Pastor's Corner
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.-- 2Timothy 3:16-17
Jesus, The Author of Our Eternal Salvation (Pastor Dom Viernes)
Sunday - March 20, 2016
Who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offer up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly. Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.-- Hebrews 5:7-9
Jesus made the way for our eternal salvation. He consecrated through His suffering. The flesh that the Father prepared for Him is the instrument for our sanctification. Those who choose to make Jesus their Lord, they are made holy.
In our text, the Captain of our salvation wants us to learn from Him. "In the days of His flesh", He set a good example for the believers to copy. That is to PRAY. There are Scriptures mentions that Jesus prays. (Mark 1:35; Matthew 14:23; Luke 6:12). Jesus teach His followers to pray. He even makes parables on how important to pray (Luke 11:5-13; 18:1-7).
"With vehement cries and tears". Three times in the Bible records that Jesus wept. The second time Jesus wept is His triumphal entry in Jerusalem. (Luke 19:41-44). When He saw the city He wept emotionally, because He saw what will happen to Jerusalem and all the Jewish people. In Sept 8, 70AD, the Roman army under Titus totally destroyed the city, the walls collapsed and all buildings, he put to death even the innocent babies. This happened to the Jewish because of their refusal to accept their Savior.
Who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offer up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly. Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.-- Hebrews 5:7-9
Jesus made the way for our eternal salvation. He consecrated through His suffering. The flesh that the Father prepared for Him is the instrument for our sanctification. Those who choose to make Jesus their Lord, they are made holy.
In our text, the Captain of our salvation wants us to learn from Him. "In the days of His flesh", He set a good example for the believers to copy. That is to PRAY. There are Scriptures mentions that Jesus prays. (Mark 1:35; Matthew 14:23; Luke 6:12). Jesus teach His followers to pray. He even makes parables on how important to pray (Luke 11:5-13; 18:1-7).
"With vehement cries and tears". Three times in the Bible records that Jesus wept. The second time Jesus wept is His triumphal entry in Jerusalem. (Luke 19:41-44). When He saw the city He wept emotionally, because He saw what will happen to Jerusalem and all the Jewish people. In Sept 8, 70AD, the Roman army under Titus totally destroyed the city, the walls collapsed and all buildings, he put to death even the innocent babies. This happened to the Jewish because of their refusal to accept their Savior.
The Greatness of Prayer (Pastor Dom Viernes)
Sunday - March 13, 2016
Do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,-- Ephesians 1:16-18
Paul prayed what he believed was the most important thing that God could give the Ephesian believers. It is to "know Him better". It means having the "eyes of their hearts might be enlighten" (Ephesians 1:18 NIV). The heart is the control center of the entire self. It is the repository of ones core commitments, deepest loves, feelings, thinking and behavior. To have the "eyes of the heart enlightened", is the changes of the whole person. We know God is holy,,but when our hearts eyes are enlightened to the truth, then we are not only understand it cognitively but emotionally we find God's holiness and beauty.
Paul sees this fuller knowledge of God as a more important thing to receive then a change of circumstances. Without this powerful sense of God's reality, good circumstances can lead to overconfidence and spiritual indifference. Without this enlightened heart, bad circumstances can lead to discouragement and despair. Therefore knowing God better is what we must have above all if we are to face life in any circumstances.
By praying in this way, Paul was assuming the priority of inner life with God. If we give priority to the outer life, our inner life will be dark. We will not know what to do with solitude, we will be deeply uncomfortable with self examination and we will have an increasingly short attention for any kind of reflection, even more seriously our lives will lack integrity.
Do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,-- Ephesians 1:16-18
Paul prayed what he believed was the most important thing that God could give the Ephesian believers. It is to "know Him better". It means having the "eyes of their hearts might be enlighten" (Ephesians 1:18 NIV). The heart is the control center of the entire self. It is the repository of ones core commitments, deepest loves, feelings, thinking and behavior. To have the "eyes of the heart enlightened", is the changes of the whole person. We know God is holy,,but when our hearts eyes are enlightened to the truth, then we are not only understand it cognitively but emotionally we find God's holiness and beauty.
Paul sees this fuller knowledge of God as a more important thing to receive then a change of circumstances. Without this powerful sense of God's reality, good circumstances can lead to overconfidence and spiritual indifference. Without this enlightened heart, bad circumstances can lead to discouragement and despair. Therefore knowing God better is what we must have above all if we are to face life in any circumstances.
By praying in this way, Paul was assuming the priority of inner life with God. If we give priority to the outer life, our inner life will be dark. We will not know what to do with solitude, we will be deeply uncomfortable with self examination and we will have an increasingly short attention for any kind of reflection, even more seriously our lives will lack integrity.
Unshakable Love (Pastor Jaren Lapasaran)
Sunday - February 28, 2016
City of Refuge (Pastor Dom Viernes)
Sunday - February 21, 2016
Then you shall appoint cities to be cities of refuge for you, that the manslayer who kills any person accidentally may flee there. They shall be cities of refuge for you from the avenger, that the manslayer may not die until he stands before the congregation in judgment.-- Numbers 35:11-12
The Bible talks about cities of hope and promise where people seeking sanctuary could realize the prospect of a completely new beginning. These biblical cities of refuge provide tremendous insight into the plan of salvation and the wonderful promise of redemption through our Lord Jesus Christ. It was in this land that God's people would dwell and it was from this land that they would derive their livelihood.
The city of refuge represents Jesus. "The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble". (Psalm 9:9). The avenger of blood typifies Satan. The bible says the devil is like " a roaring lion, that walketh about, seeking who may devour". Satan also stands as the accuser of our brethren, which accused them before our God day and night". (Revelation 12:10). The slayer is the sinner. We are all responsible for unintentional manslaughter of Jesus.
The only hope for the slayer was to get to the city of refuge. He was in a desperate situation and absolute no hope, except what was offered him through the wisdom of Almighty God. The sinners only hope is Jesus Christ. "The Name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous runneth into it, and is safe". (Proverbs18:10).
Then you shall appoint cities to be cities of refuge for you, that the manslayer who kills any person accidentally may flee there. They shall be cities of refuge for you from the avenger, that the manslayer may not die until he stands before the congregation in judgment.-- Numbers 35:11-12
The Bible talks about cities of hope and promise where people seeking sanctuary could realize the prospect of a completely new beginning. These biblical cities of refuge provide tremendous insight into the plan of salvation and the wonderful promise of redemption through our Lord Jesus Christ. It was in this land that God's people would dwell and it was from this land that they would derive their livelihood.
The city of refuge represents Jesus. "The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble". (Psalm 9:9). The avenger of blood typifies Satan. The bible says the devil is like " a roaring lion, that walketh about, seeking who may devour". Satan also stands as the accuser of our brethren, which accused them before our God day and night". (Revelation 12:10). The slayer is the sinner. We are all responsible for unintentional manslaughter of Jesus.
The only hope for the slayer was to get to the city of refuge. He was in a desperate situation and absolute no hope, except what was offered him through the wisdom of Almighty God. The sinners only hope is Jesus Christ. "The Name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous runneth into it, and is safe". (Proverbs18:10).
Love the Lord Your God with All Your Soul (Pastor Dom Viernes)
Sunday - February 7, 2016
You shall loive the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.-- Luke10:27
We love the Lord with all our soul by living a life of faithfulness to all that the Lord required of us. While loving the Lord with all our heart has to do with affection. Loving the Lord with all our soul has to do with devotion.
The soul is the part of us that defines who we are. The biblical definition for soul is; life, personality, the inner self and our identity. It's where we make our decisions and choices that ultimately decides our lifestyle and behavior. To love the Lord with all our soul means to love Him in the way we live, the choices we make, and the behavior and the lifestyle we adopt.
Our lives are the sum of the choices we make. Our choices show what we are committed to and they reflect our core values, defining us and displaying our lifestyle before the world. Choices flow from what we treasure most. Love must be demonstrated, when we keep His commandments.
You shall loive the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.-- Luke10:27
We love the Lord with all our soul by living a life of faithfulness to all that the Lord required of us. While loving the Lord with all our heart has to do with affection. Loving the Lord with all our soul has to do with devotion.
The soul is the part of us that defines who we are. The biblical definition for soul is; life, personality, the inner self and our identity. It's where we make our decisions and choices that ultimately decides our lifestyle and behavior. To love the Lord with all our soul means to love Him in the way we live, the choices we make, and the behavior and the lifestyle we adopt.
Our lives are the sum of the choices we make. Our choices show what we are committed to and they reflect our core values, defining us and displaying our lifestyle before the world. Choices flow from what we treasure most. Love must be demonstrated, when we keep His commandments.
God Loves You Even When You Don't Love Him (Pastor Dom Viernes)
Sunday - September 17, 2015
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.-- Romans 5:8
... And there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. But when he had spent all...-- Luke 15:13-14. Here is this young boy with bags full of money, determined to live it up in a faraway city. He is surrounded by friends, eager to help him spend his fortune, he bought drinks and women for everyone. For many days he continued his lifestyle of immorality and drunkenness, throwing his money to the wind with no accountability to anyone. The prodigal was wasting his life. And then one day, he comes up with nothing but lint. He had come to town with his pockets full and now they are empty. His friends are nowhere to be found, he is bankrupt, his life's inheritance is gone. "He had sown the wind and reaped the whirlwind."-- Hosea 8:7
God loves you when your wallowing in sin. (Luke 15:14-16)-- Wallowing is like a pig wallowing in its pen. With his money gone and his friend nowhere to be found, the prodigal thought he was as low as he could go. Life has a way of making that happen when we've been foolish. This is the lowest point in the Prodigal's story. He is the son of a wealthy Jewish landowners, living among what were, for a Jew the most ceremonially unclean and despised animals on the face of the earth. Now he is wallowing, if not in mud, certainly in shame and poverty. The prodigal son was lost, unclean, defiled, broken, "having no hope and without God in the world."-- Ephesians 2:12
When the prodigal son was no longer considered a human being by the people around him, he felt the profundity of his isolation, the deepest loneliness one can experience. He was truly lost, and it was this being lost that brought him to his senses. He was shocked into the awareness of his alienation and suddenly understood that he had embarked on the road to death. He had become so disconnected from what gives life- family, friends, community, acquaintances and even food, he realized that death would be the natural next step. All at once he saw clearly the path he had chosen and where it would lead him, he understood his own death choice.
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.-- Romans 5:8
... And there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. But when he had spent all...-- Luke 15:13-14. Here is this young boy with bags full of money, determined to live it up in a faraway city. He is surrounded by friends, eager to help him spend his fortune, he bought drinks and women for everyone. For many days he continued his lifestyle of immorality and drunkenness, throwing his money to the wind with no accountability to anyone. The prodigal was wasting his life. And then one day, he comes up with nothing but lint. He had come to town with his pockets full and now they are empty. His friends are nowhere to be found, he is bankrupt, his life's inheritance is gone. "He had sown the wind and reaped the whirlwind."-- Hosea 8:7
God loves you when your wallowing in sin. (Luke 15:14-16)-- Wallowing is like a pig wallowing in its pen. With his money gone and his friend nowhere to be found, the prodigal thought he was as low as he could go. Life has a way of making that happen when we've been foolish. This is the lowest point in the Prodigal's story. He is the son of a wealthy Jewish landowners, living among what were, for a Jew the most ceremonially unclean and despised animals on the face of the earth. Now he is wallowing, if not in mud, certainly in shame and poverty. The prodigal son was lost, unclean, defiled, broken, "having no hope and without God in the world."-- Ephesians 2:12
When the prodigal son was no longer considered a human being by the people around him, he felt the profundity of his isolation, the deepest loneliness one can experience. He was truly lost, and it was this being lost that brought him to his senses. He was shocked into the awareness of his alienation and suddenly understood that he had embarked on the road to death. He had become so disconnected from what gives life- family, friends, community, acquaintances and even food, he realized that death would be the natural next step. All at once he saw clearly the path he had chosen and where it would lead him, he understood his own death choice.
Looking for the Blessed Hope (Pastor Dom Viernes)
Sunday - August 23, 2015
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. Teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts we should live soberly, righteously and godly in the present age. Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.-- Titus 2:11-14
The reality of blessed hope has an awesome effect on the believers of Christ. It is not just the doctrine of the blessed hope but it is the living reality that affects lives. The reality cause spiritual growth. When a person lives with the anticipation of the rapture of the church, the results include victory under ungodliness and worldly lust, sober mindedness, righteousness, godly living, victory over iniquity, a purifying process and a zealous for good works.
The blessed hope is spiritual life to a believers and without it, worldliness sets in and chokes the word of God in a person's life. If you notice our text, the very middle of this admonition is to live godly. These verses was place there to show how important the blessed hope in your spiritual life.
The Bible tells us what to do about waiting for the return of the Lord Jesus. We are to wait with patience for His return just as a farmer plants his crops mature, so we are to wait for the coming of the Lord. The Bible tells us to establish our heart about His coming. When a person establishes the blessed hope in his heart holiness naturally flows.
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. Teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts we should live soberly, righteously and godly in the present age. Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.-- Titus 2:11-14
The reality of blessed hope has an awesome effect on the believers of Christ. It is not just the doctrine of the blessed hope but it is the living reality that affects lives. The reality cause spiritual growth. When a person lives with the anticipation of the rapture of the church, the results include victory under ungodliness and worldly lust, sober mindedness, righteousness, godly living, victory over iniquity, a purifying process and a zealous for good works.
The blessed hope is spiritual life to a believers and without it, worldliness sets in and chokes the word of God in a person's life. If you notice our text, the very middle of this admonition is to live godly. These verses was place there to show how important the blessed hope in your spiritual life.
The Bible tells us what to do about waiting for the return of the Lord Jesus. We are to wait with patience for His return just as a farmer plants his crops mature, so we are to wait for the coming of the Lord. The Bible tells us to establish our heart about His coming. When a person establishes the blessed hope in his heart holiness naturally flows.
Crying out unto the Lord (Pastor Dominador Viernes)
Sunday – May 24, 2015
There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God, and regard man. Now there was a widow in that city and she came to him saying, get justice for me from mi adversary and he would not for a while, but afterward, he said within himself, though I do not fear God nor regard man, yet because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me... And shall not God avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them.-- Luke 18:2-5, 7
The woman is asking the judge to vindicate her and punish her adversary. However when Christ gave His answer, He said "And shall not God avenge His own elect which cry day and night unto Him." This woman wanted retaliation for injustice, but Christ is saying God will make justice happen or He will move on your behalf. When you cry out to Him, He will not destroy your adversary, but will help you overcome your adversary. The parable indicates that a person crying out can gain the attention of the judge.
When Peter began sinking in the rolling waves of the sea, he cried out to the Lord in a three word "Lord save me."-- Matt.14:30. These three words were enough to for Christ to pull him out. When a multitude begin to cry out in unity, as in the case of Israel when they saw Pharoah's army following them at the Red Sea. Their unified crying out sent the rod in Moses's hand over the water, opening path of escape.
It is important to understand that God responds and reaches out to those who cry out unto Him. God both hears your cries and sees your tears.
There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God, and regard man. Now there was a widow in that city and she came to him saying, get justice for me from mi adversary and he would not for a while, but afterward, he said within himself, though I do not fear God nor regard man, yet because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me... And shall not God avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them.-- Luke 18:2-5, 7
The woman is asking the judge to vindicate her and punish her adversary. However when Christ gave His answer, He said "And shall not God avenge His own elect which cry day and night unto Him." This woman wanted retaliation for injustice, but Christ is saying God will make justice happen or He will move on your behalf. When you cry out to Him, He will not destroy your adversary, but will help you overcome your adversary. The parable indicates that a person crying out can gain the attention of the judge.
When Peter began sinking in the rolling waves of the sea, he cried out to the Lord in a three word "Lord save me."-- Matt.14:30. These three words were enough to for Christ to pull him out. When a multitude begin to cry out in unity, as in the case of Israel when they saw Pharoah's army following them at the Red Sea. Their unified crying out sent the rod in Moses's hand over the water, opening path of escape.
It is important to understand that God responds and reaches out to those who cry out unto Him. God both hears your cries and sees your tears.
Endure Until the End (Speaker: Pastor Dominador Viernes)
Sunday - May 17, 2015
And then many will be offended, will betray one another and will hate one another. But he who endures to the end will be saved.-- Matthew 24:10,13
What Jesus is revealing is that at the time of the end many will be so sensitive to offense that they will not be able to endure offenses and will retaliate by betraying and hating their offenders and speaking evil about them. Christ referred to any stumbling block put in a man's way that would trip him up and cause him to fall. The strategy behind an offense is to cause person to stumble, fall or participate to a certain behavior that will cause destruction.
Enduring to the end in the context has nothing to do with surviving a plague such as, earthquake, sickness, famines, and war. It refers to a person who can endure the many offenses and verbally set traps that will be encountered. Majority of former church attenders were offended by the pastor, staff of the church, or a fellow member and now they refuse to attend church anymore. Some were engaged in verbal conflict, a difference of opinion or heard a particular message from the pulpit that offended them.
How do we endure? Just like a plant that had been trampled and yet continued to rise again and again. It means to have the strength to bear pressure without collapsing or being destroyed by the weight. Paul said in 2Corinthians 4:8-9 " we are hard pressed on every side yet not crushed, we are perplexed but not in despair, persecuted but not forsaken, struck down but not destroyed. He learned that "in whatever state I am, to be content. I know how to be abased and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need"-- Philippians 4:11-12. He added and declared "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"-- Philippians 4:13
There is one type of person who is totally impossible to offend, I mean that nothing to do or say can get that person to respond in a negative manner, and that is the dead man. Say what you wish but you cannot and will not offend him, because he cannot hear you. Paul says "I die daily".-- 1Corinthians 15:31
And then many will be offended, will betray one another and will hate one another. But he who endures to the end will be saved.-- Matthew 24:10,13
What Jesus is revealing is that at the time of the end many will be so sensitive to offense that they will not be able to endure offenses and will retaliate by betraying and hating their offenders and speaking evil about them. Christ referred to any stumbling block put in a man's way that would trip him up and cause him to fall. The strategy behind an offense is to cause person to stumble, fall or participate to a certain behavior that will cause destruction.
Enduring to the end in the context has nothing to do with surviving a plague such as, earthquake, sickness, famines, and war. It refers to a person who can endure the many offenses and verbally set traps that will be encountered. Majority of former church attenders were offended by the pastor, staff of the church, or a fellow member and now they refuse to attend church anymore. Some were engaged in verbal conflict, a difference of opinion or heard a particular message from the pulpit that offended them.
How do we endure? Just like a plant that had been trampled and yet continued to rise again and again. It means to have the strength to bear pressure without collapsing or being destroyed by the weight. Paul said in 2Corinthians 4:8-9 " we are hard pressed on every side yet not crushed, we are perplexed but not in despair, persecuted but not forsaken, struck down but not destroyed. He learned that "in whatever state I am, to be content. I know how to be abased and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need"-- Philippians 4:11-12. He added and declared "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"-- Philippians 4:13
There is one type of person who is totally impossible to offend, I mean that nothing to do or say can get that person to respond in a negative manner, and that is the dead man. Say what you wish but you cannot and will not offend him, because he cannot hear you. Paul says "I die daily".-- 1Corinthians 15:31
Mothers are Shepherds (Speaker: Pastor Dominador Viernes)
Sunday - May 10, 2015
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.-- John 10:11
His first birth announcement was sent to a group of men who didn't have degrees and probably weren't in their dream job, yet God used them wight where they were at and now. Shepherds, these were men who held an occupation that didn't hold respect. Unnamed, unnoticed, yet were chosen by God to be the very birth announcers.
Many times, a mother, wether you work inside or outside the house, you fell your work done in your house goes unnoticed, unseen and unappreciated. Mothers are raising the next generation for Christ, you are modern day shepherd. Your job, your workload, your sleepless night may go unnoticed by some, but not by God. He sees it all. Some of you might think you are not in your dream job,,your occupation that you learn to touch eternity as you invest yourself into your family, tending to your own personal flocks. It's in the tending to your little lambs, that you can help spread the good news of great joy for all people. One life at a time.
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.-- John 10:11
His first birth announcement was sent to a group of men who didn't have degrees and probably weren't in their dream job, yet God used them wight where they were at and now. Shepherds, these were men who held an occupation that didn't hold respect. Unnamed, unnoticed, yet were chosen by God to be the very birth announcers.
Many times, a mother, wether you work inside or outside the house, you fell your work done in your house goes unnoticed, unseen and unappreciated. Mothers are raising the next generation for Christ, you are modern day shepherd. Your job, your workload, your sleepless night may go unnoticed by some, but not by God. He sees it all. Some of you might think you are not in your dream job,,your occupation that you learn to touch eternity as you invest yourself into your family, tending to your own personal flocks. It's in the tending to your little lambs, that you can help spread the good news of great joy for all people. One life at a time.
Marching with God to Victory (Speaker: Brother Archie Gomez)
Sunday - May 3, 2015
Read Joshua 5:13-15 and Joshua 6:1-27
After presenting God’s Plan of Victory through Gideon, I need to take a little step back to present on how God worked with Joshua to win the battle over the King of Jericho.
The battle with the King of Jericho is very important for it was the 1st among the 31 battles that Joshua and the Israelite people will have to engage in accordance with God’s plan. It is interesting to note that prior to the battle with the King of Jericho, God has commanded Joshua to have all the Israelite’s men, who came out of 40 years of wandering in the dessert, to be circumcised. This is God’s way of reestablishing His promised covenant of protection and blessing with Abraham and his descendants.
It is also important to note that for the 2nd time we have read in the book of Joshua the command to “Take off your sandals, for the place you are standing is a holy ground.” When Moses was asked by God to lead the Israelite out of Egypt, Moses was also asked to take off his sandal when he approached the burning bush. And now, when Joshua was commanded to take over the King of Jericho, the commander of the Lord’s army has asked him to take off his sandals for he was standing in a holy ground.
And the order of battle that God commanded Joshua to follow is quite unorthodox to say the least. On the 1st six (6) days, Joshua is to march around the city once with all the armed men and on the seventh day, he is to march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets.
After reading the battle of God through Joshua with the King of Jericho, I succinctly saw and understood God’s ways. First, we need to be circumcised in our heart to remove the baggage we carry and expose who we are in God’s eye. Second, we need to lay down in God’s feet our motive for the campaign. Is it to glorify Him or us? Third, we need to understand that it is God’s battle and not us. His ways maybe unorthodox, but there is no need for him to explain it to us. Our role is to obey His battle plan. And fourthly, the victory should be hand down to God. It is not us who win the battle, it is Him who win the battle for us. As such, His commands should be obeyed. Things that need to be preserved should be preserved and things that need be destroyed should be destroyed. There is no compromise, because it was God who won the battle not us. He is our ultimate Commander and King.
Read Joshua 5:13-15 and Joshua 6:1-27
After presenting God’s Plan of Victory through Gideon, I need to take a little step back to present on how God worked with Joshua to win the battle over the King of Jericho.
The battle with the King of Jericho is very important for it was the 1st among the 31 battles that Joshua and the Israelite people will have to engage in accordance with God’s plan. It is interesting to note that prior to the battle with the King of Jericho, God has commanded Joshua to have all the Israelite’s men, who came out of 40 years of wandering in the dessert, to be circumcised. This is God’s way of reestablishing His promised covenant of protection and blessing with Abraham and his descendants.
It is also important to note that for the 2nd time we have read in the book of Joshua the command to “Take off your sandals, for the place you are standing is a holy ground.” When Moses was asked by God to lead the Israelite out of Egypt, Moses was also asked to take off his sandal when he approached the burning bush. And now, when Joshua was commanded to take over the King of Jericho, the commander of the Lord’s army has asked him to take off his sandals for he was standing in a holy ground.
And the order of battle that God commanded Joshua to follow is quite unorthodox to say the least. On the 1st six (6) days, Joshua is to march around the city once with all the armed men and on the seventh day, he is to march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets.
After reading the battle of God through Joshua with the King of Jericho, I succinctly saw and understood God’s ways. First, we need to be circumcised in our heart to remove the baggage we carry and expose who we are in God’s eye. Second, we need to lay down in God’s feet our motive for the campaign. Is it to glorify Him or us? Third, we need to understand that it is God’s battle and not us. His ways maybe unorthodox, but there is no need for him to explain it to us. Our role is to obey His battle plan. And fourthly, the victory should be hand down to God. It is not us who win the battle, it is Him who win the battle for us. As such, His commands should be obeyed. Things that need to be preserved should be preserved and things that need be destroyed should be destroyed. There is no compromise, because it was God who won the battle not us. He is our ultimate Commander and King.
The Lord Our Shield
Sunday – April 26, 2015
After these things the word of The Lord came to Abram in a vision saying, Do not afraid, Abram, I Am your shield your exceedingly great reward.-- Genesis 15:1
As a shield, the Almighty provides divine protection for those who make Him their defense in times of trouble. In Psalms, David speaks of shield. "The Lord is my strength and my shield".-- Psalms 28:7. David certainly needed protection, as he was a warrior from his late teen years when he faced and defeated Goliath. In Psalms 5:12 David says, "For you O Lord will bless the righteous, with favor you surround him as with a shield.” We imagine favor as abiding either in or upon a blessed righteous person. However in this passage, the psalmist refers to favor as a shield that covers the individual. When you carry the shield of favor even your enemies will be at peace with you, and what evil is headed in your direction will get aborted before it can ever endanger you.
In the book of Daniel, there were two dangerous situations that posed threats for Daniel and his Jewish companions. One was when three Hebrew men refused to bow before the kings idol and cast into a furnace that was heated seven times hotter. The second narrative was when a den of hungry lions was chomping at the bit for dinner and Daniel was cast into the den to become the night meal, with his enemies expecting to see lions licking Daniels bones the following morning. Daniel escaped without scratch on his body and the three Hebrews came out of flames without smell of smoke on their garments. There was a shield of favor protecting each of these four individuals from the destructive plans of men. Favor became a fireproof shield and a lion repellent for Daniel and his companion in Babylon.
After these things the word of The Lord came to Abram in a vision saying, Do not afraid, Abram, I Am your shield your exceedingly great reward.-- Genesis 15:1
As a shield, the Almighty provides divine protection for those who make Him their defense in times of trouble. In Psalms, David speaks of shield. "The Lord is my strength and my shield".-- Psalms 28:7. David certainly needed protection, as he was a warrior from his late teen years when he faced and defeated Goliath. In Psalms 5:12 David says, "For you O Lord will bless the righteous, with favor you surround him as with a shield.” We imagine favor as abiding either in or upon a blessed righteous person. However in this passage, the psalmist refers to favor as a shield that covers the individual. When you carry the shield of favor even your enemies will be at peace with you, and what evil is headed in your direction will get aborted before it can ever endanger you.
In the book of Daniel, there were two dangerous situations that posed threats for Daniel and his Jewish companions. One was when three Hebrew men refused to bow before the kings idol and cast into a furnace that was heated seven times hotter. The second narrative was when a den of hungry lions was chomping at the bit for dinner and Daniel was cast into the den to become the night meal, with his enemies expecting to see lions licking Daniels bones the following morning. Daniel escaped without scratch on his body and the three Hebrews came out of flames without smell of smoke on their garments. There was a shield of favor protecting each of these four individuals from the destructive plans of men. Favor became a fireproof shield and a lion repellent for Daniel and his companion in Babylon.
God's Plan of Victory
Sunday – April 19, 2015
After seven (7) long years of suffering from the hands of the Midianite, who severely impoverished the Israelite people, God listened to the cry of his people. He raised a Judge in the person of Gideon. It shall be noted, however, that Gideon initially protested his designation to lead the Israelite people by saying that my clan is the weakest in Manasseh and I am the least in my family (Judges 6:15). God’s response in Judges 6:16 was direct and succinct “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.”
Prior to the start of campaign, Gideon was put to the test. God has asked him to take the second bull from his father’s herd and tear down his father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole. Gideon knew that he will earn the ire of his family and the town’s people, but he dutifully obeyed God’s command. It was then his turn to ask sign from God and God graciously granted his request not only once but twice.
However, God’s greatest test to Gideon’s faith is yet to come. After preparing 32,000 men to battle the Midianite, Amalekite and eastern people, God asked Gideon to reduce the number of his men by announcing that whoever trembles in fear can go home. After the dust has settled, 22,000 soldiers left and only 10,000 was left. Again God feels that the number is too much and as such, he requested Gideon to separate those who lap the water with their tongues like a dog from those who kneel down to drink. Only 300 soldiers were left.
At this juncture, God knew that Gideon is perplexed on how he will win the battle. He commanded Gideon to spy and listen at his enemy’s camp where he heard how the Midianite and the rest were trembling from fear because of the ominous sign of defeat.
My dear brothers and sisters, God will take care of our trials and struggles if we offer it to Him. To do this, 1st we need to surrender into God whatever we are holding dear in our life and 2nd we need to completely trust God. God will not provide us with overwhelming power, because He doesn’t need it to win the battle. What God will need from us is our complete faith and trust on His power to deliver us from whatever trials or struggles we are in. At the end of the day, it is God’s fight and not our fight. Let’s adopt the battle cry “If God is for us, who can be against us.”(Romans 8:31)
After seven (7) long years of suffering from the hands of the Midianite, who severely impoverished the Israelite people, God listened to the cry of his people. He raised a Judge in the person of Gideon. It shall be noted, however, that Gideon initially protested his designation to lead the Israelite people by saying that my clan is the weakest in Manasseh and I am the least in my family (Judges 6:15). God’s response in Judges 6:16 was direct and succinct “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.”
Prior to the start of campaign, Gideon was put to the test. God has asked him to take the second bull from his father’s herd and tear down his father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole. Gideon knew that he will earn the ire of his family and the town’s people, but he dutifully obeyed God’s command. It was then his turn to ask sign from God and God graciously granted his request not only once but twice.
However, God’s greatest test to Gideon’s faith is yet to come. After preparing 32,000 men to battle the Midianite, Amalekite and eastern people, God asked Gideon to reduce the number of his men by announcing that whoever trembles in fear can go home. After the dust has settled, 22,000 soldiers left and only 10,000 was left. Again God feels that the number is too much and as such, he requested Gideon to separate those who lap the water with their tongues like a dog from those who kneel down to drink. Only 300 soldiers were left.
At this juncture, God knew that Gideon is perplexed on how he will win the battle. He commanded Gideon to spy and listen at his enemy’s camp where he heard how the Midianite and the rest were trembling from fear because of the ominous sign of defeat.
My dear brothers and sisters, God will take care of our trials and struggles if we offer it to Him. To do this, 1st we need to surrender into God whatever we are holding dear in our life and 2nd we need to completely trust God. God will not provide us with overwhelming power, because He doesn’t need it to win the battle. What God will need from us is our complete faith and trust on His power to deliver us from whatever trials or struggles we are in. At the end of the day, it is God’s fight and not our fight. Let’s adopt the battle cry “If God is for us, who can be against us.”(Romans 8:31)
Do not Give a Place to the Devil
Sunday - April 12, 2015
Therefore, putting away lying. Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. ... And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.-- Ephesians 4:25-27, 30-31
One of the entry points the devil tries to use to enter our lives is relationship. If there is an unresolved issue or any conflict with a loved one or friends, these conflict points often become entry point through with the devil tries to get a foothold in our relationships with those we love. Once the enemy is able to slip in through one of these cracks and build an offended place in our minds, then a wall has already begun to constructed that will eventually separate us from the people we need and love the most.
Let us know that the devil is after every area of our lives. Money, health, marriage, relationship, employment, business and ministry. He is so territorial that he wants it all. But to start his campaign to conquer all those areas of our lives, he must first find an entry point from which he can begin his campaign of unleashing his devilish destruction in our lives.
"Neither give place to the devil.” It is clear that we must choose to give the devil no territory. We have a choice. We can choose to give the enemy a place in our minds and emotion.
Therefore, putting away lying. Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. ... And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.-- Ephesians 4:25-27, 30-31
One of the entry points the devil tries to use to enter our lives is relationship. If there is an unresolved issue or any conflict with a loved one or friends, these conflict points often become entry point through with the devil tries to get a foothold in our relationships with those we love. Once the enemy is able to slip in through one of these cracks and build an offended place in our minds, then a wall has already begun to constructed that will eventually separate us from the people we need and love the most.
Let us know that the devil is after every area of our lives. Money, health, marriage, relationship, employment, business and ministry. He is so territorial that he wants it all. But to start his campaign to conquer all those areas of our lives, he must first find an entry point from which he can begin his campaign of unleashing his devilish destruction in our lives.
"Neither give place to the devil.” It is clear that we must choose to give the devil no territory. We have a choice. We can choose to give the enemy a place in our minds and emotion.
Your Redemption Draws Near
Sunday - April 5, 2015
And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon and in the stars and on the earth distress of nations with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring. Then they will see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads because your redemption draws near.-- Luke 21:25, 27-28
"Look up lift up your heads, for your redemption draws near." Although these words were spoken to the Jewish people, we who grasp the truth of the prophetic word know it also applies to the church. True believers have no future on earth. Our home is in heaven and our redemption lies in the completion of the church. 1Thessalonians 4:16-17 says, "For The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God, and the dead of Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet The Lord in the air and shall we ever be with The Lord."
Redemption as the change from bodily corruption to bodily incorruption. "For this corruptible body must be put an incorruption and this mortal must put on immortality."-- 1Corinthians 15:53. We are to lift up our heads because redemption draws near. Redemption that will bring us to the presence of God. Redemption that will produce a personality and behavior that are free from sin. Redemption that will change our corruptible body to an incorruptible body. All this will come to us with the appearing of The Lord if we abiding in Him.
And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon and in the stars and on the earth distress of nations with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring. Then they will see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads because your redemption draws near.-- Luke 21:25, 27-28
"Look up lift up your heads, for your redemption draws near." Although these words were spoken to the Jewish people, we who grasp the truth of the prophetic word know it also applies to the church. True believers have no future on earth. Our home is in heaven and our redemption lies in the completion of the church. 1Thessalonians 4:16-17 says, "For The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God, and the dead of Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet The Lord in the air and shall we ever be with The Lord."
Redemption as the change from bodily corruption to bodily incorruption. "For this corruptible body must be put an incorruption and this mortal must put on immortality."-- 1Corinthians 15:53. We are to lift up our heads because redemption draws near. Redemption that will bring us to the presence of God. Redemption that will produce a personality and behavior that are free from sin. Redemption that will change our corruptible body to an incorruptible body. All this will come to us with the appearing of The Lord if we abiding in Him.
When these things begin to happen "look up and lift up your heads"
Sunday - March 29, 2015
And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon and in the stars and on the earth distress of nations with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring. Now when these begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.-- Luke 21:25, 28
The fourth series of four blood moon is coming. They are extremely rare even by scientific standards. God is shouting to us "Something big is going to happen". The coming four blood moons of 2014-15 does not mean the rapture is going to happen. Why? Because the rapture could happen at any moment. What they are telling us is that God is getting ready to change the course of human history once again. He is preparing to display the next series of signs in the heavens.
The question is not about the terminal generation or when Israel's enemies are going to attack next. The question is are you ready to meet The Lord?
Watch and pray, be prepared, like the five wise virgins who made sure they had extra oil for their lamps. The church is soon to leave the world. We are seeing signs of the end of this age. Jesus said, "When these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near".
We are getting ready to leave here. The King is coming. He is coming soon with power and great glory, and His reward is with Him. Are you ready? Are the members of your family ready? It's the greatest question you will ever answer in this life.
And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon and in the stars and on the earth distress of nations with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring. Now when these begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.-- Luke 21:25, 28
The fourth series of four blood moon is coming. They are extremely rare even by scientific standards. God is shouting to us "Something big is going to happen". The coming four blood moons of 2014-15 does not mean the rapture is going to happen. Why? Because the rapture could happen at any moment. What they are telling us is that God is getting ready to change the course of human history once again. He is preparing to display the next series of signs in the heavens.
The question is not about the terminal generation or when Israel's enemies are going to attack next. The question is are you ready to meet The Lord?
Watch and pray, be prepared, like the five wise virgins who made sure they had extra oil for their lamps. The church is soon to leave the world. We are seeing signs of the end of this age. Jesus said, "When these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near".
We are getting ready to leave here. The King is coming. He is coming soon with power and great glory, and His reward is with Him. Are you ready? Are the members of your family ready? It's the greatest question you will ever answer in this life.
Lessons for Not Being Comfortable
Sunday - March 15, 2014
As an eagle stirs up its nest, hovers it's young , spreading out its wings, taking them up, carrying them on its wings.-- Deuteronomy 32:11
The eagle build her nest 10,000 feet high from the ground. There In the nest, right upon the rocky heights, are the eaglets. The mother eagle comes and taking hold of them, flings them out of the nest. They were so comfortable there, but she fling them right out of the nest, high above the earth. They begin to fall straight way. They have been in the air before, they have been always in the nest.
As you visualize the struggling eaglets in the air, the eagle spread abroad her wings. The wings that beat the air behind her as she rises superior to it. The eaglets are struggling, falling, she is superior. Then what does she do? She bear them on her pinions. She swoop beneath them, catches them on her wings and bears them up. What is she doing? Teaching them to fly. She drops them again, and again they struggle in the air but this time not do helplessly. She spread his pinions to show them how to fly, and as they fall again she catches them. That is how God deals with us.
Has He been stirring up your nest? Has He flung you out until you fell lost in an element that is new and strange? Look at Him, He is not lost in that element. He spread out the wings of the Omnipotence to teach us how to soar. He comes beneath us and catches us on His wings. We thought when He flung us out of the nest He was unkind. No, He is reaching us to fly that we might enter into the spirit of the promise. He would teach us how to use the gifts which He has bestowed on us, and which we cannot use us as long as we are in the nest, our comfort zone.
As an eagle stirs up its nest, hovers it's young , spreading out its wings, taking them up, carrying them on its wings.-- Deuteronomy 32:11
The eagle build her nest 10,000 feet high from the ground. There In the nest, right upon the rocky heights, are the eaglets. The mother eagle comes and taking hold of them, flings them out of the nest. They were so comfortable there, but she fling them right out of the nest, high above the earth. They begin to fall straight way. They have been in the air before, they have been always in the nest.
As you visualize the struggling eaglets in the air, the eagle spread abroad her wings. The wings that beat the air behind her as she rises superior to it. The eaglets are struggling, falling, she is superior. Then what does she do? She bear them on her pinions. She swoop beneath them, catches them on her wings and bears them up. What is she doing? Teaching them to fly. She drops them again, and again they struggle in the air but this time not do helplessly. She spread his pinions to show them how to fly, and as they fall again she catches them. That is how God deals with us.
Has He been stirring up your nest? Has He flung you out until you fell lost in an element that is new and strange? Look at Him, He is not lost in that element. He spread out the wings of the Omnipotence to teach us how to soar. He comes beneath us and catches us on His wings. We thought when He flung us out of the nest He was unkind. No, He is reaching us to fly that we might enter into the spirit of the promise. He would teach us how to use the gifts which He has bestowed on us, and which we cannot use us as long as we are in the nest, our comfort zone.
It is Required...that One be Found Faithful
Sunday - March 8, 2015
Let a man so consider us, as servant of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. 1Corinthians 4:1-2
Faithfulness means to be steadfast or consistent in allegiance. They are always there, you can count on them. Proverbs 17:17-- "A friend loves at all time and a brother is born for adversity." A faithful person is a loyal person. It is means to be dependable and trustworthy. Willingness to carry the commandments of God to the end. It's not just do things half way but to be there till the end. Faithfulness is not proven overnight but it is demonstrated overtime. That is why our motive has to be right. Motive is the reason why we do what we do.
Faithfulness is one of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. By practice overtime we develop characteristics. Not because we should and must but because we choose to. We prefer to because it is in our character to do so. Faithfulness is not an option we choose. God expects us to be faithful to Him and He seeks men and women who will live so as to consistently carry out His way.
Enoch walk faithfully with God then he was no more because God took him away. He must have been loyal, reliable, dependable, feared God and obeyed God. We too can be faithful. "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much. And he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore, ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if he have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own. " Luke 16:10-12
Faithfulness toward God begins with faithfulness toward family, faithfulness in our job and financial dealings. We can't wait to show our faithfulness until someone trusts us with something big. We must be faithful now with whatever has already been entrusted to us.
Let a man so consider us, as servant of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. 1Corinthians 4:1-2
Faithfulness means to be steadfast or consistent in allegiance. They are always there, you can count on them. Proverbs 17:17-- "A friend loves at all time and a brother is born for adversity." A faithful person is a loyal person. It is means to be dependable and trustworthy. Willingness to carry the commandments of God to the end. It's not just do things half way but to be there till the end. Faithfulness is not proven overnight but it is demonstrated overtime. That is why our motive has to be right. Motive is the reason why we do what we do.
Faithfulness is one of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. By practice overtime we develop characteristics. Not because we should and must but because we choose to. We prefer to because it is in our character to do so. Faithfulness is not an option we choose. God expects us to be faithful to Him and He seeks men and women who will live so as to consistently carry out His way.
Enoch walk faithfully with God then he was no more because God took him away. He must have been loyal, reliable, dependable, feared God and obeyed God. We too can be faithful. "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much. And he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore, ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if he have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own. " Luke 16:10-12
Faithfulness toward God begins with faithfulness toward family, faithfulness in our job and financial dealings. We can't wait to show our faithfulness until someone trusts us with something big. We must be faithful now with whatever has already been entrusted to us.
Be Careful to Maintain Good Works
Sunday – February 22, 2014
This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believe in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men ... And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful.-- Titus 3:8,14
Paul charges Titus to affirm the truths of the Gospel to the end, with the express object that all who had believe should be careful, should make a study on it, to maintain good works. Faith and good works were to be inseparable. The diligence of every believer in good works must be the main aim. In this passage, Paul reiterate the instruction, with the expression suggesting the thought that as all work on earth has to be learned, so in the good works of the Christian life there is an equal need of thoughts and application, to learn how to do them aright and abundantly.
If we do not do what we are supposed to do, it is as if we have not been properly instructed. Most of the time, we do know what we are to do. Any Christian who has read a bit of Scripture and heard it preached frequently should have a descent understanding of what God expects from them. Most of the exhortation is provided for Christians as a reminder of things they should already known. Doing righteousness and avoiding immorality is not new news to Christians. The greater danger is a weakening of zeal and developing complacency in one's spiritual life.
It is not strange for apostle Paul to insist on continual reinforce what has been already taught so as to keep things at the forefront of the Christian mind, giving them greater strength to resist the deceitfulness of sin. The message that will truly motivate Christians is to maintain good works.
This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believe in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men ... And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful.-- Titus 3:8,14
Paul charges Titus to affirm the truths of the Gospel to the end, with the express object that all who had believe should be careful, should make a study on it, to maintain good works. Faith and good works were to be inseparable. The diligence of every believer in good works must be the main aim. In this passage, Paul reiterate the instruction, with the expression suggesting the thought that as all work on earth has to be learned, so in the good works of the Christian life there is an equal need of thoughts and application, to learn how to do them aright and abundantly.
If we do not do what we are supposed to do, it is as if we have not been properly instructed. Most of the time, we do know what we are to do. Any Christian who has read a bit of Scripture and heard it preached frequently should have a descent understanding of what God expects from them. Most of the exhortation is provided for Christians as a reminder of things they should already known. Doing righteousness and avoiding immorality is not new news to Christians. The greater danger is a weakening of zeal and developing complacency in one's spiritual life.
It is not strange for apostle Paul to insist on continual reinforce what has been already taught so as to keep things at the forefront of the Christian mind, giving them greater strength to resist the deceitfulness of sin. The message that will truly motivate Christians is to maintain good works.
God is Love
Sunday – February 8, 2015
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God, and everyone who love is born of God, and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.-- 1John. 4:7-8
The Bible tells us that "God is love". How can we begin to understand this truth? John 3:16-- "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life". One way God Defines love is the act of giving. What God gave is not a mere gift wrapped present. God sacrifice His only Son, so that we who put our faith in His Son will not spend eternity separated from Him. This is an amazing love because we are the ones who choose to reject God, yet it's God who mends the separation through His intense personal sacrifice, and all we have to do is accept His gift.
Romans 5:8-- "But God demonstrate His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us". In this verse, we find no conditions placed on God's love for us. God doesn't say, as soon as you clean your act "I'll love you", nor does He say "I'll sacrifice my Son if you promise to love Me". In fact we find just the opposite. God wants us to know that His love is unconditional, so He sent His Son, to die for us while we were still unlovable sinners. We didn't have to get clean and we didn't have to make any promises to God before we could experience His love. His love for us is always existed, and because of that, He did all the giving and sacrificing long before we were even aware that we needed His love.
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God, and everyone who love is born of God, and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.-- 1John. 4:7-8
The Bible tells us that "God is love". How can we begin to understand this truth? John 3:16-- "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life". One way God Defines love is the act of giving. What God gave is not a mere gift wrapped present. God sacrifice His only Son, so that we who put our faith in His Son will not spend eternity separated from Him. This is an amazing love because we are the ones who choose to reject God, yet it's God who mends the separation through His intense personal sacrifice, and all we have to do is accept His gift.
Romans 5:8-- "But God demonstrate His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us". In this verse, we find no conditions placed on God's love for us. God doesn't say, as soon as you clean your act "I'll love you", nor does He say "I'll sacrifice my Son if you promise to love Me". In fact we find just the opposite. God wants us to know that His love is unconditional, so He sent His Son, to die for us while we were still unlovable sinners. We didn't have to get clean and we didn't have to make any promises to God before we could experience His love. His love for us is always existed, and because of that, He did all the giving and sacrificing long before we were even aware that we needed His love.
Love the Lord Your God with All Your Heart
Sunday – February 1, 2015
And you shall love The Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all our mind and with all your strength.-- Mark 12:30
God created us with a heart so that we would live Him wholly. However our heart love many things beside God. "Whom have I in heaven but You, and besides You there is nothing I desire on earth.”-- Psalm 73:25. We must admit that though we may live God to some extent, He is not our only first love sometimes. The things of the the world tug at our heart. So how can we obey the Lord's command to "love The Lord your God with all your heart".
God commanded to love The Lord absolutely, but never intended us to work up this love for Him out of our own effort. Our love for God originates from God Himself. It comes from His love love within us which is higher than we can generate. God is love, and when we receive The Lord Jesus, we receive all that He is into our spirit. For us Christians, we can turn our hearts to Him where He is in our spirit. "Nevertheless when one turns to The Lord, the veil is taken away. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of The Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of The Lord.”-- 2Corinthians 3:16,18 These verses likens human being to mirror that reflect what they behold. When our heart is turned away from The Lord by things such as sins, and love for the worldly things, our heart is covered by a veil and we can't see or reflect The Lord. But when we turn our heart to The Lord within us, the veil is removed and we can see the glorious Christ. We see His beauty, His virtues and how wonderful He is, and He imparts what He is, including love into us. Our love for Him grows.
And you shall love The Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all our mind and with all your strength.-- Mark 12:30
God created us with a heart so that we would live Him wholly. However our heart love many things beside God. "Whom have I in heaven but You, and besides You there is nothing I desire on earth.”-- Psalm 73:25. We must admit that though we may live God to some extent, He is not our only first love sometimes. The things of the the world tug at our heart. So how can we obey the Lord's command to "love The Lord your God with all your heart".
God commanded to love The Lord absolutely, but never intended us to work up this love for Him out of our own effort. Our love for God originates from God Himself. It comes from His love love within us which is higher than we can generate. God is love, and when we receive The Lord Jesus, we receive all that He is into our spirit. For us Christians, we can turn our hearts to Him where He is in our spirit. "Nevertheless when one turns to The Lord, the veil is taken away. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of The Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of The Lord.”-- 2Corinthians 3:16,18 These verses likens human being to mirror that reflect what they behold. When our heart is turned away from The Lord by things such as sins, and love for the worldly things, our heart is covered by a veil and we can't see or reflect The Lord. But when we turn our heart to The Lord within us, the veil is removed and we can see the glorious Christ. We see His beauty, His virtues and how wonderful He is, and He imparts what He is, including love into us. Our love for Him grows.
You Have Not Passed this Way Before
Sunday – January 25, 2015
And they commanded the people saying, when you see the ark of the covenant of The Lord your God, and the priest and the Levites bearing it. Then you shall set out from your place and go after it, yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure. Do not come near it, that you may know the way by which you must go, for you have not passed this way before.-- Joshua 3:3-4
The Ark of Covenant symbolic of the Word of God. The Ark contained the two tablets of stone containing the 10 commandments and the Rod that Aaron used. These symbols showing God's promises and provisions to us if we will obey His Words.
Joshua 3:4 says "... That you may know the way by which you must go, for you have not passed this way before". In our everyday life especially in our Christian walk, everyday is new and we are presented with new circumstances that we have not face before. When we are very young, almost every experience is new, as we get older we become new at being a husband/wife, new at being a father/mother, new at having school aged children, and on and on it goes. Every phase of life is new. In our text, we are taught the importance of following the Word of God.,so that we'll know the way to go because we have not passed this way before.
In the Old Testament times, the children of Israel had watch for the Levites that were bearing the Ark, and could not follow too closely because only the Levites could carry the Ark. They could not touch it because it held the Glory of God. Now we are able to go boldly before the Throne of Grace and we can carry the Word of God in our hands,. What tremendous privilege we have and yet we make this treasures for granted it too often we don't have to go through life blindly, we can follow the teachings of God. We must follow it so that we may know the way to go, for we have not passed this way before.
And they commanded the people saying, when you see the ark of the covenant of The Lord your God, and the priest and the Levites bearing it. Then you shall set out from your place and go after it, yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure. Do not come near it, that you may know the way by which you must go, for you have not passed this way before.-- Joshua 3:3-4
The Ark of Covenant symbolic of the Word of God. The Ark contained the two tablets of stone containing the 10 commandments and the Rod that Aaron used. These symbols showing God's promises and provisions to us if we will obey His Words.
Joshua 3:4 says "... That you may know the way by which you must go, for you have not passed this way before". In our everyday life especially in our Christian walk, everyday is new and we are presented with new circumstances that we have not face before. When we are very young, almost every experience is new, as we get older we become new at being a husband/wife, new at being a father/mother, new at having school aged children, and on and on it goes. Every phase of life is new. In our text, we are taught the importance of following the Word of God.,so that we'll know the way to go because we have not passed this way before.
In the Old Testament times, the children of Israel had watch for the Levites that were bearing the Ark, and could not follow too closely because only the Levites could carry the Ark. They could not touch it because it held the Glory of God. Now we are able to go boldly before the Throne of Grace and we can carry the Word of God in our hands,. What tremendous privilege we have and yet we make this treasures for granted it too often we don't have to go through life blindly, we can follow the teachings of God. We must follow it so that we may know the way to go, for we have not passed this way before.
The Lord Never Change
Sunday – January 18, 2015
For I am The Lord, I do not change. Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob.-- Malachi 3:6
In the midst of our ever changing world, it s a real comfort to know that we have a never changing God. Even though everything around us seems to change even the earth shifts in different places at times, but God says "I change not". I am Jehovah, I am the One who has all you need. I never change.
Hebrews 13:8 says Jesus is the same yesterday today and forever. In the midst of our ever changing world we serve a never changing God. His love never changes, His mercy, His goodness. His ability to provide and meet need never change. His holiness, His justice, we would go on and on. In times of discouragement, loneliness, disappointment, think for a moment. No matter what else changes around you, God in all His greatness and might and majesty will never change.
When we see God changing His mind, we are seeing it from a human perspective. Since God knows all things from all eternity, He has always known the ultimate plan that He would carry out even the plan to change His mind. As we have seen in Jonah's account in Nineveh, they repented and God relented from the destruction that. Was to come upon the inhabitants. God knew this would happen and instituted the warning to them in order to bring about their repentance.
For I am The Lord, I do not change. Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob.-- Malachi 3:6
In the midst of our ever changing world, it s a real comfort to know that we have a never changing God. Even though everything around us seems to change even the earth shifts in different places at times, but God says "I change not". I am Jehovah, I am the One who has all you need. I never change.
Hebrews 13:8 says Jesus is the same yesterday today and forever. In the midst of our ever changing world we serve a never changing God. His love never changes, His mercy, His goodness. His ability to provide and meet need never change. His holiness, His justice, we would go on and on. In times of discouragement, loneliness, disappointment, think for a moment. No matter what else changes around you, God in all His greatness and might and majesty will never change.
When we see God changing His mind, we are seeing it from a human perspective. Since God knows all things from all eternity, He has always known the ultimate plan that He would carry out even the plan to change His mind. As we have seen in Jonah's account in Nineveh, they repented and God relented from the destruction that. Was to come upon the inhabitants. God knew this would happen and instituted the warning to them in order to bring about their repentance.
Joshua: Fearless and Pioneering Man of God
Sunday – January 11, 2015
After 40 years of wandering in the desert, Moses has asked God to appoint a man that will lead the Israelite people into the Promised Land and God chose Joshua. In Numbers 27:18, the Lord said “Take Joshua, son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay your hand in him.”
I researched and prayed on the phrase “... a man in whom is the spirit...” and it dawned on me that God is talking about a man who has the leadership qualities. These include great faith and willingness to take the responsibility and work towards the goal-- that is to get to the Promised Land as instructed by God.
Under God's command, Joshua and the Israelite people went on to conquer and subdue Jericho, Ai, the five Amorites Kings, the Southern Cities and Northern kings. A total of 31 kings were defeated and their constituents vanished during the Israelite's relentless military campaign.
In conclusion, brothers and sisters we need to ask God for the spirit of fearlessness and pioneering spirit that we may carry on His command for us to spread His word on earth. Let us always remind ourselves that we are not alone in this fight; that our God is with us. He is bigger and much stronger that any foe that we may face in our lifetime. When faced with trials or challenges, let us meditate on the message in 2Timothy 1:7 which says that “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” Amen.
After 40 years of wandering in the desert, Moses has asked God to appoint a man that will lead the Israelite people into the Promised Land and God chose Joshua. In Numbers 27:18, the Lord said “Take Joshua, son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay your hand in him.”
I researched and prayed on the phrase “... a man in whom is the spirit...” and it dawned on me that God is talking about a man who has the leadership qualities. These include great faith and willingness to take the responsibility and work towards the goal-- that is to get to the Promised Land as instructed by God.
Under God's command, Joshua and the Israelite people went on to conquer and subdue Jericho, Ai, the five Amorites Kings, the Southern Cities and Northern kings. A total of 31 kings were defeated and their constituents vanished during the Israelite's relentless military campaign.
In conclusion, brothers and sisters we need to ask God for the spirit of fearlessness and pioneering spirit that we may carry on His command for us to spread His word on earth. Let us always remind ourselves that we are not alone in this fight; that our God is with us. He is bigger and much stronger that any foe that we may face in our lifetime. When faced with trials or challenges, let us meditate on the message in 2Timothy 1:7 which says that “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” Amen.
Stir You Up by Reminding You
Sunday – January 4, 2015
For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, Though you know and are established in the present truth. Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you. Knowing that shortly I must put off my tent just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. Moreover, I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my decease.-- 2Peter 1:12-15
Peter is saying that he will always be ready to remind them because of the eternal consequences of this truth. In the preceding verse-- 2Peter 1:5-11, we see the importance of putting into practice the truth of God, and how it will lead to an abundant entrance into the Kingdom of our Lord. Peter is willing to remind them and remind them once again.
Why is it, we need this constant reminding of the truth? Because we have leaks. While you may know the truth, you will be still bombarded with worldly philosophies everywhere you turn. We need to remember the importance of what we believe. We need to be stirred up and gripped by the reality of it. It may be that we need to go back to The Lord and ask Him to speak and open our eyes to the truth of His Word.
In Deuteronomy 8:10-18, this prophetic portions Scripture has been proven to be sadly accurate of the lives of many Israelites and the church. How many have slipped away as prosperity increases. Remember The Lord your God. Do not let the deceitfulness of wealth choke your life so as forget The Lord. Do not forget to remember Deuteronomy chapter 8, a placed in the Bible to remind us of Israel's history, the reason why they fell, and to serve as a warning of our own Christian life.
For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, Though you know and are established in the present truth. Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you. Knowing that shortly I must put off my tent just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. Moreover, I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my decease.-- 2Peter 1:12-15
Peter is saying that he will always be ready to remind them because of the eternal consequences of this truth. In the preceding verse-- 2Peter 1:5-11, we see the importance of putting into practice the truth of God, and how it will lead to an abundant entrance into the Kingdom of our Lord. Peter is willing to remind them and remind them once again.
Why is it, we need this constant reminding of the truth? Because we have leaks. While you may know the truth, you will be still bombarded with worldly philosophies everywhere you turn. We need to remember the importance of what we believe. We need to be stirred up and gripped by the reality of it. It may be that we need to go back to The Lord and ask Him to speak and open our eyes to the truth of His Word.
In Deuteronomy 8:10-18, this prophetic portions Scripture has been proven to be sadly accurate of the lives of many Israelites and the church. How many have slipped away as prosperity increases. Remember The Lord your God. Do not let the deceitfulness of wealth choke your life so as forget The Lord. Do not forget to remember Deuteronomy chapter 8, a placed in the Bible to remind us of Israel's history, the reason why they fell, and to serve as a warning of our own Christian life.
The Child of the Woman and the Dragon
Sunday – December 28, 2014
And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born. She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne.-- Revelations12:4-5
From the beginning Satan's purpose has to destroy the Child of the woman. When God told Satan in the Garden of Eden that the seed of the woman "shall bruise your head". Satan began his campaign to eradicate that promised seed. Knowing from the prophecy that the Promised One would spring from Israel, the adversary did everything he could to keep that nation being formed. He incited Esau to attempt to kill his brother Jacob who would father the 12 tribes of Israel. When that failed, he ignite Pharaoh to murder all the Jewish baby boys in Egypt. Had either Jacob or Moses not survived, the nation of Israel would never have existed.
Satan incited wicked Haman to plot the extermination of all the Jews. But God raised up Esther "for such time as this" to expose Haman's scheme, and the promised seed was spared.
When the promised Child was finally born, Satan instilled fear and hatred in king Herod, who had all the babies in Bethlehem murdered. But the sovereign hand of God intervened and direct Joseph to flee with his family to Egypt.
On a Friday afternoon, Satan saw the fruit of his long campaign, the Son of God succumbed to a bloody death on a cross. Satan thought he had won, but God had purposes for this promised Child to rescue and rule the nations and God never changes His purposes. On the third day, He raised Jesus from the dead thwarting Satan's purpose.
And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born. She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne.-- Revelations12:4-5
From the beginning Satan's purpose has to destroy the Child of the woman. When God told Satan in the Garden of Eden that the seed of the woman "shall bruise your head". Satan began his campaign to eradicate that promised seed. Knowing from the prophecy that the Promised One would spring from Israel, the adversary did everything he could to keep that nation being formed. He incited Esau to attempt to kill his brother Jacob who would father the 12 tribes of Israel. When that failed, he ignite Pharaoh to murder all the Jewish baby boys in Egypt. Had either Jacob or Moses not survived, the nation of Israel would never have existed.
Satan incited wicked Haman to plot the extermination of all the Jews. But God raised up Esther "for such time as this" to expose Haman's scheme, and the promised seed was spared.
When the promised Child was finally born, Satan instilled fear and hatred in king Herod, who had all the babies in Bethlehem murdered. But the sovereign hand of God intervened and direct Joseph to flee with his family to Egypt.
On a Friday afternoon, Satan saw the fruit of his long campaign, the Son of God succumbed to a bloody death on a cross. Satan thought he had won, but God had purposes for this promised Child to rescue and rule the nations and God never changes His purposes. On the third day, He raised Jesus from the dead thwarting Satan's purpose.
The Gift of God-- "Prince of Peace"
Sunday - December 21, 2014
For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
The word "Peace" in Hebrew is Shalom which means "Calm.” The Greek word is eirene means "unity and accord.” The deeper meaning is "the spiritual harmony brought about by an individual's restoration with God.” In our sinful state, we are enemies of God --- Romans 5:10. "But God demonstrate His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."-- Romans 5:8. Because of Christ sacrifice, we are restored to a relationship of peace with God.-- Romans 5:1. This is the deep abiding peace between our hearts and our Creator that cannot be taken away, and the ultimate fulfillment of Christ work as "Prince of Peace".
Note that peaceful doesn't mean easy. Jesus never promised easy. He only promised help. I fact He told us to expect tribulation-- John16:33 and trials-- James 1:2. But He also said that if we called on Him, He would give us the "peace of God which surpasses all comprehension".-- Philippians 4:6-7. No matter what hardship we faced with, we can ask for a peace that comes from the powerful love of God that is not dependent on our own strength or the situation around us.
This Christmas, let us celebrate Jesus birth with peaceful heart and mind. And let's share the gift of God the Prince of Peace to the people around us.
For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
The word "Peace" in Hebrew is Shalom which means "Calm.” The Greek word is eirene means "unity and accord.” The deeper meaning is "the spiritual harmony brought about by an individual's restoration with God.” In our sinful state, we are enemies of God --- Romans 5:10. "But God demonstrate His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."-- Romans 5:8. Because of Christ sacrifice, we are restored to a relationship of peace with God.-- Romans 5:1. This is the deep abiding peace between our hearts and our Creator that cannot be taken away, and the ultimate fulfillment of Christ work as "Prince of Peace".
Note that peaceful doesn't mean easy. Jesus never promised easy. He only promised help. I fact He told us to expect tribulation-- John16:33 and trials-- James 1:2. But He also said that if we called on Him, He would give us the "peace of God which surpasses all comprehension".-- Philippians 4:6-7. No matter what hardship we faced with, we can ask for a peace that comes from the powerful love of God that is not dependent on our own strength or the situation around us.
This Christmas, let us celebrate Jesus birth with peaceful heart and mind. And let's share the gift of God the Prince of Peace to the people around us.
Let it be to Me According to Your Word
Sunday - December 14, 2014
Then Mary said, the servant of The Lord, "Let it be to me according to your Word". Luke 1:38
Mary is a good example to understand the meaning of surrendering to God's will. God chose Mary to be Jesus' mother, only because she was willing to submit to God. She had a close relationship with Him. She was ready to do anything to God without asking questions. She gave her womb, her life, everything to God, not out of fear or duty but mere love towards God. Mary was betrothed to Joseph and she could have rejected God's purpose thinking about her life and how the society will react to the fact that a virgin was pregnant. Still she obeyed God.
Mary lived a pure life. "The virgins name was Mary"-- Luke 1:27. God uses and reveals His will and plan to a person who is sanctified, pure and holy. "Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel of honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work."-- 2Timothy 2:21. "The Lord knows those who are His, and let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity."-- 2Timothy 2:19
In these last days, God is looking a person fully surrenders his life to fulfill His plan in the church, community, and the whole earth-- men and women who choose to live a pure and sanctified life, who can say "Lord let it be to me according to your Word."
Then Mary said, the servant of The Lord, "Let it be to me according to your Word". Luke 1:38
Mary is a good example to understand the meaning of surrendering to God's will. God chose Mary to be Jesus' mother, only because she was willing to submit to God. She had a close relationship with Him. She was ready to do anything to God without asking questions. She gave her womb, her life, everything to God, not out of fear or duty but mere love towards God. Mary was betrothed to Joseph and she could have rejected God's purpose thinking about her life and how the society will react to the fact that a virgin was pregnant. Still she obeyed God.
Mary lived a pure life. "The virgins name was Mary"-- Luke 1:27. God uses and reveals His will and plan to a person who is sanctified, pure and holy. "Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel of honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work."-- 2Timothy 2:21. "The Lord knows those who are His, and let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity."-- 2Timothy 2:19
In these last days, God is looking a person fully surrenders his life to fulfill His plan in the church, community, and the whole earth-- men and women who choose to live a pure and sanctified life, who can say "Lord let it be to me according to your Word."
He Restores My Soul
Sunday - December 7, 2014
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me besides the still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His Name's sake. Psalm 23:1-3
"He restores my soul"- the literal translation is, He causes my life to return. Sin makes us separated to God. "For the wages of sin is death" Romans 6:23. Sin cause our life spiritually death. But when Jesus became the Shepherd of our soul, He restores our spiritual life. He returns us into our original state, good and right relationship with Him.
If God restores our soul, He makes us lie down in green pasture. In sheep terms, its rich, lush feeding places from which the flock need never move to be satisfied. Green pasture represents for us the bread of life that is His Word. He provides all the nourishment we need and we need it continually.
"He leads me besides still waters." This is where you can be refresh. Sheep scared by troubled waters. God provides the still waters of His thirst quenching presence. He can satisfy our deepest longings. Beside the still waters where you can live your life. It isn't monthly or weekly, it's a daily continues replenishing.
God wants to make you lie down in green pastures and lead you beside still waters. He wants to restore your soul.
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me besides the still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His Name's sake. Psalm 23:1-3
"He restores my soul"- the literal translation is, He causes my life to return. Sin makes us separated to God. "For the wages of sin is death" Romans 6:23. Sin cause our life spiritually death. But when Jesus became the Shepherd of our soul, He restores our spiritual life. He returns us into our original state, good and right relationship with Him.
If God restores our soul, He makes us lie down in green pasture. In sheep terms, its rich, lush feeding places from which the flock need never move to be satisfied. Green pasture represents for us the bread of life that is His Word. He provides all the nourishment we need and we need it continually.
"He leads me besides still waters." This is where you can be refresh. Sheep scared by troubled waters. God provides the still waters of His thirst quenching presence. He can satisfy our deepest longings. Beside the still waters where you can live your life. It isn't monthly or weekly, it's a daily continues replenishing.
God wants to make you lie down in green pastures and lead you beside still waters. He wants to restore your soul.
Godliness
Sunday - November 30, 2014
For bodily exercise profits a little, but Godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 1Timothy 4:8
No higher compliment can be paid to a Christian than to call him godly person. It is a privilege and duty of every Christian to pursue godliness, and to train himself to be godly. God has given o each one of us "everything we need for life and godliness."-- 2Peter 1:3 The most ordinary Christian has all that he needs, and the most talented Christian must use those same means in the practice of godliness.
The practice of godliness is an exercise that focuses upon God. A God centered lifestyle cannot be developed and maintained apart from a solid foundation of devotion to God. Devotion to God is the mainspring of godly character. And his devotion is the only motivation for Christian behavior that is pleasing to God.
Godliness is more than a Christian character. It is a character that springs from a devotion to God. It is also true that devotion to God always results in godly character. Godliness can be defined as devotion to God which results in a life that is pleasing to God.
Enoch walked with God and pleased God. His walk with God speaks of his relationship with God. His pleasing to God speaks of the behavior that arose from that relationship. It is impossible to build a Christian behavior pattern without a foundation of a devotion to God. The practice of godliness is first of all the cultivation of relationship with God, and from this the cultivation of the life that is pleasing to God.
For bodily exercise profits a little, but Godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 1Timothy 4:8
No higher compliment can be paid to a Christian than to call him godly person. It is a privilege and duty of every Christian to pursue godliness, and to train himself to be godly. God has given o each one of us "everything we need for life and godliness."-- 2Peter 1:3 The most ordinary Christian has all that he needs, and the most talented Christian must use those same means in the practice of godliness.
The practice of godliness is an exercise that focuses upon God. A God centered lifestyle cannot be developed and maintained apart from a solid foundation of devotion to God. Devotion to God is the mainspring of godly character. And his devotion is the only motivation for Christian behavior that is pleasing to God.
Godliness is more than a Christian character. It is a character that springs from a devotion to God. It is also true that devotion to God always results in godly character. Godliness can be defined as devotion to God which results in a life that is pleasing to God.
Enoch walked with God and pleased God. His walk with God speaks of his relationship with God. His pleasing to God speaks of the behavior that arose from that relationship. It is impossible to build a Christian behavior pattern without a foundation of a devotion to God. The practice of godliness is first of all the cultivation of relationship with God, and from this the cultivation of the life that is pleasing to God.
Thanksgiving
Sunday - November 23, 2014
And one of them, when he saw that he was healed returned and with a loud voice glorified God and fall down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. Luke 17:15-16
One of the ten lepers returned to GIVE THANKS. When he saw that he was healed, instead of going forward to the priest, to be by him declared clean, he back toward Him who was the author of his healing. He was very hearty and affectionate to his thanksgiving. "With a loud voice he glorifies God." He made a particular address of thanks to Christ. "He fell down at His feet," put hi self into the most humble reverent posture he could and gave Him thanks.
Christ is rich in doing good. There are ten at a time cleansed, where are the nine? Why did they not return to give hanks? This intimates that ingratitude is a very common sin. Of the many that receive mercy from God, there are but few, very few that returns to give thanks in the right manner, that render according to the benefit done to them.
The great encouragement Christ gave him, "Your faith has made you well." The rest had made whole by the power of Christ, in compassion to their distress and in answer to their prayer. But he was healed by his faith, by which Christ saw him distinguished from the rest. Temporal mercies are then doubled and sweetened to us when they are fetched in by the prayers of faith and returned by the praises of faith.
And one of them, when he saw that he was healed returned and with a loud voice glorified God and fall down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. Luke 17:15-16
One of the ten lepers returned to GIVE THANKS. When he saw that he was healed, instead of going forward to the priest, to be by him declared clean, he back toward Him who was the author of his healing. He was very hearty and affectionate to his thanksgiving. "With a loud voice he glorifies God." He made a particular address of thanks to Christ. "He fell down at His feet," put hi self into the most humble reverent posture he could and gave Him thanks.
Christ is rich in doing good. There are ten at a time cleansed, where are the nine? Why did they not return to give hanks? This intimates that ingratitude is a very common sin. Of the many that receive mercy from God, there are but few, very few that returns to give thanks in the right manner, that render according to the benefit done to them.
The great encouragement Christ gave him, "Your faith has made you well." The rest had made whole by the power of Christ, in compassion to their distress and in answer to their prayer. But he was healed by his faith, by which Christ saw him distinguished from the rest. Temporal mercies are then doubled and sweetened to us when they are fetched in by the prayers of faith and returned by the praises of faith.
Contentment
Sunday – November 16, 2014
Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. Philippians 4:11
We were created by God to be content in our knowledge of Him and the the world He provided. But when Satan tempted our first parents (Adam and Eve) with the possibility of becoming more than they were created to be-- becoming as wise as God, the idea of being just a plain, content human creature was no longer satisfying.
Contentment is not dependent on circumstances. If Paul can learn to be content regardless of circumstances, we can too. The same Holy Spirit who indwelt him indwells us. The fruits of the Spirit that were manifest in his life can be manifest in us.
Discontent desires, such as; bigger, better, faster, newer, more comfortable; that is deception. If you are not content in challenging circumstances, the contentment you think you feel in other circumstances is not contentment but simply your satisfaction that things are momentarily the way you think they should be.
Contentment is a state of being not a state of doing. Our flesh only feels content when we are doing. Being, however does not end, it is not tied to activity. Paul said, he learned to be content, not to do contentment. There's nothing wrong with possessing things. But there is something wrong if we can't be content without them. May God speaks to your heart and help you seek and find contentment in Him.
Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. Philippians 4:11
We were created by God to be content in our knowledge of Him and the the world He provided. But when Satan tempted our first parents (Adam and Eve) with the possibility of becoming more than they were created to be-- becoming as wise as God, the idea of being just a plain, content human creature was no longer satisfying.
Contentment is not dependent on circumstances. If Paul can learn to be content regardless of circumstances, we can too. The same Holy Spirit who indwelt him indwells us. The fruits of the Spirit that were manifest in his life can be manifest in us.
Discontent desires, such as; bigger, better, faster, newer, more comfortable; that is deception. If you are not content in challenging circumstances, the contentment you think you feel in other circumstances is not contentment but simply your satisfaction that things are momentarily the way you think they should be.
Contentment is a state of being not a state of doing. Our flesh only feels content when we are doing. Being, however does not end, it is not tied to activity. Paul said, he learned to be content, not to do contentment. There's nothing wrong with possessing things. But there is something wrong if we can't be content without them. May God speaks to your heart and help you seek and find contentment in Him.
Joshua & Caleb: The Spirited Men of God
Sunday – November 9, 2014
God has promised the Israelites that He will bring them to the land flowing with milk and honey. Along the way, however, the Israelites have never stopped from complaining and grumbling. And as a way of God's test, he asked Moses to send 12 spies-- one from each of the Israel's tribes, to scout on the land and bring the news to the people. With wisdom from God, Moses has commanded the 12 spies to bring a fruit of the land.
After confirming that the land is flowing with milk and honey, the 10 spies cleverly painted a negative picture of the land. They said that the people of the land are powerful and the cities are fortified and large; not to mention the presence of the descendants of Anak-- towering people with heights of about 8 feet tall. They also mentioned that the hill country was dotted with Hittites, Jebusites and Amorites while the sea was guarded by the Canaanites. These descriptions paint a picture where the inhabitants of Negev, which is in the valley, were strong and powerful, because they remained in their place despite being surrounded by equally strong tribes.
However, Caleb-- one of the 12 spies, rose and debunked the report. He was a man of vision, faith and courage. He said in Numbers 13:30 “...We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” And Joshua joined Caleb in Numbers 14:8, where they jointly attested “If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us.”
Brothers and Sisters, let us look into the problem or be part of the problem. Instead, let us look into the positive aspect of every trial and challenge that we are going through; and have faith that God has placed us in this situation, because He will do the impossible for us. Moreover, there is no point to retire in the Lord's work because we will miss His blessings. Let us encourage everyone to go on and overcome the barriers and hindrances along the way with the power, love and words of God.
God has promised the Israelites that He will bring them to the land flowing with milk and honey. Along the way, however, the Israelites have never stopped from complaining and grumbling. And as a way of God's test, he asked Moses to send 12 spies-- one from each of the Israel's tribes, to scout on the land and bring the news to the people. With wisdom from God, Moses has commanded the 12 spies to bring a fruit of the land.
After confirming that the land is flowing with milk and honey, the 10 spies cleverly painted a negative picture of the land. They said that the people of the land are powerful and the cities are fortified and large; not to mention the presence of the descendants of Anak-- towering people with heights of about 8 feet tall. They also mentioned that the hill country was dotted with Hittites, Jebusites and Amorites while the sea was guarded by the Canaanites. These descriptions paint a picture where the inhabitants of Negev, which is in the valley, were strong and powerful, because they remained in their place despite being surrounded by equally strong tribes.
However, Caleb-- one of the 12 spies, rose and debunked the report. He was a man of vision, faith and courage. He said in Numbers 13:30 “...We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” And Joshua joined Caleb in Numbers 14:8, where they jointly attested “If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us.”
Brothers and Sisters, let us look into the problem or be part of the problem. Instead, let us look into the positive aspect of every trial and challenge that we are going through; and have faith that God has placed us in this situation, because He will do the impossible for us. Moreover, there is no point to retire in the Lord's work because we will miss His blessings. Let us encourage everyone to go on and overcome the barriers and hindrances along the way with the power, love and words of God.
Discernment
Sunday - November 2, 2014
Brethren, do not be children in understanding, however in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature. 1Corinthians 14:20
Discernment is nothing more than the ability to decide between truth and error, right and wrong. It is the process of making careful distinctions about truth. In 1Thessalonians 5:21-22, it teaches that it is the responsibility of every Christian to be discerning. "But examine everything carefully, holdfast to that which is good, abstain from every form of evil." Discernment is not optional for the believers - it is required.
Discernment intersect the Christians life at every point. God's Word provide us with the needed discernment about every issue of life. Peter says that God "has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness through the true knowledge of Him, who called us by His own glory and excellence."-- 2Peter 1:3. It is through the "true knowledge of Him", that we have been given everything we need to live a Christian life in this fallen world.
Discernment - the ability to think biblically about all areas of life. It is incumbent upon the Christian to seize upon the discernment that God has provided for His precious truth. Without it, Christians are at risk of being "tossed here and there by waves, and carried about by every wind of doctrine."-- Ephesians 4:14
Brethren, do not be children in understanding, however in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature. 1Corinthians 14:20
Discernment is nothing more than the ability to decide between truth and error, right and wrong. It is the process of making careful distinctions about truth. In 1Thessalonians 5:21-22, it teaches that it is the responsibility of every Christian to be discerning. "But examine everything carefully, holdfast to that which is good, abstain from every form of evil." Discernment is not optional for the believers - it is required.
Discernment intersect the Christians life at every point. God's Word provide us with the needed discernment about every issue of life. Peter says that God "has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness through the true knowledge of Him, who called us by His own glory and excellence."-- 2Peter 1:3. It is through the "true knowledge of Him", that we have been given everything we need to live a Christian life in this fallen world.
Discernment - the ability to think biblically about all areas of life. It is incumbent upon the Christian to seize upon the discernment that God has provided for His precious truth. Without it, Christians are at risk of being "tossed here and there by waves, and carried about by every wind of doctrine."-- Ephesians 4:14
Heaven: No More Nights
Sunday – October 26, 2014
There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of sun, for the Lord gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. Revelation 22:5
At each seeing of the sun, each descending of the dark, we know another of our finite days has gone. Each night brings us not to stop closer to our death. The darkness is a reminder of our mortality and coming death.
When we have no much to accomplish, night can be a time of frustration. Night makes us lay down our tools and aspirations in order to rest. "The night is coming in which no man can work."-- (John 9:4). How encouraging it is to know that there will be no more night in heaven. No need to interrupt the work we love in order to sleep. We will have unlimited energy and unlimited time to accomplish difficult things.
Night is a time when our fears are aware. We have known the terrors of the night. How comforting to know that in the eternal day in heaven, there will be no more fears for its citizens, for "God Himself shall dwell among them."-- (Revelation 21:3). In the city of light there will dwell "nothing unclean and no one who practices abominations."-- (Revelation 21:27). There is no place in that city for anyone to bring fears, terrors and harm.
Evil hides within nights cloak of darkness. Because darkness conceals, it has come to symbolize ignorance, one of the great perils of this world. How delightful it is for us to look forward to having nothing concealed from us. We will dwell in the light of God, where we will see as God sees.
There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of sun, for the Lord gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. Revelation 22:5
At each seeing of the sun, each descending of the dark, we know another of our finite days has gone. Each night brings us not to stop closer to our death. The darkness is a reminder of our mortality and coming death.
When we have no much to accomplish, night can be a time of frustration. Night makes us lay down our tools and aspirations in order to rest. "The night is coming in which no man can work."-- (John 9:4). How encouraging it is to know that there will be no more night in heaven. No need to interrupt the work we love in order to sleep. We will have unlimited energy and unlimited time to accomplish difficult things.
Night is a time when our fears are aware. We have known the terrors of the night. How comforting to know that in the eternal day in heaven, there will be no more fears for its citizens, for "God Himself shall dwell among them."-- (Revelation 21:3). In the city of light there will dwell "nothing unclean and no one who practices abominations."-- (Revelation 21:27). There is no place in that city for anyone to bring fears, terrors and harm.
Evil hides within nights cloak of darkness. Because darkness conceals, it has come to symbolize ignorance, one of the great perils of this world. How delightful it is for us to look forward to having nothing concealed from us. We will dwell in the light of God, where we will see as God sees.
Moses and the Exodus
Sunday – October 19, 2014
One of the greatest events in the Old Testament was Exodus. And, the central figure of the book was Moses who was transformed by God from a fugitive to a leader in freeing the Israelite people from bondage after the “burning bush” experience (Exodus 3:7-14).
Moses was drawn out of the water by Pharaoh's sister and was raised as an integral part of the Royal family. Aware of his roots, however, Moses felt uneasy with his situation. He knew and witnessed the pain inflicted by the Egyptian to his own people. And one day, he tried to intervene by killing the Egyptian who was beating one of his people. And then the next day, he went out again and tried to settle the disputes between two Israelites who were fighting against each other. His action did not settle well with his own people who questioned him who made him judge or ruler among them.
After Moses realized that the Pharaoh must have learned of what he did to the Egyptian, he fled to Midian. In Midian, where he found a wife and raised a family, Moses made a living as a shepherd. His life in Midian has transformed Moses into a humble and a mellow person. It was also the place where he experienced God's presence through the “burning bush” and where Moses received God's commission for him to free the Israelites from bondage in Egypt.
Similar with Moses, we have our own strengths and weaknesses. God will deal with our weaknesses and will enhance our strengths if we allow Him to work in us. If Moses was given the opportunity to lead 2 million Israelites out of Egypt, is it really difficult for us brothers and sisters to invite into the church and disciple at least 10 people in our lifetime? Let us allow ourselves like Moses to be used by God and I know that we will be amazed on how God will transform us into a vessel of strength and blessing.
One of the greatest events in the Old Testament was Exodus. And, the central figure of the book was Moses who was transformed by God from a fugitive to a leader in freeing the Israelite people from bondage after the “burning bush” experience (Exodus 3:7-14).
Moses was drawn out of the water by Pharaoh's sister and was raised as an integral part of the Royal family. Aware of his roots, however, Moses felt uneasy with his situation. He knew and witnessed the pain inflicted by the Egyptian to his own people. And one day, he tried to intervene by killing the Egyptian who was beating one of his people. And then the next day, he went out again and tried to settle the disputes between two Israelites who were fighting against each other. His action did not settle well with his own people who questioned him who made him judge or ruler among them.
After Moses realized that the Pharaoh must have learned of what he did to the Egyptian, he fled to Midian. In Midian, where he found a wife and raised a family, Moses made a living as a shepherd. His life in Midian has transformed Moses into a humble and a mellow person. It was also the place where he experienced God's presence through the “burning bush” and where Moses received God's commission for him to free the Israelites from bondage in Egypt.
Similar with Moses, we have our own strengths and weaknesses. God will deal with our weaknesses and will enhance our strengths if we allow Him to work in us. If Moses was given the opportunity to lead 2 million Israelites out of Egypt, is it really difficult for us brothers and sisters to invite into the church and disciple at least 10 people in our lifetime? Let us allow ourselves like Moses to be used by God and I know that we will be amazed on how God will transform us into a vessel of strength and blessing.
Joy will Come in the Morning
Sunday - October 12, 2014
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. (Matthew 5:4)
Apostle Paul spoke of people "having their own conscience seared with a hot iron." (1Timothy 4:2). They lived n hypocrisy, and their conscience no longer pains their heart. When you get to the place where oh can sin and our conscience no longer hurts you, you are dying spiritually. You have seared your conscience with Sins hot iron.
You lie, and there is no pain. You steal, at first your conscience bother you, but now no more. God's voice has become silent. You have been addicted to pornography, at first you felt guilt but now no more. The voice of God has been smothered by your consistent carnal choices. Our conscience is dead, you think you are sophisticated, but the truth is you are numbered among the walking dead.
Peter denied Christ. Was his soul forever damned? No, for the Bible states, "So Peter went out and wept bitterly." (Luke 22:62). He mourned his sinful conduct before the Judge of all judges. God restored Peter.
For the believers, mourning is limited. Bible says "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes i the morning." (Psalm 30:5). Are you mourning for your sin? Is your heart broken? The mourning you are experiencing is limited, it will end because God's joy will come in the morning.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. (Matthew 5:4)
Apostle Paul spoke of people "having their own conscience seared with a hot iron." (1Timothy 4:2). They lived n hypocrisy, and their conscience no longer pains their heart. When you get to the place where oh can sin and our conscience no longer hurts you, you are dying spiritually. You have seared your conscience with Sins hot iron.
You lie, and there is no pain. You steal, at first your conscience bother you, but now no more. God's voice has become silent. You have been addicted to pornography, at first you felt guilt but now no more. The voice of God has been smothered by your consistent carnal choices. Our conscience is dead, you think you are sophisticated, but the truth is you are numbered among the walking dead.
Peter denied Christ. Was his soul forever damned? No, for the Bible states, "So Peter went out and wept bitterly." (Luke 22:62). He mourned his sinful conduct before the Judge of all judges. God restored Peter.
For the believers, mourning is limited. Bible says "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes i the morning." (Psalm 30:5). Are you mourning for your sin? Is your heart broken? The mourning you are experiencing is limited, it will end because God's joy will come in the morning.
Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness
Sunday - October 4, 2014
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6)
Jesus is saying that the good life comes to the person who pursues righteousness, which is right living. He said "Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst." Only living things hunger and thirsts. Every plants hunger and thirst, every animal hunger and thirst and every child. If God the Father hears your cry for spiritual food, its music to His ears.
Satisfaction will never be found in drugs, alcohol and sexual fantasy. Satisfaction is found only in Jesus Christ. What are you hunger for? Your answer must be righteousness. Righteousness is right living, it's life lived by God's standards.
The opposite of righteousness is rebellion. Ignore the righteousness of God and receive His wrath. Hear the voice of Pharaoh in Egypt. "Who is The Lord that I should obey His voice." He led his chariots in hot pursuit of the Jewish people at the Red Sea. The towering walls of water that God parted for the Israelites collapsed over Pharaoh and his mighty army. In a matter of seconds, the most powerful man on earth was reduced to fish food.
If you want to experience the good life, it begins with the strong desire for righteousness. The Bible says, "Righteousness exalts the nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6)
Jesus is saying that the good life comes to the person who pursues righteousness, which is right living. He said "Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst." Only living things hunger and thirsts. Every plants hunger and thirst, every animal hunger and thirst and every child. If God the Father hears your cry for spiritual food, its music to His ears.
Satisfaction will never be found in drugs, alcohol and sexual fantasy. Satisfaction is found only in Jesus Christ. What are you hunger for? Your answer must be righteousness. Righteousness is right living, it's life lived by God's standards.
The opposite of righteousness is rebellion. Ignore the righteousness of God and receive His wrath. Hear the voice of Pharaoh in Egypt. "Who is The Lord that I should obey His voice." He led his chariots in hot pursuit of the Jewish people at the Red Sea. The towering walls of water that God parted for the Israelites collapsed over Pharaoh and his mighty army. In a matter of seconds, the most powerful man on earth was reduced to fish food.
If you want to experience the good life, it begins with the strong desire for righteousness. The Bible says, "Righteousness exalts the nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)
The Powerful Words of God
Sunday - September 28, 2014
For the Word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
Since God is the living God, His Word cannot be separated from Him, that word is a living Word. It cannot be exterminated. "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever." (Isaiah 40:8) God is the author of life, His living Word imparts life.
God imparts new life to a dead sinners. A dead sinner can no more will himself into spiritual life than a dead corpse can will himself into physical life. God is pleased to use His word to impart new life to a sinners. " having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides" (1Peter 1:23)
God's Word is active. It means that His Word is effectual. It accomplishes what He intends for it to do. (Isaiah 55:10-11)
God's Word is sharp and piercing. His Word is sharp and it cuts deeply to the very core of our being. His purpose in cutting is to bring healing, not to leave us wounded. Sin is like a cancer growing inside of us. Untreated, it will be fatal. The sharp word of God's Word heals most completely where it wounds most deeply.
For the Word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
Since God is the living God, His Word cannot be separated from Him, that word is a living Word. It cannot be exterminated. "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever." (Isaiah 40:8) God is the author of life, His living Word imparts life.
God imparts new life to a dead sinners. A dead sinner can no more will himself into spiritual life than a dead corpse can will himself into physical life. God is pleased to use His word to impart new life to a sinners. " having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides" (1Peter 1:23)
God's Word is active. It means that His Word is effectual. It accomplishes what He intends for it to do. (Isaiah 55:10-11)
God's Word is sharp and piercing. His Word is sharp and it cuts deeply to the very core of our being. His purpose in cutting is to bring healing, not to leave us wounded. Sin is like a cancer growing inside of us. Untreated, it will be fatal. The sharp word of God's Word heals most completely where it wounds most deeply.
Joseph: The Dreamer
Sunday - September 21, 2014
Joseph is one of the characters in the bible whose life story is like a roller coaster. He was the favorite son of his father and had enjoyed all the good things in life. However, his brother hated him so much and they even planned to kill him. His life was only saved upon the timely intervention of Reuben and the passing of the Midianite slave traders.
He did well in Egypt where he was bought by Potiphar - an officer of Pharaoh. Again fate has tested him, because the wife of Potiphar laid an eye on him. Not wanting to sin or soil his reputation in the eyes of God and Potiphar he chose to run away from temptation. He paid dearly for this since he was put in prison with other criminals.
Instead of sulking in prison, he did his best to help the prison warden and gained the latter's trust and confidence. He himself may not have realized it that his temporary incarceration was the key for him to have an audience with Pharaoh. With God's diving guidance, Joseph did accurately interpreted the dream of Pharaoh and for this, he was made the Governor or 2nd in command in Egypt.
Genesis 37:2-11 is a reminder for us Christians to ask God for our Dream/Vision. In doing so, we open the door for God to design our dream. However, we should be courageous and willing to take responsibility of the Dream/Vision that God will put in our heart. Our faith will surely be tested before we realize the Dream/Vision.
Brothers and Sisters, let us be like Joseph; A Dreamer/Visionary.
Joseph is one of the characters in the bible whose life story is like a roller coaster. He was the favorite son of his father and had enjoyed all the good things in life. However, his brother hated him so much and they even planned to kill him. His life was only saved upon the timely intervention of Reuben and the passing of the Midianite slave traders.
He did well in Egypt where he was bought by Potiphar - an officer of Pharaoh. Again fate has tested him, because the wife of Potiphar laid an eye on him. Not wanting to sin or soil his reputation in the eyes of God and Potiphar he chose to run away from temptation. He paid dearly for this since he was put in prison with other criminals.
Instead of sulking in prison, he did his best to help the prison warden and gained the latter's trust and confidence. He himself may not have realized it that his temporary incarceration was the key for him to have an audience with Pharaoh. With God's diving guidance, Joseph did accurately interpreted the dream of Pharaoh and for this, he was made the Governor or 2nd in command in Egypt.
Genesis 37:2-11 is a reminder for us Christians to ask God for our Dream/Vision. In doing so, we open the door for God to design our dream. However, we should be courageous and willing to take responsibility of the Dream/Vision that God will put in our heart. Our faith will surely be tested before we realize the Dream/Vision.
Brothers and Sisters, let us be like Joseph; A Dreamer/Visionary.
Diligently Obey the Words of God
Sunday - September 14, 2014
Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you because you obey the voice of the Lord your God. (Deuteronomy 28:1-2 NKJV)
The Lord will set you high when you sincerely obey His voice. In the place where we stay, where we work, there are those who despise us for no reason. We can also see some who plot against us, yet do not be afraid of the enemies who rise against you. God assures that they will flee before you in seven ways when they come against you one way. God will not destroy those who rise against you but will remove them from your way.
The Lord will strengthen you to be part of His holy people. He will make others know that you are God's children and that you are different. When Joseph stood in front of the Pharaoh, He made Joseph the most powerful governor in all of Egypt. When Daniel lived in Babylon, and excellent spirit was in him and the kng gave thought to setting him over the whole realm. What was the reason why Joseph in Egypt and Daniel in Babylon were exalted and set high? The Lord filled them with His Spirit and they were seen as the people of God. Even kings feared them.
Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you because you obey the voice of the Lord your God. (Deuteronomy 28:1-2 NKJV)
The Lord will set you high when you sincerely obey His voice. In the place where we stay, where we work, there are those who despise us for no reason. We can also see some who plot against us, yet do not be afraid of the enemies who rise against you. God assures that they will flee before you in seven ways when they come against you one way. God will not destroy those who rise against you but will remove them from your way.
The Lord will strengthen you to be part of His holy people. He will make others know that you are God's children and that you are different. When Joseph stood in front of the Pharaoh, He made Joseph the most powerful governor in all of Egypt. When Daniel lived in Babylon, and excellent spirit was in him and the kng gave thought to setting him over the whole realm. What was the reason why Joseph in Egypt and Daniel in Babylon were exalted and set high? The Lord filled them with His Spirit and they were seen as the people of God. Even kings feared them.
The Words of God Endure Forever
Sunday - September 7, 2014
"All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the Lord endures forever." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you. (1Peter 1:24-25 NKJV)
The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God endures forever. If this is true, then I am very interested in what it might mean to entrust my life to God's word. The world is trying to convince us to put our trust in that which fades away. What might it mean to trust God's word which never fades?
To answer the question above, let us understand what the word of God is. In what sense does God's word endure foever? For Peter, the word of the Lord that endures forever is none other than the message of the gospel. In fact, it is not merely the words about Jesus, but Jesus Himself. This word endures forever because it is spolen by the eternal God. Peter understand God's word in light of God's covenant and faithfulness to us.
"All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the Lord endures forever." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you. (1Peter 1:24-25 NKJV)
The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God endures forever. If this is true, then I am very interested in what it might mean to entrust my life to God's word. The world is trying to convince us to put our trust in that which fades away. What might it mean to trust God's word which never fades?
To answer the question above, let us understand what the word of God is. In what sense does God's word endure foever? For Peter, the word of the Lord that endures forever is none other than the message of the gospel. In fact, it is not merely the words about Jesus, but Jesus Himself. This word endures forever because it is spolen by the eternal God. Peter understand God's word in light of God's covenant and faithfulness to us.
Thoughts that Fill Your Mind
Sunday - August 31, 2014
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praise worthy-- meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8 NKJV)
You are what you fill your mind with. Some people seem drawn to concentrate on the negative, choosing to be pessimistic about everything. Some remain satisfied with thinking of the mundane. Others fail to intentionally place Scripture in their thoughts, choosing instead to adopt human reasoning. Others choose to expose their minds to the truths of God to that which is True, Noble, Just, Pure, Lovely and Good.
The things you allow your mind to dwell on will be revealed by the way you live. If you focus on negative things, you will inevitably be a negative person. If you allow unholy thoughts to fill your mind, ungodliness will become common in your life. If you fill your mind with thoughts of Christ, you will become Christ like. What you fill your mind with is a matter of choice. Choose to concentrate on the magnificent truths of God, and they will create a noble character in you that brings glory to God.
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praise worthy-- meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8 NKJV)
You are what you fill your mind with. Some people seem drawn to concentrate on the negative, choosing to be pessimistic about everything. Some remain satisfied with thinking of the mundane. Others fail to intentionally place Scripture in their thoughts, choosing instead to adopt human reasoning. Others choose to expose their minds to the truths of God to that which is True, Noble, Just, Pure, Lovely and Good.
The things you allow your mind to dwell on will be revealed by the way you live. If you focus on negative things, you will inevitably be a negative person. If you allow unholy thoughts to fill your mind, ungodliness will become common in your life. If you fill your mind with thoughts of Christ, you will become Christ like. What you fill your mind with is a matter of choice. Choose to concentrate on the magnificent truths of God, and they will create a noble character in you that brings glory to God.
Generational Promise and Blessing
Sunday – August 24, 2014
Genesis 12:1-3 embodies one of the most profound promises of God. The verses speak about the Promise Land, the National Blessings and Spiritual blessings through one man, and that is Abram.
Anyone who will be in the situation of Abram will surely entertain thoughts or feelings of overwhelming joy, speculation and bewilderment. Overwhelming joy for he was chosen by God Almighty to receive an extraordinary promise. Speculation for it may have entered his mind that surely he will experience a longer life. On the other hand, he may have the feeling of bewilderment for why was he chosen over a young man who will be in a better position to fulfill the promise.
Nevertheless, Abram did not question God's wisdom. He believed and obeyed God. And so Genesis 15:6 says that “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.”
Another important aspect to learn from the passages is God's mighty protection. If He commands you to do something, He will be with you and will protect you all throughout. (Genesis 12:10-17 NKJV)
Genesis 12:1-3 embodies one of the most profound promises of God. The verses speak about the Promise Land, the National Blessings and Spiritual blessings through one man, and that is Abram.
Anyone who will be in the situation of Abram will surely entertain thoughts or feelings of overwhelming joy, speculation and bewilderment. Overwhelming joy for he was chosen by God Almighty to receive an extraordinary promise. Speculation for it may have entered his mind that surely he will experience a longer life. On the other hand, he may have the feeling of bewilderment for why was he chosen over a young man who will be in a better position to fulfill the promise.
Nevertheless, Abram did not question God's wisdom. He believed and obeyed God. And so Genesis 15:6 says that “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.”
Another important aspect to learn from the passages is God's mighty protection. If He commands you to do something, He will be with you and will protect you all throughout. (Genesis 12:10-17 NKJV)
Saved to be a Blessing
Sunday - August 10, 2014
You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:13-14, 16 NKJV)
You are in the life transforming community of Jesus Christ and you know God. You're in a relationship with Him and you know the fellowship and presence of the Holy Spirit. You know God the creator is with you. Those are the blessings you've received extended through you into the world, into your relationships wherever you go and do life.
God blessed us. He has brought us into a right and restored relationship with Him. He has reconciled us to Himself through the cross of Christ, and now, we are to go and be a blessing to others.
As children of God, we are not called to sit around and absorb God's blessings. We are meant to be a blessing to those around us. Blessing others is more than just saying "God bless you." Blessing others foes beyond what we say and think. It's what we do that has potential to be a blessing to others.
You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:13-14, 16 NKJV)
You are in the life transforming community of Jesus Christ and you know God. You're in a relationship with Him and you know the fellowship and presence of the Holy Spirit. You know God the creator is with you. Those are the blessings you've received extended through you into the world, into your relationships wherever you go and do life.
God blessed us. He has brought us into a right and restored relationship with Him. He has reconciled us to Himself through the cross of Christ, and now, we are to go and be a blessing to others.
As children of God, we are not called to sit around and absorb God's blessings. We are meant to be a blessing to those around us. Blessing others is more than just saying "God bless you." Blessing others foes beyond what we say and think. It's what we do that has potential to be a blessing to others.
Spiritual Worship
Sunday - July 20, 2014
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (Romans 12: 1 NIV)
God is looking for holy vessels that are dedicated for His use alone. We have been bought with a price, the infinite precious blood of Jesus Christ. We no longer belong to ourselves. We have been separated for God's use alone, holy, that is reserved and can be used only for that dedicated purpose.
The Christian is to be a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God which is their reasonable, spiritual service of worship. We have received a new life in Christ. This new life is a continuously active service to God. God can use in His service of worship the newness of life that is given to us by union with our risen Lord and savior Jesus Christ. In fact, that is the only kind of service that pleases Him.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (Romans 12: 1 NIV)
God is looking for holy vessels that are dedicated for His use alone. We have been bought with a price, the infinite precious blood of Jesus Christ. We no longer belong to ourselves. We have been separated for God's use alone, holy, that is reserved and can be used only for that dedicated purpose.
The Christian is to be a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God which is their reasonable, spiritual service of worship. We have received a new life in Christ. This new life is a continuously active service to God. God can use in His service of worship the newness of life that is given to us by union with our risen Lord and savior Jesus Christ. In fact, that is the only kind of service that pleases Him.
Because He Lives, I Can Face Tomorrow
Sunday - April 20, 2014
Therefore my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the works in the Lord, knowing that your labor is not vain in the Lord. - 1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV
Bill and Gloria desired to be steadfast and immovable. In the late 1960's they ran into some difficulties that discouraged them. His sister was in the middle of divorce which was a major family crisis. One of their close friends accused them of using their music ministry in order to make money. As a result, Bill became very depressed, and he even thought of giving up their ministry. In the midst of these trials, another close friend came to hem and prayed for them. As he prayed, the couple sensed the Holy Spirit came upon them and assured them. Out of these trials and work of the Holy Spirit wrote a wonderful song.
"Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives all fear is gone, because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives. And then one day, I'll cross the river, I'll fight life's final war and pain. And then as death gives way to victory. I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives."
There will be times when you will get discouraged, you will wonder if sticking with the faith in obedience is worth it. There will be times when you wonder if your life of sin was more pleasant than your life of righteousness. You will wonder if the good work that you do is worth it, or if you should give up. My beloved brethren, "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the works of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in the Lord." Because He lives!
Sunday - April 20, 2014
Therefore my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the works in the Lord, knowing that your labor is not vain in the Lord. - 1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV
Bill and Gloria desired to be steadfast and immovable. In the late 1960's they ran into some difficulties that discouraged them. His sister was in the middle of divorce which was a major family crisis. One of their close friends accused them of using their music ministry in order to make money. As a result, Bill became very depressed, and he even thought of giving up their ministry. In the midst of these trials, another close friend came to hem and prayed for them. As he prayed, the couple sensed the Holy Spirit came upon them and assured them. Out of these trials and work of the Holy Spirit wrote a wonderful song.
"Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives all fear is gone, because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives. And then one day, I'll cross the river, I'll fight life's final war and pain. And then as death gives way to victory. I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives."
There will be times when you will get discouraged, you will wonder if sticking with the faith in obedience is worth it. There will be times when you wonder if your life of sin was more pleasant than your life of righteousness. You will wonder if the good work that you do is worth it, or if you should give up. My beloved brethren, "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the works of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in the Lord." Because He lives!
Important Lessons of Each Gate in Nehemiah 3
Sunday – November 3, 2013
Nehemiah 3 centers on the ten gates of the city of Jerusalem. As you read through this chapter you'll find the names of each gate each with a specific symbolic significance.
1. The Sheep Gate: this gate signifies the Lamb of God, whose blood was shed on the cross for us.
2. The Fish Gate: this gate speaks the witness of a Christian, Jesus said, “Follow me and I will make you become fishers of men.” (Mark 1:17)
3. The Old Gate: this gate represents the truth. This truth is always old. “Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it. Then you will find rest for your soul.” (Jeremiah 6:16)
4. The Valley Gate: this is a place of humility and lowliness of mind.
5. The Dung Gate: it is the gate of elimination, the gate where all the rubbish and corrupt things brought to be plunge in the garbage.
6. The Fountain Gate: symbolizes the Holy Spirit which is the river of life in us.
7. The Water Gate: this is symbol of the Words of God.
8. The East Gate: this gate faced the rising sun and is the gate of Hope;
9. The Horse Gate: this is the symbol of warfare, in this case, the need to do battles against the forces of the darkness.
10.The Inspection Gate: this is self inspection, to remove the build up of toxic sins-- that bad habits from our lives.
Sunday – November 3, 2013
Nehemiah 3 centers on the ten gates of the city of Jerusalem. As you read through this chapter you'll find the names of each gate each with a specific symbolic significance.
1. The Sheep Gate: this gate signifies the Lamb of God, whose blood was shed on the cross for us.
2. The Fish Gate: this gate speaks the witness of a Christian, Jesus said, “Follow me and I will make you become fishers of men.” (Mark 1:17)
3. The Old Gate: this gate represents the truth. This truth is always old. “Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it. Then you will find rest for your soul.” (Jeremiah 6:16)
4. The Valley Gate: this is a place of humility and lowliness of mind.
5. The Dung Gate: it is the gate of elimination, the gate where all the rubbish and corrupt things brought to be plunge in the garbage.
6. The Fountain Gate: symbolizes the Holy Spirit which is the river of life in us.
7. The Water Gate: this is symbol of the Words of God.
8. The East Gate: this gate faced the rising sun and is the gate of Hope;
9. The Horse Gate: this is the symbol of warfare, in this case, the need to do battles against the forces of the darkness.
10.The Inspection Gate: this is self inspection, to remove the build up of toxic sins-- that bad habits from our lives.
Repairing the Gates
Sunday – October 27, 2013
Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests and built the Sheep Gate... Also the sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate... Moreover the Nethinim who dwelt in Ophel made repairs as far as the place in front of the Water Gate... (Nehemiah 3:1,3,26 NKJV)
If the walls of your life are broken down, if your defenses are crumbled so that the enemy is surrounding you on every hand, if you easily fall prey to temptation, then pay reconstruction.
In Nehemiah chapter 3, we learn two things. First, the people were willing to work and second, they immediately became involve and sprang into action. Nehemiah set each worker to the task of rebuilding whatever part of the wall was nearest to each of their own respective houses. The people were assigned a certain portion of the wall defined by the Gates that gave access to the city. Each Gate has a specific symbolic significance.
Sunday – October 27, 2013
Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests and built the Sheep Gate... Also the sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate... Moreover the Nethinim who dwelt in Ophel made repairs as far as the place in front of the Water Gate... (Nehemiah 3:1,3,26 NKJV)
If the walls of your life are broken down, if your defenses are crumbled so that the enemy is surrounding you on every hand, if you easily fall prey to temptation, then pay reconstruction.
In Nehemiah chapter 3, we learn two things. First, the people were willing to work and second, they immediately became involve and sprang into action. Nehemiah set each worker to the task of rebuilding whatever part of the wall was nearest to each of their own respective houses. The people were assigned a certain portion of the wall defined by the Gates that gave access to the city. Each Gate has a specific symbolic significance.
Rebuilding the Walls
Sunday – October 20, 2013
Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set their hands to this good work. (Nehemiah 2:17-18 NKJV)
Nehemiah was called to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem. The rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem symbolizes an act all believers should take. God calls each of us to rebuild the walls of our lives. When we do, we re-establish the protection and strength of God in our lives.
The rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem, the city of God, is a symbolic representation of the way in which the walls of any life, any church and any nation can be rebuilt. It is the picture of the strength, power and purpose that God wants to rebuild in us as a barrier to sin, discouragement, failure and destruction.
Rebuilding the walls begins with the concern over the damage. You will never rebuild the walls in your life until you have first mourned the ruin of it. Like Nehemiah, you have been informed of the desolation in your history. Realize as Nehemiah did that the desolation you discovered is not a cause to give up but a reason to wake up, a call to action and a firm resolve to rebuild.
Sunday – October 20, 2013
Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set their hands to this good work. (Nehemiah 2:17-18 NKJV)
Nehemiah was called to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem. The rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem symbolizes an act all believers should take. God calls each of us to rebuild the walls of our lives. When we do, we re-establish the protection and strength of God in our lives.
The rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem, the city of God, is a symbolic representation of the way in which the walls of any life, any church and any nation can be rebuilt. It is the picture of the strength, power and purpose that God wants to rebuild in us as a barrier to sin, discouragement, failure and destruction.
Rebuilding the walls begins with the concern over the damage. You will never rebuild the walls in your life until you have first mourned the ruin of it. Like Nehemiah, you have been informed of the desolation in your history. Realize as Nehemiah did that the desolation you discovered is not a cause to give up but a reason to wake up, a call to action and a firm resolve to rebuild.
God Deserves Our Best
Sunday – October 13, 2013
A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am the Father, where is My honor? And if I am a Master, where is My reverence? Says the Lord of hosts to you priests who despise My name. Yet you say, "In what way have we despised Your name?" (Malachi 1:6 NKJV)
God is the God of excellence. He is the God who doesn't accept our leftovers. In Malachi, God rolls up the priest for offering the weakest of their flocks or the sacrifices they didn't want anyway. “You offer defiled food on my altar, but say, 'In what way have we defiled You?' . . . And when you offer the blind as sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, is not evil? Offer it then to your governor, would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?” Says the Lord of host. (Malachi 1:7-8)
God deserves our best in everything always. If we're honest, we can examine our lives and see that often times we offer God what we never offer others. When it is someone we are trying to impress, we will go to the ends of the earth to make our presentation excellent. Are we doing that to our God, to give our best time, energy and effort?
The Scripture teaches us that we are to do everything, us unto the Lord. Whether we enjoy it or not, whether we receive recognition or not: let's serve our God with our best.
Sunday – October 13, 2013
A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am the Father, where is My honor? And if I am a Master, where is My reverence? Says the Lord of hosts to you priests who despise My name. Yet you say, "In what way have we despised Your name?" (Malachi 1:6 NKJV)
God is the God of excellence. He is the God who doesn't accept our leftovers. In Malachi, God rolls up the priest for offering the weakest of their flocks or the sacrifices they didn't want anyway. “You offer defiled food on my altar, but say, 'In what way have we defiled You?' . . . And when you offer the blind as sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, is not evil? Offer it then to your governor, would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?” Says the Lord of host. (Malachi 1:7-8)
God deserves our best in everything always. If we're honest, we can examine our lives and see that often times we offer God what we never offer others. When it is someone we are trying to impress, we will go to the ends of the earth to make our presentation excellent. Are we doing that to our God, to give our best time, energy and effort?
The Scripture teaches us that we are to do everything, us unto the Lord. Whether we enjoy it or not, whether we receive recognition or not: let's serve our God with our best.
God's Grace and the Inescapable Consequence of Sin
Sunday – October 6, 2013
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption . . . (Galatians 6:7-8 NKJV)
Sin always pays back both believers and unbelievers with boredom, guilt, shame, emptiness and loss of purpose. David was forgiven, but forgiveness never seems to take away the consequences of the sin. God's grace is free but the cost of sin is high.
Every sin a Christian commits is forgiven in Jesus Christ. But no sin is ever right or good, and no sin ever produces anything right or good. The price for doing something is terribly unprofitable. Sin never brings profit, it always brings loss.
David was a man after God's own heart and was greatly used by the Lord, but he was not exempt from the consequences of his sin. Amnon was killed by the hand of his brother Absalom because Amnon raped his sister Tamar. Absalom was treasonous to the king, raping David's wives and concubines. The plot of Adonijah to grasp the throne endangering Solomon is also a prime example.
Sunday – October 6, 2013
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption . . . (Galatians 6:7-8 NKJV)
Sin always pays back both believers and unbelievers with boredom, guilt, shame, emptiness and loss of purpose. David was forgiven, but forgiveness never seems to take away the consequences of the sin. God's grace is free but the cost of sin is high.
Every sin a Christian commits is forgiven in Jesus Christ. But no sin is ever right or good, and no sin ever produces anything right or good. The price for doing something is terribly unprofitable. Sin never brings profit, it always brings loss.
David was a man after God's own heart and was greatly used by the Lord, but he was not exempt from the consequences of his sin. Amnon was killed by the hand of his brother Absalom because Amnon raped his sister Tamar. Absalom was treasonous to the king, raping David's wives and concubines. The plot of Adonijah to grasp the throne endangering Solomon is also a prime example.
Forms of Peril that Beset Us in the Christian Life
Sunday – September 29, 2103
. . . “You cannot serve the Lord, for He is a holy God. He is a jealous God; He will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins. If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, then He will turn and do you harm and consume you, after He has done you good.” (Joshua 24:19-20 NKJV)
How many times have you jumped to the wrong conclusion ascribing wrong motives to a family member, a church mate, a friend, and even a pastor? How many times people misjudge, criticize or wrongly attack you? If anything can drive us out of the land of victory, it is controversy over misunderstood motive.
In the book of Joshua, the entire land had been given to the people of Israel, they did not possess all of it, but left some of it unconquered. Joshua warned the people as he neared the end of his life that the unconquered people whom they have permitted to live would always be snares and thorns to them. As a result of their incomplete obedience, they suffered many times in the hands of these unconquered kind of people.
You might say, “I do what God wants; after all: I know the Scriptures, I have been raised in the right church, I can walk faithfully and honestly before God. Don't talk to me about apostasy, defeat, backsliding or sin-- I will serve the Lord.” This is spiritual pride. Joshua responds that “you are not able to serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:19 NIV).
Sunday – September 29, 2103
. . . “You cannot serve the Lord, for He is a holy God. He is a jealous God; He will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins. If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, then He will turn and do you harm and consume you, after He has done you good.” (Joshua 24:19-20 NKJV)
How many times have you jumped to the wrong conclusion ascribing wrong motives to a family member, a church mate, a friend, and even a pastor? How many times people misjudge, criticize or wrongly attack you? If anything can drive us out of the land of victory, it is controversy over misunderstood motive.
In the book of Joshua, the entire land had been given to the people of Israel, they did not possess all of it, but left some of it unconquered. Joshua warned the people as he neared the end of his life that the unconquered people whom they have permitted to live would always be snares and thorns to them. As a result of their incomplete obedience, they suffered many times in the hands of these unconquered kind of people.
You might say, “I do what God wants; after all: I know the Scriptures, I have been raised in the right church, I can walk faithfully and honestly before God. Don't talk to me about apostasy, defeat, backsliding or sin-- I will serve the Lord.” This is spiritual pride. Joshua responds that “you are not able to serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:19 NIV).
Unforgiveness
Sunday - September 15, 2013
Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles. (Proverbs 24:17 NKJV)
Unforgiveness is the most popular poison that the enemy uses against God's people. It is the deadliest poison a person can take spiritually. It causes everything from mental depression, to health problems such as bipolar disorder and depression.
Unforgiveness shows that we don't love Jesus. In John 15:12, Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us. True love doesn't hold bitterness or unforgiveness against somebody-- that would show that we don't love them as Christ loved us. If we don't keep Jesus' commandments, then it proves we don't love Him. It is written that someone 'who does not love (Him) does not keep (His) words" (John 14:24).
Unforgiveness can give Satan an advantage. "Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ. Lest Satan should take advantage of us" (2 Corinthians 2:10-11).
Sunday - September 15, 2013
Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles. (Proverbs 24:17 NKJV)
Unforgiveness is the most popular poison that the enemy uses against God's people. It is the deadliest poison a person can take spiritually. It causes everything from mental depression, to health problems such as bipolar disorder and depression.
Unforgiveness shows that we don't love Jesus. In John 15:12, Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us. True love doesn't hold bitterness or unforgiveness against somebody-- that would show that we don't love them as Christ loved us. If we don't keep Jesus' commandments, then it proves we don't love Him. It is written that someone 'who does not love (Him) does not keep (His) words" (John 14:24).
Unforgiveness can give Satan an advantage. "Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ. Lest Satan should take advantage of us" (2 Corinthians 2:10-11).
Forgiveness
Sunday - September 8, 2013
Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21 NKJV)
Forgiveness is the renunciation of resentment and anger. Forgiveness can even lead to feelings of understanding, empathy, and compassion for the one who hurt you. It also brings a kind of peace that helps you to go on with life.
Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way of compassion, kindness and peace. Forgive can lead to a healthier relationship, less anxiety, less stress and less hostility.
Forgiveness is a commitment to a process of change. To begin, you might consider the value and its importance in your life at a given time. Let's examine the experience of Joseph and his brothers. His father asked Joseph to forgive his brothers. "I beg you, please forgive the trespass of your brothers and their sin, for they did evil to you." (Genesis 50:17). But Joseph said to hem: "but as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good." (Genesis 50:20a). I like the statement of Joseph in Genesis 45:5, "...do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life."
Sunday - September 8, 2013
Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21 NKJV)
Forgiveness is the renunciation of resentment and anger. Forgiveness can even lead to feelings of understanding, empathy, and compassion for the one who hurt you. It also brings a kind of peace that helps you to go on with life.
Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way of compassion, kindness and peace. Forgive can lead to a healthier relationship, less anxiety, less stress and less hostility.
Forgiveness is a commitment to a process of change. To begin, you might consider the value and its importance in your life at a given time. Let's examine the experience of Joseph and his brothers. His father asked Joseph to forgive his brothers. "I beg you, please forgive the trespass of your brothers and their sin, for they did evil to you." (Genesis 50:17). But Joseph said to hem: "but as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good." (Genesis 50:20a). I like the statement of Joseph in Genesis 45:5, "...do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life."
Intimacy with God
Sunday - September 1, 2013
Draw near to God and He will draw near to your. (James 4:8a NKJV)
Intimacy with God happens not by chance but by choice. It demands removing from our lives that which hinders our relationship with Him. Intimacy with God comes us we desire to seek to know Him, His plans, His will and His ways. Our hunger for God leads our intimacy to our Saviour.
Our intimacy with God brings peace to the soul (our inner being). Satan will try to stop our close relationship with God because he knows that if we stop our intimacy then peace will not manifest. Without intimacy, the battle is lost to Satan and he makes us think that God failed us.
Jesus is the Vine and we are the branches (John 15:5), so we must stay intimate by our connection with God's Word. If we disconnect from the Word, we disconnect from the life that flows from Jesus. He is a healthy, living Vine and we are the branches that must stay connected to stay healthy.
Sunday - September 1, 2013
Draw near to God and He will draw near to your. (James 4:8a NKJV)
Intimacy with God happens not by chance but by choice. It demands removing from our lives that which hinders our relationship with Him. Intimacy with God comes us we desire to seek to know Him, His plans, His will and His ways. Our hunger for God leads our intimacy to our Saviour.
Our intimacy with God brings peace to the soul (our inner being). Satan will try to stop our close relationship with God because he knows that if we stop our intimacy then peace will not manifest. Without intimacy, the battle is lost to Satan and he makes us think that God failed us.
Jesus is the Vine and we are the branches (John 15:5), so we must stay intimate by our connection with God's Word. If we disconnect from the Word, we disconnect from the life that flows from Jesus. He is a healthy, living Vine and we are the branches that must stay connected to stay healthy.
Intimacy with God
Sunday - August 25, 2013
O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for You; my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. (Psalm 63:1 NKJV)
Intimacy with God-- You can't develop an intimate relationship with just anybody in a crowd. You can know about them but you get to know people by spending time with them. The same is true with God.
Intimacy with God requires communication. Marriages die when one partner stops talking. You can't have a relationship without
communication. In the same way, you get to know God by talking to Him, by communicating. The more continual your communication is with God, the deeper your intimacy with Him will be.
Relationships are built on trust. God wants you to learn to trust Him. He allows all kinds of problems in your life to demonstrate His reliability.
Sunday - August 25, 2013
O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for You; my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. (Psalm 63:1 NKJV)
Intimacy with God-- You can't develop an intimate relationship with just anybody in a crowd. You can know about them but you get to know people by spending time with them. The same is true with God.
Intimacy with God requires communication. Marriages die when one partner stops talking. You can't have a relationship without
communication. In the same way, you get to know God by talking to Him, by communicating. The more continual your communication is with God, the deeper your intimacy with Him will be.
Relationships are built on trust. God wants you to learn to trust Him. He allows all kinds of problems in your life to demonstrate His reliability.
The Best is Yet to Come
Sister Mary Grace Lagasca
Sunday - August 18, 2013
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19 NKJV)
I am excited to talk about the future for the FIRM church. The best is yet to come, bases our discussion on Matthew 28:19-20, The Great Commission. God has exciting plans for our future but everything must be centered on a relationship with Him first. Next is the mandate and leadership He has entitled in each one of us to carry out this Biblical mandate. This is not just for those in the "ministry" but for everyone, for we are all ministers of the Gospel.
Many of us who call ourselves Christians are not truly devoted to Jesus Christ. We may admire, respect and revere Him, but we
cannot love Him on our own. The only One who truly loves The Lord Jesus is the Holy Spirit, "and it He who has poured out in our hearts the very love of God" (Romans 5:5). When the Holy Spirit sees an opportunity to glorify Jesus through you, He will take your entire being and set you ablaze with glowing devotion to Jesus Christ.
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19 NKJV)
I am excited to talk about the future for the FIRM church. The best is yet to come, bases our discussion on Matthew 28:19-20, The Great Commission. God has exciting plans for our future but everything must be centered on a relationship with Him first. Next is the mandate and leadership He has entitled in each one of us to carry out this Biblical mandate. This is not just for those in the "ministry" but for everyone, for we are all ministers of the Gospel.
Many of us who call ourselves Christians are not truly devoted to Jesus Christ. We may admire, respect and revere Him, but we
cannot love Him on our own. The only One who truly loves The Lord Jesus is the Holy Spirit, "and it He who has poured out in our hearts the very love of God" (Romans 5:5). When the Holy Spirit sees an opportunity to glorify Jesus through you, He will take your entire being and set you ablaze with glowing devotion to Jesus Christ.
Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God
Sunday – August 11, 2013
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit with in me.” (Psalm 51:10 NKJV)
David saw what an unclean heart he had, and sadly lamented it. So he repented and desired to have a pure, holy and righteous
heart.
David requested the renovation of his entire mental and moral nature which he recognized as corrupted and depraved. He
prayed that God “renew a right spirit” inside him; it signifies a renewing of the inward man and speaks of uprightness and integrity as opposed to hypocrisy.
If we pray this heartily (our verse above), God doesn't just purify and clean us, He gives us a new heart. It is not that we
need a new blood-pumping organ, but that we need a new heart (our seat of emotion, will, understanding and inner man). The word “clean” is the same word in Psalm 51:2 “cleanse me from my sin,” denoting a ceremonial cleansing to make pure and righteous.
I pray that while listening to messages Sunday after Sunday, our God would show you your heart as He did to David.
Sunday – August 11, 2013
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit with in me.” (Psalm 51:10 NKJV)
David saw what an unclean heart he had, and sadly lamented it. So he repented and desired to have a pure, holy and righteous
heart.
David requested the renovation of his entire mental and moral nature which he recognized as corrupted and depraved. He
prayed that God “renew a right spirit” inside him; it signifies a renewing of the inward man and speaks of uprightness and integrity as opposed to hypocrisy.
If we pray this heartily (our verse above), God doesn't just purify and clean us, He gives us a new heart. It is not that we
need a new blood-pumping organ, but that we need a new heart (our seat of emotion, will, understanding and inner man). The word “clean” is the same word in Psalm 51:2 “cleanse me from my sin,” denoting a ceremonial cleansing to make pure and righteous.
I pray that while listening to messages Sunday after Sunday, our God would show you your heart as He did to David.
Everything will be Shaken
Sunday – August 4, 2013
“For thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Once more (it is a little while) I will shake heaven and earth, the sea and dry land; and I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory,’ says the Lord of hosts." (Haggai 2:6-7 NKJV)
The whole world has and continues to experience various disasters: floods, droughts, fires, earthquake, terrorism and more. What is the meaning of this shaking? I believe that God is speaking to each one of us saying, “I am doing the shaking; I want to get your attention because I love you.”
When His people do repent, He visits them with mercy and glory. God's purposes in shaking are for glory and harvest. The
primary cause for shaking is when God's people ignore or disobey His revealed will.
God shakes affairs in the life of any individual believer whom He loves and seek to change. A church can be shaken if the
lifestyle of the believers, their relationship or the foundation of the church does not reflect the centrality of Christ.
Sunday – August 4, 2013
“For thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Once more (it is a little while) I will shake heaven and earth, the sea and dry land; and I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory,’ says the Lord of hosts." (Haggai 2:6-7 NKJV)
The whole world has and continues to experience various disasters: floods, droughts, fires, earthquake, terrorism and more. What is the meaning of this shaking? I believe that God is speaking to each one of us saying, “I am doing the shaking; I want to get your attention because I love you.”
When His people do repent, He visits them with mercy and glory. God's purposes in shaking are for glory and harvest. The
primary cause for shaking is when God's people ignore or disobey His revealed will.
God shakes affairs in the life of any individual believer whom He loves and seek to change. A church can be shaken if the
lifestyle of the believers, their relationship or the foundation of the church does not reflect the centrality of Christ.
The Cost of Following Jesus
Sunday - July 28, 2013
Then Jesus said to His disciples, if anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. (Matthew 6:24 NKJV)
Commitment in Christ means taking up your cross daily. Only if you willingly take up your cross may you be called one of His disciples.
When Jesus said to "take up your cross and follw Me," it means being willing to die in order to follow Jesus. This is called "dying to self;" it's a call to absolute surrender.
Christians view the cross as a cherished symbol of atonement, forgiveness, grace, and love. But in Jesus' day, the cross represented nothing but a torturous death. Because the Romans forced convicted criminals to carry their own crosses to the place of crucifixion, bearing a cross meant carrying their own execution device while facing ridicule along the way to death.
When Jesus carried His cross up Golgotha to be crucified, no one was thinking of the cross as a symbol of a burden to carry. To a person in the first century, the cross meant only one thing-- "DEATH."
Sunday - July 28, 2013
Then Jesus said to His disciples, if anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. (Matthew 6:24 NKJV)
Commitment in Christ means taking up your cross daily. Only if you willingly take up your cross may you be called one of His disciples.
When Jesus said to "take up your cross and follw Me," it means being willing to die in order to follow Jesus. This is called "dying to self;" it's a call to absolute surrender.
Christians view the cross as a cherished symbol of atonement, forgiveness, grace, and love. But in Jesus' day, the cross represented nothing but a torturous death. Because the Romans forced convicted criminals to carry their own crosses to the place of crucifixion, bearing a cross meant carrying their own execution device while facing ridicule along the way to death.
When Jesus carried His cross up Golgotha to be crucified, no one was thinking of the cross as a symbol of a burden to carry. To a person in the first century, the cross meant only one thing-- "DEATH."
Looking Unto Jesus
Sunday - July 21, 2013
Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2 NKJV)
The phrase "looking unto Jesus" is only three words but in those three words is the whole secret of life.
"When Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid and beginning to sink." (Matthew 14:29-30)
You are in danger if you change your focus away from Jesus. On the contrary, you are safe if you fix your eyes on Him and it doesn't even matter how much danger you might be in.
"And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years. She said, if I may touch but His clothes I shall be whole." (Mark 5:24, 28) This woman purposed to look unto Jesus and, as a result, she was made whole.
You will experience joy, healing, and miracles if you look unto Jesus. In this present world we experience a lot of hardship, problems, and trials as well as seeing such in the life of others but peace, rest, joy and satisfaction lie in your hands if you look unto Jesus alone.
Jesus said, "My peace, I give to you, not as the world gives." (John 14:27)
"Come unto Me all you heavy laden and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)
" . . . I have come that they may have life and that they may have it abundantly." (John 10:10)
Sunday - July 21, 2013
Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2 NKJV)
The phrase "looking unto Jesus" is only three words but in those three words is the whole secret of life.
"When Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid and beginning to sink." (Matthew 14:29-30)
You are in danger if you change your focus away from Jesus. On the contrary, you are safe if you fix your eyes on Him and it doesn't even matter how much danger you might be in.
"And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years. She said, if I may touch but His clothes I shall be whole." (Mark 5:24, 28) This woman purposed to look unto Jesus and, as a result, she was made whole.
You will experience joy, healing, and miracles if you look unto Jesus. In this present world we experience a lot of hardship, problems, and trials as well as seeing such in the life of others but peace, rest, joy and satisfaction lie in your hands if you look unto Jesus alone.
Jesus said, "My peace, I give to you, not as the world gives." (John 14:27)
"Come unto Me all you heavy laden and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)
" . . . I have come that they may have life and that they may have it abundantly." (John 10:10)
Beside the Man of God: the Lion and the Donkey
Sunday - July 14, 2013
So it was, after he had eaten bread and after he had drunk, that he saddled the donkey for him, the prophet whom he had brought back. When he was gone, a lion met him on the road and killed him. And his corpse was thrown on the road, and the donkey stood by it. The lion also stood by the corpse. (1 Kings 13:23-24 NKJV)
Don't make the same mistake the man of God made in our text. He heard another word supposedly from the Lord, and he decided that the word superseded the original command. He did not stop to ask God about this new word he heard.
That must have been a very curious sight to see for anyone who walked along that road. A dead man killed by a lion, with the lion standing on one side of his body and the dead man's donkey standing on the other side of the body. During the times of the Old Testament, the lion was a symbol of Judah. It was also a symbol of power and truth. The donkey was considered an unclean animal that symbolized many things such as stubbornness and pride.
The lion and the donkey represented the two choices he had when he heard the word of the Lord. When the man of God was following God's command, he was walking as a lion in power and truth. When the man of God doubted and became disobedient he no longer walked as a lion instead he rode on the donkey of stubbornness and pride.
The lion and the donkey represented the two choices he had when he heard the word of the Lord. When the man of God was following God's command, he was walking as a lion in power and truth. When the man of God doubted and became disobedient he no longer walked as a lion instead he rode on the donkey of stubbornness and pride. Now they stood on either side of the dead man of God, symbols of the choices available to him and his dead body was the evidence of the wrong choice he made.
Sunday - July 14, 2013
So it was, after he had eaten bread and after he had drunk, that he saddled the donkey for him, the prophet whom he had brought back. When he was gone, a lion met him on the road and killed him. And his corpse was thrown on the road, and the donkey stood by it. The lion also stood by the corpse. (1 Kings 13:23-24 NKJV)
Don't make the same mistake the man of God made in our text. He heard another word supposedly from the Lord, and he decided that the word superseded the original command. He did not stop to ask God about this new word he heard.
That must have been a very curious sight to see for anyone who walked along that road. A dead man killed by a lion, with the lion standing on one side of his body and the dead man's donkey standing on the other side of the body. During the times of the Old Testament, the lion was a symbol of Judah. It was also a symbol of power and truth. The donkey was considered an unclean animal that symbolized many things such as stubbornness and pride.
The lion and the donkey represented the two choices he had when he heard the word of the Lord. When the man of God was following God's command, he was walking as a lion in power and truth. When the man of God doubted and became disobedient he no longer walked as a lion instead he rode on the donkey of stubbornness and pride.
The lion and the donkey represented the two choices he had when he heard the word of the Lord. When the man of God was following God's command, he was walking as a lion in power and truth. When the man of God doubted and became disobedient he no longer walked as a lion instead he rode on the donkey of stubbornness and pride. Now they stood on either side of the dead man of God, symbols of the choices available to him and his dead body was the evidence of the wrong choice he made.
The Man of God
Sunday – July 7, 2013
Now behold, there came a man of God from Judah to Bethel by the word of the Lord, while Jeroboam was standing by the altar to burn incense. He cried against the altar by the word of the Lord, and said, “O altar, altar, thus says the Lord, ‘Behold, a son shall be born to the house of David, Josiah by name; and on you he shall sacrifice the priests of the high places who burn incense on you, and human bones shall be burned on you.’” Then he gave a sign the same day, saying, “This is the sign which the Lord has spoken, ‘Behold, the altar shall be split apart and the ashes which are on it shall be poured out.’” Now when the king heard the saying of the man of God, which he cried against the altar in Bethel, Jeroboam stretched out his hand from the altar, saying, "Seize him.” But his hand which he stretched out against him dried up, so that he could not draw it back to himself. (1 Kings 13:1-4 NASB)
The story in chapter 13 of 1 Kings is about a man of God who hears the word of the Lord. He received a command from God and sets out to perform his task. His mission starts out well but ends in disaster. The man of God starts in obedience but ends in disobedience.
In the beginning of the Bible, we learned what resulted from the disobedience of a man of God. If you read and study this chapter you will come to realize that we always need to obey God.
When this man of God obeyed the Lord, his ministry was successful. He would witness miracle after miracle. When he obeyed
God, he had no fear to face evil or bad people.
When this man of God believed and obeyed what he heard from the false prophet that twisted the word that he received from God, this man of God was killed by a lion on his way home. He did not reach his destiny because of his disobedience to the command of God.
Sunday – July 7, 2013
Now behold, there came a man of God from Judah to Bethel by the word of the Lord, while Jeroboam was standing by the altar to burn incense. He cried against the altar by the word of the Lord, and said, “O altar, altar, thus says the Lord, ‘Behold, a son shall be born to the house of David, Josiah by name; and on you he shall sacrifice the priests of the high places who burn incense on you, and human bones shall be burned on you.’” Then he gave a sign the same day, saying, “This is the sign which the Lord has spoken, ‘Behold, the altar shall be split apart and the ashes which are on it shall be poured out.’” Now when the king heard the saying of the man of God, which he cried against the altar in Bethel, Jeroboam stretched out his hand from the altar, saying, "Seize him.” But his hand which he stretched out against him dried up, so that he could not draw it back to himself. (1 Kings 13:1-4 NASB)
The story in chapter 13 of 1 Kings is about a man of God who hears the word of the Lord. He received a command from God and sets out to perform his task. His mission starts out well but ends in disaster. The man of God starts in obedience but ends in disobedience.
In the beginning of the Bible, we learned what resulted from the disobedience of a man of God. If you read and study this chapter you will come to realize that we always need to obey God.
When this man of God obeyed the Lord, his ministry was successful. He would witness miracle after miracle. When he obeyed
God, he had no fear to face evil or bad people.
When this man of God believed and obeyed what he heard from the false prophet that twisted the word that he received from God, this man of God was killed by a lion on his way home. He did not reach his destiny because of his disobedience to the command of God.
One Thing is Needed: A Deeper Life with Christ
Sunday – June 30, 2013
Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42 NKJV)
Mary was doing what she was made for. We were all made to worship Jesus. It is in worship where you will meet Him, where He
becomes the center of your attention. The best service is the one you don't remember because all your attention was on God.
Notice that Mary was sitting, she was giving Jesus quality time. Worship cannot be rushed. If we truly want a deeper life in Jesus we must give Him a lot of time in worship-- more than a one hour service a week.
Our time in the church is limited; can you give Jesus quality time at home? Not just praying for things but speaking to Him,
telling Him that you love Him.
You can have quality time with Jesus in the church, even if the time is limited. Use the songs to speak to Jesus, to take
your eyes off your surroundings. Think of Him only. Don't let the things around you distract you from Him. Pray to Jesus before service rather than chatting with others: be Mary, not Martha.
Sunday – June 30, 2013
Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42 NKJV)
Mary was doing what she was made for. We were all made to worship Jesus. It is in worship where you will meet Him, where He
becomes the center of your attention. The best service is the one you don't remember because all your attention was on God.
Notice that Mary was sitting, she was giving Jesus quality time. Worship cannot be rushed. If we truly want a deeper life in Jesus we must give Him a lot of time in worship-- more than a one hour service a week.
Our time in the church is limited; can you give Jesus quality time at home? Not just praying for things but speaking to Him,
telling Him that you love Him.
You can have quality time with Jesus in the church, even if the time is limited. Use the songs to speak to Jesus, to take
your eyes off your surroundings. Think of Him only. Don't let the things around you distract you from Him. Pray to Jesus before service rather than chatting with others: be Mary, not Martha.
The God of Peace will Sanctify You Completely
Sunday – June 23, 2013
Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NKJV)
The very God of peace who is the author, the giver, and the Prince of Peace-- may that very God, sanctify you wholly. Leave no more evil in your hearts as His command to resist evil in your conduct calls for. The word “wholly” means in all intents and purposes, “so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 5:21).
The word “sanctify” means to separate. We are to separate ourselves not only from our past sins but from our sin as a principle of life. We are not to try to improve our unholy condition, but we are to simply put off the old life.
Sanctification means dedication: set apart to be the property of another. We offer ourselves to God for His absolute ownership, that He may possess us as His peculiar property, prepare us for His purpose and work His holy and perfect will within us.
Sanctification also means filling, that Christ Himself would be the substance and supply of our new spiritual life and fill us with His own Spirit and holiness. Even our will must be purified and totally fixed on Him. Our purity must be imparting of His life, our peace of His peace within us, and our love, the love of God shed abroad in our hearts.
Sunday – June 23, 2013
Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NKJV)
The very God of peace who is the author, the giver, and the Prince of Peace-- may that very God, sanctify you wholly. Leave no more evil in your hearts as His command to resist evil in your conduct calls for. The word “wholly” means in all intents and purposes, “so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 5:21).
The word “sanctify” means to separate. We are to separate ourselves not only from our past sins but from our sin as a principle of life. We are not to try to improve our unholy condition, but we are to simply put off the old life.
Sanctification means dedication: set apart to be the property of another. We offer ourselves to God for His absolute ownership, that He may possess us as His peculiar property, prepare us for His purpose and work His holy and perfect will within us.
Sanctification also means filling, that Christ Himself would be the substance and supply of our new spiritual life and fill us with His own Spirit and holiness. Even our will must be purified and totally fixed on Him. Our purity must be imparting of His life, our peace of His peace within us, and our love, the love of God shed abroad in our hearts.
I Bear the Mark of Jesus Christ
Sunday – June 16, 2013
From now on let no man trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. (Galatians 6:17 NKJV)
This is the most impressive statement in all of Paul's writings concerning himself and manifold sufferings for Christ. He stated that “(he bears) in (his) body the marks of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
The marks he bear in his body are there for proof of his suffering and relation to Christ, as indeed crucified with Him. The Greek word for “mark” is “brand,” which is the mark that a slave of a Roman lord is given. Every slave had the brand of his master burned permanently into his flesh. It was a mark of intense suffering that could never be erased. Worse than these, it was a mark of humiliation, the mark of a slave.
Paul spoke to himself as a bond slave of Jesus Christ. The sufferings and persecution for Christ, mark him as a slave to Christ. Do you bear the mark of our Savior? Do you bear in your body the death of our Lord Jesus Christ? If you do not, there is something wrong, for true disciples of Christ are inseparable from suffering.
Sunday – June 16, 2013
From now on let no man trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. (Galatians 6:17 NKJV)
This is the most impressive statement in all of Paul's writings concerning himself and manifold sufferings for Christ. He stated that “(he bears) in (his) body the marks of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
The marks he bear in his body are there for proof of his suffering and relation to Christ, as indeed crucified with Him. The Greek word for “mark” is “brand,” which is the mark that a slave of a Roman lord is given. Every slave had the brand of his master burned permanently into his flesh. It was a mark of intense suffering that could never be erased. Worse than these, it was a mark of humiliation, the mark of a slave.
Paul spoke to himself as a bond slave of Jesus Christ. The sufferings and persecution for Christ, mark him as a slave to Christ. Do you bear the mark of our Savior? Do you bear in your body the death of our Lord Jesus Christ? If you do not, there is something wrong, for true disciples of Christ are inseparable from suffering.
Blessed is the Man Who Fears God
Sunday - June 9, 2013
Blessed is everyone who fears The Lord, who walks in His ways. When you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the heart of your house, your children like olive plants all around your table. Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears The Lord. (Psalm 128:1-4 NKJV)
Solomon the wise king once said, "the fear of The Lord is the foundation of wisdom" and continues that "the fear of The Lord is to hate evil, pride, arrogance an evil style, and perverted speech I despise.” The wisdom that king Solomon speaks of is to understand what is right, true and good, and understanding what is bad and evil. That's the reason why he stated in his proverb to hate all evil ways because he understand the consequences of doing evil.
In verse 2 the psalmist says, "when you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy", it means that you will enjoy the fruit of your labor, and the fruits of labor is the result of trusting God and putting in hard work. For him it paid off so he assures us that our hard work will pay off in the end. It was the same with God when He saw everything that He had made; it was very good, He enjoyed and loved it. In other words, God rejoiced.
In our text, the man who fears God and is blessed is an earthly father, has a wife and children. If you observe verse 3, "the wife shall be a fruitful vine". Fruitful vine produce food, wealth, pleasure and all good things to those who have a vineyard.
Another blessing this man (father) who fears God is that his children will be like olive plants; olive plants planted in the yard of a house provide shade to protect the house, fresh air and make the house beautiful.
Sunday - June 9, 2013
Blessed is everyone who fears The Lord, who walks in His ways. When you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the heart of your house, your children like olive plants all around your table. Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears The Lord. (Psalm 128:1-4 NKJV)
Solomon the wise king once said, "the fear of The Lord is the foundation of wisdom" and continues that "the fear of The Lord is to hate evil, pride, arrogance an evil style, and perverted speech I despise.” The wisdom that king Solomon speaks of is to understand what is right, true and good, and understanding what is bad and evil. That's the reason why he stated in his proverb to hate all evil ways because he understand the consequences of doing evil.
In verse 2 the psalmist says, "when you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy", it means that you will enjoy the fruit of your labor, and the fruits of labor is the result of trusting God and putting in hard work. For him it paid off so he assures us that our hard work will pay off in the end. It was the same with God when He saw everything that He had made; it was very good, He enjoyed and loved it. In other words, God rejoiced.
In our text, the man who fears God and is blessed is an earthly father, has a wife and children. If you observe verse 3, "the wife shall be a fruitful vine". Fruitful vine produce food, wealth, pleasure and all good things to those who have a vineyard.
Another blessing this man (father) who fears God is that his children will be like olive plants; olive plants planted in the yard of a house provide shade to protect the house, fresh air and make the house beautiful.
Genuine Faith
Sunday – June 2, 2013
“When I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” (2 Timothy 1:5 NKJV)
Genuine faith comes from good habit, not routine. Discipline is good because we are disciples but if we create a routine, we can lose the faith connection. It's human nature to find systems in life but if we allow routine to lead us in our faith, we become religious.
“The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk.” (1 Timothy 1:5-6 NIV) We all have the tendency to sing songs but not worship, give a donation but not a worship to God with our offerings, read some versed in the Bible but not let the word speak to us-- we even volunteer but do not serve.
Genuine faith comes reading and hearing the word of God. The words of God are described as bread, water and breath. Many Christians are malnourished, dehydrated and oxygen deprived when it comes to God's word.
Don't let the Bible become your emergency guide only, don't forget the place that the word of God deserves in our life. “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8 NKJV)
Sunday – June 2, 2013
“When I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” (2 Timothy 1:5 NKJV)
Genuine faith comes from good habit, not routine. Discipline is good because we are disciples but if we create a routine, we can lose the faith connection. It's human nature to find systems in life but if we allow routine to lead us in our faith, we become religious.
“The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk.” (1 Timothy 1:5-6 NIV) We all have the tendency to sing songs but not worship, give a donation but not a worship to God with our offerings, read some versed in the Bible but not let the word speak to us-- we even volunteer but do not serve.
Genuine faith comes reading and hearing the word of God. The words of God are described as bread, water and breath. Many Christians are malnourished, dehydrated and oxygen deprived when it comes to God's word.
Don't let the Bible become your emergency guide only, don't forget the place that the word of God deserves in our life. “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8 NKJV)
The Value of Knowing Christ
Sunday – May 26, 2013
But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.... that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death (Philippians 3:7,8,10 NKJV)
In order to know God, Paul says, “whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted loss for the sake of Christ” (verse 7). Paul had to be willing to turn his back on his human accomplishments in order to gain the knowledge of Christ. He continues on to say “more than that (he counts) all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Jesus Christ (our) Lord” (verse 8). Paul uses the present tense verb “count,” indicating that this is occurring in his life at the time of his writing. This shows us that even after the moment of his salvation, he continues to put the things of the world far below his priority of knowing Jesus Christ. This is the example of sanctification where what started at the cross with salvation continues to influence the way we live. Knowing Christ should be a Christian's number one priority.
Paul longed to know Christ and the power of His resurrection. This power is the same force that brought Christ out of the grave. Every believer in Christ has been resurrected, for we died in Him, we are buried in Him, but that doesn't necessarily mean that we understand such resurrection. Paul said that he wanted to know what it was like to live a resurrected life, to no longer be in the bondage of the flesh and to have victory over sin. Knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection means that you live a resurrected life yourself.
Sunday – May 26, 2013
But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.... that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death (Philippians 3:7,8,10 NKJV)
In order to know God, Paul says, “whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted loss for the sake of Christ” (verse 7). Paul had to be willing to turn his back on his human accomplishments in order to gain the knowledge of Christ. He continues on to say “more than that (he counts) all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Jesus Christ (our) Lord” (verse 8). Paul uses the present tense verb “count,” indicating that this is occurring in his life at the time of his writing. This shows us that even after the moment of his salvation, he continues to put the things of the world far below his priority of knowing Jesus Christ. This is the example of sanctification where what started at the cross with salvation continues to influence the way we live. Knowing Christ should be a Christian's number one priority.
Paul longed to know Christ and the power of His resurrection. This power is the same force that brought Christ out of the grave. Every believer in Christ has been resurrected, for we died in Him, we are buried in Him, but that doesn't necessarily mean that we understand such resurrection. Paul said that he wanted to know what it was like to live a resurrected life, to no longer be in the bondage of the flesh and to have victory over sin. Knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection means that you live a resurrected life yourself.
What's in Your Hand?
Sunday – May 19, 2013
Then Moses answered and said, “But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, ‘The Lord has not appeared to you.’” So the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A rod.” (Exodus 4:1-2 NKJV)
God saved you for a purpose, not only to worship Him but to use you to bring out the lost from their slavery of sin. For our God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
The Lord said, “I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt... Come now therefore and I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” (Exodus 3:7 & Exodus 3:10)
Maybe you are like Moses and make a lot of reasons or scapegoats to not go where God wants you to go or do what He wants you to do. He chose you because He knows you are capable; you have the resources to do the task.
Some say, “I don't know what to do; I don't have any special talent to give.” Moses said the same thing pretty much when God spoke to him at the burning bush. “I am nobody.”
God responded to Moses with a question, “What's in your hand?” For Moses it was a staff, a simple stick but it became one of the greatest supernatural weapon in human history.
When you really surrender to God what's in your hand, it doesn't matter how simple it is, He will use it in a great way so that people who are enslaved by Satan may find freedom.
Then Moses answered and said, “But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, ‘The Lord has not appeared to you.’” So the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A rod.” (Exodus 4:1-2 NKJV)
God saved you for a purpose, not only to worship Him but to use you to bring out the lost from their slavery of sin. For our God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
The Lord said, “I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt... Come now therefore and I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” (Exodus 3:7 & Exodus 3:10)
Maybe you are like Moses and make a lot of reasons or scapegoats to not go where God wants you to go or do what He wants you to do. He chose you because He knows you are capable; you have the resources to do the task.
Some say, “I don't know what to do; I don't have any special talent to give.” Moses said the same thing pretty much when God spoke to him at the burning bush. “I am nobody.”
God responded to Moses with a question, “What's in your hand?” For Moses it was a staff, a simple stick but it became one of the greatest supernatural weapon in human history.
When you really surrender to God what's in your hand, it doesn't matter how simple it is, He will use it in a great way so that people who are enslaved by Satan may find freedom.
If the Lord Wills, We Will Live
Sunday – May 12, 2013
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”; 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. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. (James 4:13-16 NKJV)
When we say “if the Lord wills, we will live,” God teaches us that the duration of our lives is in His hands. He alone governs how long we will live. He is ultimately in control of life and death. We do not know how long our vapor like life will linger in the air but God knows because it is His decision. What James is trying to explain in this passage is that this view of life and God should shape our mindset and the way we talk.
In Acts 18:21, Paul left Ephesus and said “I will return to you again if God will's” and in 1 Corinthians 4:19, he writes “I will come to you soon if the Lord wills.” For most of Paul's life, he did not know if the next city might be his burial place. That was in the hand of God, and so are our lives as well. God decides how long we live and when we die. James' point is that God desires that truth, that reality, to shape our mindset, our attitude and our words. He desires that truth to be known and spoken about; He wants it to be part of the substance of our conversations. It forms a true view of Himself to be known, believed, embraced, cherished and kept in the mind and spoken of when Paul wrote, “instead you ought to say.”
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”; 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. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. (James 4:13-16 NKJV)
When we say “if the Lord wills, we will live,” God teaches us that the duration of our lives is in His hands. He alone governs how long we will live. He is ultimately in control of life and death. We do not know how long our vapor like life will linger in the air but God knows because it is His decision. What James is trying to explain in this passage is that this view of life and God should shape our mindset and the way we talk.
In Acts 18:21, Paul left Ephesus and said “I will return to you again if God will's” and in 1 Corinthians 4:19, he writes “I will come to you soon if the Lord wills.” For most of Paul's life, he did not know if the next city might be his burial place. That was in the hand of God, and so are our lives as well. God decides how long we live and when we die. James' point is that God desires that truth, that reality, to shape our mindset, our attitude and our words. He desires that truth to be known and spoken about; He wants it to be part of the substance of our conversations. It forms a true view of Himself to be known, believed, embraced, cherished and kept in the mind and spoken of when Paul wrote, “instead you ought to say.”
Mom: The Light in the House
Sunday – May 5, 2013
“When I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” (2 Timothy 1:5 NKJV)
Both Lois and Eunice passed down a godly heritage. These two women gave an example to all mothers of how to raise their children to love God. Lois and Eunice were a team who raised up a man of God, Timothy, who was the apostle Paul's most trusted companion and disciple. In Acts 16:1 and 2 Timothy 1:5, we find a record of these women and what a strong commendation the apostle Paul gave them when he mentioned them in the verse above (2 Timothy 1:5 NLT) as he was talking to Timothy; Lois and Eunice were responsible for passing their faith on to the next generation.
Paul praises Lois as one who passed on the mantle of faith to both her daughter and grandson. Lois was a devout Jewish woman who had clearly instructed her daughter and grandson in the Scripture. The family lived in Lystra among people who worshiped the Greek gods, yet Lois faithfully raised her daughter to love God and helped raised her grandson to share that love. Eunice had victory over the immoral society and that victorious spirit lived on through her son. In Acts 16:1, we learn that Eunice had married a Greek man, a gentile, which meant he was an unbeliever.
The most compelling feature of the Scriptural records of Lois and Eunice is their religious influence on Timothy. Since his father is not mentioned in connection with Timothy's faith, it is apparent that these two godly women trained him to know and love God's Word. His readiness to be Paul's companion and coworker finds it roots largely in the home training and pious example given to him by Lois and Eunice. It was also from them that the young Timothy delivered his first impression of Christian truth when Paul calls to remembrance the earnest faith which first dwelt in them.
The record of Timothy demonstrates the value of positive Christian training in the home. Lois and Eunice took the responsibility to pass on their faith seriously and, as a result, raised up a man to become a servant of Christ. Paul reminded Timothy that “from childhood (Timothy had) known the Scriptures, which are able to make (him) wise for salvation which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:16). This is proof that Timothy learned scriptures from his mom: the light in the house.
“When I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” (2 Timothy 1:5 NKJV)
Both Lois and Eunice passed down a godly heritage. These two women gave an example to all mothers of how to raise their children to love God. Lois and Eunice were a team who raised up a man of God, Timothy, who was the apostle Paul's most trusted companion and disciple. In Acts 16:1 and 2 Timothy 1:5, we find a record of these women and what a strong commendation the apostle Paul gave them when he mentioned them in the verse above (2 Timothy 1:5 NLT) as he was talking to Timothy; Lois and Eunice were responsible for passing their faith on to the next generation.
Paul praises Lois as one who passed on the mantle of faith to both her daughter and grandson. Lois was a devout Jewish woman who had clearly instructed her daughter and grandson in the Scripture. The family lived in Lystra among people who worshiped the Greek gods, yet Lois faithfully raised her daughter to love God and helped raised her grandson to share that love. Eunice had victory over the immoral society and that victorious spirit lived on through her son. In Acts 16:1, we learn that Eunice had married a Greek man, a gentile, which meant he was an unbeliever.
The most compelling feature of the Scriptural records of Lois and Eunice is their religious influence on Timothy. Since his father is not mentioned in connection with Timothy's faith, it is apparent that these two godly women trained him to know and love God's Word. His readiness to be Paul's companion and coworker finds it roots largely in the home training and pious example given to him by Lois and Eunice. It was also from them that the young Timothy delivered his first impression of Christian truth when Paul calls to remembrance the earnest faith which first dwelt in them.
The record of Timothy demonstrates the value of positive Christian training in the home. Lois and Eunice took the responsibility to pass on their faith seriously and, as a result, raised up a man to become a servant of Christ. Paul reminded Timothy that “from childhood (Timothy had) known the Scriptures, which are able to make (him) wise for salvation which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:16). This is proof that Timothy learned scriptures from his mom: the light in the house.
The Flaming Arrows of Evil
Sunday – April 28, 2013
"Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one." (Ephesians 6:16 NKJV)
Have you ever been under spiritual attack? Have you ever had your mind filled with evil thoughts, perhaps even blasphemous thoughts? Have you been engaged in prayer and found yourself bombarded by thoughts, notions and ideas from every direction that interfere with your concentration on God, on worshiping, prayer and thanksgiving?
Be prepared against satanic attacks which, at times, can be unusually fierce and destructive.
What are these flaming darts of the evil one? They are the schemes of Satan. These flaming arrows come upon us in various forms including evil or filthy thoughts, lustful imagination, or an unforgiving attitude. They suddenly flash in your mind in out of context with your current thoughts and actions.
Flaming arrows are thoughts that convey doubts or feeings of despair regarding our Christian life. These fiery darts may come as an attack on your salvation experience. They may come in a form of sudden fear, anxieties, panic, a dull feeling as if nothing is right.
Satan enjoys the realm of our imagination. He can conjure up scenes, depict events and make things seem real, as if they were taking place right through our physical eyes. He communicates these thoughts to us which in turn produce these feelings.
The reason the devil attacks you is to cause you to doubt Jesus Christ. You will realize it is the devil at work when you begin to think, “how can I think these thoughts or feel this way if I am a true Christian? Can I really be a Christian if I think like this?” This is exactly what the devil wants you to think. Satan doesn't want you to enjoy the eternal unchanging position in Christ Jesus.
To overcome these flaming arrows of the evil one, you must take the shield of faith with which you will be able to “quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.” You will not be able to do this by your own strength; they are spiritual conflicts and battles that must be fought on those grounds.
"Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one." (Ephesians 6:16 NKJV)
Have you ever been under spiritual attack? Have you ever had your mind filled with evil thoughts, perhaps even blasphemous thoughts? Have you been engaged in prayer and found yourself bombarded by thoughts, notions and ideas from every direction that interfere with your concentration on God, on worshiping, prayer and thanksgiving?
Be prepared against satanic attacks which, at times, can be unusually fierce and destructive.
What are these flaming darts of the evil one? They are the schemes of Satan. These flaming arrows come upon us in various forms including evil or filthy thoughts, lustful imagination, or an unforgiving attitude. They suddenly flash in your mind in out of context with your current thoughts and actions.
Flaming arrows are thoughts that convey doubts or feeings of despair regarding our Christian life. These fiery darts may come as an attack on your salvation experience. They may come in a form of sudden fear, anxieties, panic, a dull feeling as if nothing is right.
Satan enjoys the realm of our imagination. He can conjure up scenes, depict events and make things seem real, as if they were taking place right through our physical eyes. He communicates these thoughts to us which in turn produce these feelings.
The reason the devil attacks you is to cause you to doubt Jesus Christ. You will realize it is the devil at work when you begin to think, “how can I think these thoughts or feel this way if I am a true Christian? Can I really be a Christian if I think like this?” This is exactly what the devil wants you to think. Satan doesn't want you to enjoy the eternal unchanging position in Christ Jesus.
To overcome these flaming arrows of the evil one, you must take the shield of faith with which you will be able to “quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.” You will not be able to do this by your own strength; they are spiritual conflicts and battles that must be fought on those grounds.
Love of Many Shall Wax Cold
Sunday – April 21, 2013
Why did Jesus Christ forewarn us that during our time, many people, even in the church, will become calloused, hard and unsympathetic? Will you be one of those who will let your your love grow cold?
In the Olivet Prophecy, Jesus foretold the world-shaking events leading up to His return, that the worldwide hate would lead to wars, famines, pestilences and widespread earthquakes.
Then Jesus sounded a fearful warning: "All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." (Matthew 24:8-12)
Have you taken this warning from your Savior personally? Have you made an inventory of your life lately to be sure you are not guilty of this charge?
Christ also solemnly promised to those who overcome, “but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)
Speaking of His soon return, Jesus gave another warning, "But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder..." (Matthew 24:48-51)
It is possible for a servant of God to get careless and begin smiting his fellow servants with his tongue, one of the crudest kind of injury. This warning is very explicit in pointing out the lack of true, deep love which some will exhibit toward their brethren.
Why did Jesus Christ forewarn us that during our time, many people, even in the church, will become calloused, hard and unsympathetic? Will you be one of those who will let your your love grow cold?
In the Olivet Prophecy, Jesus foretold the world-shaking events leading up to His return, that the worldwide hate would lead to wars, famines, pestilences and widespread earthquakes.
Then Jesus sounded a fearful warning: "All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." (Matthew 24:8-12)
Have you taken this warning from your Savior personally? Have you made an inventory of your life lately to be sure you are not guilty of this charge?
Christ also solemnly promised to those who overcome, “but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)
Speaking of His soon return, Jesus gave another warning, "But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder..." (Matthew 24:48-51)
It is possible for a servant of God to get careless and begin smiting his fellow servants with his tongue, one of the crudest kind of injury. This warning is very explicit in pointing out the lack of true, deep love which some will exhibit toward their brethren.
Example to the Believers
Sunday – April 14, 2013
"Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12 NKJV)
One of the constant duties of a believer of Christ, no matter what his or her age may be, is to be an example. We should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see others do. We should set a standard for them that we wish them to imitate. Each of us can start today by being a good role model. Apostle Paul said, “follow my example as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV).
Our example should help others live a better future. The model we show should make others shape a good image of their own that they can become examples to others as well.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17 NIV). The example that they copy from us gives them the notion to live a better life.
As followers of Christ, our goal in our everyday lives is to show a good example to others. Let us pray that our God opens the eyes of the people around us that they will see the good in us for them to copy.
"Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12 NKJV)
One of the constant duties of a believer of Christ, no matter what his or her age may be, is to be an example. We should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see others do. We should set a standard for them that we wish them to imitate. Each of us can start today by being a good role model. Apostle Paul said, “follow my example as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV).
Our example should help others live a better future. The model we show should make others shape a good image of their own that they can become examples to others as well.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17 NIV). The example that they copy from us gives them the notion to live a better life.
As followers of Christ, our goal in our everyday lives is to show a good example to others. Let us pray that our God opens the eyes of the people around us that they will see the good in us for them to copy.
Our Advocate, Jesus Christ!
Sunday – April 7, 2013
“My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” (1 John 2:1 NKJV)
Excerpts from Pastor Joseph Prince:
If you want a glimpse of some real-life celestial drama, picture this: God the Father sits as Judge of the universe with Jesus Christ as His right hand, who is not only your High Priest, but also your Advocate.
When your accuser, the devil, comes along and says, “You have done this wrong and you have not done that right, ” Jesus says, “Father, the devil is right, but My blood has paid for what the devil is accusing this person of.
Then the devil adds, “You have also not been reading the Bible or praying enough, and this morning you told a lie.” Again, Jesus will say, Father, the devil has indeed reported correctly, but My blood has paid for all these failures.”
God the Father will then slam the gavel on the sound block and say, “Case dismissed! Next!”
You need to understand that God can justly declare you innocent and completely righteous because Jesus took your place at the cross, and shed His blood to pay for your sins and condemnation (2 Corinthians 5:21). God is simply being faithful and just to what Christ has done.
When Jesus rose from the grave, He rose as your Advocate, your lawyer. But unlike most earthly lawyers who take on cases because it serves their interests and wallets, He is a lawyer who is personally interested in your happiness and well-being. Unlike earthly lawyers who are not caught up in the feelings and sufferings of their clients, Jesus went through great sufferings for you and paid with His own life so that you can receive all the blessings of God.
As your advocate, Jesus ensures that what He died and suffered to give you, you get! In heaven He defends and represents you to ensure that the healing, wholeness, protection and other blessings that He died to give you are enforced in your life. Beloved, have confidence in and rest in the ability of your Advocate!
“My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” (1 John 2:1 NKJV)
Excerpts from Pastor Joseph Prince:
If you want a glimpse of some real-life celestial drama, picture this: God the Father sits as Judge of the universe with Jesus Christ as His right hand, who is not only your High Priest, but also your Advocate.
When your accuser, the devil, comes along and says, “You have done this wrong and you have not done that right, ” Jesus says, “Father, the devil is right, but My blood has paid for what the devil is accusing this person of.
Then the devil adds, “You have also not been reading the Bible or praying enough, and this morning you told a lie.” Again, Jesus will say, Father, the devil has indeed reported correctly, but My blood has paid for all these failures.”
God the Father will then slam the gavel on the sound block and say, “Case dismissed! Next!”
You need to understand that God can justly declare you innocent and completely righteous because Jesus took your place at the cross, and shed His blood to pay for your sins and condemnation (2 Corinthians 5:21). God is simply being faithful and just to what Christ has done.
When Jesus rose from the grave, He rose as your Advocate, your lawyer. But unlike most earthly lawyers who take on cases because it serves their interests and wallets, He is a lawyer who is personally interested in your happiness and well-being. Unlike earthly lawyers who are not caught up in the feelings and sufferings of their clients, Jesus went through great sufferings for you and paid with His own life so that you can receive all the blessings of God.
As your advocate, Jesus ensures that what He died and suffered to give you, you get! In heaven He defends and represents you to ensure that the healing, wholeness, protection and other blessings that He died to give you are enforced in your life. Beloved, have confidence in and rest in the ability of your Advocate!
Now is the Time
Pastor Renie De Guzman
Sunday - March 31, 2013
But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. (Romans 5:8 NLT)
Now is the time for us to understand that Jesus is a friend who knows all your faults and still loves you anyway.
I just want to remind you that Matthew (see Mark 2:14) was a tax collector, a hated man among the Jews for helping Rome tighten its occupation. Even so... Jesus loved Matthew and called him eventually as one of His disciples.
Peter had a quick temper; his emotions were easily triggered by circumstances. He denied knowing Jesus three times during the most critical hours of Jesus' life on earth. Even so... Jesus loved Peter and empowered him to lead the early church.
Saul "made havoc" of the church in Jerusalem, leading raids on the homes of Christians and imprisoning the devout. He consented to the death of Stephen, and was one of the official witnesses of his persecution. He even requested letters of authority to extend the persecution of the church to other cities, including Damascus. Even so... Jesus loved Saul, appeared to him in a light from heaven, and called him to repentance.
No matter what a person may have done-- no matter their character flaws, Jesus loves them. He loved them to the point of dying on their behalf on the Cross... including dying for your enemy... the friend or family member who disappoints you or frustrates you... indeed, including you.
But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. (Romans 5:8 NLT)
Now is the time for us to understand that Jesus is a friend who knows all your faults and still loves you anyway.
I just want to remind you that Matthew (see Mark 2:14) was a tax collector, a hated man among the Jews for helping Rome tighten its occupation. Even so... Jesus loved Matthew and called him eventually as one of His disciples.
Peter had a quick temper; his emotions were easily triggered by circumstances. He denied knowing Jesus three times during the most critical hours of Jesus' life on earth. Even so... Jesus loved Peter and empowered him to lead the early church.
Saul "made havoc" of the church in Jerusalem, leading raids on the homes of Christians and imprisoning the devout. He consented to the death of Stephen, and was one of the official witnesses of his persecution. He even requested letters of authority to extend the persecution of the church to other cities, including Damascus. Even so... Jesus loved Saul, appeared to him in a light from heaven, and called him to repentance.
No matter what a person may have done-- no matter their character flaws, Jesus loves them. He loved them to the point of dying on their behalf on the Cross... including dying for your enemy... the friend or family member who disappoints you or frustrates you... indeed, including you.
The Bible (Scripture)
Sunday - March 17, 2013
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. (Joshua 1:8 NKJV)
The Bible contains the Words of God: the gift of God to all humans, for His teaching shows us the way of our eternal salvation.
During the early church, there were many times that the enemies of the church burned a lot of libraries to annihilate the Scripture. They burned a lot of books, even Scripture, but God protected His own Word.
In spite of the fact that many elected officers in the face of the earth prohibited to teach the Words of God to the public, the Words of God was still shared to the people in many ways. Today, you can read the Scripture without the book with you through iPod's, cellphones and other devices. Today, the Bible, the most ancient book, is the best selling book.
This ancient book, still existing, was used to teach people. Its words have life, because people who read it are enlightened, comforted and find peace. The teaching of the Words of God gives eternal hope, shows the way to our eternal salvation, gives strength to our inner being and make us wise to understand right and wrong.
Let's treasure, live the teaching of God, and teach people for that was His purpose for giving us His Word.
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. (Joshua 1:8 NKJV)
The Bible contains the Words of God: the gift of God to all humans, for His teaching shows us the way of our eternal salvation.
During the early church, there were many times that the enemies of the church burned a lot of libraries to annihilate the Scripture. They burned a lot of books, even Scripture, but God protected His own Word.
In spite of the fact that many elected officers in the face of the earth prohibited to teach the Words of God to the public, the Words of God was still shared to the people in many ways. Today, you can read the Scripture without the book with you through iPod's, cellphones and other devices. Today, the Bible, the most ancient book, is the best selling book.
This ancient book, still existing, was used to teach people. Its words have life, because people who read it are enlightened, comforted and find peace. The teaching of the Words of God gives eternal hope, shows the way to our eternal salvation, gives strength to our inner being and make us wise to understand right and wrong.
Let's treasure, live the teaching of God, and teach people for that was His purpose for giving us His Word.
God Has a Plan in Your Life
Sunday - February 24, 2013
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV)
Brothers and Sisters, don't be discouraged; look unto God who has a perfect plan for you. God said, "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb." Before a maker assembles an object, in his mind, he already has a purpose for that very object. For example, he could plan to put all his books inside a cabinet so that his books would not get lost or messed up. It is the same with you. Before our God formed you in your mother's womb, He already knew how He would use you.
David was the youngest and the eighth son of Jesse. He was just a shepherd of their sheep in the mountain. He was alone and vulnerable, yet he still took care of the sheep faithfully and with courage. His eyes were on the sheep day and night. One day, Jesse told him to bring food for his three brothers in the battlefield. He heard the summon of Goliath and fought and killed him. He ended up saving Israel and became the King.
Maybe you thought to yourself that you are the weakest or the least among the church people. But God used Gideon to judge Israel even though he was the weakest and the least among his tribe.
Stand up with your faith; be strong in the Lord; remain faithful to Him and soon you will see how God will use you.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV)
Brothers and Sisters, don't be discouraged; look unto God who has a perfect plan for you. God said, "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb." Before a maker assembles an object, in his mind, he already has a purpose for that very object. For example, he could plan to put all his books inside a cabinet so that his books would not get lost or messed up. It is the same with you. Before our God formed you in your mother's womb, He already knew how He would use you.
David was the youngest and the eighth son of Jesse. He was just a shepherd of their sheep in the mountain. He was alone and vulnerable, yet he still took care of the sheep faithfully and with courage. His eyes were on the sheep day and night. One day, Jesse told him to bring food for his three brothers in the battlefield. He heard the summon of Goliath and fought and killed him. He ended up saving Israel and became the King.
Maybe you thought to yourself that you are the weakest or the least among the church people. But God used Gideon to judge Israel even though he was the weakest and the least among his tribe.
Stand up with your faith; be strong in the Lord; remain faithful to Him and soon you will see how God will use you.
Necessity of the Death of Jesus Christ
Sunday – March 10, 2013
How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things. (Romans 10:15 NKJV)
The gospel is the message concerning Christ, the Kingdom of God and salvation. The teaching maintained to be of great importance. It is an account that describes the life of Jesus of Nazareth.
This is the message of the gospel that needs to be preached to all that they would reconcile with God.
How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things. (Romans 10:15 NKJV)
The gospel is the message concerning Christ, the Kingdom of God and salvation. The teaching maintained to be of great importance. It is an account that describes the life of Jesus of Nazareth.
- His birth that brings hope not only to the Jewish people but also to the whole world.
- His death that breaks all the curses that were consequences of the disobedience of Adam and Eve. (Ephesians 2:14-16)
- His resurrection that declares that the power of death can never withhold Him. It gives us understanding that His teaching were alive and real. (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)
- His ascension to Heaven to prepare a place for those who believe in His Name. (John 14:1-2)
- The rapture of the church, that any day from now, He comes to take His church. (John 14:3)
This is the message of the gospel that needs to be preached to all that they would reconcile with God.
Communion
Sunday – March 3, 2013
And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.” (Luke 22:19-20 NKJV)
“This do in remembrance of me.” With these words ringing in our ears, we regularly celebrate communion. As we eat the bread and drink the cup, we reflect on Christ's sacrifice and look forward to His return.
Communion is more than a memorial. Our continual participation in this powerfully symbolic ceremony molds our thinking and brings to life deeply spiritual truths in every concrete way. It shapes our identity as a people of God and provides the truly blessed assurance that we have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. The message of communion is important and deserves our full attention.
Communion is not an individualistic matter, it is a body matter. We commune as a body, we come to the Lord's table as a family. The truth is bound up in the biblical with one loaf and one cup. “Because there is one loaf.” Paul wrote that, “We who are many, are one body for we all partake in one loaf.” (1 Corinthians 10:17)
Today, as we celebrate communion, take a look around the room and consider the brothers and sisters with whom you are communing with. Evaluate your relationships with them. Drink deeply of the cup of forgiveness and thank God that Christ is coming soon to usher us into the banquet hall where we shall celebrate with all the saints in the body.
And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.” (Luke 22:19-20 NKJV)
“This do in remembrance of me.” With these words ringing in our ears, we regularly celebrate communion. As we eat the bread and drink the cup, we reflect on Christ's sacrifice and look forward to His return.
Communion is more than a memorial. Our continual participation in this powerfully symbolic ceremony molds our thinking and brings to life deeply spiritual truths in every concrete way. It shapes our identity as a people of God and provides the truly blessed assurance that we have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. The message of communion is important and deserves our full attention.
Communion is not an individualistic matter, it is a body matter. We commune as a body, we come to the Lord's table as a family. The truth is bound up in the biblical with one loaf and one cup. “Because there is one loaf.” Paul wrote that, “We who are many, are one body for we all partake in one loaf.” (1 Corinthians 10:17)
Today, as we celebrate communion, take a look around the room and consider the brothers and sisters with whom you are communing with. Evaluate your relationships with them. Drink deeply of the cup of forgiveness and thank God that Christ is coming soon to usher us into the banquet hall where we shall celebrate with all the saints in the body.
I Have Loved You with and Everlasting Love
Sunday – February 17, 2013
The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.". (Jeremiah 31:3 NKJV)
All that our Heavenly Father does is motivated by His everlasting love for us. A love that is perpetual, unending, and eternal. He has drawn us with a loving kindness that will never run out or dry up. When describing what everlasting love means; there was never a time in all of eternity when we were not loved by God.
Our Father's everlasting love has always been there and will always be there. There is nothing that can make God love us anymore than He does right now and there is nothing that we can do to make God love us any less than He already does. It is difficult for us to be able to comprehend this kind of unconditional love and acceptance.
This is why the Apostle Paul prayed in Ephesians 3:17-19, . . .“so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. ... that we may be rooted and established in love, may have power together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know this love that surpassed knowledge that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.". (Jeremiah 31:3 NKJV)
All that our Heavenly Father does is motivated by His everlasting love for us. A love that is perpetual, unending, and eternal. He has drawn us with a loving kindness that will never run out or dry up. When describing what everlasting love means; there was never a time in all of eternity when we were not loved by God.
Our Father's everlasting love has always been there and will always be there. There is nothing that can make God love us anymore than He does right now and there is nothing that we can do to make God love us any less than He already does. It is difficult for us to be able to comprehend this kind of unconditional love and acceptance.
This is why the Apostle Paul prayed in Ephesians 3:17-19, . . .“so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. ... that we may be rooted and established in love, may have power together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know this love that surpassed knowledge that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
Guard Your Heart
Sunday - February 3, 2013
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. (Proverbs 4:23 NLT)
We are commanded to guard our heart for it is extremely valuable. Things that aren't worth anything do not need to be guarded. For instance, we take our garbage out and leave it on the street at night for the garbage truck to pick it up in the morning. Within this time period, the garbage is completely unguarded. Why? Because it is worthless.
Not so with your heart; it is the essence of who you are. It is the real you, the core of your being. It is where your dreams, your desires, and passions live. It is that part of you that connects with God and other people.
Just like your physical body, if your heart (your spiritual heart) dies, so does your leadership. As King Solomon said in the verse mentioned above: “above all else,” make it your priority to guard your heart.
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. (Proverbs 4:23 NLT)
We are commanded to guard our heart for it is extremely valuable. Things that aren't worth anything do not need to be guarded. For instance, we take our garbage out and leave it on the street at night for the garbage truck to pick it up in the morning. Within this time period, the garbage is completely unguarded. Why? Because it is worthless.
Not so with your heart; it is the essence of who you are. It is the real you, the core of your being. It is where your dreams, your desires, and passions live. It is that part of you that connects with God and other people.
Just like your physical body, if your heart (your spiritual heart) dies, so does your leadership. As King Solomon said in the verse mentioned above: “above all else,” make it your priority to guard your heart.
Guard Your Heart by Hearing the Voice of the Lord
Sunday Servi - February 10, 2013
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. (Revelation 3:20 NKJV)
In John 10, it says that the sheep knows his voice and comes to him... they follow him because they know his voice. They won't follow a stranger; they will run from him, because they know his voice." It is the Shepherd that leads the sheep in the paths of righteousness.
If a wise child listens to the advice of a godly parent and never forgets that counsel, he or she will be safe and guarded from the pitfalls of the demons.
Psalms 29 states that "the voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord breaks the cedar, yes, the cedar of Lebanon." Cedar is the pride of Lebanon, so cedar is pride; the voice of the Lord breaks our own ego and pride. The voice of the Lord divides the flames of fire. If you hear the voice of the Lord, all the fiery attacks of the devil will never touch nor hurt you, for the time their attacks come near, our God divides those attacks. They will pass over and and never hurt you.
So, if you hear His voice, harden not your heart.
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. (Revelation 3:20 NKJV)
In John 10, it says that the sheep knows his voice and comes to him... they follow him because they know his voice. They won't follow a stranger; they will run from him, because they know his voice." It is the Shepherd that leads the sheep in the paths of righteousness.
If a wise child listens to the advice of a godly parent and never forgets that counsel, he or she will be safe and guarded from the pitfalls of the demons.
Psalms 29 states that "the voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord breaks the cedar, yes, the cedar of Lebanon." Cedar is the pride of Lebanon, so cedar is pride; the voice of the Lord breaks our own ego and pride. The voice of the Lord divides the flames of fire. If you hear the voice of the Lord, all the fiery attacks of the devil will never touch nor hurt you, for the time their attacks come near, our God divides those attacks. They will pass over and and never hurt you.
So, if you hear His voice, harden not your heart.
Abundance, Power and Strength in the Presence of Jesus
Pastor J. Benny Dumaboc
After these things Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and in this way He showed Himself: Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.”
They said to him, “We are going with you also.” They went out and immediately got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing. But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Then Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any food?”
They answered Him, “No.”
And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.
Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea. But the other disciples came in the little boat (for they were not far from land, but about two hundred cubits), dragging the net with fish. Then, as soon as they had come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have just caught.”
Simon Peter went up and dragged the net to land, full of large fish, one hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not broken. (John 21:1-11 NKJV)
Our God is a God of sufficiency and not a God of deficiency because He gives us abundance... power... and strength...
- When you live your life in the presence of God, life is much easier, fulfilling and satisfying.