
Landmark - a boundary, a border
Physical Landmarks
Real Estate – boundaries of an individual’s property.
Stop Signs – bring order to our traffic system – if removed confusion results.
Lose land, lose life...the equivalent to stealing.
Spiritual Landmarks
Serve to help one distinguish between right/wrong – if removed confusion results.
Lose soul...
"Do not remove the ancient landmark which your fathers have set." (Proverbs 22:28; NKJV)
Landmark - a boundary, a border
Physical Landmarks
Real Estate – boundaries of an individual’s property.
Stop Signs – bring order to our traffic system – if removed confusion results.
Lose land, lose life...the equivalent to stealing.
Spiritual Landmarks
Serve to help one distinguish between right/wrong – if removed confusion results.
Lose soul...
"Do not remove the ancient landmark which your fathers have set." (Proverbs 22:28; NKJV)
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