Faith and Prayers

I had some private time as my wife was in a woman's meeting at church so I needed to do some walking and prayer, so I went into the darkened sanctuary where light came in at the top center of the room sky lights. The presence of the LORD was in the church  sanctuary as I prayed. On the altars were small pieces of cloth that were anointed with fragrant oil. I prayed for every seat as I walked up and down the aisles in the sanctuary. I prayed for all who enter the church, every teacher, the pastor, the preaching and teaching, the music and the microphones as I walked around and around the sanctuary. I used the anointing oil in the cloth to pray in every class room in the church. I prayed for people that the LORD brought to mind, I prayed for you. Thank you LORD that I can kneel in prayer and walk in prayer and be in prayer wherever I am. Prayer makes the way for the blessings and power of God to move in our lives. 

Rom 1:8  First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
Rom 1:9  For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;
Rom 1:10  Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.
Rom 1:11  For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;
Rom 1:12  That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

In Christ we have been given grace and favor. We are to share this grace in praying and blessing others and in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in these sin darkened days. We have the truth and light of God, so we must share it while we are able. By faith we pray and witness giving grace to grace and faith to faith, increasing the presence and power of God to accomplish his purpose of truth and life by his love for us all. May Jesus Christ be praised.

Doctrine of Christ

Too many pastors have come out of liberal schools of theology that are taught by unbelieving professors. Man's thoughts replace the true word of God. The liberal seminary has become a cemetery; dead, cold, lacking the Spirit of God. A youthful pastor fresh from seminary came to the church I was baptized in, back in 1959. He became my friend, but he did not believe in the virgin birth, he was taught that Joseph was the biological father of Jesus. A nice man the pastor was, but what he taught was not truth. A friendly church without the doctrines of Christ and the Holy Spirit, is no more than a social club. It is not enough to trust in titles such as, doctor of divinity or reverend pastor, make sure that they are teaching the true doctrines of Jesus Christ.

 

2Ti 3:5  Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

 

2Jn 1:7  For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.
2Jn 1:8  Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.
2Jn 1:9  Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
2Jn 1:10  If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
2Jn 1:11  For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

 

The doctrine of Christ simplified is "Jesus is Lord". The Jehovah's Witnesses that come to my door do not agree with that statement. Doctrine means the teachings, the teachings of Christ.

Jesus, The Living Word of God, came as a man, born of a virgin. He taught that we must be born again 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.

Jesus paid the price for our sin and redeemed us by his blood and death on the cross. He is raised from the dead , appeared before men and returned to heaven. He is coming again and left with us His presence, the Comforter that is the Holy Spirit. He taught that God is known as God the Father, Jesus, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus said; "before Abraham, I Am". He was with God the Father and the Holy Spirit at the creation of the world. He is coming back as king to establish his kingdom. Blessed are those who are in the first resurrection for they will not receive the wrath of God. 

Jesus is the only way to God the Father.

 

John 14:4  And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
John 14:5  Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?
John 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
John 14:7  If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.

John 5:21  For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. 

John 5:22  For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: 

John 5:23  That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. 

John 5:24  Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. 

John 5:25  Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. 

There is so much more. Read and study the Bible for yourself and know that by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, there is eternal life.

1Jn 5:11  And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 

1Jn 5:12  He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 

Be Yourself

A pastor spoke that we are okay as we are and that each one is different and we should not try to be like someone else. Be who you are. I thought to myself, where is the rest of the message? We are to come to Jesus as we are and he will use us as unique chosen vessels, but we are given a calling to share the truth with the world. We are to be made new in the likeness of our savior, Jesus Christ. If we have an audience and an opportunity we are to glorify God and not man. The Pastor's message was humanism. We were born humans but we are to be reborn as sons of God.

 

Joh 17:16  They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
Joh 17:17  Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
Joh 17:18  As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

 

In Christ Jesus we are called to be holy and separated unto him. We are given his word of truth, the Bible. By the Holy Spirit we are sent out again into the world with the message of truth.

 

1Jn 5:10  He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
1Jn 5:11  And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
1Jn 5:12  He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
1Jn 5:13  These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

 

Come to God just as you are and may the blood of Jesus cleanse you and the water of his word wash you and make you his beloved. May your future home be in God's kingdom and may all your family be saved from hell. Tell them the true story of Jesus.

 

Show Diligence

God helps those who help themselves, is not in the Bible. The word diligence may convey some of that thought. We pray and do our part, we are to have diligence.

Diligence: earnestness in accomplishing, promoting, or striving after something.

Heb 6:10  For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
Heb 6:11  And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:
Heb 6:12  That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

 

Gal 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Gal 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men,  

John spoke through the Spirit that we are given understanding and that we are to keep away from idols.

1Jn 5:20  And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.
1Jn 5:21  Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.

I see these idols that are prominent in our nation: greed and lusting for pleasure and entertainment. We are to repent, to change our thinking to the things of God. Be diligent, for the thief is stealing all that is holy from our nation. Stand up for Jesus and make a difference.

Alpha and Omega

When I get upset with what I see in the news, I go to the Book. If I turn to the back of the book it explains the news from a to z. The Greek alphabet calls it alpha to omega, from the first to the last. Jesus spoke: I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, signifying that he is God from the beginning and to the end of the ages. He further explains this in Revelation 1:8 " I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." He is past, present and future, he sees all and knows all, he is omnipotent and omniscient. 

Rev 21:6  And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
Rev 21:7  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
Rev 21:8  But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Our choice is always now, the present. If we chose Jesus as the way of salvation and eternal life in the past, we also must choose him now and in the future, this is to be an overcomer. He will give us the water of life, His Holy Word and His Holy Spirit. We become the sons of God, inheritors of all that Jesus has.

What of the evil around us that so perplexes us? Fear not, trust in God, for they will be condemned forever in the lake of fire. Knowing this gives us the upper hand as intercessors for them in prayer. Do not fear, but pray and be an overcomer. Souls need to be saved before it is too late.

Sound of a Trumpet

 

 

A trumpet will call God's people together and we will worship and praise him. It is time to praise the LORD! About twenty years ago I played in a Brass group who would perform in various churches. This Summer I have been playing in a Brass sextet the old hymns. We are to play at a Church this Sunday for the first time. God's people need to praise the LORD!

 

When The Trumpet Of The Lord Shall Sound - YouTube

 

Psa 47:5  God is gone up with a shout, the LORD with the sound of a trumpet.
Psa 47:6  Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises.
Psa 47:7  For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding.
Psa 47:8  God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness.
Psa 47:9  The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted.

 

The LORD has gone up to heaven and he is coming back to reign in Jerusalem with the shout of a trumpet. Sing praises to the king.

 

Psa 34:3  O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.

Psa 69:34  Let the heaven and earth praise him, the seas, and every thing that moveth therein.

Psa 86:12  I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore.

Psa 150:6  Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD. 

A River of Life

There was a river flowing through the garden of Eden, a life giving river, for all living things need water. Water is life giving and it is a symbol of the life giving Holy Spirit. A hymn:

When Peace Like A River - YouTube (also entitled - It is well with my soul)

Psa 46:4  There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.
Psa 46:5  God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.

Ezekiel spoke of a river flowing from the house, the temple of God, that has not yet been built. The water brought life to everything it touched.

Eze 47:1  Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house; and, behold, waters issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward: for the forefront of the house stood toward the east, and the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the south side of the altar.
Eze 47:2  Then brought he me out of the way of the gate northward, and led me about the way without unto the utter gate by the way that looketh eastward; and, behold, there ran out waters on the right side.

The LORD is in Zion, His life giving presence and his protection.

1Jn 5:11  And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
1Jn 5:12  He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

Psa 1:1  Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Psa 1:2  But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
Psa 1:3  And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Finally there is a river  flowing from the throne of God.

Rev 22:1  And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.
Rev 22:2  In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.
Rev 22:3  And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:
Rev 22:4  And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.
Rev 22:5  And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. 

Worship Music

Worship is between you and God. It is personal and deep from the heart. I love the old hymns and their anointed messages. Some of the newer hymns are beautiful. One of my favorites for worship is "As the Deer"

 

As The Deer - YouTube

 

Ps 42:1 To the Chief Musician. A Contemplation of the sons of Korah. As the deer pants for the water brooks, So pants my soul for You, O God.

Ps 42:2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? 

 

This was one of my first web pages...

 

http://www.ilovejesus.com//worship/mpj/

 

When we are in God's presence the entire creation will sing in worship and praise.

Spiritual Orchestra

Sometimes when reading a music score that is unfamiliar for the first time with an orchestra it can be confusing. I look at the music and if it is not followed note by note, in the correct rhythm and the right key signature and tempo I can get lost. The conductor waves his arms , the wind blows the music and I am not with it. Can this be true of a Christian who does not follow the word of God in order? Every jot and every title is there for a reason and should be read in order in it's proper context. The conductor is the Lord, he knows the word, but are we following Him in the proper order and context? If in an orchestra, you must be in the right place to be in the correct lead or harmony with the score. We play as the composer intended the music composition to be heard. As a Christian in the body of Christ we are to be where God has assigned us a part and we are to play lead or harmony in unity with the whole group that we are a part of.

2Tim 2:15  Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 

 1Co 12:12  For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 

1Co 14:33  For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Confusion may come when we are separated from the body, and when we are tired and distracted. Stay in tune, stay connected, study, pray, be diligent,  look carefully at where you are, and are you in the proper place in the LORD's orchestra? As a member of the body of Christ you have an assigned position, do not be distracted from God's direction and purpose. Keep your eyes upon Jesus. A final thought, to fail is to be ashamed. When someone is counting on you and you do not do your part, there is shame.  We must abide in Christ to do his work.

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. 

1Jn 2:28  And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. 
1Jn 2:29  If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him. 

Rom 10:10  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 

Rom 10:11  For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. 

Are we all in our places? The conductor has his arms up, get ready to play your part. Some are too loud some are too quiet. Some are not paying attention and some are right with it. We are to perform with confidence.

Php 1:6  Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

Psalm 36

When there is no fear of God in a nation and the Christians are no different from the world, then every evil thing is exalted in defiance of God.

Psa 36:1  To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David the servant of the LORD. The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.
Psa 36:2  For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful.
Psa 36:3  The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, and to do good.
Psa 36:4  He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil.
Psa 36:5  Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.
Psa 36:6  Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD, thou preservest man and beast.
Psa 36:7  How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.
Psa 36:8  They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
Psa 36:9  For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.
Psa 36:10  O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart.
Psa 36:11  Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.
Psa 36:12  There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise.

Keep me Jesus in your lovingkindness and all who call upon your name. We exalt you LORD God and lift up the name of Jesus. Keep us under your wings and give us grace to bring others to you. I bow before you and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Your finished work on the cross has set me free.

The Eye of God

 

 

For those who want to remove God from our Christian nation, you have made yourselves the enemy of God. For there is no other God than the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The pride of man is his downfall, his devices will come to nothing and his secret plans will be exposed, repent and change your ways for God sees all.

 

Psa 33:11  The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
Psa 33:12  Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.
Psa 33:13  The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men.
Psa 33:14  From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth.
Psa 33:15  He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works.
Psa 33:16  There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength.
Psa 33:17  An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength.
Psa 33:18  Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;
Psa 33:19  To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.
Psa 33:20  Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he is our help and our shield.
Psa 33:21  For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.
Psa 33:22  Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.

 

Those who fight God, repent and return to the God of our fathers. If your heritage is marred come to Jesus and receive a new family of God. Our hope is in Jesus who paid the price with his own blood to free us from sin and death. If you desire to remove God, He will remove you from the Book of Life. Repent and turn towards truth and righteousness, come to Jesus for everlasting life. 

My Spirit

Is there any better place to put ourselves then in the hands of God and Jesus His Son?

 

Psa 31:5  Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.

 

In death

 

Luk 23:46  And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

 

Act 7:59  And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

 

 In this life

 

John 10:27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
John 10:28  And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
John 10:29  My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
John 10:30  I and my Father are one.

 When we place our spirit in the hands of God, His Spirit becomes our Spirit.

 

Joel 2:28  And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:

 

Rom 8:14  For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

 

Zec 4:6  Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.

It is not by our doing, but by the power of God released through us that we are able to do all things that he commands us and to be with him in glory forever. Our God is greater than all.

Meekness, Mercy and Truth

Onward Christian Soldiers / We're Marching to Zion (Medle... - YouTube

Psa 25:9  The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
Psa 25:10  All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.

 

Meek

1) poor, humble, afflicted, meek

a) poor, needy

b) poor and weak

c) poor, weak and afflicted

d) humble, lowly, meek

Mat 5:3  Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

2Cor 12:9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Through meekness and faith we receive the power of Christ and the grace to learn from him.

 

mercy and truth

 

We need not fear mercy and truth, unless we are unforgiving and deceitful.   the goodness of God is greater than the wrath of man and the goodness of man cannot save him from the wrath of God. Jesus is our mercy and truth. In him we are saved from our sins and blessed.

 

Psa 85:10  Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
Psa 85:11  Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven.
Psa 85:12  Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase.
Psa 85:13  Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.

 

If we keep his covenant and testimonies. The New Covenant in His blood is our testimony. By grace are ye saved by faith, it is the gift of God. (Eph 2:8.9) Faith in Jesus Christ brings to us the blessings of God. The meek shall walk in his mercy and truth.

 

A wolf

  

Act 20:26  Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
Act 20:27  For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
Act 20:28  Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Act 20:29  For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Act 20:30  Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
Act 20:31  Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
Act 20:32  And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

Woe to a church or a nation whose overseer is a wolf.

Sweeter than Honey

A popular hymn sung by a group at a local Bible college, says:  "You can't stand on God's promises if you don't know what they are." This applies to the church and to our nation that was founded on the precepts of the Bible and requires a Bible believing people to be able to keep the constitution. In the schools the Bible is not tolerated while almost every evil described in the Bible is allowed. Tolerance of sin and very  little personal responsibility is being taught. Truth is replaced by repeating back to the teacher what is politically correct.The teaching is that anything goes and that you are to have self esteem. We see people from the top down blaming someone else and not taking personal responsibility for their actions.

You Can't Stand on Promises - Sounds of Shasta - YouTube

Psa 19:7  The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
Psa 19:8  The statutes 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 for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
Psa 19:10  More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Psa 19:11  Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

The Bible is God's word and will to us. The law, is not just the 10 commandments. the word law is "torah", it refers to the complete word of God.

The statutes are things committed to our trust, the principals and practices of God's word.

The commandments are the doctrines; the just shall live by faith and the way of God is pure and holy.

The fear and reverence of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom and it is everlasting. The judgments, knowing right from wrong are from God and not to be altered by man or by political correctness.

God's way is pure and holy, the heart of man is evil. Our hearts are made new by the word of God and by faith in Jesus Christ, and by the power of the Holy Spirit we live in his will.

I agree with the Psalmist, how sweet is the word of God and Holy is the LORD, living in Him, we live forever in joy and in peace.

Indivisible

One way to destroy a nation is to divide it, once it is divided then fighting may come and what was a great nation is no more. Our pledge says "one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all". Indivisible, under God, one people , under God. If God is removed and righteousness, the nation divides and is in peril. The same goes for Christianity. Denominations feature a certain part of the Bible, but often are divided from other Christians because of their differences. We must too, be indivisible, under God, through faith in Jesus Christ. Quit the bickering and dividing. I remember one woman in a Baptist Church who  would not fellowship with other Baptists unless they were of the same association. There is however one Baptist church that is not Baptist, nor Christian in their conduct. The world focuses on them, instead of the true Christian Churches. We need a united Church under the truth of God's word. A church of righteousness speaking up for the good of all. We are not to unite with Churches that are as the world or that teach a false Jesus.

Mark 3:22  And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils.
Mark 3:23  And he called them unto him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan?
Mark 3:24  And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.
Mark 3:25  And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.
Mark 3:26  And if Satan rise up against himself, and be divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end.

Isa 59:8  The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.
Isa 59:9  Therefore is judgment far from us, neither doth justice overtake us: we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness.
Isa 59:10  We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noonday as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men.

Satan is busy dividing, but so is our God. Even now the sheep are being divided from the goats. Which are you? Where is your heart?

Jas 4:1  From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?
Jas 4:2  Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
Jas 4:3  Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
Jas 4:4  Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Jas 4:5  Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?
Jas 4:6  But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Jas 4:7  Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Jas 4:8  Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
Jas 4:9  Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
Jas 4:10  Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
Jas 4:11  Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
Jas 4:12  There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?

A heavy message, but these things have been heavy on my heart. Look up, your redemption is very near.

Think Soberly

  

Rom 12:3  For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Think soberly

1) to be of sound mind

a) to be in one's right mind

b) to exercise self control

1) to put a moderate estimate upon one's self, think of one's self soberly

2) to curb one's passions

A sober mind is a Spirit controlled mind. The hardest thing to control seems to be our words.

The measure of faith

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

Faith is for the things of God, to do His will. His word in the Bible is His will. Fill your mind and heart with his will and you will be transformed. You also will be changed, and the thoughts and actions of this world will be seen from the light of God's truth. We need light. God is truth and light. Liars are of the darkness. Lord Jesus you took the punishment for evil so that I may live with you in heavenly places. Help me to stay in your will and purpose for my life.

Sincere

Rom 12:9  Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
Rom 12:10  Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
Rom 12:11  Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

Dissimulation, without hypocrisy, sincere and not faked nor two faced, speaking with insincerity or flattery to disguise contempt. If you say you will not do something? Do you do it? Do you preach against something and then do it? Be kind with true affection, putting the other first. Be faithful and not a nuisance. Lord help me to not be a nuisance. 

Something New

In witnessing at times we will share with someone who wants to debate, no matter the topic, he just likes to debate. Still others seem interested in what is said, but really are not interested in receiving the message in their heart, they just want to compare thoughts. Paul was in Athens Greece where all the philosophers and thinkers of the Greeks came to hear something new. Paul was not there to entertain but to change hearts and to save souls from hell. The Holy Spirit used this occasion to speak the greatest message they would ever hear.

 

Act 17:18  Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.
Act 17:19  And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?
Act 17:20  For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean.
Act 17:21  (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)
Act 17:22  Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.
Act 17:23  For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

A few were saved from his visit to Athens, but from this experience he began to just preach the simple gospel of Jesus Christ, and him crucified for our sins. He went from Athens to Corinth with a simplified message.

 

Act 18:1  After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;

1Co 2:1  And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
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 gospel message received is the power of God to make a new life. We are Born Again of God's Spirit, making us adopted son's of God and a joint heirs with Jesus. Learn from this that the power of God is in his simple gospel truth and not in the skills of our speaking. Instead of always seeking something new, allow God to make you new. 

Berea

A friend wrote to me that people read everything I write to see if it is true. It is good to search the Bible to see if what is read is truth. Personal stories cannot be checked by the Bible, so they should be used only to illustrate a Bible truth. There is another group of people who want to find fault with or to condemn what you say. They sometimes say they are doing it for the sake of truth, but usually they are coming from pride or envy, to destroy and not to encourage. I respect those who see the good and encourage the good while helping to keep truth as taught in the Holy Scriptures.

 

Act 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.
Act 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.
Act 17:12  Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.

Act 17:13  But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.
Act 17:14  And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.

Act 17:15  And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed. 

The Bereans searched the scriptures to see if what they were hearing was true. They were more noble, with higher aspirations, well behaved, honorable. There was another group who followed Paul and Silas in order to silence them and to destroy them, because of envy and lack of faith. They stirred up the people against the true witnesses. Paul was sent away, but Silas and Timothy staid behind for a time. Are you called to witness in difficult places? Preach the word and be faithful to the word of God as the Spirit leads you.

 

Isa 55:11  So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

Psalm 6

If I am made aware that I have failed in a some way, my first thought is to make things right. I suppose I fail at many things and the LORD will show me my weaknesses in His loving way. Often things happen to make us aware of our failings, for he already knows them all. We may feel rejected, betrayed, unloved...take it all to the LORD. Another feeling that comes is not from the LORD. It is the fear that comes from the enemy of our soul. He will try to block any good thing of the LORD; we keep going, we go through the spiritual battles and live in victory.

 

Psa 6:1  To the chief Musician on Neginoth upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David. O LORD, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.
Psa 6:2  Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.
Psa 6:3  My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O LORD, how long?
Psa 6:4  Return, O LORD, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake.
Psa 6:5  For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?
Psa 6:6  I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears.
Psa 6:7  Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies.
Psa 6:8  Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping.
Psa 6:9  The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.
Psa 6:10  Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly.

 

If you walk with the Lord, your enemies are his enemies. If we are at fault, then we need to do some repenting and correcting.

 

1Pe 2:19  For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
1Pe 2:20  For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
1Pe 2:21  For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
1Pe 2:22  Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
1Pe 2:23  Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:
1Pe 2:24  Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
 

Psalm 1

We are NOT to love this world. Just what that means to me is that we are to love God more and His word above the thoughts and ways of the world. The world is disobedient, seeking it's own way. The child of God seeks to obey the voice of the Father and Jesus our savior from our sins. We do not go the way of the worldly.

 

1Jn 2:15  Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
1Jn 2:16  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
1Jn 2:17  And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
 

Psa 1:1  Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Psa 1:2  But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
Psa 1:3  And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Psa 1:4  The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
Psa 1:5  Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
Psa 1:6  For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

 

Verses one through three speak of the way of the righteous, the godly man. He doesn't hang out with the world's ungodly people. The ungodly people change the truth of God to what they think is right in their own eyes. This brings separation from God. They are as the chaff of wheat, blown about by every strange wind. Contrast this to the one seeking the way of God. He meditates on the word of God day and night. Everything he does prospers. He is like a tree planted by rivers of water. Out of his innermost being flows the Living water of God's Holy Spirit. He is on a journey to God's kingdom, a journey by faith in the promises of God. I know my redeemer lives and that I will go to him. Can we depend on fantasies and delusions? No, of course not. I want truth and the way of God. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life.

Seek Things Above

One definition of sin is to live apart from God and doing our own thing.

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 with him in glory.

What things are above? God's will, His word, worship and praise, spiritual fruit...love.  What do you see as seeking those things which are above?

Titus 2:7  In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
Titus 2:8  Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

God is Holy, so we are to be holy and without blame.

Pro 14:34  Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

We are to be a people who fear God and seek his will. God hates lying and sin. It is to him an abomination.

The Gift of Music

We went to the Alzheimer wing of a nursing home for church and the old hymns were played. Many joined us there including family visiting. Bob sang a popular hymn from the 1950's. 

 

THIS OLD HOUSE by STUART HAMBLEN - YouTube

 

I love the old hymns. Most are messages from the Bible. I have been making instrumental parts for a Brass Sextet that I was asked to join. Many of these great hymns of the faith are no longer played. Some in our group are from the old time denominations, Christian Churches that still sing the old hymns. There are beautiful new hymns as well.

 

Psa 33:1  Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.
Psa 33:2  Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
Psa 33:3  Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.
Psa 33:4  For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.

I understand a new song as music coming from the heart, making it new. Just like the word of God if it is spoken by the Spirit of God it takes on new life in the hearer. An old hymn can take on new life if played and arranged in harmony pleasing to the ear.

 

Psa 40:2  He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.
Psa 40:3  And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

 

Some by the Spirit speak in tongues, while others speak music from their heart or preach from his Spirit new incites to make the Word of God come alive.

 

1Co 12:11  But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

Col 3:14  And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Col 3:15  And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Col 3:16  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Col 3:17  And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Thank you LORD for the gift of music to minister grace to the hearer.

 

All Glory to God

All supernatural things are not of God. Even the things that are supernatural, such as signs and wonders, these may be perceived in a wrong way. Paul and Barnabas spoke first the gospel message with signs following. It is by faith in the Living God that He is glorified. Jesus is the Son of God who brings forgiveness of sins and signs and wonders through the obedience of his disciples.

Act 14:8  And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:
Act 14:9  The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,
Act 14:10  Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked.
Act 14:11  And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.
Act 14:12  And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.
Act 14:13  Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.
Act 14:14  Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,
Act 14:15  And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
Act 14:16  Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.
Act 14:17  Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.
Act 14:18  And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.
Act 14:19  And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.
Act 14:20  Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

Paul and Barnabas were in a land that worshipped false gods. When they spoke the gospel message, the focus was more on the healing that followed. The Greek gods, Jupiter and Mercury, were given credit for the work of the Holy Spirit. God does not share his glory with false gods. Paul and Barnabas were quick to give the credit to God almighty, even tearing their clothes as an act of  humility to give God the glory and not to man. Then came the Jews from Antioch that were opposing them.This is why we must be determined to serve God and not to give up and to be faint hearted.  Satan always seems to come to try to destroy the work of God. They resulted in stoning Paul and they thought that he was dead as they dragged him out of the city. From a god to a dead man in one day. Our God is greater, for as the disciples stood around him, probably in prayer, He raised up Paul who returned to the city. The next day they departed.

If you are in ministry to be praised of men, then you are seeking glory  that only belongs to God. Quit the competition to look good before men. To have a bigger church or a higher position. It is God who calls and he chooses the least likely before the world to serve him.

1Co 1:26  For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
1Co 1:27  But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
1Co 1:28  And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
1Co 1:29  That no flesh should glory in his presence.
1Co 1:30  But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
1Co 1:31  That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

The message and the focus is to be on the God of Israel and His Son Jesus who came to save our souls unto himself. Give God all the Glory, speak His word, humble yourself before him and he will lift you up to serve him. Let us celebrate Him in worship and praise. Our reward and honor will be given to us when we are with him in glory. Come, let us worship the LORD.