St. Augustine famously said, “The Old Testament is the New Testament concealed, the New Testament is the Old Testament revealed.”
The most important principle of interpretation that Martin Luther used was “Scripture interprets Scripture.” The tools for properly interpreting the Bible are contained in the Bible itself.
Luther wrote, “The Bible is the manger in which Christ is laid.”
Accurate interpretation depends on a relationship with the Triune God. Jesus Christ is called the Word of God. Jesus claimed that all Scripture is a testimony to Himself in Luke 24:44. He helps me when I ask His help to understand difficult verses. He unlocks Scripture. He reveals God the Father’s intended meaning of the Scripture via His Spirit of Truth – the Holy Spirit. I use Enduring Word Commentary by David Guzik. I listen to Christ-centered and Biblically based preachers such as Adrian Rodgers (Love Worth Finding) and David Jeremiah (Turning Point).
Prayer and Bible study go hand in hand. Our receptors of information need to be guided by the Spirit of Truth. The Sadducees were steeped in knowledge of the Old Testament, yet Jesus told them in Matthew 22:29, “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” They had God standing in front of them in the person of Jesus Christ, yet they would not accept His interpretation of the Bible.
We need the Author’s help. We need His interpretation.
“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person.” [1]
The prophets mentioned above, and Jesus Christ spoke God’s Word at His direction. The Holy Spirit inspired the prophets and anointed Jesus. So, we need the Holy Spirit to help us interpret the Word of God. We cannot solely lean on academic reasoning or what other reputable people have said about it.
“We have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” [2]
We know the Holy Spirit spoke via the prophets because they accurately described many details about the coming Messiah. Example of this are found in: Psalm 22:16-18, Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; 11:1; 53:1-12, Daniel 7:13-14; Hosea 11:1, Micah 5:2, and Zechariah 9:9; 11:12-13. These ten passages are ten examples of 351 prophecies that describe the first coming of Christ.
God is still speaking today through His Word by His Holy Spirit. The question is, are we listening? Are we praying about what He has said? Are we asking Him to help us interpret His Word? Are we sharing what we learn with others?
[1] Hebrews 1:1-3
[2] 2 Peter 1:19-21
Please pray that God will use 21st Century Jeremiah publications to help prophetic speakers to accurately align their messages with the Scriptures even as the prophet Jeremiah sought to do in his day.
Tuesday, June 20, 2023
Monday, June 19, 2023
The Glory of God’s Presence
Jacob and his large family were on their way to Bethel. Bethel means “House of El” or “House of God,” Hebrew: בֵּית אֵל. He told his family:
“Put away the idols that are among you, purify yourselves, and change your garments. Then let us arise and go up to Bethel; and I will make an altar there to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and has been with me in the way which I have gone.” [1]
Jacob wanted to come into God’s presence in a holy fashion, namely, stripped of all that competed for God’s glory in their lives. Let us get rid of our idols. Let us purify ourselves. Let us put on clean clothes. Let us give God reverence. This God, our God, delivered me in the day of my distress and His presence has been with me.
His family followed his instruction and received a blessing from God:
“As they journeyed, the terror of God was upon the cities that were all around them, and they did not pursue the sons of Jacob.” [2]
Jacob and his family arrived at Bethel. “He built an altar there and called the place El Bethel (God of God’s House), because there, God appeared to him when he fled from the face of his brother.” [3]
Then, God appeared to Jacob again and blessed him. God changed his name from Jacob to Israel. God gave Jacob a commission to be fruitful and multiply, to produce nations and kings, and to inherit the land that He promised to Abraham and Isaac. [4]
“Jacob called the name of the place where God spoke with him, Bethel.” [5]
What a splendid example for us! Cast away your idols! Enter God’s House! Reverence the Creator of the universe who has done great things for you! How amazing it is that He loves you and knows Your name. He identifies with you! He chooses to BE with you. How marvelous! How wonderful! He who created, owns, and sustains the universe loves you.
“Thank You Heavenly Father for delivering us from distresses. You have preserved our lives. You have blessed us in so many ways. We give You reverence. Thank You for Your presence.”
[1] Genesis 35:3-4
[2] Genesis 35:5
[3] Genesis 35:7
[4] Genesis 35:8-12
[5] Genesis 35:15
“Put away the idols that are among you, purify yourselves, and change your garments. Then let us arise and go up to Bethel; and I will make an altar there to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and has been with me in the way which I have gone.” [1]
Jacob wanted to come into God’s presence in a holy fashion, namely, stripped of all that competed for God’s glory in their lives. Let us get rid of our idols. Let us purify ourselves. Let us put on clean clothes. Let us give God reverence. This God, our God, delivered me in the day of my distress and His presence has been with me.
His family followed his instruction and received a blessing from God:
“As they journeyed, the terror of God was upon the cities that were all around them, and they did not pursue the sons of Jacob.” [2]
Jacob and his family arrived at Bethel. “He built an altar there and called the place El Bethel (God of God’s House), because there, God appeared to him when he fled from the face of his brother.” [3]
Then, God appeared to Jacob again and blessed him. God changed his name from Jacob to Israel. God gave Jacob a commission to be fruitful and multiply, to produce nations and kings, and to inherit the land that He promised to Abraham and Isaac. [4]
“Jacob called the name of the place where God spoke with him, Bethel.” [5]
What a splendid example for us! Cast away your idols! Enter God’s House! Reverence the Creator of the universe who has done great things for you! How amazing it is that He loves you and knows Your name. He identifies with you! He chooses to BE with you. How marvelous! How wonderful! He who created, owns, and sustains the universe loves you.
“Thank You Heavenly Father for delivering us from distresses. You have preserved our lives. You have blessed us in so many ways. We give You reverence. Thank You for Your presence.”
[1] Genesis 35:3-4
[2] Genesis 35:5
[3] Genesis 35:7
[4] Genesis 35:8-12
[5] Genesis 35:15
Proverbs 28 Politics
Proverbs twenty-eight has good advice for politicians.
“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” [1]
The Lord’s love makes us bold. Without His love, we will shun opportunities to do what is right.
“Because of the transgression of a land, many are its princes; but by a man of understanding and knowledge right will be prolonged.” [2]
“We the people” need God and His Word to avoid excessive bureaucracy. God gives “we the people” understanding and knowledge of what is right in the Bible.
“Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but such as keep the law contend with them.” [3]
“We the people” are either praising the lawless or contending with them. May the Lord galvanize “we the people” into a movement of people guided by the light from above.
“Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all.” [4]
The Lord helps those who walk with Him to understand what is truly just.
“Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one perverse in his ways, though he be rich.” [5]
This speaks of quality not quantity. The Holy Spirit gives inner joy to integrous people. A perverse person indulges in sinful pleasures which do not provide blessings of the Holy Spirit such as genuine love, joy, and peace.
“Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.” [6]
Sometimes those who indulge in gluttonous behavior scoff at those who refuse to compromise with sin. The Lord says that keepers of the law are the ones with good discernment. The self-indulgent lifestyle yields shame for the glutton, as well as for those connected to him or her.
“Whoever causes the upright to go astray in an evil way, he himself will fall into his own pit; but the blameless will inherit good.” [7]
If anyone wants to go astray from upright ways, there is no lack of willing assistants, but the result is to fall into a horrible pit. The pit of hell is a horrific place. It is inescapable. The Bible urges us to aim for a blameless life. The blameless not only avoid the pit, but they also inherit goodness from the Lord.
“He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.” [8]
Herein is the key to good polity. Do not cover up or deny sin. Confess it to God and ask Him to transform you through faith in the mercy and grace of His Son, Jesus Christ
[1] Proverbs 28:1
[2] Proverbs 28:2
[3] Proverbs 28:4
[4] Proverbs 28:5
[5] Proverbs 28:6
[6] Proverbs 28:7
[7] Proverbs 28:10
[8] Proverbs 28:13
“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” [1]
The Lord’s love makes us bold. Without His love, we will shun opportunities to do what is right.
“Because of the transgression of a land, many are its princes; but by a man of understanding and knowledge right will be prolonged.” [2]
“We the people” need God and His Word to avoid excessive bureaucracy. God gives “we the people” understanding and knowledge of what is right in the Bible.
“Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but such as keep the law contend with them.” [3]
“We the people” are either praising the lawless or contending with them. May the Lord galvanize “we the people” into a movement of people guided by the light from above.
“Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all.” [4]
The Lord helps those who walk with Him to understand what is truly just.
“Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one perverse in his ways, though he be rich.” [5]
This speaks of quality not quantity. The Holy Spirit gives inner joy to integrous people. A perverse person indulges in sinful pleasures which do not provide blessings of the Holy Spirit such as genuine love, joy, and peace.
“Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.” [6]
Sometimes those who indulge in gluttonous behavior scoff at those who refuse to compromise with sin. The Lord says that keepers of the law are the ones with good discernment. The self-indulgent lifestyle yields shame for the glutton, as well as for those connected to him or her.
“Whoever causes the upright to go astray in an evil way, he himself will fall into his own pit; but the blameless will inherit good.” [7]
If anyone wants to go astray from upright ways, there is no lack of willing assistants, but the result is to fall into a horrible pit. The pit of hell is a horrific place. It is inescapable. The Bible urges us to aim for a blameless life. The blameless not only avoid the pit, but they also inherit goodness from the Lord.
“He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.” [8]
Herein is the key to good polity. Do not cover up or deny sin. Confess it to God and ask Him to transform you through faith in the mercy and grace of His Son, Jesus Christ
[1] Proverbs 28:1
[2] Proverbs 28:2
[3] Proverbs 28:4
[4] Proverbs 28:5
[5] Proverbs 28:6
[6] Proverbs 28:7
[7] Proverbs 28:10
[8] Proverbs 28:13
Proverbs 29 Prayers for Politicians
Good leaders yield good outcomes. God reveals methods for good outcome in Proverbs 29.
“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” [1]
The righteous govern for the benefit of the entire community, not only their own interests. When the wicked rule, lawlessness increases and freedoms diminish.
“The king establishes the land by justice, but he who receives bribes overthrows it.” [2]
A nation can expect progress when it is ruled with justice. Bribes destroy the foundations of fairness and equality before the law. It means that the rich and devious prosper.
“Scoffers set a city aflame, but wise men turn away wrath.” [3]
Scoffers make dangerous situations worse, whereas the wise calm things down.
“If a ruler pays attention to lies, all his servants become wicked.” [4]
Some use lies to influence, frighten, manipulate, or simply deceive a ruler. The wise ruler pays no attention to lies. When servants see that a ruler can be influenced by lies, it encourages them to lie. Deception is rewarded. Truth telling is discouraged. The government becomes poisonous and incompetent.
“Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but happy is he who keeps the law.” [5]
When God’s word is unavailable or rejected, people no longer have a standard greater than their own feelings or current opinions. The Bible is a guide given to us by our Creator. It tells us how to live a wise and blessed life.
“The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.” [6]
The person who trusts in the Lord avoids making bad decisions that lead to entrapment by an enemy.
“Many seek the ruler’s favor, but justice for man comes from the Lord.” [7]
“Verse 26 does not forbid seeking relief from injustice through the legal system, but it does state that one should place more faith in the Lord than in human institutions.”
Let us pray for righteousness and justice to prevail within our leaders. Let us pray that they will oppose bribery. Let us ask God to give them wisdom. Let us pray that they will listen to truth not lies. Let us ask God to reveal Himself to them and give them visions so that they will keep God’s commandments not break them. Let us pray for them to have faith in God.
[1] Proverbs 29:2
[2] Proverbs 29:4
[3] Proverbs 29:8
[4] Proverbs 29:12
[5] Proverbs 29:18
[6] Proverbs 29:25
[7] Proverbs 29:26
[Comments derived from Enduring Word Commentary]
“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” [1]
The righteous govern for the benefit of the entire community, not only their own interests. When the wicked rule, lawlessness increases and freedoms diminish.
“The king establishes the land by justice, but he who receives bribes overthrows it.” [2]
A nation can expect progress when it is ruled with justice. Bribes destroy the foundations of fairness and equality before the law. It means that the rich and devious prosper.
“Scoffers set a city aflame, but wise men turn away wrath.” [3]
Scoffers make dangerous situations worse, whereas the wise calm things down.
“If a ruler pays attention to lies, all his servants become wicked.” [4]
Some use lies to influence, frighten, manipulate, or simply deceive a ruler. The wise ruler pays no attention to lies. When servants see that a ruler can be influenced by lies, it encourages them to lie. Deception is rewarded. Truth telling is discouraged. The government becomes poisonous and incompetent.
“Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but happy is he who keeps the law.” [5]
When God’s word is unavailable or rejected, people no longer have a standard greater than their own feelings or current opinions. The Bible is a guide given to us by our Creator. It tells us how to live a wise and blessed life.
“The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.” [6]
The person who trusts in the Lord avoids making bad decisions that lead to entrapment by an enemy.
“Many seek the ruler’s favor, but justice for man comes from the Lord.” [7]
“Verse 26 does not forbid seeking relief from injustice through the legal system, but it does state that one should place more faith in the Lord than in human institutions.”
Let us pray for righteousness and justice to prevail within our leaders. Let us pray that they will oppose bribery. Let us ask God to give them wisdom. Let us pray that they will listen to truth not lies. Let us ask God to reveal Himself to them and give them visions so that they will keep God’s commandments not break them. Let us pray for them to have faith in God.
[1] Proverbs 29:2
[2] Proverbs 29:4
[3] Proverbs 29:8
[4] Proverbs 29:12
[5] Proverbs 29:18
[6] Proverbs 29:25
[7] Proverbs 29:26
[Comments derived from Enduring Word Commentary]
Friday, June 16, 2023
Paul’s Message to King Agrippa
His message...
“...Having obtained help from God to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come—that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.” [1]
His message was in line with the Hebrew Bible. He rightly discerned the focus of Scripture, namely the Messiah Jesus, who died and rose again. Paul also had a personal relationship with Christ. Paul told King Agrippa with great passion what Jesus Christ meant to him.
The words of a song recorded by Avalon well describe Paul’s love for the Lord...
“Everything to me
He's more than a story
More than words on a page of history
He's the air that I breathe
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
He's everything, everything to me.” [2]
His Challenge...
“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.” [3]
“Do you believe?”
Paul wanted everyone that he met to enjoy the blessing of knowing God and to enjoy knowing that when they died, they too could live with God forever... when they believed and confessed Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
The words of another song recorded by Bill & Glory Gaither capture the essence of Paul’s Holy Spirit empowered passion for Jesus...
“Everybody ought to know
Everybody ought to know
Everybody ought to know
Who Jesus is.” [4]
Do you know Jesus? If not, why wait another moment? Believe and Confess Jesus as your Lord and Savior today!
[1] Acts 26:22-23
[2] “Everything to Me,” Recorded by Avalon. Songwriters: Cates Chad Robert / Smith Sue C. Lyrics © New Spring Publishing, Inc.
[3] Acts 26:27
[4] Everybody Ought To Know,” Recorded by Bill & Gloria Gaither. Songwriter: Harry Loes. Lyrics © New Spring Publishing, Inc.
“...Having obtained help from God to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come—that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.” [1]
His message was in line with the Hebrew Bible. He rightly discerned the focus of Scripture, namely the Messiah Jesus, who died and rose again. Paul also had a personal relationship with Christ. Paul told King Agrippa with great passion what Jesus Christ meant to him.
The words of a song recorded by Avalon well describe Paul’s love for the Lord...
“Everything to me
He's more than a story
More than words on a page of history
He's the air that I breathe
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
He's everything, everything to me.” [2]
His Challenge...
“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.” [3]
“Do you believe?”
Paul wanted everyone that he met to enjoy the blessing of knowing God and to enjoy knowing that when they died, they too could live with God forever... when they believed and confessed Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
The words of another song recorded by Bill & Glory Gaither capture the essence of Paul’s Holy Spirit empowered passion for Jesus...
“Everybody ought to know
Everybody ought to know
Everybody ought to know
Who Jesus is.” [4]
Do you know Jesus? If not, why wait another moment? Believe and Confess Jesus as your Lord and Savior today!
[1] Acts 26:22-23
[2] “Everything to Me,” Recorded by Avalon. Songwriters: Cates Chad Robert / Smith Sue C. Lyrics © New Spring Publishing, Inc.
[3] Acts 26:27
[4] Everybody Ought To Know,” Recorded by Bill & Gloria Gaither. Songwriter: Harry Loes. Lyrics © New Spring Publishing, Inc.
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Paul’s Revelation From Jesus Christ
“Paul, an apostle (not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead).” [1]
Notice that Paul sets Jesus Christ apart from being counted as a mere man. He’s saying, “I am an apostle not from nor through man.” Jesus is more than a man! Paul places Jesus’ Name parallel to God the Father because He is the Son of God. He took on human flesh, but unlike us did not inherit the sin nature. He did not have an earthly father. That which was conceived in Mary His mother was by the Holy Spirit.
“I make known to you, brethren, that the Gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [2]
Again, Paul notes that when he received the Gospel, it was not from a mere man. Jesus Christ the Son of God appeared to him on the road to Damascus, and revealed the Gospel to Paul. Everyone needs a revelation from Jesus Christ that the Gospel is true to truly believe it and live for it. Unless we are convicted by the Holy Spirit that Jesus is truly the Son of God, we will treat Christianity as we would any other religion. To have the divine revelation that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior is to be set apart for God for Gospel’s sake.
“Afterward I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea which were in Christ. But they were hearing only, ‘He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith which he once tried to destroy.’” [3]
Once, Paul had the revelation of Jesus Christ… once he knew Jesus personally and walked and talked with Him, he began to talk to others about Jesus Christ… urging them to believe in Jesus as well.
These are the tell-tale signs of someone who has had a true conversion experience with the Triune God of Christianity. I pray that more people will come to know and believe in Jesus Christ.
[1] Galatians 1:1
[2] Galatians 1:11-12
[3] Galatians 1:21-23
Notice that Paul sets Jesus Christ apart from being counted as a mere man. He’s saying, “I am an apostle not from nor through man.” Jesus is more than a man! Paul places Jesus’ Name parallel to God the Father because He is the Son of God. He took on human flesh, but unlike us did not inherit the sin nature. He did not have an earthly father. That which was conceived in Mary His mother was by the Holy Spirit.
“I make known to you, brethren, that the Gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [2]
Again, Paul notes that when he received the Gospel, it was not from a mere man. Jesus Christ the Son of God appeared to him on the road to Damascus, and revealed the Gospel to Paul. Everyone needs a revelation from Jesus Christ that the Gospel is true to truly believe it and live for it. Unless we are convicted by the Holy Spirit that Jesus is truly the Son of God, we will treat Christianity as we would any other religion. To have the divine revelation that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior is to be set apart for God for Gospel’s sake.
“Afterward I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea which were in Christ. But they were hearing only, ‘He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith which he once tried to destroy.’” [3]
Once, Paul had the revelation of Jesus Christ… once he knew Jesus personally and walked and talked with Him, he began to talk to others about Jesus Christ… urging them to believe in Jesus as well.
These are the tell-tale signs of someone who has had a true conversion experience with the Triune God of Christianity. I pray that more people will come to know and believe in Jesus Christ.
[1] Galatians 1:1
[2] Galatians 1:11-12
[3] Galatians 1:21-23
Monday, June 12, 2023
Bible-Based Prayers for Leaders of Nations and Organizations
Our Lord exhorts us to make supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. [1]
As we pray and thank God for people, He reminds us that they are made in His image and that Jesus died for them on the cross so that they would not perish.
There are many examples in the Bible of God’s people praying for leaders to do what is right before God. Corrupt leaders corrupt people. Godly leaders bring a nation back to God.
Below are Bible verses that I pray to the Lord for leaders with faith in God that He can correct that which is wrong and strengthen that which is right.
Let us pray with confidence, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.” [2]
“Do not lie in wait wickedly, against the dwelling of the righteous; do not plunder his resting place; for a righteous man _________ may fall seven times and rise again, but the wicked ___________ shall fall by calamity.” [3]
“Because you _______ have made… the inhabitants… to play the harlot… behold, the Lord will strike your people with serious affliction—your children, wives, and all your possessions; and you will become very sick with a disease...” [4]
“The Lord has made all for Himself, yes, even the wicked for the day of doom. Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; though they join forces, none will go unpunished.” [5]
“Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, have fellowship with You? They gather together against the life of the righteous and condemn innocent blood. But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge. He has brought on them their own iniquity and shall cut them off in their own wickedness; the Lord our God shall cut them off.” [6]
“A wicked messenger ________ falls into trouble, but a faithful ambassador _______ brings health.” [7]
“The hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, but His power and His wrath are against all those who forsake Him.” [8]
“Whoever _______ says to the guilty, ‘you are innocent,’ will be cursed by peoples and denounced by nations. But it will go well with those judges ________ who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come on them.” [9]
[1] 1 Timothy 2:1-2
[2] Proverbs 21:1
[3] Proverbs 24:15-16
[4] 2 Chronicles 21:12-15
[5] Proverbs 16:4-5
[6] Psalm 94:20-23
[7] Proverbs 13:17
[8] Ezra 8:22
[9] Proverbs 24:23-25
As we pray and thank God for people, He reminds us that they are made in His image and that Jesus died for them on the cross so that they would not perish.
There are many examples in the Bible of God’s people praying for leaders to do what is right before God. Corrupt leaders corrupt people. Godly leaders bring a nation back to God.
Below are Bible verses that I pray to the Lord for leaders with faith in God that He can correct that which is wrong and strengthen that which is right.
Let us pray with confidence, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.” [2]
“Do not lie in wait wickedly, against the dwelling of the righteous; do not plunder his resting place; for a righteous man _________ may fall seven times and rise again, but the wicked ___________ shall fall by calamity.” [3]
“Because you _______ have made… the inhabitants… to play the harlot… behold, the Lord will strike your people with serious affliction—your children, wives, and all your possessions; and you will become very sick with a disease...” [4]
“The Lord has made all for Himself, yes, even the wicked for the day of doom. Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; though they join forces, none will go unpunished.” [5]
“Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, have fellowship with You? They gather together against the life of the righteous and condemn innocent blood. But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge. He has brought on them their own iniquity and shall cut them off in their own wickedness; the Lord our God shall cut them off.” [6]
“A wicked messenger ________ falls into trouble, but a faithful ambassador _______ brings health.” [7]
“The hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, but His power and His wrath are against all those who forsake Him.” [8]
“Whoever _______ says to the guilty, ‘you are innocent,’ will be cursed by peoples and denounced by nations. But it will go well with those judges ________ who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come on them.” [9]
[1] 1 Timothy 2:1-2
[2] Proverbs 21:1
[3] Proverbs 24:15-16
[4] 2 Chronicles 21:12-15
[5] Proverbs 16:4-5
[6] Psalm 94:20-23
[7] Proverbs 13:17
[8] Ezra 8:22
[9] Proverbs 24:23-25
Sunday, June 11, 2023
Stewardship for God’s Glory
The Church reflects God’s city. The preaching of Christ and the work of charity are signs of God’s presence. Much love comes to us from God and goes out from us into the world.
Poor stewardship of God’s gathering place of worship does not reflect God’s glory!
“I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest — and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.” [1]
In other words, poor stewardship of property leads to poor results. It’s a tell-tale sign of demise. There is a relationship between disrepair and despair.
Once, a king saw his cupbearer wearing a sad face. King Artaxerxes asked Cupbearer Nehemiah, “Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.” Nehemiah was very much afraid, but said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” [2]
Nehemiah despaired of disrepair. His city was in ruins. It did not reflect God’s glory!
King Artaxerxes told Nehemiah to rebuild God’s city. Wow, what a breakthrough! But was it all downhill after that? You would think so. But no! Two officials who got news of Nehemiah’s plan were upset. They didn’t want anyone to promote the well-being of God’s people. [3]
The devil opposes the beautification of God’s property? His agents, like pigs, want to defile the place where God’s glory dwells. He wants to desecrate the image and glory of God.
In spite of the outrage of enemies, Nehemiah and God’s people sorted through the ruins. God’s people said to Nehemiah, “Let us start rebuilding.” [4] So they began this good work. The Bible calls out the names of the opposition. They were Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem. [5] These enemies mocked and ridiculed God’s people. They asked, “What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” They were like, “How dare you beautify and organize what the devil wants ugly and chaotic.” Nehemiah answered them by saying, “The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.” [6]
It is a battle to maintain anything for the glory of God!
When the enemy heard that God’s people were rebuilding Jerusalem, he was infuriated. He ridiculed them by saying, “What are those feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble —burned as they are?” Tobiah, who was at his side, said, “What they are building—even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!” [7]
What did Nehemiah do? He prayed. “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of the builders.” [8] He gave the opposition to God. He let God take care of them. This is what we need to do. Give the opposition over to Jesus, be patient, pray and watch what Jesus does.
Prayer worked! God’s people worked with all their hearts. [9] They were not disheartened. They were triumphant!
Edmund Burke once said, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” When Winston Churchill gave a speech during one of Germany’s bombardments, he said, “This is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never—in nothing, great or small, large, or petty—never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” We are more than conquerors through Christ who loves us.
Enemies don’t give up easily. “They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it.” [10] What kind of shield did God’s people use? They used the shield of faith. “But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.” [11] They prayed, and they stayed alert. They kept on the full armor of God. They stood their ground.
God’s people did become weary at times. “Meanwhile, the people in Judah said, ‘The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.’” [12] We need to know when to rest. The Lord urges us to take a Sabbath rest.
They had to overcome their fear! Nehemiah told the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your people, your sons and your daughters, your wives, and your homes.” [13]
Teamwork was vital. “The work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!” [14] If one team member was faltering, other team members rallied around them and supported them. TEAM stands for Together Everyone Achieves More!
They enemies sent messages to Nehemiah: “Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.” [15] Ono! Have you ever had people tell you “Oh no”? They want to scare you. God revealed their scheme to Nehemiah. He stated, “But they were scheming to harm me; so I sent messengers to them with this reply: ‘I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?’ Four times they sent me the same message, and each time I gave them the same answer. They were all trying to frighten us, thinking, ‘Their hands will get too weak for the work, and it will not be completed.’ But I prayed to the Lord, ‘Now strengthen my hands.’” [16] The enemies actually hired people to intimidate Nehemiah. [17]
Nehemiah had troubles within and without. His men began marrying unbelievers. The rich made loans to the poor and charged them exorbitant interest rates until they enslaved them. People started doing business on the Sabbath. He had to correct his co-workers. [18]
Nehemiah had Ezra, a Bible teacher, teach the people the Word of God from daybreak until noon, and they listened. The truth helped them to overcome the lies of the enemy.
God gave Nehemiah wisdom for building. “By wisdom, a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.” [19] God’s wisdom and guidance helped Nehemiah and his people to build and prosper.
“Heavenly Father, please grant to all who care for the building and maintenance of your places of worship to be filled with wisdom and understanding. Please guide us and help us to be victorious in this vital ministry. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.”
[1] Proverbs 24:30-34
[2] Nehemiah 2:1-3
[3] Nehemiah 2:10
[4] Nehemiah 2:18
[5] Nehemiah 2:19
[6] Nehemiah 2:20
[7] Nehemiah 4:1-3
[8] Nehemiah 4:4-5
[9] Nehemiah 4:6
[10] Nehemiah 4:8
[11] Nehemiah 4:9
[12] Nehemiah 4:10
[13] Nehemiah 4:14
[14] Nehemiah 4:19-20
[15] Nehemiah 6:2
[16] Nehemiah 6:2-4, 9
[17] Nehemiah 6:13
[18] Nehemiah 8:1-3
[19] Proverbs 24:3-4, 6
Poor stewardship of God’s gathering place of worship does not reflect God’s glory!
“I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest — and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.” [1]
In other words, poor stewardship of property leads to poor results. It’s a tell-tale sign of demise. There is a relationship between disrepair and despair.
Once, a king saw his cupbearer wearing a sad face. King Artaxerxes asked Cupbearer Nehemiah, “Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.” Nehemiah was very much afraid, but said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” [2]
Nehemiah despaired of disrepair. His city was in ruins. It did not reflect God’s glory!
King Artaxerxes told Nehemiah to rebuild God’s city. Wow, what a breakthrough! But was it all downhill after that? You would think so. But no! Two officials who got news of Nehemiah’s plan were upset. They didn’t want anyone to promote the well-being of God’s people. [3]
The devil opposes the beautification of God’s property? His agents, like pigs, want to defile the place where God’s glory dwells. He wants to desecrate the image and glory of God.
In spite of the outrage of enemies, Nehemiah and God’s people sorted through the ruins. God’s people said to Nehemiah, “Let us start rebuilding.” [4] So they began this good work. The Bible calls out the names of the opposition. They were Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem. [5] These enemies mocked and ridiculed God’s people. They asked, “What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” They were like, “How dare you beautify and organize what the devil wants ugly and chaotic.” Nehemiah answered them by saying, “The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.” [6]
It is a battle to maintain anything for the glory of God!
When the enemy heard that God’s people were rebuilding Jerusalem, he was infuriated. He ridiculed them by saying, “What are those feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble —burned as they are?” Tobiah, who was at his side, said, “What they are building—even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!” [7]
What did Nehemiah do? He prayed. “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of the builders.” [8] He gave the opposition to God. He let God take care of them. This is what we need to do. Give the opposition over to Jesus, be patient, pray and watch what Jesus does.
Prayer worked! God’s people worked with all their hearts. [9] They were not disheartened. They were triumphant!
Edmund Burke once said, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” When Winston Churchill gave a speech during one of Germany’s bombardments, he said, “This is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never—in nothing, great or small, large, or petty—never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” We are more than conquerors through Christ who loves us.
Enemies don’t give up easily. “They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it.” [10] What kind of shield did God’s people use? They used the shield of faith. “But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.” [11] They prayed, and they stayed alert. They kept on the full armor of God. They stood their ground.
God’s people did become weary at times. “Meanwhile, the people in Judah said, ‘The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.’” [12] We need to know when to rest. The Lord urges us to take a Sabbath rest.
They had to overcome their fear! Nehemiah told the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your people, your sons and your daughters, your wives, and your homes.” [13]
Teamwork was vital. “The work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!” [14] If one team member was faltering, other team members rallied around them and supported them. TEAM stands for Together Everyone Achieves More!
They enemies sent messages to Nehemiah: “Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.” [15] Ono! Have you ever had people tell you “Oh no”? They want to scare you. God revealed their scheme to Nehemiah. He stated, “But they were scheming to harm me; so I sent messengers to them with this reply: ‘I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?’ Four times they sent me the same message, and each time I gave them the same answer. They were all trying to frighten us, thinking, ‘Their hands will get too weak for the work, and it will not be completed.’ But I prayed to the Lord, ‘Now strengthen my hands.’” [16] The enemies actually hired people to intimidate Nehemiah. [17]
Nehemiah had troubles within and without. His men began marrying unbelievers. The rich made loans to the poor and charged them exorbitant interest rates until they enslaved them. People started doing business on the Sabbath. He had to correct his co-workers. [18]
Nehemiah had Ezra, a Bible teacher, teach the people the Word of God from daybreak until noon, and they listened. The truth helped them to overcome the lies of the enemy.
God gave Nehemiah wisdom for building. “By wisdom, a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.” [19] God’s wisdom and guidance helped Nehemiah and his people to build and prosper.
“Heavenly Father, please grant to all who care for the building and maintenance of your places of worship to be filled with wisdom and understanding. Please guide us and help us to be victorious in this vital ministry. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.”
[1] Proverbs 24:30-34
[2] Nehemiah 2:1-3
[3] Nehemiah 2:10
[4] Nehemiah 2:18
[5] Nehemiah 2:19
[6] Nehemiah 2:20
[7] Nehemiah 4:1-3
[8] Nehemiah 4:4-5
[9] Nehemiah 4:6
[10] Nehemiah 4:8
[11] Nehemiah 4:9
[12] Nehemiah 4:10
[13] Nehemiah 4:14
[14] Nehemiah 4:19-20
[15] Nehemiah 6:2
[16] Nehemiah 6:2-4, 9
[17] Nehemiah 6:13
[18] Nehemiah 8:1-3
[19] Proverbs 24:3-4, 6
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Christ Sympathizes With Our Weaknesses
“We have a High Priest [Jesus Christ] who sympathizes with our weaknesses. He was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” [1]
“He [Jesus Christ] is...
despised and rejected by men,
A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.
We hid, as it were, our faces from Him;
He was despised,
And we did not esteem Him.
Surely, He has borne our griefs
And carried our sorrows;
Yet we esteemed Him stricken,
Smitten by God and afflicted.
He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was bruised for our iniquities;
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
And by His stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray;
We have turned, every one, to his own way;
And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.
He was oppressed and He was afflicted,
Yet He opened not His mouth;
He was led as a lamb to the slaughter,
And as a sheep before its shearers is silent,
So He opened not His mouth.
He poured out His soul unto death,
He was numbered with the transgressors,
He bore the sin of many,
And made intercession for the transgressors.” [2]
“I am thankful that You, Jesus Christ, are my high priest. I don’t deserve You. I cannot earn You. But I worship and love You. Thank You for suffering for me. I am unworthy sinner. You are my hope. You are the hope of all people. Please help me to be a faithful witness for You.”
[1] Hebrews 4:15
[2] Isaiah 53:3-7, 12
“He [Jesus Christ] is...
despised and rejected by men,
A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.
We hid, as it were, our faces from Him;
He was despised,
And we did not esteem Him.
Surely, He has borne our griefs
And carried our sorrows;
Yet we esteemed Him stricken,
Smitten by God and afflicted.
He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was bruised for our iniquities;
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
And by His stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray;
We have turned, every one, to his own way;
And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.
He was oppressed and He was afflicted,
Yet He opened not His mouth;
He was led as a lamb to the slaughter,
And as a sheep before its shearers is silent,
So He opened not His mouth.
He poured out His soul unto death,
He was numbered with the transgressors,
He bore the sin of many,
And made intercession for the transgressors.” [2]
“I am thankful that You, Jesus Christ, are my high priest. I don’t deserve You. I cannot earn You. But I worship and love You. Thank You for suffering for me. I am unworthy sinner. You are my hope. You are the hope of all people. Please help me to be a faithful witness for You.”
[1] Hebrews 4:15
[2] Isaiah 53:3-7, 12
Friday, June 9, 2023
God Delivers From Evil
“The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness.” [1]
“We sometimes object to the idea of the wrath of God because we equate it with human anger, which is motivated by selfish personal reasons or by a desire for revenge. We must not forget that the wrath of God is completely righteous in character.” [2] God’s essence is to love righteousness and to hate evil.
Ungodliness refers to a defiance to being like God. Not made in His image but in another image! Unrighteousness refers to a defiance to being right with God.
Suppressing the truth in unrighteousness is to fight against, oppress and to punish any revelation of the truth of God. In essence to join with the devil in his disinformation and defamation war against the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
What are the indicators of being under God’s wrath:
Professing to be wise but being a fool…
Exchanging God’s glorious image for corrupted images…
Having an unclean lust-filled heart that dishonors the human body…
Exchanging God’s truth for the lies…
Worshiping and serving the creatures rather than the Creator…
Exchanging the natural use of the body for unnatural purposes…
Having a debased mind…
Being sexually immoral…
Being wicked, covetous, malicious, envious, murderous...
“We sometimes object to the idea of the wrath of God because we equate it with human anger, which is motivated by selfish personal reasons or by a desire for revenge. We must not forget that the wrath of God is completely righteous in character.” [2] God’s essence is to love righteousness and to hate evil.
Ungodliness refers to a defiance to being like God. Not made in His image but in another image! Unrighteousness refers to a defiance to being right with God.
Suppressing the truth in unrighteousness is to fight against, oppress and to punish any revelation of the truth of God. In essence to join with the devil in his disinformation and defamation war against the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
What are the indicators of being under God’s wrath:
Professing to be wise but being a fool…
Exchanging God’s glorious image for corrupted images…
Having an unclean lust-filled heart that dishonors the human body…
Exchanging God’s truth for the lies…
Worshiping and serving the creatures rather than the Creator…
Exchanging the natural use of the body for unnatural purposes…
Having a debased mind…
Being sexually immoral…
Being wicked, covetous, malicious, envious, murderous...
Being full of strife, deceitful, evil-minded...
Being a whisperer, a backbiter, a hater of God…
Being violent, proud, boastful, an inventor of evil things…
Being disobedient to parents…
Being undiscerning, untrustworthy...
Being violent, proud, boastful, an inventor of evil things…
Being disobedient to parents…
Being undiscerning, untrustworthy...
Being unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful…
Being an approver of those who practice such sin. [3]
How can anyone who is under the wrath of God be saved? The answer is to repent of enmity against God and to embrace Jesus Christ as one’s Lord and Savior.
Believe that Jesus is able to begin the transformation process of replacing an appetite for evil with an appetite for God!
The Bible says, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” [4]
God says to you, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” [5]
[1] Romans 1:18
[2] Enduring Word Commentary
[3] Romans 1:22-32
[4] 2 Corinthians 5:17
[5] Ezekiel 36:26
Being an approver of those who practice such sin. [3]
How can anyone who is under the wrath of God be saved? The answer is to repent of enmity against God and to embrace Jesus Christ as one’s Lord and Savior.
Believe that Jesus is able to begin the transformation process of replacing an appetite for evil with an appetite for God!
The Bible says, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” [4]
God says to you, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” [5]
[1] Romans 1:18
[2] Enduring Word Commentary
[3] Romans 1:22-32
[4] 2 Corinthians 5:17
[5] Ezekiel 36:26
Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Are You Ready?
“Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” [1]
That little stone spoken of by the Prophet Daniel is about to become a great mountain that will displace all the “great” kingdoms that proceeded it. The little stone represents Christ whom the world doubts and despises.
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.” [2]
Are you ready?
That little stone spoken of by the Prophet Daniel is about to become a great mountain that will displace all the “great” kingdoms that proceeded it. The little stone represents Christ whom the world doubts and despises.
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.” [2]
Are you ready?
[1] Luke 21:28
[2] 1 Thessalonians 4:16
Monday, June 5, 2023
Victory in Christ!
"They cried out to God in the battle. He heeded their prayer, because they put their trust in Him." [1]
To fight the good fight of faith and to win, we must cry out to God for help knowing that He heeds our prayer. There may be no visible solution in sight, but as we trust in Him, He graciously and wonderfully gives us the victory.
"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." [2]
The key to victory in this sin-riddled world is to be in Christ. Let Christ have your life. Surrender your life to Him! Christ makes new creations out of those who give Him their shattered lives.
"He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." [3]
Christ Jesus our Lord took our sins upon Himself on the cross. He did not die for His sin. He died for my sin and yours. When we ask Him to take away our sin, He does. And He bestows on us His righteous merits, which God the Father acknowledges and blesses.
Faith in Christ is the way of victory no matter which kind of battle this world wages against us to test us. We praise Him. We wait on Him. We tell Him plainly what we need, and He responds to our cry for help. In due season, we see an answer greater than we asked for or imagined. Praise the Lord!
[1] 1 Chronicles 5::20
[2] 2 Corinthians 5:17
[3] 2 Corinthians 5:21
To fight the good fight of faith and to win, we must cry out to God for help knowing that He heeds our prayer. There may be no visible solution in sight, but as we trust in Him, He graciously and wonderfully gives us the victory.
"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." [2]
The key to victory in this sin-riddled world is to be in Christ. Let Christ have your life. Surrender your life to Him! Christ makes new creations out of those who give Him their shattered lives.
"He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." [3]
Christ Jesus our Lord took our sins upon Himself on the cross. He did not die for His sin. He died for my sin and yours. When we ask Him to take away our sin, He does. And He bestows on us His righteous merits, which God the Father acknowledges and blesses.
Faith in Christ is the way of victory no matter which kind of battle this world wages against us to test us. We praise Him. We wait on Him. We tell Him plainly what we need, and He responds to our cry for help. In due season, we see an answer greater than we asked for or imagined. Praise the Lord!
[1] 1 Chronicles 5::20
[2] 2 Corinthians 5:17
[3] 2 Corinthians 5:21
Sunday, June 4, 2023
Praise be to God for Lighting Up Our Lives!
“Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.” [1]
“For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” [2]
“Thank You Heavenly Father for commanding Your light of knowledge – the knowledge of Your glory in Christ Jesus – to shine into our hearts! It is like the miracle of creation…”
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light.” [3]
“That’s where our lives are without You Heavenly Father… without form, void and dark. Thank You for speaking Your Word and for shining Your light into our unresponsible souls.”
“You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” [4]
“Thank You for choosing us to be of Your generation – the eternal generation – and making us a royal priesthood, and a citizen of Your holy nation, Your own special people. Thank You for calling us out of darkness into Your marvelous light. Thank You for being merciful to us!”
“For with You [Lord] is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light.” “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” [5]
[1] Isaiah 60:1
[2] 2 Corinthians 4:6
[3] Genesis 1:1-3
[4] 1 Peter 2:9-10
[5] Psalm 36:9; Psalm 119:105
“For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” [2]
“Thank You Heavenly Father for commanding Your light of knowledge – the knowledge of Your glory in Christ Jesus – to shine into our hearts! It is like the miracle of creation…”
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light.” [3]
“That’s where our lives are without You Heavenly Father… without form, void and dark. Thank You for speaking Your Word and for shining Your light into our unresponsible souls.”
“You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” [4]
“Thank You for choosing us to be of Your generation – the eternal generation – and making us a royal priesthood, and a citizen of Your holy nation, Your own special people. Thank You for calling us out of darkness into Your marvelous light. Thank You for being merciful to us!”
“For with You [Lord] is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light.” “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” [5]
[1] Isaiah 60:1
[2] 2 Corinthians 4:6
[3] Genesis 1:1-3
[4] 1 Peter 2:9-10
[5] Psalm 36:9; Psalm 119:105
Saturday, June 3, 2023
Visions Beyond the Veil
“Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split.” [1]
The veil or curtain between the holy place and the holiest of holy places was torn completely apart the day that Christ died for our sins on the cross. He made a perfect unblemished-by-sin sacrifice for the sins of the world. Now, it is possible for all of humanity to stand in the presence of God and have Him reveal Himself to us, that is, if we will come to God through faith in Christ.
“We have boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh.” [2]
It’s His blood that cleanses us. It’s His blood that paid the price of redeeming sacrifice. Washes us white as snow! It cost Jesus Christ everything, but He gives us this relationship with the Heavenly Father freely as we believe in Him.
“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil.” [3]
Thanks be to God for a soul that is anchored to the sure and to the steadfast Savior Jesus Christ as opposed to being anchored to our successes or failures. In Christ we receive the very essence of God’s presence with us. He never leaves or forsakes us.
“The veil is taken away in Christ.” [4]
“When one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.” [5]
“We… are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” [6]
Now, we are no longer trying to justify ourselves. We are no longer trying to do the will of the Father with human strength. No, Jesus Christ has given us His Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit is doing the transforming work in our lives.
“If our Gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the Gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” [7]
Let us pray for those who are blind to the Gospel! The devil has deceived them to doubt the goodness and grace of God.
“Lord Jesus, please take the veil from their eyes. Please reveal Yourself to them! Help us Lord to help them to see You because You alone are Savior. You are the only way to the Father! They need You Lord! This I pray in Your Name Jesus. Amen.”
[1] Matthew 27:51
[2] Hebrews 10:19-20
[3] Hebrews 6:19
[4] 2 Corinthians 3:14
[5] 2 Corinthians 3:16
[6] 2 Corinthians 3:18
[7] 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
The veil or curtain between the holy place and the holiest of holy places was torn completely apart the day that Christ died for our sins on the cross. He made a perfect unblemished-by-sin sacrifice for the sins of the world. Now, it is possible for all of humanity to stand in the presence of God and have Him reveal Himself to us, that is, if we will come to God through faith in Christ.
“We have boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh.” [2]
It’s His blood that cleanses us. It’s His blood that paid the price of redeeming sacrifice. Washes us white as snow! It cost Jesus Christ everything, but He gives us this relationship with the Heavenly Father freely as we believe in Him.
“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil.” [3]
Thanks be to God for a soul that is anchored to the sure and to the steadfast Savior Jesus Christ as opposed to being anchored to our successes or failures. In Christ we receive the very essence of God’s presence with us. He never leaves or forsakes us.
“The veil is taken away in Christ.” [4]
“When one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.” [5]
“We… are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” [6]
Now, we are no longer trying to justify ourselves. We are no longer trying to do the will of the Father with human strength. No, Jesus Christ has given us His Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit is doing the transforming work in our lives.
“If our Gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the Gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” [7]
Let us pray for those who are blind to the Gospel! The devil has deceived them to doubt the goodness and grace of God.
“Lord Jesus, please take the veil from their eyes. Please reveal Yourself to them! Help us Lord to help them to see You because You alone are Savior. You are the only way to the Father! They need You Lord! This I pray in Your Name Jesus. Amen.”
[1] Matthew 27:51
[2] Hebrews 10:19-20
[3] Hebrews 6:19
[4] 2 Corinthians 3:14
[5] 2 Corinthians 3:16
[6] 2 Corinthians 3:18
[7] 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
Thursday, June 1, 2023
Abundant Comfort in Christ
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.” [1]
Yes, blessed be our Father and blessed be His Son Jesus Christ for the mercy and comfort He gives to us. How else would we overcome the tribulations and sadness that happens due to sin in the world? I have experienced abounding comfort from the Lord amidst sufferings.
At one point in my life, I lived in Hong Kong and ministered two days per week in China. In Hong Kong, I enjoyed many of the comforts I enjoyed while growing up in America, while in China I did not. But the spiritual blessings that I enjoyed amidst the Christians in China transcended any experience that I previously had in the USA by far.
“Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.” [2]
The Lord redeems the sufferings of us His servants by helping us pass tests and by giving us testimonies of victories to share with others of His amazing grace. Job, for example, endured great losses, but fought the good fight of faith, and in the end, enjoyed a great relationship with the Lord and more blessings from the Lord than he previously lost.
“Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead.” [3]
There have been times in my life that I felt numb or dead inside due to such severe trials. I had no power to revive myself, except to trust in the Lord to do it for me. The old adage, “The Lord helps those who help themselves” is not in the the Bible. There are, however, many verses about how our Lord has raised people from the dead.
Jesus raises all who trust in Him from spiritual death. That happens when a sinner, who cannot save him or her self, cries out to Jesus, and says, “Lord Jesus, please help me! Please save me from my sin. Please make of me a new creation by the power of Your Holy Spirit!”
“For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you.” [4]
A clean conscience is a blessing! Simplicity and godly sincerity only come to us by the grace of God.
“Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” [5]
God is the source of our stability in Christ. He is the One who anoints us His servants. The presence of His Holy Spirit in our lives is the seal or evidence of the guarantee that He is with us. “Praise God! Thank You for Your Holy Spirit!”
[1] 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
[2] 2 Corinthians 1:6-7
[3] 2 Corinthians 1:9
[4] 2 Corinthians 1:12
[5] 2 Corinthians 1:21-22
Yes, blessed be our Father and blessed be His Son Jesus Christ for the mercy and comfort He gives to us. How else would we overcome the tribulations and sadness that happens due to sin in the world? I have experienced abounding comfort from the Lord amidst sufferings.
At one point in my life, I lived in Hong Kong and ministered two days per week in China. In Hong Kong, I enjoyed many of the comforts I enjoyed while growing up in America, while in China I did not. But the spiritual blessings that I enjoyed amidst the Christians in China transcended any experience that I previously had in the USA by far.
“Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.” [2]
The Lord redeems the sufferings of us His servants by helping us pass tests and by giving us testimonies of victories to share with others of His amazing grace. Job, for example, endured great losses, but fought the good fight of faith, and in the end, enjoyed a great relationship with the Lord and more blessings from the Lord than he previously lost.
“Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead.” [3]
There have been times in my life that I felt numb or dead inside due to such severe trials. I had no power to revive myself, except to trust in the Lord to do it for me. The old adage, “The Lord helps those who help themselves” is not in the the Bible. There are, however, many verses about how our Lord has raised people from the dead.
Jesus raises all who trust in Him from spiritual death. That happens when a sinner, who cannot save him or her self, cries out to Jesus, and says, “Lord Jesus, please help me! Please save me from my sin. Please make of me a new creation by the power of Your Holy Spirit!”
“For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you.” [4]
A clean conscience is a blessing! Simplicity and godly sincerity only come to us by the grace of God.
“Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” [5]
God is the source of our stability in Christ. He is the One who anoints us His servants. The presence of His Holy Spirit in our lives is the seal or evidence of the guarantee that He is with us. “Praise God! Thank You for Your Holy Spirit!”
[1] 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
[2] 2 Corinthians 1:6-7
[3] 2 Corinthians 1:9
[4] 2 Corinthians 1:12
[5] 2 Corinthians 1:21-22
Tuesday, May 30, 2023
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
“Paul… finding some disciples… said to them, ‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’
So they said to him, ‘We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.’
And he said to them, ‘Into what then were you baptized?’
So they said, ‘Into John’s baptism.’
Then Paul said, ‘John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.’
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.
Now the men were about twelve in all.” [1]
The Holy Spirit is God in us working through us. He is amazing!
Why aren’t all Christians and Christian denominations talking about the Holy Spirit and His gifts?
Christian seminaries, Bible schools and churches build their theology around the teachings of Paul in regards to Christ and His atoning work to grant us pardon of all our sins. Praise the Lord! This is good! But what about Paul’s teachings on the Holy Spirit’s gifts?
The Bible clearly states that “when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.” [2]
He writes of these gifts in 1 Corinthians 12 and 14 as well. And Luke who wrote the Gospel of Luke and who travels with Paul in the Book of Acts, writes of these gifts as well in Acts 2:4, 10:46 and 19:6.
As per prophecy, Luke wrote of this gift [3] and so did Paul in his letters to the churches. [4]
Why deny the spiritual gifts that Luke and Paul speak of and yet quote them often in regards to other doctrines?
Do we not profess to believe that the entire Bible is the inspired and in errant Word of God; the rule for Christian belief and practice? So, why deny and disregard the application of the passages that speak of the gifts of the Holy Spirit?
Why not embrace the entire Bible and pray about what it says. This is what Paul did for the believers in Acts 19:1-7.
The Early Church thrived as the believers were filled with the Holy Spirit and bore His fruits and gifts. I would like, and more importantly, our Lord Jesus would like His 21st Century Church to thrive and bear His fruits and gifts to the world, and this is indeed happening among many believers around the world.
May all believers be filled with the Holy Spirit and bear His fruits and gifts!
“Then Moses said to him, ‘Are you zealous for my sake? Oh, that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put His Spirit upon them!’” [5]
[1] Acts 19:1-7
[2] Acts 19:6
[3] Luke 1:67; Acts 11:27-28, 13:1, 15:32, 19:6 & 21:9-10
[4] Romans 12:10; 1 Corinthians 12:10 & 14:4; Ephesians 4:11 & 1 Timothy 4:14
[5] Numbers 11:9
Monday, May 29, 2023
Content & Thankful
“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” [1]
“A commercial pilot flying over the Tennessee mountains pointed out a lake to his co-pilot. ‘See that lake down there? When I was a boy, I used to sit in a rowboat and fish for hours. Whenever a plane flew overhead, I pretended I was piloting the jet.’
“A commercial pilot flying over the Tennessee mountains pointed out a lake to his co-pilot. ‘See that lake down there? When I was a boy, I used to sit in a rowboat and fish for hours. Whenever a plane flew overhead, I pretended I was piloting the jet.’
The co-pilot responded, ‘You must be proud that you have achieved your boyhood dreams.’ The pilot replied, ‘Not exactly. Now when I fly over that lake, I wish I was down there fishing.’
Contentment is an elusive pursuit. We want to believe there is something out there that we can find or achieve or buy that will finally make us happy.
It is difficult to find contentment in a culture that works hard to foster discontent. Consumer economies are designed to ensure we are never satisfied, in essence, monetizing our discontent. Businesses do their best to keep us constantly longing for the latest and greatest ‘Shiny Objects.’ Enough is never enough.
If we are never satisfied, we are not fully able to enjoy the life that God has given us.
Notice that Paul didn’t write, ‘I’m so glad that it is easy to be content in every situation.’ No, he says, ‘I had to learn to be content whatever the circumstances.’
First, Paul learned we should rejoice in the Lord. Even in the midst of difficulty we can rejoice that God sustains and cares for us.
Second, be known for gentleness, not insisting on our own rights, but instead striving for the welfare of others.
Third, don’t be anxious about anything. Recall the words of Jesus, ‘Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?’
Finally, pray with thanksgiving. When we give thanks to God, we acknowledge that everything we have is a gift, a result of His goodness and generosity.
When we pray to God with thanksgiving, what are we not doing?
We’re not congratulating ourselves for how great we are. We’re not being proud or selfish or stingy with our resources. We’re not complaining or comparing ourselves to others. We’re not consumed by the insatiable quest for more.
Instead, we are free to focus on the only one who can provide for us, God himself, and when we find joy in the Lord, we can let go of our discontent and find contentment in His love and grace.” [2]
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” [3]
[1] Philippians 4:12
[2] Escaping Discontent by JON POLK
[3] 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Saturday, May 27, 2023
Desire The Best Spiritual Gifts
Judah’s ungodly king was dead. Israel’s evil king and queen were dead. The prophecy spoken by Elijah from the Lord was fulfilled! Sadly, those who replaced them also did evil. [1]
The Lord urges us in His Word to, “Earnestly desire the best [spiritual] gifts.” [2]
The Holy Spirit and His gifts working through a leader’s administration is the key to steering a nation in the right direction. The Holy Spirit empowers leaders us to do the will of God. He brings the Kingdom of Heaven to earth.
When Jesus Christ walked among us, the Holy Spirit’s anointing led Him to preach good news to the poor rather than bad news. The Holy Spirit anointed Him to heal the sick rather than exploit them. The Holy Spirit anointed Him to set captives free from the devil rather than destroy them.
We pray: “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” [3]
“Heavenly Father, please bring our leaders to repentance in regards to sin, and to infilling by the Holy Spirit in regards to an anointing to lead us well. Only You can bring Your kingdom down to us! Only through You does Your will come to pass here on earth. We want You to reign in our nations, and in our lives. This we pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen.”
[1] 2 Kings 9-11
[2] 1 Corinthians 12:31
[3] Matthew 6:10
The Lord urges us in His Word to, “Earnestly desire the best [spiritual] gifts.” [2]
The Holy Spirit and His gifts working through a leader’s administration is the key to steering a nation in the right direction. The Holy Spirit empowers leaders us to do the will of God. He brings the Kingdom of Heaven to earth.
When Jesus Christ walked among us, the Holy Spirit’s anointing led Him to preach good news to the poor rather than bad news. The Holy Spirit anointed Him to heal the sick rather than exploit them. The Holy Spirit anointed Him to set captives free from the devil rather than destroy them.
We pray: “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” [3]
“Heavenly Father, please bring our leaders to repentance in regards to sin, and to infilling by the Holy Spirit in regards to an anointing to lead us well. Only You can bring Your kingdom down to us! Only through You does Your will come to pass here on earth. We want You to reign in our nations, and in our lives. This we pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen.”
[1] 2 Kings 9-11
[2] 1 Corinthians 12:31
[3] Matthew 6:10
Thursday, May 25, 2023
Divine Provision
“Then Elisha spoke to the woman whose son he had restored to life, saying, ‘Arise and go, you and your household, and stay wherever you can; for the Lord has called for a famine, and furthermore, it will come upon the land for seven years.’ So, the woman arose and did according to the saying of the man of God, and she went with her household and dwelt in the land of the Philistines seven years.” [1]
The Word of the Lord preserved the life of the woman and her son throughout seven years of famine. It should be noted that she believed what God’s messenger told her and put feet to her faith. Previously, God had used the prophet of His Word to raise her son from death to life. Would God really preserve her family during seven years of famine?
The Lord led her to go to a neighboring country. Like King David [2], she went to the land of her enemies during a time of difficulty and God preserved her family there. Thus, King David wrote…
“You [My Shepherd and Lord] prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” [3]
“It came to pass, at the end of seven years, that the woman returned from the land of the Philistines; and she went to make an appeal to the king for her house and for her land.
Then the king talked with Gehazi, the servant of the man of God, saying, ‘Tell me, please, all the great things Elisha has done.’ Now it happened, as he was telling the king how he had restored the dead to life, that there was the woman whose son he had restored to life, appealing to the king for her house and for her land. And Gehazi said, ‘My lord, O king, this is the woman, and this is her son whom Elisha restored to life.’ And when the king asked the woman, she told him. So, the king appointed a certain officer for her, saying, ‘Restore all that was hers, and all the proceeds of the field from the day that she left the land until now.’” [4]
I wonder if any of us Bible-believing Christians were about to experience a time of famine, and the Lord gave us a word from a reputable prophet of God that directed us to a foreign land among our enemies, would we go? Granted… God had used Elisha to raise her son to life. Still, she could have doubted his counsel on this occasion, but she did not.
She trusted in the Lord, in the Lord’s Word and in the Lord’s servant, and God came through for her. What is more, when she returned to her homeland after the seven years of famine ended, the Lord arranged it so that the servant of Elisha was talking about her to the king, and the king restored her property to her, plus as a bonus, all the back-pay that was due her. Praise the Lord!
What is it that you need from the Lord today? Why not just ask the Lord for it? Jesus Christ gave His life for you on the cross to redeem you from your sin. In Christ, all your sins are forgiven, and God remembers them no more. In Christ, you are an adopted child of God. You are in the family! Listen to God! Stand by His promises! All things are possible with God!
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” [5]
How do we overcome in times of difficulties?
“By the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their [the saints’] testimony.” [6]
[1] 2 Kings 8:1-2
[2] 1 Samuel 27
[3] Psalm 23:5-6
[4] 2 Kings 8:3-6
[5] Romans 8:31-32
[6] Revelation 12:11
Wednesday, May 24, 2023
Trusting God to Flip Enemies into Family
Syria was against Samaria, yet when Naaman, the commander of the army, heard via a captured Israeli girl that there was prophet there who could heal his leprosy, he told his king about it. Through a series events, Naaman ended up being healed by the Lord via His prophet Elisha. [1]
Later, the King of Syria sent his army to capture Elisha. Why? He was giving the King of Israel intel by the Spirit of the Lord as to the Syrian army’s plans…
“Therefore, the heart of the king of Syria was greatly troubled by this thing; and he called his servants and said to them, ‘Will you not show me which of us is for the king of Israel?’ And one of his servants said, “None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom.” [2]
Elisha was not intimidated by an enemy army coming after him. He told his servant, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” [3]
Elisha prayed to the Lord to open the eyes of his servant so he could see the army of the Lord. The Lord answered Elisha’s prayer. The servant saw the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. And Elisha prayed to the Lord, and said, “Strike this people, I pray, with blindness.” And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.” [4]
The enemy did not capture Elisha. He captured them. He brought these blinded soldiers into the city of Samaria, asked his king to feed them and afterwards, he sent them away seeing. [5]
Twice, he showed the enemies of the Lord kindness, but still they came again to attack Samaria. The Syrians surrounded Samaria. They cut off their food supply. Elisha prophesied that all would be well to his King. What happened?
“The Lord had caused the army of the Syrians to hear the noise of chariots and the noise of horses—the noise of a great army; so, they said to one another, ‘Look, the king of Israel has hired against us the kings of the Hittites and the kings of the Egyptians to attack us!’ Therefore, they arose and fled at twilight, and left the camp intact—their tents, their horses, and their donkeys—and they fled for their lives.” [6] The people Samaria collected ample food and supplies afterwards.
The Lord is well able to take care of the enemies of His people, and to do it with grace, thus, Jesus says to you and to me…
“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? Therefore, you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” [7]
Be like our Heavenly Father to them! Realize that God is bigger than their anger and hatred. Who has ever shown them what the Heavenly Father is like?
Saul of Tarsus was a man who “made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” [8]
The people of God prayed for him, and rather than kill him, God converted him. Thanks to Jesus, Saul of Tarsus was transformed into the Apostle Paul. Paul became a prolific writer and speaker for Jesus Christ.
Now, let us love and pray for our enemies, and believe that God will do miracles among them that will change their perspective of both God and us. “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” [9]
[1] 2 Kings 5:1-14
[2] 2 Kings 6:11-12
[3] 2 Kings 6:16
[4] 2 Kings 6:17-18
[5] 2 Kings 6:19-23
[6] 2 Kings 7:6-7
[7] Matthew 5:44-48
[8] Acts 8:3
[9] Psalm 124:8
Later, the King of Syria sent his army to capture Elisha. Why? He was giving the King of Israel intel by the Spirit of the Lord as to the Syrian army’s plans…
“Therefore, the heart of the king of Syria was greatly troubled by this thing; and he called his servants and said to them, ‘Will you not show me which of us is for the king of Israel?’ And one of his servants said, “None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom.” [2]
Elisha was not intimidated by an enemy army coming after him. He told his servant, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” [3]
Elisha prayed to the Lord to open the eyes of his servant so he could see the army of the Lord. The Lord answered Elisha’s prayer. The servant saw the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. And Elisha prayed to the Lord, and said, “Strike this people, I pray, with blindness.” And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.” [4]
The enemy did not capture Elisha. He captured them. He brought these blinded soldiers into the city of Samaria, asked his king to feed them and afterwards, he sent them away seeing. [5]
Twice, he showed the enemies of the Lord kindness, but still they came again to attack Samaria. The Syrians surrounded Samaria. They cut off their food supply. Elisha prophesied that all would be well to his King. What happened?
“The Lord had caused the army of the Syrians to hear the noise of chariots and the noise of horses—the noise of a great army; so, they said to one another, ‘Look, the king of Israel has hired against us the kings of the Hittites and the kings of the Egyptians to attack us!’ Therefore, they arose and fled at twilight, and left the camp intact—their tents, their horses, and their donkeys—and they fled for their lives.” [6] The people Samaria collected ample food and supplies afterwards.
The Lord is well able to take care of the enemies of His people, and to do it with grace, thus, Jesus says to you and to me…
“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? Therefore, you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” [7]
Be like our Heavenly Father to them! Realize that God is bigger than their anger and hatred. Who has ever shown them what the Heavenly Father is like?
Saul of Tarsus was a man who “made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” [8]
The people of God prayed for him, and rather than kill him, God converted him. Thanks to Jesus, Saul of Tarsus was transformed into the Apostle Paul. Paul became a prolific writer and speaker for Jesus Christ.
Now, let us love and pray for our enemies, and believe that God will do miracles among them that will change their perspective of both God and us. “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” [9]
[1] 2 Kings 5:1-14
[2] 2 Kings 6:11-12
[3] 2 Kings 6:16
[4] 2 Kings 6:17-18
[5] 2 Kings 6:19-23
[6] 2 Kings 7:6-7
[7] Matthew 5:44-48
[8] Acts 8:3
[9] Psalm 124:8
Monday, May 22, 2023
Jesus Christ Is The Truth
“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” [1]
Jesus Christ is God’s Word embodied in human flesh. He brought truth into a world full of lies and deception. He brought truth to us in a gracious way because He wanted to save us not condemn us.
“The hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.” [2]
Is our worship lining up with the truth of Scripture? Are we worshipping God by the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit? This is the kind of worshipper our Heavenly Father is seeking to worship Him. Authentic! Heart-felt! Love for God in the way that the Father desires to be loved by us!
“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” [3]
Truth is about knowing God and knowing God’s sovereignty. The God of the Bible is the only Creator and Sustainer of all things. Knowing that He is God, and we are not, and that other gods are not God, helps us to live as free people. He says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things [the things you need for survival] shall be added to you.” [4]
“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” [5]
Jesus reveals the Father to us. He reveals to us the truth about God. He reveals to us the life of God so that we can participate in God’s life.
“But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.” [6]
Now that Jesus is in heaven, He gives us the Helper from His Father, even the Spirit of truth. The Holy Spirit testifies of Jesus to help us win the information war that comes at us from the devil and his agents here on earth. Jesus called the devil a liar and the father of lies. [7] He or she who is of the devil, will lie and deceive people to lead them to do evil against God and others. By relying on the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; we can overcome the lies of the evil one.
“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” [8]
Jesus prayed that we would be set apart (sanctified) by God’s truth. He is not of this world, and neither are we who follow Him. To follow Jesus is to make a break with every false and evil way.
“Pilate therefore said to Him, ‘Are You a king then?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.’” [9]
Standing before an authority figure who had been given the power to send Jesus to the cross, Jesus revealed His reason for coming into the world. It was to bear witness to the truth. Who would listen to Him? Everyone who is of the truth!
The Holy Spirit led me to pray for the nations by name today, and for many people by name as well, that whatever lie is deceiving them, those lies would be exposed and replaced by the truth of God.
Jesus Christ is God’s Word embodied in human flesh. He brought truth into a world full of lies and deception. He brought truth to us in a gracious way because He wanted to save us not condemn us.
“The hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.” [2]
Is our worship lining up with the truth of Scripture? Are we worshipping God by the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit? This is the kind of worshipper our Heavenly Father is seeking to worship Him. Authentic! Heart-felt! Love for God in the way that the Father desires to be loved by us!
“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” [3]
Truth is about knowing God and knowing God’s sovereignty. The God of the Bible is the only Creator and Sustainer of all things. Knowing that He is God, and we are not, and that other gods are not God, helps us to live as free people. He says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things [the things you need for survival] shall be added to you.” [4]
“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” [5]
Jesus reveals the Father to us. He reveals to us the truth about God. He reveals to us the life of God so that we can participate in God’s life.
“But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.” [6]
Now that Jesus is in heaven, He gives us the Helper from His Father, even the Spirit of truth. The Holy Spirit testifies of Jesus to help us win the information war that comes at us from the devil and his agents here on earth. Jesus called the devil a liar and the father of lies. [7] He or she who is of the devil, will lie and deceive people to lead them to do evil against God and others. By relying on the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; we can overcome the lies of the evil one.
“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” [8]
Jesus prayed that we would be set apart (sanctified) by God’s truth. He is not of this world, and neither are we who follow Him. To follow Jesus is to make a break with every false and evil way.
“Pilate therefore said to Him, ‘Are You a king then?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.’” [9]
Standing before an authority figure who had been given the power to send Jesus to the cross, Jesus revealed His reason for coming into the world. It was to bear witness to the truth. Who would listen to Him? Everyone who is of the truth!
The Holy Spirit led me to pray for the nations by name today, and for many people by name as well, that whatever lie is deceiving them, those lies would be exposed and replaced by the truth of God.
“Amen. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit bring the truth to bear upon the people of planet earth today. Be glorified! This I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen.”
[1] John 1:14
[2] John 4:23
[3] John 8:32
[4] Matthew 6:33
[5] John 14:6
[6] John 15:26
[7] John 8:44
[8] John 17:17
[9] John 18:37
[1] John 1:14
[2] John 4:23
[3] John 8:32
[4] Matthew 6:33
[5] John 14:6
[6] John 15:26
[7] John 8:44
[8] John 17:17
[9] John 18:37
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Countering Non-Prophet Organization
One of the greatest deficits in the last days of Israel’s and Judah’s existence before being overcome by pagan nations was ears willing to hear what God had to say about their situation. They had no lack of preachers parroting what politicians wanted them to say. Both government and religious gathering places had become non-prophet organizations in the sense of banning anyone to speak truth for God.
Ungodly King Ahab called Elijah a troubler of Israel. Elijah corrected him…
“I have not troubled Israel, but you and your father’s house have, in that you have forsaken the commandments of the Lord and have followed the Baals [idols].” [1] Then, he challenged the politician to gather his press corps to a debate. King Ahab’s wife, Jezebel, had a total of 850 false prophets (reporters in her pocket) who ate her table.
When the big day came, and all were gathered, Elijah said to those propagators of false information, “You call on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord; and the God who answers by fire, He is God.” [2]
The pagan prophets could not produce results. They were professional liars and deceivers. They were not connected to the true God. When Elijah prayed a brief prayer, the fire fell. On that day, the propagandists of Queen Jezebel were silenced. All were put to death by the people. Her career was not over yet, but her last day of ungodly influence on the nation was nearing.
Just before Jezebel’s husband’s reign ended, he had a plan, he wanted to form a coalition with the king of Judah’s army to take land from the king of Syria. The king of Judah, Jehoshaphat, planned to join in on this land grab, but with one condition. He asked, “Please inquire for the word of the Lord today.” [3]
“Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said to them, ‘Shall I go against Ramoth Gilead to fight, or shall I refrain?’ So, they said, ‘Go up, for the Lord will deliver it into the hand of the king.’” [4]
King Jehoshaphat recognized that Ahab’s prophets were not the kind of prophets he was used to listening to, so he asked, “Is there not still a prophet of the Lord here, that we may inquire of Him?” [5]
“The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, ‘There is still one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may inquire of the Lord; but I hate him, because he does not prophesy good concerning me, but evil.’” [6]
King Jehoshaphat wanted to hear from this prophet that King Ahab hated. King Ahab sent for him, but Ahab’s messenger told the prophet of the Lord, “Now listen, the words of the prophets with one accord encourage the king. Please, let your word be like the word of one of them, and speak encouragement.” Micaiah responded, “As the Lord lives, whatever the Lord says to me, that I will speak.” [7]
At first Micaiah, repeated what he was told to say, but he said it in such a way as to provoke King Ahab to order him, “How many times shall I make you swear that you tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the Lord?” [8]
So, Micaiah revealed to all present the vision and the words that the Lord gave him. He said, “I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd. And the Lord said, ‘These have no master. Let each return to his house in peace.’
The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, ‘Did I not tell you he would not prophesy good concerning me, but evil?’
Then Micaiah said, ‘Therefore hear the word of the Lord: I saw the Lord sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing by, on His right hand and on His left. And the Lord said, ‘Who will persuade Ahab to go up, that he may fall at Ramoth Gilead?’ So, one spoke in this manner, and another spoke in that manner. Then a spirit came forward and stood before the Lord, and said, ‘I will persuade him.’ The Lord said to him, ‘In what way?’ So, he said, ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.’ And the Lord said, ‘You shall persuade him, and prevail. Go out and do so.’ Therefore look! The Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these prophets of yours, and the Lord has declared disaster against you.’” [9]
A false prophet slapped Micaiah. King Ahab imprisoned him. He ordered that Micaiah be dined on the bread and water of affliction.” But that very day, King Ahab died in battle. [10]
After reading these Biblical accounts of kings and prophets, one question to ask ourselves is, “In what ways is our nation being lied to and deceived by ungodly leaders and their propagandists? Another question to ask ourselves is, “Who is speaking the Word of Lord, inspired by the Spirit of Truth, namely the Holy Spirit, to these deluded despots?”
“Dear Heavenly Father, please grant us the grace as You did to Elijah and Micaiah to bring truth with power and love to the place where people gather to hear the truth. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.”
[1] 1 Kings 18:17-19
[2] 1 Kings 18:24
[3] 1 King 22:5
[4] 1 Kings 22:6
[5] 1 Kings 22:7
[6] 1 Kings 22:8
[7] 1 Kings 22:13-14
[8] 1 Kings 22:15-16
[9] 1 Kings 22:17-23
[10] 1 King 22:24, 27, 37
Ungodly King Ahab called Elijah a troubler of Israel. Elijah corrected him…
“I have not troubled Israel, but you and your father’s house have, in that you have forsaken the commandments of the Lord and have followed the Baals [idols].” [1] Then, he challenged the politician to gather his press corps to a debate. King Ahab’s wife, Jezebel, had a total of 850 false prophets (reporters in her pocket) who ate her table.
When the big day came, and all were gathered, Elijah said to those propagators of false information, “You call on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord; and the God who answers by fire, He is God.” [2]
The pagan prophets could not produce results. They were professional liars and deceivers. They were not connected to the true God. When Elijah prayed a brief prayer, the fire fell. On that day, the propagandists of Queen Jezebel were silenced. All were put to death by the people. Her career was not over yet, but her last day of ungodly influence on the nation was nearing.
Just before Jezebel’s husband’s reign ended, he had a plan, he wanted to form a coalition with the king of Judah’s army to take land from the king of Syria. The king of Judah, Jehoshaphat, planned to join in on this land grab, but with one condition. He asked, “Please inquire for the word of the Lord today.” [3]
“Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said to them, ‘Shall I go against Ramoth Gilead to fight, or shall I refrain?’ So, they said, ‘Go up, for the Lord will deliver it into the hand of the king.’” [4]
King Jehoshaphat recognized that Ahab’s prophets were not the kind of prophets he was used to listening to, so he asked, “Is there not still a prophet of the Lord here, that we may inquire of Him?” [5]
“The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, ‘There is still one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may inquire of the Lord; but I hate him, because he does not prophesy good concerning me, but evil.’” [6]
King Jehoshaphat wanted to hear from this prophet that King Ahab hated. King Ahab sent for him, but Ahab’s messenger told the prophet of the Lord, “Now listen, the words of the prophets with one accord encourage the king. Please, let your word be like the word of one of them, and speak encouragement.” Micaiah responded, “As the Lord lives, whatever the Lord says to me, that I will speak.” [7]
At first Micaiah, repeated what he was told to say, but he said it in such a way as to provoke King Ahab to order him, “How many times shall I make you swear that you tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the Lord?” [8]
So, Micaiah revealed to all present the vision and the words that the Lord gave him. He said, “I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd. And the Lord said, ‘These have no master. Let each return to his house in peace.’
The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, ‘Did I not tell you he would not prophesy good concerning me, but evil?’
Then Micaiah said, ‘Therefore hear the word of the Lord: I saw the Lord sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing by, on His right hand and on His left. And the Lord said, ‘Who will persuade Ahab to go up, that he may fall at Ramoth Gilead?’ So, one spoke in this manner, and another spoke in that manner. Then a spirit came forward and stood before the Lord, and said, ‘I will persuade him.’ The Lord said to him, ‘In what way?’ So, he said, ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.’ And the Lord said, ‘You shall persuade him, and prevail. Go out and do so.’ Therefore look! The Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these prophets of yours, and the Lord has declared disaster against you.’” [9]
A false prophet slapped Micaiah. King Ahab imprisoned him. He ordered that Micaiah be dined on the bread and water of affliction.” But that very day, King Ahab died in battle. [10]
After reading these Biblical accounts of kings and prophets, one question to ask ourselves is, “In what ways is our nation being lied to and deceived by ungodly leaders and their propagandists? Another question to ask ourselves is, “Who is speaking the Word of Lord, inspired by the Spirit of Truth, namely the Holy Spirit, to these deluded despots?”
“Dear Heavenly Father, please grant us the grace as You did to Elijah and Micaiah to bring truth with power and love to the place where people gather to hear the truth. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.”
[1] 1 Kings 18:17-19
[2] 1 Kings 18:24
[3] 1 King 22:5
[4] 1 Kings 22:6
[5] 1 Kings 22:7
[6] 1 Kings 22:8
[7] 1 Kings 22:13-14
[8] 1 Kings 22:15-16
[9] 1 Kings 22:17-23
[10] 1 King 22:24, 27, 37
Wednesday, May 17, 2023
A Better Leader Than Solomon
The Bible tells us of the riches of Solomon, but also of his sin.
He put gold into the shields of his warriors, and into his palace in abundance. Thus, the central government was enriched and so was the military complex. Solomon worshipped idols and womanized. He had wisdom but forsook it for fleshly pleasures. He confessed these sins in the Book of Ecclesiastes. [1]
The Lord decided to remove ten of the tribes from Solomon’s family’s governance and give them to another. This did not happen during his lifetime, but after he died and his son, Rehoboam, became king.
Rehoboam asked the older men who counseled his father for advice. They gave him good advice. He was to put the interest of the people before his own interests.
Rehoboam defied their advice and went with the advice of friends his age. They advised him to tell the people that he would rule them harsher than his father did. That speech did not have a good outcome. Ten tribes split from him, and they crowned a man named Jeroboam to be their king. [2]
Rehoboam’s father was deemed the wisest man in the world, and, yes indeed, his father Solomon did have wisdom, but he didn’t always apply it. His son learned that technique as well. Kind of like Samson who had great strength but spent it on fleshly pleasure to his own demise.
The Apostle Paul wrote of a better model of leadership, “Brothers and sisters, when I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” [3]
Paul held up Christ as the One for us to follow. Paul approached Christ’s followers with humility. He relied on the Holy Spirit’s power to lead people.
The Ark of the Covenant that Solomon placed in the temple represented Christ. God promised Solomon that He would hear the prayers of those who prayed at the temple where the Ark of God resided. Now, it is in the crucified and risen Savior, Jesus Christ, that God hears and answers our prayers.
“Heavenly Father, please continue to demonstrate Your power in us by causing us to rest not on human wisdom, but on Your Holy Spirit’s power. Please continue to raise up leaders who exalt Christ and who humble themselves before You for Your glory. I ask this in the Name of Jesus. Amen.”
[1] 1 Kings 11:1-8; 2 Chronicles 9:15-22; Ecclesiastes 3
[2] 1 Kings 11:29-39; 1 Kings 12:1-16
[3] 1 Corinthian 2:2-5
He put gold into the shields of his warriors, and into his palace in abundance. Thus, the central government was enriched and so was the military complex. Solomon worshipped idols and womanized. He had wisdom but forsook it for fleshly pleasures. He confessed these sins in the Book of Ecclesiastes. [1]
The Lord decided to remove ten of the tribes from Solomon’s family’s governance and give them to another. This did not happen during his lifetime, but after he died and his son, Rehoboam, became king.
Rehoboam asked the older men who counseled his father for advice. They gave him good advice. He was to put the interest of the people before his own interests.
Rehoboam defied their advice and went with the advice of friends his age. They advised him to tell the people that he would rule them harsher than his father did. That speech did not have a good outcome. Ten tribes split from him, and they crowned a man named Jeroboam to be their king. [2]
Rehoboam’s father was deemed the wisest man in the world, and, yes indeed, his father Solomon did have wisdom, but he didn’t always apply it. His son learned that technique as well. Kind of like Samson who had great strength but spent it on fleshly pleasure to his own demise.
The Apostle Paul wrote of a better model of leadership, “Brothers and sisters, when I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” [3]
Paul held up Christ as the One for us to follow. Paul approached Christ’s followers with humility. He relied on the Holy Spirit’s power to lead people.
The Ark of the Covenant that Solomon placed in the temple represented Christ. God promised Solomon that He would hear the prayers of those who prayed at the temple where the Ark of God resided. Now, it is in the crucified and risen Savior, Jesus Christ, that God hears and answers our prayers.
“Heavenly Father, please continue to demonstrate Your power in us by causing us to rest not on human wisdom, but on Your Holy Spirit’s power. Please continue to raise up leaders who exalt Christ and who humble themselves before You for Your glory. I ask this in the Name of Jesus. Amen.”
[1] 1 Kings 11:1-8; 2 Chronicles 9:15-22; Ecclesiastes 3
[2] 1 Kings 11:29-39; 1 Kings 12:1-16
[3] 1 Corinthian 2:2-5
Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Eagerly Awaiting Our Lord’s Appearance
Christ has revealed Himself to us in the Scriptures and by His outpoured Holy Spirit upon us. Thank God for that! But the apostle wants to see Jesus Christ face to face. He reminds us that we have received spiritual gifts to help us while we wait. What are the gifts that he describes?
“I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ Jesus.” [1]
Grace is a gift that God has given to us help us while we await the Lord’s return. “Please Heavenly Father, continue to be gracious unto us every day every hour.”
“Enriched in everything by Him in all utterance and all knowledge…” [2] Being enriched in all utterances and all knowledge of the Lord is a gift. God gave Solomon wisdom so great that people came from all over to listen to him.
“The testimony of Christ was confirmed in you so that you come short in no gift, as you eagerly wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will confirm you to the end, that you may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [3]
Being confirmed in the testimony of Christ and being kept blameless until the Lord returns is a gift from God.
“God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” [4]
Being called by a faithful Father into fellowship with His Son is awesome gift.
“Thank You Heavenly Father for being faithful to fellowship with us through Your Son. Thank You for enriching our lives with Your gifts. Most of all, thank You that when I leave this life, and come before You, it will not be a scary event, but a joyful and celebratory event. In the Name Your Son Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.”
[1] 1 Corinthians 1:4
[2] 1 Corinthians 1:5
[3] 1 Corinthians 1:6-8
[4] 1 Corinthians 1:9
“I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ Jesus.” [1]
Grace is a gift that God has given to us help us while we await the Lord’s return. “Please Heavenly Father, continue to be gracious unto us every day every hour.”
“Enriched in everything by Him in all utterance and all knowledge…” [2] Being enriched in all utterances and all knowledge of the Lord is a gift. God gave Solomon wisdom so great that people came from all over to listen to him.
“The testimony of Christ was confirmed in you so that you come short in no gift, as you eagerly wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will confirm you to the end, that you may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [3]
Being confirmed in the testimony of Christ and being kept blameless until the Lord returns is a gift from God.
“God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” [4]
Being called by a faithful Father into fellowship with His Son is awesome gift.
“Thank You Heavenly Father for being faithful to fellowship with us through Your Son. Thank You for enriching our lives with Your gifts. Most of all, thank You that when I leave this life, and come before You, it will not be a scary event, but a joyful and celebratory event. In the Name Your Son Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.”
[1] 1 Corinthians 1:4
[2] 1 Corinthians 1:5
[3] 1 Corinthians 1:6-8
[4] 1 Corinthians 1:9
Sunday, May 7, 2023
Not Separated Us from Christ's Love
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” [1]
“No” is the answer to every trial that this world throws at us to separate us from the love of Christ. “No, nothing shall separate us from the love of Christ!”
“I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [2]
“Thank You Heavenly Father for Your great love for us in Christ Jesus. Thank You that You want to be close to us. Daily, You come close to us to express Your love to us. Blessed be Your Glorious Name!”
[1] Romans 8:35
[2] Romans 8:38-39
“No” is the answer to every trial that this world throws at us to separate us from the love of Christ. “No, nothing shall separate us from the love of Christ!”
“I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [2]
“Thank You Heavenly Father for Your great love for us in Christ Jesus. Thank You that You want to be close to us. Daily, You come close to us to express Your love to us. Blessed be Your Glorious Name!”
[1] Romans 8:35
[2] Romans 8:38-39
Saturday, May 6, 2023
Living and Behaving as God's Children
“The good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.” [1]
The Apostle Paul speaks of the dilemma he faces as one who wills to do good, and yet his sinful nature wills to do evil. He cries out…
“O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” [2]
He does not want to be bound to a body that wants to do evil. Who will deliver him? He states the answer to this question…
“I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” [3]
Thanks be to the Lamb of God; He removes the stains and shame of the sins we commit when we repent and ask Him to forgive us.
But there’s better news with Jesus Christ. Paul continues…
“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” [4]
Jesus Christ gives to believers in Him, His Holy Spirit to help us walk with our Lord and Savior. To help us reflect HIS goodness! Paul continues…
“If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” [5]
The Holy Spirit is someone new to us. He gives us divine spiritual life. He raises us up to serve God in ways that we never could before. His presence in our life is the sign that God has adopted us…
“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” [6]
“The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”
Forgiveness of our sins by the Lamb of God, and the indwelling presence of His Holy Spirit is our Abba Father’s provision for us to be adopted into His family, and to help us behave like children of God.
“Jesus, Son of God, thank You for redeeming us from our sins. For forgiving all the sins we have ever committed against God and people! Thank You for giving us Your precious indwelling Holy Spirit to live in us, to pray within us, and to help us live as the Heavenly Father’s children. Glory, blessing, and honor be unto You forever and ever. Amen.”
[1] Romans 7:19-20
[2] Romans 7:24
[3] Romans 7:25
[4] Romans 8:1
[5] Romans 8:11
[6] Romans 8:15-16
[7] Romans 8:26
The Apostle Paul speaks of the dilemma he faces as one who wills to do good, and yet his sinful nature wills to do evil. He cries out…
“O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” [2]
He does not want to be bound to a body that wants to do evil. Who will deliver him? He states the answer to this question…
“I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” [3]
Thanks be to the Lamb of God; He removes the stains and shame of the sins we commit when we repent and ask Him to forgive us.
But there’s better news with Jesus Christ. Paul continues…
“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” [4]
Jesus Christ gives to believers in Him, His Holy Spirit to help us walk with our Lord and Savior. To help us reflect HIS goodness! Paul continues…
“If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” [5]
The Holy Spirit is someone new to us. He gives us divine spiritual life. He raises us up to serve God in ways that we never could before. His presence in our life is the sign that God has adopted us…
“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” [6]
“The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”
Forgiveness of our sins by the Lamb of God, and the indwelling presence of His Holy Spirit is our Abba Father’s provision for us to be adopted into His family, and to help us behave like children of God.
“Jesus, Son of God, thank You for redeeming us from our sins. For forgiving all the sins we have ever committed against God and people! Thank You for giving us Your precious indwelling Holy Spirit to live in us, to pray within us, and to help us live as the Heavenly Father’s children. Glory, blessing, and honor be unto You forever and ever. Amen.”
[1] Romans 7:19-20
[2] Romans 7:24
[3] Romans 7:25
[4] Romans 8:1
[5] Romans 8:11
[6] Romans 8:15-16
[7] Romans 8:26
Friday, May 5, 2023
Don’t Feed the Traveler with the Poor Man’s Wife
While Uriah was out fighting the battles of King David. David stole his wife and defiled her. Afterwards…
“David wrote a letter to Joab and sent it by the hand of Uriah. And he wrote in the letter, saying, ‘Set Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle, and retreat from him, that he may be struck down and die.’” [1]
He had Uriah carry his own death sentence to the commander of David’s army. David’s commander carried out the order. Uriah, a valiant and faithful man for God and country, died at the hands of his own King.
Afterwards…
“The Lord sent Nathan to David. And he came to him and said to him: ‘There were two men in one city, one rich and the other poor. The rich man had exceedingly many flocks and herds. But the poor man had nothing, except one little ewe lamb which he had bought and nourished; and it grew up together with him and with his children. It ate his own food and drank from his own cup and lay in his bosom; and it was like a daughter to him. And a traveler came to the rich man, who refused to take from his own flock and from his own herd to prepare one for the wayfaring man who had come to him; but he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.’” [2]
The Lord compared David to a rich man who was willing to steal something very precious and beloved from a poor man to feed a traveler. The traveler in this story represents lust. David saw Bathsheba bathing on her rooftop from his vantage point in his palace. Lust came to him, and he wanted to feed it. He had several wives, but he wanted to entertain lust. Lust wanted from him what was not lawful for him to take. For the sake of the traveler, David killed an innocent man, got a woman pregnant out of wedlock, and betrayed the Lord who had made him the king over His people.
Sin is ugly and harmful. It continues to produce evil once it gains a foothold in one’s life. Many times, the sinner does not realize how much damage his or her sin has caused until long after the act has been committed.
As I read the story of David’s crime against Uriah this morning, strangely enough, I thought of great empires that like to rule the world. How often, they steal from the poor to give to the rich. The rulers are feeding the traveler named lust at the expense of the innocent man that is doing best for his family and country. But even as I thought of these authorities, the Holy Spirit reminded me of how us common people also defraud others as we feed a sinful habit. We all have sinned, and need the Holy Spirit to fill us and to help us love God and our neighbor as we should.
The conclusion of this meditation this morning was to pray the prayer found in the next to last verse of the Bible, “Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” [3]
Our Lord Jesus Christ has scheduled a day to right the wrongs of this world. Even to right the wrongs of us His people. We all have sinned. For us who believe in Him, whose sins He has forgiven, He will completely transform us from sinners into saints. We will sin no more. We will live with Him forever and enjoy love, peace, and joy. All this thanks to what the last verse of the Bible speaks about, namely, grace.
“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” [4]
[1] 2 Samuel 11:14-15
[2] 2 Samuel 12:1-4
[3] Revelation 22:20
[4] Revelation 22:21
“David wrote a letter to Joab and sent it by the hand of Uriah. And he wrote in the letter, saying, ‘Set Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle, and retreat from him, that he may be struck down and die.’” [1]
He had Uriah carry his own death sentence to the commander of David’s army. David’s commander carried out the order. Uriah, a valiant and faithful man for God and country, died at the hands of his own King.
Afterwards…
“The Lord sent Nathan to David. And he came to him and said to him: ‘There were two men in one city, one rich and the other poor. The rich man had exceedingly many flocks and herds. But the poor man had nothing, except one little ewe lamb which he had bought and nourished; and it grew up together with him and with his children. It ate his own food and drank from his own cup and lay in his bosom; and it was like a daughter to him. And a traveler came to the rich man, who refused to take from his own flock and from his own herd to prepare one for the wayfaring man who had come to him; but he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.’” [2]
The Lord compared David to a rich man who was willing to steal something very precious and beloved from a poor man to feed a traveler. The traveler in this story represents lust. David saw Bathsheba bathing on her rooftop from his vantage point in his palace. Lust came to him, and he wanted to feed it. He had several wives, but he wanted to entertain lust. Lust wanted from him what was not lawful for him to take. For the sake of the traveler, David killed an innocent man, got a woman pregnant out of wedlock, and betrayed the Lord who had made him the king over His people.
Sin is ugly and harmful. It continues to produce evil once it gains a foothold in one’s life. Many times, the sinner does not realize how much damage his or her sin has caused until long after the act has been committed.
As I read the story of David’s crime against Uriah this morning, strangely enough, I thought of great empires that like to rule the world. How often, they steal from the poor to give to the rich. The rulers are feeding the traveler named lust at the expense of the innocent man that is doing best for his family and country. But even as I thought of these authorities, the Holy Spirit reminded me of how us common people also defraud others as we feed a sinful habit. We all have sinned, and need the Holy Spirit to fill us and to help us love God and our neighbor as we should.
The conclusion of this meditation this morning was to pray the prayer found in the next to last verse of the Bible, “Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” [3]
Our Lord Jesus Christ has scheduled a day to right the wrongs of this world. Even to right the wrongs of us His people. We all have sinned. For us who believe in Him, whose sins He has forgiven, He will completely transform us from sinners into saints. We will sin no more. We will live with Him forever and enjoy love, peace, and joy. All this thanks to what the last verse of the Bible speaks about, namely, grace.
“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” [4]
[1] 2 Samuel 11:14-15
[2] 2 Samuel 12:1-4
[3] Revelation 22:20
[4] Revelation 22:21
Thursday, May 4, 2023
The Law and The Gospel
The Law of God convicts us of our sin.
The Gospel of God reveals to us our Savior from sin.
The answer to being “right with God” is to believe in Jesus Christ, God’s Son, humankind’s Redeemer, to be your Savior.
The Gospel of God reveals to us our Savior from sin.
The answer to being “right with God” is to believe in Jesus Christ, God’s Son, humankind’s Redeemer, to be your Savior.
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
Holy Spirit Conviction
“When He [the Holy Spirit] has come, He will convict the world of …judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.” [1]
The ruler of this world is judged. Jesus calls the devil the ruler of this world. The devil rules via his agents of mayhem, fraud, and deception. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit convinces the world that the devil is judged. His days are numbered. His reign of terror shall expire. All who have served him shall likewise perish unless they repent and be converted unto Christ.
Stephen is an example of man who was filled with the Holy Spirit. [2] He was full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. [3] Those who opposed him were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke. [4] So, they stirred up the people and their leaders; and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council. They also set up false witnesses against him. [5] The Holy Spirit in Stephen convicted them of resisting the Holy Spirit, persecuting the prophets and killing the Messiah. [6]
The agents of Satan resolved to stone Stephen to death. As they did, “Stephen, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and said, ‘Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!’” [7]
His last prayer before he left this present age was not for himself. It was for those who were captives of the devil. He prayed for them, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” [8] He forgave them. He wanted them to be saved.
“Holy Spirit, please fill us as You did Stephen, and empower us to convict the world of judgment so that those who are doing evil will not perish in their sins, but the rather repent, and be saved. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.”
[1] John 16:8, 11
[2] Acts 6:5
[3] Acts 6:8
[4] Acts 6:11
[5] Acts 6:12-13
[6] Acts 7:51-52
[7] Acts 7:55-56
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
God Blessed the House of Obed-Edom
“Now it was told King David, saying, ‘The Lord has blessed the house of Obed-Edom and all that belongs to him, because of the ark of God.’ So, David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David with gladness.” [1]
The ark of God was a type of Christ. It is in Christ that we are blessed of God.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” [2]
We are all sinners, but we all can enjoy redemption and God’s grace when we believe in Jesus Christ, God’s Son. God declares “not guilty” and “just” each person who believes that the blood of His Son is the perfect sacrifice to take away all our sins.
God blessed the house of Obed-Edom and all that belonged to him when the ark of God came into his house. In Christ, we have an even greater blessing than Obed-Edom had. We have God with us here on earth to win the battles we face, AND we have eternal home with God in the life that is to come. Praise the Lord!
[1] 2 Samuel 6:12
[2] Romans 3:23-26
The ark of God was a type of Christ. It is in Christ that we are blessed of God.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” [2]
We are all sinners, but we all can enjoy redemption and God’s grace when we believe in Jesus Christ, God’s Son. God declares “not guilty” and “just” each person who believes that the blood of His Son is the perfect sacrifice to take away all our sins.
God blessed the house of Obed-Edom and all that belonged to him when the ark of God came into his house. In Christ, we have an even greater blessing than Obed-Edom had. We have God with us here on earth to win the battles we face, AND we have eternal home with God in the life that is to come. Praise the Lord!
[1] 2 Samuel 6:12
[2] Romans 3:23-26
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