A Bruised Reeds, Smoldering Candles and Night Lights

Some folks think that Christians should never be depressed. Nothing could be further than the truth. We all have trials and sorrow. The truth though is that we think of those who are depressed as being negative so we shy away often quoting a scripture that is meant to encourage, but the lack of contact and compassion with those quotes is like pouring salt into a wound.

It is true we are to be light shiners and salt shakers. Sometimes just a little light dispels darkness. Sometimes just a little salt is enough seasoning.

The apostle Paul told the Romans to rejoice with those who rejoice and to weep with those who weep. Jesus said to come to Him because He is humble and gentle and will bring rest to the weary.

*Romans 12:15-16 Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.  Be of the same mind toward one another.  Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble.  Do not be wise in your own opinion.


* Isaiah 42:3 He will not crush the weakest reed
or put out a flickering candle.
He will bring justice to all who have been wronged.

*Matthew 11:29-30  

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Bursting With The News!

The shepherds had been out all day keeping an eye on their sheep. At last the sheep are quieting down and resting.  Now it was their turn to rest. All of a sudden out of nowhere an angel appears to them. The glory of the Lord shone around him.  They are freaked out! But the angel says, "Don't be afraid, guys. I have great news and great joy, not just for you but for all people! Tonight in the City of David a Savior is born, which is Christ the Lord. This is the sign.  You will see the baby wrapped snugly in cloths and laying in a manger. All of a sudden... the sky BURSTS with angels singing, "Glory to God in the highest! Peace on Earth and goodwill to men!

May we be filled to bursting with the joy of the Lord and ready to share the good news of the gospel of Christ!

Merry Christmas!

*Luke 2:8-14

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Gotta! Gotta! Gotta!

We are in the home stretch before the day we celebrate Christmas,  the day our precious Savior was born! It's a time of parties and gatherings. It's a time of preparing all kinds of goodies. It's a time of buying and wrapping and the list goes on and on.  It is easy to become overwhelmed and miss out on the joy of the season. But Jesus is the Prince of peace and the reason for the season.

* Psalms 46:10Be still, and know that I am God;  I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!

I Just Can't Wait Till Christmas!

 The gifts are all wrapped up in pretty packages! What might be in them! Toys? Books? Clothes? As children we just can't wait to open those gifts!

As adults we just can't wait to give them! It might be something someone really, really wanted. It could be something they really needed. Whatever the circumstance we are so excited it is hard for us to wait give the gift as well.

God has many gifts for His children and I believe He feels much the same way about giving.  Our Heavenly Father is able to give and do more than we could even think of or imagine! Jesus said if we would ask anything and believe that we had already received it we could have it! Now that sounds like a Father who just can't wait to give good gifts to His children!

*Mark 11:24 “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

*Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

*Matthew 7:11 “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

Everything With Breath!

Okay... I really, really like turtles and this is a cute reminder to....
 Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.
Psalms 150:6

 

Psalms 122:1 I was glad when they said to me,
“Let us go into the house of the LORD.”

 

I Corinthians 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

Hey, you!

 We  all have a names and thank the Lord for that! Wouldn't it be horrible to be called, "Hey, you!"  all your life? When our names are spoken we know that someone is addressing us

The Lord knows our name too. Why is that so important?  Because our names are personal. When He calls us it is because He loves us personally and individually and He wants to spend time with us.

John 10:3-4“To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. “And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.

*Psalms 139:16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.  And in Your book they all were written,  The days fashioned for me,  When as yet there were none of them.

*Isaiah 43:1 But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob,  And He who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you;  I have called you by your name;  You are Mine.

C'mon....Let's Talk!

We are going to sin. That's a given. When we do we often run away from the Father. But that's the worse thing we could ever do!

During the Christmas season we constantly see beautiful red and white candy canes. We can let those colors remind us that the Lord wants to spend time with us. He is the reason for this joyous season!

He in essence is saying to us, "C'mon, let's talk!"

Isaiah 1:18 Come now and let us reason says the Lord. Though your sins be as scarlet they I shall be as white as snow. Though theybe red as crimson they shall be as wool.

Selective Hearing

Sometimes we treat prayer as a "to do" or a "gimme" list. Prayer is so much more than that. Our Heavenly Father knows what we need before we ever ask Him. Why then do we need to ask? Perhaps we need to hear how selfish some of our prayers are!  Jesus knows we need reliable transportation, but do we really need the latest and greatest car out there? He knows we need clothing, and I believe He wants us to be well dressed. But do we really need those designer labels?

God's love is absolutely unconditional. Granting  our every request is not!

The Lord wants to bless His children with good things. Think about King Solomon. He was a very wealthy king. But it was not because he sought wealth. King Solomon asked God for wisdom to rule his people then the Lord blessed him with wealth.

Psalms 37:4 Delight yourself also in the LORD,  And He shall give you the desires of your heart. 
Psalms 66:18 If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened;
John 9:31 We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will.

Beautiful Season -Beautiful Reason

From the time I was a child I have always loved bright colors and sparkly things. During this season we are surrounded with beautiful lights, pretty wrapping paper and Christmas decorations of all kinds.

 Among the beautiful carols that herald our Savior's birth, are  many activities that come with today's package. We have shopping and wrapping to do. We have cards to write and cookies to bake. Our children and our churches have extra activities as well. But, if we are going to enjoy the true beauty of Christmas, we must make time in our hearts for Him. It's true He slept in a manger, but His home should be in our heart!


*Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
 

Sayings of the Wise

There is a lot of hatred in the world today.  One has only to watch the news to confirm it! Jesus said that He was sending us out as sheep among wolves. There's a lot of wolves out there! There are a lot of haters out there! Do we sound like wolves and haters or do we sound like sheep?
There are many sayings that I have heard from friends and loved ones. Maybe you've heard them too.

 A dear friend once told me that opinions are like noses, everybody has one. It isn't necessary for us to share each opinion we have. Very seldom is unsolicited advice a good idea.

Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace;
When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.

 My momma used to say that fools names and fools faces are always found in public places.
Proverbs 17:23 A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself,  But the simple pass on and are punished.

A wise man once said if you don't stand up for something you will fall for anything.
Proverbs 28:1  The wicked flee when no one pursues,  But the righteous are bold as a lion.

My sister used to say we draw a lot more flies with sugar than vinegar.
Psalms 34:8 Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good;  Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

Jesus tells us to come and learn from Him.
Matthew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

The Apostle Paul said that godly wisdom is peaceful and gentle.
 James 3:17 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.

 

Flesh And Blood

John 6:53: Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.

I confess this verse has always confounded me. How could we literally eat the flesh and drink the blood of Jesus? If we take the time to study, we will see that Jesus often spoke figuratively, in parables.

When Jesus tells us we must eat His flesh, He is speaking of His nature and philosophy. When He speaks of drinking His blood, He is speaking of drinking in what strengthens and refreshes the soul. Later on in the chapter He reveals to us that the Words that He speaks are spirit and life. We must take the time to pray and study.

My sister told me on more than one occasion that we make time for what is important to us.  I believe Jesus is saying the same thing. 

 

 

 

 

*Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

*Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

 Prayer: Lord I love you and want to spend time with you. Please help me find a time during the day to devote to you and make that  my first priority!

 

Wait!

 Waiting is often the most difficult part in the life of a believer. After walking with the Lord for a while we learn that Jesus takes great pleasure in meeting our needs. So patience during that kind of waiting period gets easier.

Waiting for answers dealing with people is different altogether! We have to learn when to speak up and when to shut up! A little bit of salt lends seasoning and a good flavor.  Too much salt is distasteful!
  
As much as we love the folks Jesus has placed in our lives, He loves them even more! And as much as we want a good outcome we can't be responsible for it. We all have to work out our own salvation.

Waiting takes patience, it takes practice and it takes prayer!

Be encouraged that our God is able to do more than we could ever think of or imagine!*

 

 
*Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;
 
*Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

A Proud Look

This might have been the expression on Michal's face when she saw her husband, the king dancing before the Lord.*

The Bible has something to say about this kind of expression. It is one of the things the Lord hates. He hates it because it demonstrates pride. Michal despised her husband.*

I can almost hear my mother say, "You'd better be careful. Your face is liable to freeze that way!"

There are three things that the Lord requires of us; to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God! 

'Nuff said!

*II Samuel 6:16

Now as the ark of the LORD came into the City of David, Michal, Saul’s daughter, looked through a window and saw King David leaping and whirling before the LORD; and she despised him in her heart.

 

*Vs. 20

Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”

 

 

*Proverbs 6:16-19 These six things the LORD hates,  Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:  A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies,  And one who sows discord among brethren.

 

*Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O man, what is good;  And what does the LORD require of you
But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?

God Listens To Our Conversations

He listens when we are in need:

Genesis 21:16-17

And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, as it were a bowshot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept.

And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.

He listens when we grumble:
Exodus 16:8

And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.

He listens when we glorify Him
Malachi 3:16

Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.

He hears us when we pray:
I John 5:14-15 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Prayer: Father thank you for showing us how much you carefully listen to our conversations.  Let our conversations be full of thanksgiving and praise and prayer.

What Do You Think?

Have you ever heard some of these instructions? " Mind your manners", Mind your parents." Or how about these phrases? "I have a mind to...",  "Bear in mind", "Changed my mind", or "give a piece of my mind."

 Mind your manners means to behave in an obedient way.  I have a mind to... means you are determined to do something.  We can bear in mind,  (or take something into consideration) . We can change our mind, (our opinion about something).

The mind is that part of us that processes how we feel or think about a thing. And how our mind is set determines what we will do about it.

Romans 12:2   Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

 

Back To The Beginning - Assurance of Salvation

So you got "saved" a while ago.  You go to church. You pray and you even read your Bible. But you might have some little, niggling fears that make you doubt you salvation.

You know, these thoughts, "Am I really saved?" How do I know I am going to Heaven?" You might even have different questions and that's normal. 

Many seasoned believers would tell us that they too have struggled with the assurance of salvation. And they would also tell us that the only way to have that assurance is to memorize scriptures that pertain to salvation.

Satan will try anything to make you doubt your salvation.  He will remind you of your past. He will tempt you to do things you shouldn't do. And let's be clear, following Jesus is not just a "things not to do" or a "things I must to list." Being saved means following Jesus and developing a relationship with Him, the Living Word of God.

So we know why we need to be saved: Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. And Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. That knowledge is what brought you to salvation.

And we know how we got saved. If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and that God has raised Him from the dead you will be saved. Romans 10:9

But maybe you get frightened that you can't "stay" saved. I used to feel that way too. These verses will help you. Just take one per week. Write it on a card, say it out loud. Put it on a post it note on your mirror. But keep at it until you absolutely have it memorized and then move on to the next one.

John 10:27 My sheep know my voice and I know them and they follow me.
John 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.
John 10:29 My Father who gave them unto me is greater than all and no man is able to snatch them out of my Father's hand.

 

*John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.
*John 1:14¶ And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Happy Thanksgiving!

 

 The Apostle Paul wrote to the Thessalonians. He said, "Rejoice in the Lord always, Pray without ceasing, In everything give thanks for this is the will of God concerning you."*

When things are going well, it is easy to be thankful. It takes faith to be thankful when going through trials, but we can trust that God is in control and is working things out for our good.

Prayer: Father we need your help in many ways. Thank you for always meeting our needs. We have loved ones and friends who are going through  trials. They are on our hearts constantly. Help us to remember to place all of the concerns of our heart in Your hands and be thankful that You are in control. Nothing is too hard for you!

*I Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,

in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.   *Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Blessing Or Impressing

Jesus didn't come to impress folks and yet nothing can compare to  His impact. He did not come to be served, He came to serve. He teaches us that no greater love has a man than that he lay down his life for his friend. God the Father gave Him so that we can have eternal life.

So the question is are we doing something to impress others or to bless others? Here is one way I am learning about this. If someone gives a plate of cookies to someone, the receiver may compliment the giver. How should the giver respond?

Possibly a godly response would be, "Thank you, it is a great recipe." That kind of response is  kind and yet humble. It gives the glory to the writer of the recipe.

Our pastor says, "We do not do good things to be seen by men.  We do good things so that men may see.

Prayer: Father teach us how to be good givers and good receivers. Let us be good stewards of the gifts and talents you have bestowed upon us. Let your light shine through us and glorify God. Teach us how to respond to compliments with sincerity and humility.

*Matthew 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

 John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

*Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

*I Corinthians 13:4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;

*Matthew 11:29-30 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

 

 

 

 

 

Bulls Eye!

I got a revelation recently. I have been recuperating from back surgery. I saw a bulls eye. Large circle, smaller circle and little circle. Then I was reminded of what Jesus said, On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.*  This is the meaning of the target a.k.a. bulls eye. God the Father is Omnipresent. He is everywhere all the time. He is the space outside of the large circle. Jesus is the large circle. He is in the Father. Then the small circle is me. I am in Him. Then the smallest circle is Jesus. He is in me. He is the center of my life. He is included in everything I do.  He is Jehovah Rapha, the Lord Who Heals. I can't not get better!

*John 14:20 NIV On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.   * Exodus 15:26 and said, “If you diligently heed the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you.” (Jehovah Rapha)

It's Not All About Me!

It happens to all of us. Those little frustrating things that others do. You know, like when someone puts the toilet paper roll on the wrong way. Or, and this is a big one, someone leaves the toilet seat up! Man!  Of all the nerve!

But really those things do not have the power to make us angry. Ephesians 6:10-18 speaks about spiritual warfare.  I firmly believe that there are little imps out there that taunt and torment us, if we let them.

It is so much easier to just flip the toilet paper roll, or just check to make sure the shower is turned off before we turn the water on! It really isn't a big deal unless we let selfishness make it a big deal, and thus lose our joy. Well it might just be temporarily, but still.

The point is it really isn't all about "me." We are to look on the things of others. We need to care for and consider each other. Isn't that what love really is all about?*

*Philippians 2:3-4 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

 

*(NLT) I Corinthians 13:4-5  Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud  or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.

 

*Just a little reminder: The joy of the Lord is our strength and the Word is the source of joy!
 

How Do You Know?

There are many, many different religions in the world today. People who are devoted to their beliefs have lives that demonstrate it. Where does their devotion come from? They know their stuff!

Let me ask a question. If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? We have the power to live with a devotion to Christ that demonstrates His life changing power. How is this possible? Take a look.

Psalms 119:9 How can a young man cleans his way? By taking heed according to Your word. Psalms 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Ephesians 6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

Are you beginning to see a pattern yet? We must spend time hearing, reading, studying and memorizing the Word! Essentially if we are to have an impact in this world we must know our stuff!

If you already take time to memorize scripture wonderful!  If you don't even know where to start hook up with someone in your church that can help you. If you need further help please send me a comment and I will get back with you!

 * I Peter 2:9  But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:
*James 2:19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and
tremble.
*II Corinthians 2:11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

 

 

Confessions and Prayer Requests

James 5:16

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

 

Pride keeps us from speaking openly and honestly about our faults. But face it, none of us are perfect! We all have issues.

 

I confess to you now that I struggle with food issues. I had a battle with a half dozen chocolate chip cookies and I lost! Now that may not seem like a sin to you but to me it is. I am diabetic and over weight. My body is supposed to be the temple of the Holy Spirit. Did I realize I was getting into sin? You bet I did.  My spirit was willing but my flesh was weak. 

 

So now I ask that you would pray for me to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might. Pray that I would be free from excess and able to resist that temptation. And I promise I will pray for you too, when you tell me what you need help with!

 

Blessings!

Where Ya Gonna Go and How Ya Gonna Get There?

As followers of Jesus there is no doubt that someone asked us where we would spend eternity. The plan of salvation was explained and we were lead in the prayer of salvation.

The word teaches us that it is wise for us to win souls. But how can we do that if we do not know how to present the gospel?

We need to be able to explain why we need salvation:
It is the only way to get to heaven!
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.



We need to be able to explain how to get saved:
We confess that we are sinners, believe that Jesus is Lord and that God raised him from the dead and invite Him into our hearts.
Romans 10:9-10 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

We need to be able to lead the prayer of salvation:
Lord God, I  confess that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus died for my sins and was raised from the dead. I ask you Jesus to come into my heart and help me live for you.

We need to follow up:
We can't just abandon a new believer. We must teach these new believers, the importance of baptism, church attendance and Bible study,

Jesus was baptized and we follow his example:  Mark 1:9
Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change: Romans 6:4
The importance of Church attendance:

Jesus went to church: Luke 4:16
It's how we grow: Romans 10:27
We are encouraged: Hebrews 10:25

We need to back up the plan of salvation through scripture:
Most people know that Christians go to church and read the Bible. What a shame it is that many of us do not know where to find these important passages within the Word of God! After all Jesus IS the Word!

Gluttony - It Is What It Is

Gluttony is a word that for the most part isn't even in our vernacular.  Webster's dictionary defines gluttony as excess in eating or drinking; greedy or excessive indulgence.

The Holy Spirit, our Helper gives us power over excesses. He produces in us His fruit. (Galatians 5:22-23 ... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.)

II Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

We don't have to be a slave to that second piece of cake!

Prayer: Father help us to walk in the Spirit and not gratify our desire for excesses. 

Proverbs 25:16  Have you found honey?  Eat only as much as you need, Lest you be filled with it and vomit.

Psalms 34:8 Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good;
Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shaped From The Inside Out

The more of the Word/Jesus we have in our heart and mind, the more the Holy Spirit can shape us from the inside out!

*John 14:23 Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.

*John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

 

 

Prayer:  Father please fill me with your word. Stretch out and be  and be at home in my heart, shaping me from the inside out.

Taters

Did you ever meet a tater that you didn't like? I haven't. Baked, boiled, fried or mashed I enjoy them all!

But Jesus isn't looking for "spec" taters.  He is looking for our genuine worship. Worship is more than singing and lifting our hands. When we truly worship the Lord, the Holy Spirit will be evident in our lives.


*Matthew 15:8 These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me. 

*John 4:23-24 “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

*Galatians 5:22-23  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
 
Prayer: Father please help us to worship You in all we do!

Thoughts - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Psalms 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:

Have you ever felt like your prayers were hitting the ceiling and going no farther? We need to pay attention when that happens.  While it is true that we walk and pray in faith, we need to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit.

When we feel like our prayers are ineffective we need to praise the Lord, meditate on the Word, and ask Jesus to search our heart. When we do that, we are inviting the Lord to show us where we are missing the mark, which is what sin really is. * Psalms 51:10

Remember that the Lord knows all of our thoughts, the good, the bad and the ugly.*Psalms 94:11

Ask yourself, "Would I like it if someone thought those thoughts about me?", "Would I want someone to say that about me?" , "Would I want someone to pray that for me?" If the answer is no to any of those questions we have some errant thoughts.

We mustn't let  sin separate us from the Lord! Guilt can cause us to avoid prayer, but if we confess our thoughts to the Lord, He will cleanse us and forgive us , because He loves us!*

*Psalms 15:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

*Psalms 94:11 The LORD knoweth the thoughts of man, that they are vanity.

*I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Unspoken Prayer Requests

Have you ever been given an "unspoken" prayer request? Someone asks us to pray but they don't give us any specifics. I confess this kind of prayer request used to frustrate me. But Jesus set an example of prayer for us to follow. It is a prayer that is all encompassing.

Matthew 6:8-13

Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Prayer: Father as we pray for those whose needs we may not know or understand let us lift up those petitions trusting in your wisdom for the best possible outcome.

Delving A Litte Deeper

We say we don't want sugar-coated messages in our churches and yet we subscribe to all kinds of fluffy, sugar-coated, self-helping, make me feel good ideas.  No doubt there are many people who have completely turned away from faith in Christ and believing that He is the only way to heaven, because they've neglected His word and have become deceived.

We play on the internet and look at all kinds of things. We research topics for classes we take or purely out of curiosity. But how much time do we take to research the sources of those cute little, make me feel good ideas?

Check out the link to the post and you will find that many of these ideas have their roots in new age, one world religion, witchcraft; (aka wiccan) and the occult. They may seem harmless but they are insidious. Some of these ideas come from inspirational or motivational speakers. If we delve a little deeper we will often find the source of their inspiration is demonic. They use terms such as wisdom, happiness, guru, ascended masters, ancient ones, hidden teacher, enlightened one, path to enlightenment, illumination, unity, peace and even paganism!

If they do not mention the name of Jesus on their website, RUN AWAY AS FAST AS YOU CAN!

II Timothy 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

II Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.

Matthew 13:44  Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

 

Prayer: Lord help us all delve a little deeper and look to your word for wisdom and encouragement.

 

 

When I'm Afraid

Have you ever been afraid and had a brother or sister in the Lord spout out, "God doesn't give us a spirit of fear!" *Those words are true. God doesn't give us a spirit of fear. But the longer I walk with the Lord the more I realize that there are indeed times when I am afraid.

I know of a person who had a major surgery.  Though, she is a stout believer, she was quaking in her boots and holding on by the skin of her teeth. But holding on, even if it is by the skin of our teeth is the key to working through fear.

Jesus said that we must come to the kingdom of God as little children. Children are humble and not afraid to say they're afraid!

So the next time you are frightened, like a child, run into the arms of our sweet savior! Hold on to His unseen hand and to your faith and say in your heart, "What time I am afraid I will trust in you!"


*2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

* Psalms 56:3  What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee."

*Psalms 73:26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

 

Maranantha! - Our Lord Cometh!

There are some pretty strange things happening in our world today and we need to be aware of them, but not afraid of them. Jesus doesn't want us to worry or be in fear. He is the Prince of Peace!

Jesus is the Living Word and He gives us words of  instruction, encouragement and hope:

 I Thessalonians 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

Mark 13:33 “Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is.

Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Maranantha! I Corinthians 16:22 If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Come, Lord!

Shout!

When we shout during our worship the walls of our pride come tumbling down and strongholds are broken!

Psalms 47:1
Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples!  Shout to God with the voice of triumph!

Joshua 6:20 So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.

No. Seriously. What's Missing?

Please bear with me on this it is a tremendous burden on my heart. We need to look very carefully at what we are taking in. Please know I am not trying to be negative about other versions of the Bible.  I sometimes use them to help me understand too. But I am leaning more and more on the good ole' concordance.

Look at each of these versions carefully and you will find something that is very disturbing.

Acts 8:36-38 KJV And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? vs 37And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.vs 38And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.

Acts 8:36-38NKJV Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?” vs 37Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. vs38 So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.

Acts 8:36-38 NIV 36 As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” 37  38 And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.

Acts 8:36-38 NLT 36 As they rode along, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look! There’s some water! Why can’t I be baptized?”38 He ordered the carriage to stop, and they went down into the water, and Philip baptized him.

Acts 8:36-38 ESV 36 And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?” 38 And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him.

Three out of these five translations are missing the gospel! Verse 37 is missing from the New International Version, which incidentally is the number one selling version of the Bible. It is also missing from the New Living Translation and the English Standard Version.

vs 37And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.


We mustn't neglect to study. Satan's plan from the very beginning was to negate the word of God!

*Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Wishin' and Hopin' and Prayin'

In some sense of the word a wish is something we want to be true that is possible but not necessarily probable. Such as, "I wish I could win the lottery." or  "I wish I could lose 20 pounds before vacation." 

Hope means to want something to happen or be true and believe it could happen. It is having a desire with an expectation of fulfillment.

Prayer can be many things; making requests, giving thanks,  seeking, interceding, meditating on the Word of God.

So keep in wishin', knowing that with men things are impossible, but with God all things are possible!   Keep on hopin' with expectation , and by all means keep on prayin'!



*Matthew 19:26 But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
*Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.
*I Thessalonians 5:18 Pray without ceasing

I Just Can't Do It!

 When we try and try and try, to be "good" Christians, it becomes burdensome. There is a simple solution: quit trying and star praying.

The more we pray, the more we become aware of Jesus presence. He longs for us to be in fellowship with Him. We don't have to try so hard we just have to pray and lean on the Holy Spirit. When we do, that burden we carry to "be good" will be replaced by the goodness of the Holy Spirit.


*John 15:5 NKJV I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

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

Trying The Spirit - All That Glitters Is Not Gold

I John 4:1-3 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.
 
As believers in Jesus we are supposed to be gentle and kind. We are taught not to judge others. But that doesn't mean that we are to be clueless.
 
There are a lot of fluffy feel good messages,  motivational messengers and self-help "gurus "out there. If you are listening or subscribing to anyone's philosophy and they do not speak the name of Jesus freely, if they do not mention in their message that He is the Son of God, crucified, buried and resurrected,  run in the other direction!  Satan mixes a little bit of truth in every lie! If the source of your inspiration comes from Jesus it will draw you too Jesus. If it gives even a subtle hint of self-sufficiency, or inner-goodness at all it is the spirit of the Antichrist.

The new-age and one world religion use key words: Karma, mantra, self-realization, aura, inner-guide, higher-consciousness, enlightenment and angels. Those are words and terms that should send up a red flag. Just because the message has the word, "angel" in it doesn't mean it is godly. Some angels are godly and some fallen angels, aka demons.

 Satan told Eve in the garden that she would be "like god" if she partook of the forbidden fruit. In other words she would have an "illuminated" mind. 

Don't be deceived!  All that glitters is not gold!
 
II Corinthians 11:13  For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.
 
Genesis 3:5 “For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

Isaiah 14:12 “How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations!

When All Hell Breaks Loose!

See here's the thing. From the time you accept Jesus as Lord and Savior the kingdom of hell has a bone to pick with you! Satan is a relentless foe.  As long as he can distract you, you are not a threat to his kingdom. He will try any and all means to keep you from prayer, studying, attending church and worship. But when the prayers and the praises start, that's when strongholds are broken and many times, hell breaks loose. Babies get sick, spouses get irritable,  children misbehave,we get too tired to pray, or you may be tempted by things you never imagined. Let me say it again, Satan is a relentless foe. But he is no match for He who lives within you!  Do not be discouraged! Remember, keep your eyes on Jesus and keep on keeping on!



Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.



II Corinthians 10:3-5

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.

 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

Praying for Patience

I was recently asked, "Should you pray for patience?"  Perhaps you have heard people say, "Don't pray for patience because your patience will be tried."  I used to think that way myself  but then I realized something. Patience is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit in our lives. So are the other manifestations, like joy, peace, love, gentleness, etc.

Of course we will have trials and temptations. That's how we learn and grow. In order to for the Holy Spirit to manifest God’s goodness in our lives we have to learn by faith and experience. It isn't wrong to pray for the manifestations of the Holy Spirit, but perhaps we would do better to see King Jesus and let Him add to us the fruit of the spirit in our lives.

*Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

*James 1:3  Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

 

*Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.

 

 

Liberty, Justification and Stumbling Blocks

Alistair Crowley, was an occultist, a deviant and most notably a Satanist.  He called himself the Great Beast 666. His motto? "Do what thou wilt."   That sounds a lot like one of our common philosophies," If it feels good do it." After all it's a free country right?

But as believers, we may be the only Bible that some folks ever read. Our conduct is supposed to look different. We are children of the light.  Many unbelievers think Christians aren't anything but a bunch of hypocrites!

There will always be cynical people who can't see the good in others. Yet, if we were convicted of being a Christian, would there be enough proof to convict us? Is there any behavior in our lives we are trying to justify?

We need to be careful that we are not causing anyone to stumble because of our behavior. Oh sure, we are all human and will make bad decisions at times.  But hopefully we will learn everyday to be more and more like Jesus. We won't be conformed we will be transformed!


Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Romans 14:21 It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.

Philippians 2:12 Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear.

Testing Our Mettle

Testing is essential in every form of learning. Babies fall many times before they walk and even then they fall down a lot. In school we have tests to see what we've comprehended.

We have spiritual testing too. The testing of our spirit is not to harm us but to build us.  There will always be more to learn, but we shouldn't think it is strange when we are going through a rough spot. God loves us and He wants us to grow. With each test we go through we can or should see some progress. Just beware it isn't progress we have wrought on our own, but it is rather the work of the

I Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.

John 6:63 “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.

Responding and Reacting

It is very easy to say something rash in the heat of a moment. That is why we always need to take a pause before we speak or … text.  So much of our communication today is done electronically and while that may be okay most of the time, sometimes it is dangerous. Our tone of voice and facial expressions convey more than a written word can.

Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath but harsh words stir up anger.

Prayer: Father help us to be filled with Your Spirit, kind in our actions and gentle in our answers. In Your name Amen.

Conversations - Never Getting Enough

Can you ever have enough time talking to your kids?  Couldn't you just go on and on and on? Don't you just want to listen to what they are going through? Don't you just love the sound of their voice? Do you want to wrap your arms around them when they hurt? Touch their brow when they have a fever?  Enjoy a good belly laugh?

I believe prayer is like that. Jesus loves us so much that He wants to talk to us all the time. He wants to listen to our voice, just the sound of it. He wants to hear all about our day and who did what to whom. He wants to hear our funny little stories and giggle with us.  He wants us to pour out our heart when we hurt. He wants to give us wisdom. Quite simply He wants to converse with us!

Many times through out the Bible the Lord says, "Come to me." Call on Me," " Draw near to me"

Our pastor has said, "God's not looking for a date. He's looking for a mate!" Husbands and wives talk to each other!

We should always listen to what Jesus says through the Word. But realize Jesus loves to hear our voice too! And He can never get enough!


In Proverbs 3:6 KJV In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
I Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.

Importance of Bible Study - What Are We Missing?

 Having a daily quiet time or devotional time is essential. If we confess Jesus as Lord, how can we go about our everyday lives without inviting Him into them? How can He direct us if we don’t take the time to spend in His word and pray?

Reading the Bible is good. But we are not merely told to read the Bible. The Apostle Paul instructed Timothy to study the Word. (II Timothy 2:15)  The Psalmist said,” Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. (Psalms 119:11)  It takes time but it is essential!

There are many tools readily available to help us study.   There is a tool that is very helpful and easily accessible.  It is the Blue Letter Bible. (www.blueletterbible.org). Even then we must be careful as things are easy to overlook.  There is a tool on that sight that can compare different versions.

I’ve learned some things that were very alarming. It used to be that churches never wavered in which version of the Bible they read.  Now there are many  versions to choose from. The number one version is the New International Version  followed by The King James Version. I have used the NIV on many occasions. But I learned last night that there are 16 verses in that version that are completely missing. They have simply been deleted! Other verses have notes that say something like this: this (or these) verse(s) were probably not in the original text. Some challenge the virgin birth and even make it sound like Jesus isn’t God at all!

Take a look:

The New King James Version (Which basically takes out all of the “eths”, “est” but does not change the wording or phrasing.

Acts 8:36-NKJV Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?”

Acts 8:36 NIV As they rode along, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look! There’s some water! Why can’t I be baptized?”

Acts 8:37 NKJV Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”

Acts 8:37 NIV, NLT, ESV  
Acts 8:38 NKJV So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.

Acts 8:38 NIV And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.

Did you notice anything funny?

Verse 37 is completely missing from several translations! Why is that so important?  It omits the gospel of Jesus Christ! The ONLY way to salvation!

Romans 10-9-10 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

II Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.