Baptized Into His Death

Rom 6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
Rom 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Baptism is the sign of the new covenant. We are baptized into his death, immersed in water and we come up cleansed, a new man in the Spirit of Christ.

What is this new life about?

Col 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Col 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
Col 3:3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
Col 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear

Phil 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
Phil 3:11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

It is settled, Christ died for sin, we die with him, and as he arose to newness of life, we receive a new life in his Holy Spirit. We are no longer the old sinful person, if you are the same, you probably have not been made new. We are a new person in Christ Jesus, renewing our minds in his word and setting our affections on things above and eternal.

Freed from sin

Rom 6:5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
Rom 6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

The old man is that self inherited from Adam, which is by nature sinful and rebellious to God; this aspect of our person was crucified with Christ. In place of the old man, God has given the believer a new man; a self which is willingly obedient and pleasing to God; this is the new man created and raised with Christ.

Rom 6:7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

If we are dead to sin, where does sin come from in our bodies? Is it not from old habits and thoughts? Do not let Satan bring up the past, nor cause you to be tempted.We also must keep separate from the ways of the world.

It is our choice, to put off sin or to walk in sin. We are dead in Christ, but the flesh awakens each day. We must walk in the Spirit and do the things that God approves of. Think of the good that we could do if we truly served the Lord each day. Flesh, vanity, pride, comfort and ease, submit to the Spirit of God. New life following the Lord who loves us and cares for us. Sin be gone, grace covers us, his blood shed to make us free. Let us live in this freedom while there is still freedom to do so.

Spirit Born

Rom 5:13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.
Rom 5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
Rom 5:15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.
Rom 5:16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.
Rom 5:17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

The first Adam brought death to all his descendants because he sinned and passed on the sin nature. Jesus, the last Adam came with life giving power. Through his shed blood we by faith receive grace and eternal life.

1Co 15:45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.
1Co 15:46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.
1Co 15:47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven.
1Co 15:48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly.
1Co 15:49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.
1Co 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

Joh 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
Joh 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

If we are in Christ Jesus, we are spirit born children of God.

Those Who Stagger

Rom 4:20 He (Abraham) staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;
Rom 4:21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.
Rom 4:22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.

We have the full revelation that Jesus is our savior. We receive grace through faith in him.

Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Eph 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

The law cannot save us, because the law shows us our sins. Jesus removed our sins through faith in his shed blood.

Rom 3:20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

How were people of old saved from their sins? The answer is given by Paul in regards to Abraham. He believed in the promises of God. He had strong faith that God would do what he said he would do. Many struggle and stagger because they have little faith. Many look to themselves or others to be made strong. They should look to Jesus. Many are double minded as explained by James.

Jas 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

Elijah saw that the peoples hearts were not committed to the LORD.

1Ki 18:21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.

Others stagger from drugs or strong drink. Too many have turned to these to escape life. Will you escape your Lord and salvation too? Come and put your faith in God, through Jesus Christ who has delivered us.

2Ti 1:12 ... for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

The Gospel of Christ

Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

I will share the gospel, which is the good news that salvation is offered to all people through faith in Jesus Christ. Maybe the message will not be received by most, but what if it is by some? I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.

Is Jesus ashamed of us?

Mark 8:38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.

Jesus came to fulfill the prophecy to the Jewish people of a savior King. He came first to the Jews and then to all people. Paul follows this pattern, preaching first in the Jewish synagogues then to the Gentiles. (non Jews)

The gospel of Jesus brings salvation through faith:

1 Cor 15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
1 Cor 15:4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

Rom 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Hab 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

The word of God is faith, believing it and following it, for the just shall live by faith. We share the faith in Christ Jesus and others receive it. How special to see new believers being delivered from the darkness by the word of faith. The truth shall set you free; now is the time to receive Jesus and the forgiveness of sins. Let no man or devil keep you in bondage, Jesus has come to set you free.

Rom 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

Acts 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: In verse 16, Paul spoke of salvation - but what are we saved from? First and foremost, we are saved from the wrath of God which we righteously deserve.

John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Rev 16:1 And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.

God will pour out His wrath on evil people in the last days, and they will be cast into hell, because God is a God of justice. Some know that Jesus is the way, but have hardened their heart to him. Respond to the voice of God and receive the removal of your sins and the gift of everlasting life as a child of God. Come to Jesus who did all that was required of you; only believe.

Do not be ashamed of the grace of God. Commit your life to his service.

Casual Disrespect

1Sa 6:19 And he smote the men of Bethshemesh, because they had looked into the ark of the LORD, even he smote of the people fifty thousand and threescore and ten men: and the people lamented, because the LORD had smitten many of the people with a great slaughter.

The Ark of the covenant had been treated casually; are we to be casual with the LORD? The Ark was taken to the battle zone, and Israel suffered a great defeat and the Ark was stolen into the enemies country. Who can steal the presence of God? Perhaps we do when we behave as if he is some lucky charm or we treat him as a genie in the bottle to fulfill our own will. God is not our servant nor a magic show to be used in place of our obedience to him. The Ark was taken and set as a gift before their idol, Dagon. Dagon fell on it's face and was broken in pieces before the Ark. The enemy did not benefit from the LORD's presence in the Ark, instead they received judgment. We casually call for the fire to fall in our services, but are we ready? That fire may fall in judgment, to burn up anything that is not holy.

The Holy Spirit brings judgment. No sin may stand before our Holy God.

John 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

The Ark brought judgment in the enemy land; boils, tumors, hemorhoids and rats and mice. Golden idols of these were made to try to appease the God of Israel and they were placed next to the Ark. The Ark of the Covenant had been in the land of the Philistines for seven months.

There was a great shout of joy when the Ark was returned. Wouldn't we like revival in our land? But, they were curious and went beyond the law in opening the Ark. No flesh can look casually upon God and live. The King James version, and the new KJV says that there were fifty thousand three hundred seven men killed from looking into the Ark. Other translations say there were seventy men killed from looking into the holy Ark. The important thing is that many died from transgressing the commands of God.

America do you want the presence of the LORD? Then repent and make yourself ready. The way is by faith in the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, there is no other way. If you make your own way, then Jesus will judge you at his coming. What of all these tornados, earthquakes, floods? Well, perhaps the LORD is trying to wake us up? All these things must come before the end.

What lesson can we learn from this story? Some speak of letting God out of the box; well you had better not be lifting the box lid. The way to his presence is through Jesus Christ. The LORD is holy and must be approached with a humble Heart. There is a proper place for God's presence. The place is in our hearts, the way is through Jesus. If we do our own thing, we will be judged, so be obedient, respect God, come to Jesus for the removal of your sins and live a holy obedient life because he works in and through you.

1Pe 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

Rom 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

The Hidden Snake

Act 28:3 And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
Act 28:4 And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
Act 28:5 And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
Act 28:6 Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.

This is as Jesus spoke in Mark chapter 16.

Mar 16:18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

There are cults who handle deadly snakes to show how spiritual they are. Is it faith they have? perhaps so, but it is also tempting the LORD. We are not to go looking for trouble, or snakes, but if God is with us, we shall be victorious.

In the evening church service a snake puppet was used to convey the story of the serpent being one who brings doubt. "Has God said?" He wants us to doubt God's word. In the back of the church there was a small stir, a lizard had entered the sanctuary; one of the men removed it. This is as the serpent, he comes in unexpectedly, to steal attention away from the word of God. He may come at us unexpectedly in the natural, as with the serpent that Paul shook off in the fire. He may also sneak up on us with lies and doubt, to steal the word from us. Know the enemy, stay close to Jesus, study the word and resist the devil in what ever way he comes to you.

Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

An Eagle and a Bear

Psa 50:10 For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills.
Psa 50:11 I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine.

I met a woman in a chat on AOL some years back who told me her story. As a small child she was abused by a step father and it continued into her teen years. One day she decided to kill herself and walked into the wilderness, where she lived in Alaska. There was a swift and deep icy stream of water and a tree had fallen across the stream to make a bridge walkway. She walked out to the middle of the stream on that tree and paused, ready to throw herself to her death. She heard something to her left and a bear was standing on one end of the log and when she looked to the right, an eagle had landed on the other end of the log. She knew that this must have been from God; he sent the animals to her to let her know that He cared for her. This was a revelation and a turning point in her life, she did not die and she found God that day. She was still loving the Lord many years later as she shared this turning point in her life. God cares and he will even send his animals and birds to show you that he is there with you. Even a small butterfly may be a blessing from the LORD. You are not alone, he cares for you.

1Pe 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Eli's Sons

1 Sam 2:22 Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

The sons were having sexual relations with the women at the door. The Lord and even the world expects a high moral standard from priests. When this standard is broken, everyone suffers.

1 Sam 2:23 And he said unto them, Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people.
1 Sam 2:24 Nay, my sons; for it is no good report that I hear: ye make the Lord's people to transgress.

He heard and gave a passive response, but did nothing to remove them from their place of authority. Perhaps we cannot always have children that love the Lord, but we can keep them out of positions of authority in the worship place if they sin willfully. They will cause many others to fall if they continue. Eli as high priest should have had them removed. Who knows how many lives were destroyed by their being as priests.

1 Pet 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
1 Pet 4:18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly

John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

1 Sam 2:25 If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall entreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.

Eli, expressed his disappointment, but was a passive father, allowing the son's to continue. All he did was whine about what they were doing wrong, but he never took the necessary actions to correct the problem. He did warn them that God was not pleased; but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall entreat for him?

The priestly line was by inheritance, but the son's proved unworthy and would be judged by God. interestingly, Samuel was also in the priests house. He had been dedicated by the LORD by his mother Hannah. The LORD has his called ones. We must hear and follow the called of God. Samuel had son's who turned out to be evil as well. LORD help us to follow Jesus personally and to listen to the anointed called of God; those who do not serve other gods.

In Christ Jesus we have Him as our Great High Priest and our advocate. We intercede for our son's and daughters through prayer. We do not give up if one sins who has been born again of God. God will restore them to his service.

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.

We are accountable to the LORD. Our goal is to be like Jesus; let his light and word be in you. We compare ourselves to Jesus and none other. Let him work through you to edify the church. Fulfill the calling that God has placed on you.

Judgment is Coming

Psa 48:10 According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness.
Psa 48:11 Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments.

The LORD is Almighty God, the Lord of Hosts, Everlasting Father, the protector and law giver to Israel. We are to praise and worship our LORD. He honors his word above his name. The LORD keeps his covenant promises with the nation Israel. One promise was that he who blesses Israel will be blessed, and he who curses Israel will be cursed. Siding with nations who wish to destroy Israel will place a nation under God's curse. A leader ignoring the judgments of God will himself be cursed and his nation. If leaders side with Israel's enemies, their nation will be judged. This is where we are at this time; Israel is being ignored by those who represent us. Their safety is not being carefully considered. LORD help us. Another disturbing bit of news was the proposed outlawing of circumcision in San Francisco. Sodomites are behind this proposal. What of the covenant through Abraham for the Jewish males that they must be circumcised? When the laws and powers oppose Israel and the judgments of God, watch out, judgment is coming. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and the restraining power of the Holy Spirit.

Favor or Folly

Rth 2:15 And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not:
Rth 2:16 And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not.
Rth 2:17 So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley.

Faith in the God of Israel and faithful diligence brought provision to Ruth. She had found favor as she put forth effort in what she knew to do. She had harvested an ephah of barley for Naomi and herself. This was about a bushel or 5 gallons of barley.

At this time in our nations history we are headed towards socialism. The government takes from the wealthy and gives to those who do not want to work. Class warfare is used to divide and anger the people, while the wealthy politicians live wasteful lives of personal indulgence. Ruth knew what was best and it is best for us too. Faith in God and hard work produces favor from God and man. If we allow men who want to be worshipped to rule over us, America will be destroyed; but they cannot take God's favor from us who are of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Pray for your nation and God's favor.

A Kind Man

Psa 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

A very gentle and kind man who owned a five and dime store recently had a minor stroke. I saw him in the Rehab place where my wife is; he has always been friendly and congenial to everyone, but to my knowledge, he never went to church . I visited him today and he was glad to see me. I said to him that we were playing music in the dining hall; I will come and listen, he responded.

Our music books are large print of the old hymns. The kind old gentleman came into the hall in his wheelchair we gave him a hymn book of the old hymns. We played "Amazing Grace", a song all are familiar with. Our service is only for thirty minutes, we prayed, we had music and had a short gospel message; All have sinned, no one is perfect in God's eyes, but God sent Jesus to pay for our sins on that cross. Believe in the name of Jesus and receive everlasting life with God. I certainly did not want to speak harshly to this kind old friend of our community, but he also needed to hear that Jesus gives us the hope of eternal life, a higher purpose than this life.

Do we treat everyone with the same love and respect that I had for this dear man? We should love all who are not yet the children of God, treat them special, but also give them the hope of Jesus Christ. The music was sincere and as pure as we could play it. His heart may respond to music more than the message, but both are useful in our witness. My ministry friend invited him back again next week. Tears came to the man's eyes, what a sweet man, from a store out of the fifties, displaced, but hopefully found.

The afflictions of this life, the remorse of loosing a long time business, the feeling of worthlessness that often comes at forced retirement can bring stress and perhaps a stroke. May this be a time to bring him to a meeting place with the savior; LORD may he be moved and may he receive your grace, in Jesus name, amen.

The Throne of Jesus

Psa 45:6 Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre.
Psa 45:7 Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

This is referring to Messiah Jesus who has an everlasting throne. Messiah Jesus loves righteousness, hates evil and is anointed with the oil of gladness the holy spirit, above other men. He is God the Son. The verse is repeated in Hebrews.

Heb 1:7 And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.

Jesus is not an angel, he is not Michael, nor is he the brother of satan. These are all false doctrines. Angels are ministering spirits but Jesus is God the Son.

Heb 1:8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

God the Father, knows that His Son is also God; only Jesus is God's own son from heaven. False religions say that all come from heaven and become gods. Or some say that they are gods themselves. These are false words. The very God, the Son of God from heaven,came in a man called Jesus. We are of the earth and we are sinners. To look within our hearts and to claim we are gods, is to be deceived.

A kings scepter held out, grants mercy. The scepter of King Jesus is righteousness.

Heb 1:9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.
Heb 1:10 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:

Jesus, the Word the creator of the heavens and the earth, He will remain forever, the creation will grow old and pass away; but those who trust in Jesus remain with him. Let us see Jesus as he is, the Son of God, ruling with the Father forever; they are one God, amen.

Divided for Unity

Act 23:6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.
Act 23:7 And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.
Act 23:8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.
Act 23:9 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.
Act 23:10 And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.

The Sadducees were wrong, but Paul knew if he appealed his case before the two opposing viewpoints, that some would be with him. There will always be a clash of ideas, but more importantly there will always be a right way and a wrong way. This began when Adam and Eve partook of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

The serpent tempted Eve.

Gen 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

Before eating of the tree there was only the knowledge of good, the knowledge of God and doing what pleased him. Now there are always two choices, maybe in most things there is a mixture of good and evil, but we are to choose that which is closest to the will of God and the truth of God.

I am sure that you know that life is about choices, political, social, personal choices. There will always be opposing views. When Jesus came to earth he spoke of not bringing peace to all, but a sword. There would be divisions in families because of him. To choose Jesus is the right way, the way of God, but not all will choose him, thus a sword comes to divide, the sword of God's word.

The sword is required to discern right from wrong. Paul spoke of the word of God being a two edged sword; the holy word and the holy spirit.

Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

The devil always has a false copy of the real thing. The devil's sword is used to kill and to intimidate people to submit to his authority. The sword of God is his holy word, by which he will separate the good from the evil. We are to use God's sword to make decisions and to cut away that which is not of him.

Joh 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
Joh 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Leviathan

Job 41:1 Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? or his tongue with a cord which thou lettest down?

I have heard many suggestions of what Leviathan was. Some said it was an alligator, a hippopotamus, a whale, a dinosaur, a sea serpent or a dragon.

Job 41:15 His scales are his pride, shut up together as with a close seal.
Job 41:16 One is so near to another, that no air can come between them.
Job 41:17 They are joined one to another, they stick together, that they cannot be sundered.

Fish have scales and serpents have scales. This was as a sea serpent, a dragon of the sea. It's origins may have been as a dinosaur in the natural. China is quite fascinated with fire breathing dragons. Were these actual creatures?

To understand Leviathan we must understand with a spiritual view.

He is king of the children of pride.

Job 41:34 He beholdeth all high things: he is a king over all the children of pride.

Just how serious is the sin of pride?

We look at it's first use in the Bible, concerning Israel if they would not do the LORD's commands.

Lev 26:14 But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will not do all these commandments;
Lev 26:15 And if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break my covenant:
Lev 26:16 I also will do this unto you; I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning ague, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and ye shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it.
Lev 26:17 And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you.
Lev 26:18 And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins.
Lev 26:19 And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass:
Lev 26:20 And your strength shall be spent in vain: for your land shall not yield her increase, neither shall the trees of the land yield their fruits.
Lev 26:21 And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins.
Lev 26:22 I will also send wild beasts among you, which shall rob you of your children, and destroy your cattle, and make you few in number; and your high ways shall be desolate.
Lev 26:23 And if ye will not be reformed by me by these things, but will walk contrary unto me;
Lev 26:24 Then will I also walk contrary unto you, and will punish you yet seven times for your sins.
Lev 26:25 And I will bring a sword upon you, that shall avenge the quarrel of my covenant: and when ye are gathered together within your cities, I will send the pestilence among you; and ye shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy.

Leviathan is king over pride, king of sin and rebellion; he is Lucifer who exalted himself as a high angel and was cast down to earth.

Isa 14:12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!
Isa 14:13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:
Isa 14:14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.
Isa 14:15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.
Isa 14:16 They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms;
Isa 14:17 That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?

Daniel spoke of an end time beast antichrist, that had ten horns. He was indwelt by Lucifer, the dragon.

Dan 7:7 After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns.

Satan fell taking a third of the angels with him. He wanted to kill Jesus, born of a virgin out of the woman of Israel.

Rev 12:3 And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.
Rev 12:4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.
Rev 12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.

Isa 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Rev 13:1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

The antichrist beast will come out of the sea, like Leviathan. The sea represents restless humanity, the troubled nations.

Rev 13:4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?
Rev 13:5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.
Rev 13:6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.
Rev 13:7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
Rev 13:8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
Rev 13:9 If any man have an ear, let him hear.

Rev 19:9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.

Rev 19:10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.
Rev 19:11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
Rev 19:12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.
Rev 19:13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.
Rev 19:14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.
Rev 19:15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
Rev 19:16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

Rev 19:20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

Rev 20:1 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand.
Rev 20:2 And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,
Rev 20:3 And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.
Rev 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.
Rev 20:5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.
Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

Isa 27:1 In that day the LORD with his sore and great and strong sword shall punish leviathan the piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent; and he shall slay the dragon that is in the sea.

Rev 20:7 And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,
Rev 20:8 And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea.
Rev 20:9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.
Rev 20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

Rev 20:14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.
Rev 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

Those saved in Christ will be in the first resurrection, they will not receive the wrath of God.

Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

No more selfish pride, no more lustful sin, no more pain or crying. The old dragon, sea monster, Leviathan, the devil shall be in the lake of fire where he will be in torment forever. Let us recognize his fruit, flee from it and him and walk in the Spirit of God. My destiny is with my LORD, in his care I submit my soul and spirit, amen.

Thoughts about Christmas and Easter

Christmas and Easter are not recognized in our public schools, not because of their pagan origins, but because of Jesus Christ. The world fears that name and the antichrist spirit is growing to blot out all remembrances of him. Crosses are being taken down, even military burial crosses are in danger of being removed. But paganism is flourishing in our schools and institutions, Earth day, mother earth, Harry Potter and all such things are open to the minds of the youths. Perversions are being taught as normal while bringing a Bible to school is not tolerated.

Christmas; although the day and some of the customs have pagan origins, the central theme is the coming of Jesus Christ as a baby born of a virgin; a miracle birth of the savior of the world. Some have said that the world doesn't mind a baby Jesus, it is the grown Jesus that they fear. Evolution has been instituted to replace God as the creator. If we all just came about by chance, then we do not have to fear our God who has created us to do his will. Many wish to just ignore God, as if he did not exist. Herod feared Jesus as a baby and tried to kill him but he had a purpose to fulfill. We should fear God, not man.

Easter has pagan origins, the world likes these things, but there is that cross and the resurrection that troubles them; resurrection into eternal life. Jesus allowed the world's evil to kill him, but it was for God's purpose, as a payment for our sins. The schools remove Easter time, and call it spring break. They love the fairies and goddesses, but not the one true savior of the world, Jesus the Christ.

Abraham was given a symbol of the circumcision, representing a called out people of purity. Moses gave the laws and the Sabbath was the symbol of a day of rest, to remember God. The New Covenant was in the blood of Jesus, grace given by faith in the death burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The symbol of the New Covenant is water baptism. We are buried with Christ, our old life is dead and we are risen in new life in his Spirit. We are a new spiritual people and Jesus is our rest. Circumcision will not save you, Sabbath keeping will not save you, baptism will not save you. Jesus will save you and this followed by baptism as an act of obedience. All the symbols and training under the law were to bring us to the new life through faith in Christ Jesus. Let us keep his commands to love God with all our heart and to love our neighbor as ourselves. In these we keep all the commandments. One Baptist preacher recently said that the church spends too much time pointing out the problems they see with others and not enough time exalting the Lord. He said may the Lord forgive us. Let us not dwell on all the bad things we see, these are the fruits of satan and sin, but instead let us magnify the Lord Jesus Christ. Do not accuse a brother because he does not see things as you do. Do not ignor the true meaning of Christmas and Easter; both were occasions for angelic joy. We are called to have spiritual fruit; love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. We are to dwell in his light, lifting up the name of Jesus. The devil has a big news team, the Lord is counting on us to get out His good news.

2 Cor 5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
2 Cor 5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
2 Cor 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
2 Cor 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Known by Your Words

Jdg 12:5 And the Gileadites took the passages of Jordan before the Ephraimites: and it was so, that when those Ephraimites which were escaped said, Let me go over; that the men of Gilead said unto him, Art thou an Ephraimite? If he said, Nay;
Jdg 12:6 Then said they unto him, Say now Shibboleth: and he said Sibboleth: for he could not frame to pronounce it right. Then they took him, and slew him at the passages of Jordan: and there fell at that time of the Ephraimites forty and two thousand.

Shibboleth: A Heb. word (meaning either a flowing stream or a head of grain), which the Gileadites under Jephthah used in order to discover which of their prisoners were Ephraimites. The Ephraimite pronunciation was Sibboleth, they could not make the "sh" sound.

The manner of speech can show where you are from. Peter was betrayed by his speech. Not only did his accent betray him but his words betrayed his Lord.

Mar 14:69 And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them.
Mar 14:70 And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and thy speech agreeth thereto.

Mar 14:71 But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.

I love the accent in a southerners voice. We can recognize a New England accent. A Britain who speaks the kings language may be eloquent, but from a poorer district the language may be quite strange. The musical "My Fair Lady" was concerned with the retraining of a young woman's speech to make her more eloquent to the hearer.

In the Bible, Apollos was said to be an eloquent speaker, but Paul humbly said his words were not eloquent, but by the power of the Holy Ghost.

1Co 2:2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
1Co 2:3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
1Co 2:4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
1Co 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

The accent can be detected from our speech and we may know where someone came from, but more importantly it shows where are heart is coming from. Our heart is shown by the words we use; as Jesus said.

Mar 7:20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man.
Mar 7:21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
Mar 7:22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:
Mar 7:23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.

Jas 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.

Rom 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
Rom 16:18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

Our accent may betray our origin, but our words betray or they glorify our LORD. Choose your words carefully and be discerning in what you hear.

The Seven Sons of Sceva

Act 19:13 Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.

Act 19:14 And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.
Act 19:15 And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?
Act 19:16 And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.

The seven sons of Sceva did not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. They were trying to use the name of Jesus through the name of Paul. "We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth", but they were overcome by this demon possessed man who said "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?" The power of the name of Jesus is not to be used as some magic incantation. The demonic man overcame them and "they fled out of that house naked and wounded." We cannot be second hand Christians riding on the coattails of someone else's faith.

The Apostles had been given authority to cast out demons by Jesus, but even they were not able to cast out a strong demon in a child.

Mar 9:28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?
Mar 9:29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting

The power is entirely of God, not of man. Man must fast and pray to remove the influence of the flesh. Titles, pride and personal efforts are no good, the power is given through the authority of Jesus.

Mat 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Act 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

The power is through salvation by faith in Jesus Christ and receiving the Holy Ghost, followed by fasting and prayer. Do not be casually commanding demons to come out of people. The demons know Jesus and they know the power of the Holy Spirit.

Zec 4:6 ... Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.

Get close to the LORD with prayer and fasting and obey him, do not attempt to cast out demons for a thrill or personal power; you may be spiritually naked. As a child of God, Holy Ghost filled and a person of prayer, do not be looking for demons, nor should you fear them, however, because of the authority you have in Christ, the demons will flee at the name of Jesus. We should always be ready to be used of God. To God be the glory.

Gideon

Jdg 8:22 Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, Rule thou over us, both thou, and thy son, and thy son's son also: for thou hast delivered us from the hand of Midian.
Jdg 8:23 And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you.

Israel was warned to not go after other gods, but they soon turned from their God. After much suffering at the hands of the Midianites the LORD sent Gideon as a deliverer who was a farmer. The battle plan was the LORD's and Gideon was picked as the faithful servant of the LORD. To prove that God had indeed called him, Gideon asked for signs concerning dew on a fleece. Once he was sure he was hearing from God he followed the LORD's direction. Following the miraculous victory over the Midianites, the people wanted to exalt Gideon and make him king. Gideon gave glory to the LORD; let him be king. A lesser man would take the honor and seek to exalt himself as king. People are flawed when they make idols of men or things. Gideon makes an ephod as a religious gesture, without consulting the LORD. This would become a stumbling block.

Jdg 8:24 And Gideon said unto them, I would desire a request of you, that ye would give me every man the earrings of his prey. (For they had golden earrings, because they were Ishmaelites.)
Jdg 8:25 And they answered, We will willingly give them. And they spread a garment, and did cast therein every man the earrings of his prey.
Jdg 8:26 And the weight of the golden earrings that he requested was a thousand and seven hundred shekels of gold; beside ornaments, and collars, and purple raiment that was on the kings of Midian, and beside the chains that were about their camels' necks.
Jdg 8:27 And Gideon made an ephod thereof, and put it in his city, even in Ophrah: and all Israel went thither a whoring after it: which thing became a snare unto Gideon, and to his house.

645 Ephod:a girdle; specifically the ephod or high-priest's shoulder- piece; also generally, an image:--ephod.

The ephod became an object of worship, instead of the one true God. LORD help us all to love you and serve you and to not go a whoring after man made idols. We are not to make anyone or anything an idol in your place. We must not measure success by idols, monuments, or buildings. May all be for your worship and glory as we follow and obey you. Father forgive us in Jesus' name, amen

Berea

Acts 17:10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.
Acts 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Acts 17:12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.

About the only place you will hear preaching is in the local church. The world does not teach the Bible truths. Movies and TV give a distorted view of Christianity. Much of what is seen on Christian TV is Hollywood glitz or begging for money; preachers preaching "feel good" messages instead of the whole word of God.

A person of God must study the Bible to understand for himself the word of God.

2 Tim 2:14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
2 Tim 2:15 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
2 Tim 2:16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
2 Tim 2:17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
2 Tim 2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
2 Tim 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

The Bereans did not just accept what Paul was preaching, they searched the scriptures that they had to see if he was speaking the truth. A seeking person who manages to enter a church to hear a message of truth, should hear the word of God from the heart of God. A church that does not preach the word of God may be full of people, but it is an empty church. The focus is not on an eloquent speaker or entertainment, the focus is on the Lord Jesus Christ.

Blessed among Women

Jdg 5:24 Blessed above women shall Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite be, blessed shall she be above women in the tent.

Blessed be Jael who has destroyed the king of Canaan with a tent peg through his head as he rested in her tent. Blessed be the work of her hands that delivered Israel from the enemy king. Evil men are killed in their hiding places, for no one can hide from the LORD.

Thirteen hundred years would pass until another woman would be called blessed among women. Mary was the virgin mother of our Lord Jesus Christ who would be our deliverer from sin and bondage.

Luk 1:39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;
Luk 1:40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
Luk 1:41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
Luk 1:42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

Blessed be Mary, for the fruit of her womb, the work of God. Blessed is the Lord Jesus Christ who was nailed to a cross to deliver us all from the King of darkness. Blessed is the one who came to free the captives, to heal the sick and to forgive us our sins. Blessed are those who receive salvation, not by the work of their hands, but by faith in the one who was nailed, bled and died in our place. Blessed is He who is risen from the grave and is the King of Kings, Hallelujah and amen.

Sensitive to the Spirit

Act 16:6 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,
Act 16:7 After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.

Paul was sensitive to the Holy Spirit. How did he know it was the Holy Spirit and not the devil speaking to him? I know at times a bad spirit will try to discourage or hinder me. Usually, I get through this by speak the word "JESUS". We can know the Spirit's guidance. We may have something to do and there is an unrest, go deeper in prayer and seek his will. If you are making a decision and there is no peace, then wait. Paul knew the time was not right to go to Asia, the Spirit forbid him to go at this time. Do not go against the Spirit. I believe one of Paul's first lessons was on the road to Damascus. He was compelled to round up Christians and to bring them bound to Jerusalem, he was a zealous Pharisee then called Saul, but Jesus stopped him in his journey.

Act 9:3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:
Act 9:4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
Act 9:5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
Act 9:6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Why are you going against the pricks, the goads, the sharp sticks used to control the movement and direction of cattle? He was doing what he thought was right in serving God, but it was hindering the will of God. We must ask ourselves, "am I doing the will of God, or my own will." Am I led by the Holy Spirit, or driven by lusts and desires, power or pride? If hindered in one way, seek an open door. Keep going, obeying the known will of God and he will direct you. Paul did receive a new direction in a dream or a vision.

Act 16:9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.
Act 16:10 And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.

If you are serving God with all your heart, he will direct your paths.

Judah Went Up First

Jdg 1:2 And the LORD said, Judah shall go up: behold, I have delivered the land into his hand.

Jdg 1:3 And Judah said unto Simeon his brother, Come up with me into my lot, that we may fight against the Canaanites; and I likewise will go with thee into thy lot. So Simeon went with him.

Jdg 1:4 And Judah went up; and the LORD delivered the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand: and they slew of them in Bezek ten thousand men.

Judah means "praised". Judah's father Jacob gave him a prophetic blessing:

Gen 49:8 Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand shall be in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children shall bow down before thee.

Gen 49:9 Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up?

Gen 49:10 The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be.

King David was from the tribe of Judah. He was known for his many instruments of praise. He knew how to praise the LORD. He was after the Lords heart. Yes, he sinned, but also repented, wanting the Holy Spirit with him always.

Psa 51:11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.

The mother of the man Jesus was of the tribe of Judah, so also was Joseph his legal earthly father. Jesus is to be praised. He had the fullness of the Holy Spirit; He is God the Son and He is the victor over our enemies: sin, death and the devil. Jesus went up first to glory, followed by all who trust in him. Jesus from the tribe of Judah shall receive our praise. Shiloh (tranquil) has come, the Messiah, the prince of glory and Jesus, our peace. He is worthy of all glory, honor and praise. Praise the name of Jesus!

Be Strong in the LORD

Jos 23:8 But cleave unto the LORD your God, as ye have done unto this day.
Jos 23:9 For the LORD hath driven out from before you great nations and strong: but as for you, no man hath been able to stand before you unto this day.
Jos 23:10 One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the LORD your God, he it is that fighteth for you, as he hath promised you.
Jos 23:11 Take good heed therefore unto yourselves, that ye love the LORD your God.

Osama Bin Laden is dead. He was killed by special forces of the US military. It is a victory for our nation against a terrorist leader. There is a show of patriotism with the waving of flags and the shouting voices, but is this enough? Does a president receive the glory? The U.S. military? or is it favor from the God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob?

The LORD spoke to the armies of Israel and the people that they are to cleave unto the LORD your God. The LORD drives out great nations before them. I think of Israel now, a tiny nation in the promise land surrounded be Ishmaelites. They hate Israel, but the God of Joshua is the God of Israel. In proportion Israel is as one man in a thousand. "One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the LORD your God fighteth for you." Israel, take heed to Love the LORD thy God. Christian America take heed, to love the LORD thy God, for we as a nation have gone after the gods of this world.

2Ch 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.