The Christ of Glory

The Bible says that Jesus Christ was fully God and fully man.  He came from heaven to be the perfect man and the perfect sacrificial Lamb. For the most part he appeared to us as a man as he put aside his identification as God, the Son. 

Php 2:5  Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 

Php 2:6  who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 

Php 2:7  but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 

Php 2:8  And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 

Before coming to earth, Jesus, the eternal Son, was in His glory.  We know that Jesus looked like a man and even came back to life after being crucified, showing his wounds to the skeptics.  But what did Jesus look like before coming to earth. Lets look at the glorified Christ, first as he was transfigured.

 Mat 17:1  And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 

Mat 17:2  And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. 

Mat 17:3  And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 

Mat 17:4  And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 

Mat 17:5  He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” 

Mat 17:6  When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces and were terrified. 

Mat 17:7  But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” 

The apostle John in a vision saw Jesus in his glory, in the Revelation of Jesus.

Rev 1:10  I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet 

Rev 1:11  saying, “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.” 

Rev 1:12  Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, 

Rev 1:13  and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. 

Rev 1:14  The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, 

Rev 1:15  his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. 

Rev 1:16  In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. 

Rev 1:17  When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, 

Rev 1:18  and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. 

When we are with Jesus for eternity, will we look like we did as humans or will we have the appearance as of the Jesus in glory? We must be changed inside by the Jesus of glory to be with him. Can you see Jesus as God?  Thank you for reading this far.

1Jn 3:2  Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. 

1Jn 3:3  And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. 

Whiter Than Snow

Pity or Purpose

Jesus had asked his disciples , " who do you think I am?" Simon Peter by revelation said, you are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus commended him for this truth, but then Simon spoke from his own mind to prevent Jesus from going to the cross. He had no idea that this death, was the purpose of his coming. The perfect man would die in our place as an atonement for our sins. Already the religious leaders were plotting to kill him.

Mat 16:20  Then he strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. 

Mat 16:21  From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. 

Mat 16:22  And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” 

Mat 16:23  But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” 

Sometimes we are cold and unfeeling about someones affliction.  At other times we may be showing too much pity, looking for reasons for an affliction.  Some of our troubles are allowed by God to shape us into his image. In the storms of life, rather than self pity, we might ask the Lord to fulfill his purpose through me. We cannot be our own atonement, but we can rest in Christ who became our savior from our sins. Give your life to his control.

Mat 16:24  Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 

Mat 16:25  For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 

Mat 16:26  For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? 

The best encouragement I can give to someone, is to trust in Jesus. Whether we live or die, we live in Jesus.

Jesus Saviour, Pilot Me

Miracle Births

An angel had visited Abraham and Sarah saying that they would have a baby. Sarah laughed at that possibility. Nine months later Sarah at age ninety gave birth to Isaac.   Father Abraham was ninety-nine

Gen 21:1  The LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did to Sarah as he had promised. 

Gen 21:2  And Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God had spoken to him. 

Gen 21:3  Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore him, Isaac.  

The name Isaac, means "laughter". 

Another miracle birth would come foretold by the Hebrew prophets.

Mic 5:2  But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. 

Isa 9:6  For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

An angel spoke to the virgin Mary.

Luk 1:31  And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 

Luk 1:32  He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 

Luk 1:33  and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 

Luk 1:34  And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” 

Luk 1:35  And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 

After forty two generations there was another miracle birth. The virgin Mary was to give birth to Jesus, whose father was Almighty God.  God came in human flesh to die as payment for our sins. Rejoice celebrating his birth. Believe on the name of Jesus, our only way to be forgiven of our sins.

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Acknowledge Jesus This Christmas

In this Christmas season the name of Jesus is scarcely mentioned. To speak of Jesus will give reason to many to avoid you.  There are so many movies to distract concerning Christmas, but little about Jesus.  Truth is that baby Jesus still is more popular than the Jesus who went to the cross to pay for our sins.  What will we do with this Jesus.  The Bible shows us the truth about being a disciple. Some will deny him, seeking self pity, or to fit in with friends or even family.  We need to decide who we will serve before it is too late.

Mat 10:32  So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, 

Mat 10:33  but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven. 

Mat 10:34  “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. 

Mat 10:35  For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 

Mat 10:36  And a person's enemies will be those of his own household. 

Mat 10:37  Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 

Mat 10:38  And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 

Mat 10:39  Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 

No more fence sitting. We must believe in Jesus and have his strength to go on into eternity with him who is both Lord and Savior. God loves you and seeks you to be his own.

Away In A Manger

Two Kings

Abram and his men rescued Lot and his possessions that were taken captive from Sodom. Upon returning he is greeted by Melchizedek, the king of Salem (peace.) who had bread and wine. He was priest of the most high God and He was a type of Christ.  Another king greeted him, the King of Sodom a type of the devil, who is king of the people who are separated from God.

Gen 14:18  And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. (He was priest of God Most High.) 

Gen 14:19  And he blessed him and said, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; 

Gen 14:20  and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!” And Abram gave him a tenth of everything. 

Gen 14:21  And the king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the persons, but take the goods for yourself.” 

Gen 14:22  But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have lifted my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth, 

Gen 14:23  that I would not take a thread or a sandal strap or anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich.’ 

Abram wanted nothing from the king of Sodom, lest he be compromised and be trapped by him.  However he gave a tenth of his possessions to the king of Salem, the High priest of the most high God.  So we learn from this that if we are to receive from the devil, we put our soul in danger. To give to the most high God is to bless him and to be blessed by Him. Who do you serve? Come to Jesus the great high priest of the most high God and your soul will be saved.

O Come All Ye Faithful

In The Morning

Psa 5:1  To the choirmaster: for the flutes. A Psalm of David. Give ear to my words, O LORD; consider my groaning. 

Psa 5:2  Give attention to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you do I pray. 

Psa 5:3  O LORD, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch. 

Psa 5:4  For you are not a God who delights in wickedness; evil may not dwell with you. 

Psa 5:5  The boastful shall not stand before your eyes; you hate all evildoers. 

Psa 5:6  You destroy those who speak lies; the LORD abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man. 

Psa 5:7  But I, through the abundance of your steadfast love, will enter your house. I will bow down toward your holy temple in the fear of you. 

David cries out to God in his morning prayers. "Consider my groaning."  Often we know not what to say, but God hears the groaning of his children.

Rom 8:26  Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. 

Rom 8:27  And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 

Rom 8:28  And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 

Evil may not dwell with God. He is long suffering, but in the end only those who are His people, those who trust in Jesus as savior will be saved.  We are upset with the sins all around us and sometimes in us. He is grieved by the sins as well.  The end draws near, All must make a choice. Will you trust in Jesus or yourself? Only those whose sins are forgiven will dwell with God.

Christmas Hallelujah

Sacrificial Giving

It rained forty days and forty nights, then the LORD caused a wind to blow and the flood waters receeded revealing dry land. Noah's Ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. In the Ark were all the living creatures; seven pairs of the clean animals, and a pair of all unclean animals.

Gen 8:20  Then Noah built an altar to the LORD and took some of every clean animal and some of every clean bird and offered burnt offerings on the altar. 

Gen 8:21  And when the LORD smelled the pleasing aroma, the LORD said in his heart, “I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man's heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done. 

Gen 8:22  While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.” 

The sacrifices were indeed costly, depleting what was left of the clean  animals and birds that were good for food.  It wasn't until the law given to Moses that we learn in the Bible of which animals were called clean or unclean. Animal sacrifices continued under the law as a way to cover the sins of the people. The final sacrifice was Jesus, the Son of God, the Lamb of God, whose blood was the atonement for our sins. We only need repent and believe in His sacrifice to have our sins covered and removed. We must truly believe in our heart and confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord.

Rom 10:9  because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 

Rom 10:10  For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. 

Rom 10:11  For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” 

God is faithful to his promises. To be a disciple of Jesus will require a commitment from us.  Jesus gave his life for us. King David spoke that to give a sacrifice to God, it must cost us something. Are we willing to give our life praising God and learning of him? We cannot do this unless we first receive Jesus as our Lord and savior. He works in us to do his will.

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

The Bread Of Life

Mat 4:1  Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 

Mat 4:2  And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 

Mat 4:3  And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 

Mat 4:4  But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 

It was more important for Jesus to pray and to be connected to God the Father then it was to eat. The reason for fasting is to deprive the desires of the flesh and to go deeper in hearing and speaking to the invisable God. His Spirit speaks to our spirit.  Forty days is about the limit of the bodies ability to survive not eating. The devil temped Jesus to command the stones to become bread. Jesus, the Son of God was able to do this. Later he would feed the five thousand bread and fish by his devine commands. He did not want to follow the commands of satan, nor should we. Satan offers us fleshly delights that may bring satisfaction for a moment, but always there is a price to pay. We must learn to follow the words of God rather then the temptations of the devil. The child of God out of fellowship with God is most miserable.

Mar 8:36  For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 

Mar 8:37  Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 

Break Thou The Bread Of Life

God Created All

Gen 1:13  And there was evening and there was morning, the third day. 

Gen 1:14  And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years, 

Gen 1:15  and let them be lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light upon the earth.” And it was so. 

Gen 1:16  And God made the two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night—and the stars. 

Gen 1:17  And God set them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth, 

Gen 1:18  to rule over the day and over the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. 

Gen 1:19  And there was evening and there was morning, the fourth day. 

The definition of a day was from evening until morning. The Hebrews used this definition of a day. It also proves that God created all in literal days. Six days he created all and he rested on the seventh day. This rest was given to mankind. From an earthly perspective, there are two great lights; the sun and the moon. Part of the light at night is the innumerable stars, all the creation of Almighty God. All this was created for us, who were created in the image of God. God is a spirit, so we were in spirit created like him, having the ability to be spiritually connected. Adam and Eve sinned, breaking that spiritual connection. When Jesus, the son of God came as a human man, He showed us the nature of God in the form of a man. Jesus came to shed his blood as payment for our sins so that through him we will once again be alive in spirit to commune with Almighty God. Feeling distant from God? Receive Jesus as your Savior and be reconnected to Almighty God and eternal life with him. Are you able to receive Jesus?

 “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God” (2 Corinthians 4:4).

Open My Eyes

The heavens declare the glory of God

Psa 57:11  Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth! 

Psa 19:1 ... The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. 

Psa 19:2  Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. 

Psa 19:3  There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. 

Psa 19:4  Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, 

Psa 19:5  which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. 

Psa 19:6  Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat. 

Psa 19:7  The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; 

Psa 19:8  the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; 

Psa 19:9  the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether. 

Psa 19:10  More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. 

Psa 19:11  Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 

Psa 19:12  Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults. 

Psa 19:13  Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me! Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. 

Psa 19:14  Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. 

Jesus Loves the Children

Parents brought their children to Jesus to have him touch and bless them. They were not baptized as infants.

Luke 18:15  Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. 

Luke 18:16  But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 

Luke 18:17  Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”

A child is trusting and humble.  As they get older the conflicts in the world may harden them. Adults have experienced disappointments and trials and often have unforgiveness.  Jesus wants you to come to him, trust him and let him have your sins and hurts.  Having faith in Jesus brings Joy and peace and you can expect persecution too. In Jesus we are not alone  to face life. When we are forgiven in Jesus, then we are to forgive others.

Jesus Loves the Little Children

What Is Sin?

Sin is lawlessness and keeping some of the laws and failing in only one will condemn you. Laws show you what sin is.  The only way to have your sins removed is by God's way that he provided for you. He sent his only begottn son to take the punishment for our sins. 

John 3:16  “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 

1Jn 3:4  Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. 

1Jn 3:5  You know that he (Jesus) appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 

Breaking the law has become more and more evident. Groups of criminals enter a store and rob them and if caught they are turned right out to do it again; lawlessness. Sin is  what separates us from God.  Sin can condemn you, and all have sinned.

Rom 3:23  for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 

Rom 3:24  and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 

So sin  can separate you from God forever, but the good news is that God sent his Son who had no sin to take our punishment for sin on that old cross. You must believe this in your heart and confess that Jesus is your Lord and savior.  God must be in it. Keeping laws is good, but that will not save you. Be truly sorry for your sins and ask Jesus to forgive you. You need his covering.

At Calvary

Proverbs Selection

The Contempory English Bible Version

 Pro 14:22  It's a mistake to make evil plans, but you will have loyal friends if you want to do right. 

Pro 14:23  Hard work is worthwhile, but empty talk will make you poor. 

Pro 14:24  Wisdom can make you rich, but foolishness leads to more foolishness. 

Pro 14:25  An honest witness can save your life, but liars can't be trusted. 

Pro 14:26  If you respect the LORD, you and your children have a strong fortress 

Pro 14:27  and a life-giving fountain that keeps you safe from deadly traps. 

Pro 14:28  Rulers of powerful nations are held in honor; rulers of weak nations are nothing at all. 

Pro 14:29  It's smart to be patient, but it's stupid to lose your temper. 

Pro 14:30  It's healthy to be content, but envy can eat you up. 

Pro 14:31  If you mistreat the poor, you insult your Creator; if you are kind to them, you show him respect. 

Pro 14:32  In times of trouble the wicked are destroyed, but even at death the innocent have faith. 

Pro 14:33  Wisdom is found in the minds of people with good sense, but fools don't know it. 

Pro 14:34  Doing right brings honor to a nation, but sin brings disgrace. 

Pro 14:35  Kings reward servants who act wisely, but they punish those who act foolishly. 

I was first drawn to Proverb 14:34, Doing right brings honor to a nation, but sin brings disgrace. 

This cancels out Proverbs 14:28,  Rulers of powerful nations are held in honor; rulers of weak nations are nothing at all. 

Sin makes you weak, because you do not have the support of God. A Christian people has the support of God.  But what if after coming to Jesus we again sin?  Read 1 John 1:9.

1Jn 1:8  If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 

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

1Jn 1:10  If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 

God is merciful if we confess our sins and turn from them.

Christmas music is playing; Santa Claus is coming to town. He knows who is naughty or nice. Santa is for children.  God is real and he knows who are naughty or nice, whether lleaders of nations or little children. All will bow to Jesus in the end.

Got Your Back

The Bible says once saved by Christ Jesus, then we remain saved.  It also says that we are to continue in faith until the end.  The world has it's problems, but Jesus has overcome the world. In Him is our peace. Don't let stubborn pride take the place of faith in Jesus.

Heb 3:12  So, brothers and sisters, be careful that none of you has the evil thoughts that cause so much doubt that you stop following the living God. 

Heb 3:13  But encourage each other every day, while you still have something called "today." Help each other so that none of you will be fooled by sin and become too hard to change. 

Heb 3:14  We have the honor of sharing in all that Christ has if we continue until the end to have the sure faith we had in the beginning. 

Encourage one another, I got your back.  We are also to encourage ourself in the Lord, as did king David.

Col 3:12  Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 

Col 3:13  bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 

Col 3:14  And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 

Col 3:15  And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 

Col 3:16  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 

Col 3:17  And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 

Got that?

I will praise Him, still

Brothers and Sisters of Jesus

God's only begotten Son came to us in the form of a human, to show us the nature of God the Father. He became a man to be our payment for our sins.  He was perfect so that he could die in our place.  Through his death he defeated the devil and has made those he has chosen to be holy brothers and sisters to live forever with Him, in the presence of God, His Father.

(Easy Read Bible Version)

 Heb 2:9  For a short time Jesus was made lower than the angels, but now we see him wearing a crown of glory and honor because he suffered and died. Because of God's grace, Jesus died for everyone. 

Heb 2:10  God—the one who made all things and for whose glory all things exist—wanted many people to be his children and share his glory. So he did what he needed to do. He made perfect the one who leads those people to salvation. He made Jesus a perfect Savior through his suffering. 

Heb 2:11  Jesus, the one who makes people holy, and those who are made holy are from the same family. So he is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters. 

Heb 2:12  He says, "God, I will tell my brothers and sisters about you. Before all your people I will sing your praises." 

Heb 2:13  He also says, "I will trust in God." And he says, "I am here, and with me are the children God has given me." 

Heb 2:14  These children are people with physical bodies. So Jesus himself became like them and had the same experiences they have. Jesus did this so that, by dying, he could destroy the one who has the power of death—the devil. 

There are natural brothers and sisters and there are Spiritual, Holy brothers and sisters. Jesus Christ came so that by trusting in him we might become the Holy people of God. 

Mat 12:46  While he was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him. 

Mat 12:48  But he replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” 

Mat 12:49  And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! 

Mat 12:50  For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” 

My purpose is to show you that Jesus is the way to become a Holy person of God's forever family. This is the will of God, the Father.

The Family Of God

Peace

One of the last talks with my mother as we walked in her garden, was a question.  "What is the Holy Spirit?"  I am not sure if I answered her question to her understanding. Here is something to consider about the Holy Spirit.  He is given to us after we receive Jesus as our Savior from our sins. He is the Spirit of truth and he is the presence of God with us bringing to us love, joy and peace. There are more spiritual fruit given in Galations 5:22,23.

Gal 5:22  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 

Gal 5:23  Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 

The most comforting gift he gives to me is peace. We can have peace in all things that happen.

John 14:26  But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. 

John 14:27  Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 

 1Co 2:9  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 

1Co 2:10  But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 

1Co 2:11  For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 

1Co 2:12  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 

1Co 2:13  Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 

I think that mom and pop had this peace. They are with Jesus now. Thank you Lord for their love shown to us all.

Peace Like a River

Sufferings

1Pe 4:12  Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 

1Pe 4:13  But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 

1Pe 4:14  If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 

1Pe 4:15  But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 

1Pe 4:16  Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.  

Two kinds of sufferings. There are the sufferings of pain in the body and there are the sufferings of the emotions caused by unkindness and or rejection.  A Christian can be a witness in how he or she goes through times of bodily pain.  We are not exempt from the things that come on all others. When Jesus went to the cross he suffered excruciating pain in body and also rejection. He did this so that we may be forgiven by God of our failings. Think of pain as a test. God knows the pain you feel and we look to him for relief.  Who knows but what you are going through may be the way that others are drawn to Christ Jesus?  

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.  A childhood saying.  Truth is, words do hurt.  May we learn to not use hurtful words? If we suffer for doing wrong? That's our fault.  If we suffer for doing what is good and right, then you are in the sufferings of Jesus. Rejoice in this. You will be rewarded by God because your life would bring glory to Him.  Are we to look for ways to suffer? Are you crazy? Haha, God loves you, isnt that enough? Give your life to Jesus and he will give you grace and mercy to live an overcomers life.

My Jesus, I Love Thee

Love For One Another

My parents would often hug each other and kiss. My brother loved to see this show of affection.  Love and forgiveness is what defines a Christian.

John 13:34  A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 

John 13:35  By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” 

John 15:12  “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 

John 15:13  Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 

John 15:17  These things I command you, so that you will love one another. 

John 15:18  “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 

John 15:19  If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.

Whoa, the world hates you if you are a Christian and love others?  Often that is the case. The god of the world's thinking is the devil. If he hates our love what would he approve of? He wants what God despises. Here is a list of things that God hates:

Pro 6:16  Here are six things that the LORD hates—seven, in fact, are detestable to him: 

Pro 6:17  Arrogant eyes, a lying tongue and hands shedding innocent blood; 

Pro 6:18  a heart crafting evil plans, feet running swiftly to wickedness, 

Pro 6:19  a false witness snorting lies, and someone sowing quarrels between brothers. 

The things that God approves of are the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Gal 5:22  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 

Gal 5:23  gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. 

Gal 5:24  Now those who belong to the Messiah Jesus have crucified their flesh with its passions and desires. 

Gal 5:25  Since we live by the Spirit, by the Spirit let us also be guided. 

Gal 5:26  Let's stop being arrogant, provoking one another and envying one another. 

Prayer:  LORD GOD I ask for a new heart that does good. Jesus is the way and I believe that he died to pay for my sins. Create a clean heart in me and give me the Holy Spirit so that I may be able to do what is good and pleasing to you. Amen

Love Lifted Me

Give Thanks

There was rejoicing and dancing upon the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Israel after it had been captured and in enemy hands. The presence of the LORD in the Ark was a curse to those who served other fake gods. To Israel it was the blessings of God to his covenant people. This was a time of Joy and Thanksgiving.

1Ch 16:1  And they brought in the ark of God and set it inside the tent that David had pitched for it, and they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before God. 

1Ch 16:2  And when David had finished offering the burnt offerings and the peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD 

David's Song of Thanks

1Ch 16:8  Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples! 

1Ch 16:9  Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! 

1Ch 16:10  Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice! 

1Ch 16:11  Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually! 

1Ch 16:12  Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles and the judgments he uttered, 

Israel was chosen by God to be the people of his promises.  Their covenant was based on the law and the prophets. The Christians through the blood sacrifice of Jesus are under a New Covenant.  Salvation is by faith in him, by which we receive his mercy and grace. He made the way for us and we need only believe in him.  We have much to be thankful for and my prayer is that our nation returns to trust in the God of our fathers.

Thanksgiving Medley

In His Hand

I care about you and want you to enjoy your life.

3Jn 1:4  I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 

We want to protect our children, both in our familes and also those we may be encouraging in their spiritual walk. The Bible shows us the way of truth.  Jesus spoke to us that he is the way to God, the truth and the life. (John 14:6) The Bible says that we all have a sin nature that we were born with. (Romans 3:23) The good news is that we are to be spiritually reborn through faith in Jesus Christ.

John 3:3  ... “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 

John 3:16  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 

John 3:17  For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 

If Jesus is not in our heart, then we make foolish decisions.  We need the Spirit of Jesus to discern what is right or wrong. To know what is good or evil we need the words of truth from God in the Bible. The world is evil, but Jesus has overcome the world.

John 16:33  These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. 

Take the hand of Jesus by trusting in him. and walk with him in this life and he will bring you to God.

Mat 7:13  “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 

Mat 7:14  For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. 

Pray with me:

Lord Jesus, I want to walk with you to everlasting life. Please forgive my sins and remove them from me. I want  to learn of you and  need your help to make  wise decisions. Thank you for loving me. Amen

Jesus Hold My Hand

The Miracle of the Garment Maker

My mother was a quilter. I have one of her quilts on my bed. As a child my favorite quilt that she made had smiling puppy dog squares on it My wife was a wonderful crocheter and quilter and my daughter is a knitter and crocheter.  I have extended family that are  talented sewers and seamstresses.  In this Bible story about the death of seamstress named Tabitha, Dorcas;  her name meant Gazelle. She must have been a fast sewer, so important to those around her that she was raised from death.

Act 9:36  Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. 

Act 9:37  In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 

Act 9:38  Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” 

Act 9:39  So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. 

Act 9:40  But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 

Act 9:41  And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 

Act 9:42  And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 

Tabatha was a believer, a disciple of Jesus. Peter, an apostle by the will and power of God prayed for her and God raised her from death. Our church ladies make lap robes that we give to shutins and those locked away in rest homes.  These gifts   bring hope and life to them. Thank you for using your gifts.

Thank You LORD

The Water and the Blood

There were a group of people in the early church and still today who were called the Gnostics. They taught that Jesus was a spirit and did not come as a human. The apostle John speaking by the Holy Spirit affirmed that Jesus was a real man, whose father was God in heaven. He came from eternity in the form of a man to save people from the darkness of hell and to give them life with God forever. His blood was shed as the atonement  for our sins.

1Jn 5:6  This is he who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ; not by the water only but by the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the one who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. 

1Jn 5:7  For there are three that testify: 

1Jn 5:8  the Spirit and the water and the blood; and these three agree. 

1Jn 5:9  If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater, for this is the testimony of God that he has borne concerning his Son. 

Jesus was baptized to identify with humanity. The baptism of John was to be immersed in water as repentance for our sins.

Mat 3:13  Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 

Mat 3:14  John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 

Mat 3:15  But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 

The blood refers to the blood spilled as Jesus willingly went to the cross to be our atonement for sins. The Holy Spirit, the spirit of truth,  agrees with the word of God and witnesses through those who have faith. The Bible is true, even those parts that we do not understand completely. Jesus is both God and a man and to finish the thought , the Holy Spirit is also God in Spirit. One God in three persons. How can it be? It is in the Bible; Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Any unanswered questions come through prayer, study of the Bible and you can ask Jesus when you are home with him.

I know that God has given us truth in the Bible. It is all true. The truth seeker will be found by God, cleansed through the blood of Jesus and indwelt by the Holy Spirit of truth. The world is controlled by the spirit of antichrist, but that is another topic.

How Can It Be