Monday, May 31, 2010
Letting God Guide
Letting God Guide
By Pastor Marvin Moss
This week's topic: God's Guidance
I’ve preached a series of sermons recently about God’s grace for leading us through the storms in our lives.. about stepping out on faith and living through the Not Yet. The comments and feedback confirm that many of us are in a time of transition. The economic recession has led to a depression, and we struggle not just with the big tasks like keeping our mortgages, cars and careers, but keeping a smile on our faces when it seems as though all Hell is erupting around us. As we enter in a new season, let this be a new a new opportunity to let our faith spring forth by really allowing God to guide our footsteps.
Do you remember your best friend? Many of us have had friends since childhood. There’s nothing like having someone you can talk to about anything without regard to being judged or misunderstood. We find ourselves seeking advice from friends on issues involving our personal finances to family matters. There have been famous songs and favorite films about friendships and they are valuable. But as Christians we must remember to lean on the Friend who is like no other:
"But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus." - Galatians 1:15-17
In the text Paul did not seek the counsel of other Christians. No, he put his trust entirely in the Lord. As we face the tough decisions in our lives, we must have the same faith as Paul and trust God to Guide our footsteps. Friends may give good advice, but the words of God are pure and His promises are true.
So what happens when we put our trust in God and not man? What happens when we let God guide our thoughts and our actions? God begins to open doors that may have been dead bolted. He shows us His divine power by giving us peace through whatever challenge we are facing. He shows us He is the best and only true friend we will ever need. How many times have you reached to pick up the phone to call your friend when you’re worried about the follow-up visit to the doctor, or when you’re confused about the next step to take in your personal or professional walk?
Put down the phone and pick up the Word. Rest on the promises of God knowing He alone is the one friend in whom you need to depend.
Remember, We too have the gift of the Spirit and it’s in these difficult economic, personal, political and spiritual times that we must trust in God alone to guide us, and then walk in that faith. The promises of man will not do. We must remember God’s promises are Yea and Amen!
Scripture Of The Day: "And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You." - Psalm 9:10
By Pastor Marvin Moss
This week's topic: God's Guidance
I’ve preached a series of sermons recently about God’s grace for leading us through the storms in our lives.. about stepping out on faith and living through the Not Yet. The comments and feedback confirm that many of us are in a time of transition. The economic recession has led to a depression, and we struggle not just with the big tasks like keeping our mortgages, cars and careers, but keeping a smile on our faces when it seems as though all Hell is erupting around us. As we enter in a new season, let this be a new a new opportunity to let our faith spring forth by really allowing God to guide our footsteps.
Do you remember your best friend? Many of us have had friends since childhood. There’s nothing like having someone you can talk to about anything without regard to being judged or misunderstood. We find ourselves seeking advice from friends on issues involving our personal finances to family matters. There have been famous songs and favorite films about friendships and they are valuable. But as Christians we must remember to lean on the Friend who is like no other:
"But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus." - Galatians 1:15-17
In the text Paul did not seek the counsel of other Christians. No, he put his trust entirely in the Lord. As we face the tough decisions in our lives, we must have the same faith as Paul and trust God to Guide our footsteps. Friends may give good advice, but the words of God are pure and His promises are true.
So what happens when we put our trust in God and not man? What happens when we let God guide our thoughts and our actions? God begins to open doors that may have been dead bolted. He shows us His divine power by giving us peace through whatever challenge we are facing. He shows us He is the best and only true friend we will ever need. How many times have you reached to pick up the phone to call your friend when you’re worried about the follow-up visit to the doctor, or when you’re confused about the next step to take in your personal or professional walk?
Put down the phone and pick up the Word. Rest on the promises of God knowing He alone is the one friend in whom you need to depend.
Remember, We too have the gift of the Spirit and it’s in these difficult economic, personal, political and spiritual times that we must trust in God alone to guide us, and then walk in that faith. The promises of man will not do. We must remember God’s promises are Yea and Amen!
Scripture Of The Day: "And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You." - Psalm 9:10
COMPELLED BY LOVE
COMPELLED BY LOVE
2 Corinthians 4:16-5:21
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:16-5:21
Dear Father, invisible but absolutely real,
May I be compelled by the love of Christ, convinced that he died
that I might no longer live for myself but for him, the one who
died for me.
So let me not regard Christ from a worldly point of view. I am in
Christ. I am a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come!
I am reconciled to you, my Father, through your Son Jesus. Thank
you for what you did for me - through him!
In the name of Jesus I praise and thank you for all your great
mercies and your continuing and constant grace. Amen.
2 Corinthians 4:16-5:21
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:16-5:21
Dear Father, invisible but absolutely real,
May I be compelled by the love of Christ, convinced that he died
that I might no longer live for myself but for him, the one who
died for me.
So let me not regard Christ from a worldly point of view. I am in
Christ. I am a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come!
I am reconciled to you, my Father, through your Son Jesus. Thank
you for what you did for me - through him!
In the name of Jesus I praise and thank you for all your great
mercies and your continuing and constant grace. Amen.
WEIGHT OF GLORY
WEIGHT OF GLORY
2 Corinthians 4:16-5:21
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:16-5:21
Dear Father, invisible but absolutely real,
Let me not lose heart. I know from your word that my light and
momentary troubles are working for me an eternal weight of glory
that far outweighs them all.
Help me fix my eyes not on the things that are seen, but on the
things that are unseen, for what is seen is temporary, but what is
unseen is eternal.
Help me to live by faith and not by sight. I want to trust you
completely.
In the name of Jesus I praise and thank you for all your great
mercies and your continuing and constant grace. Amen.
2 Corinthians 4:16-5:21
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:16-5:21
Dear Father, invisible but absolutely real,
Let me not lose heart. I know from your word that my light and
momentary troubles are working for me an eternal weight of glory
that far outweighs them all.
Help me fix my eyes not on the things that are seen, but on the
things that are unseen, for what is seen is temporary, but what is
unseen is eternal.
Help me to live by faith and not by sight. I want to trust you
completely.
In the name of Jesus I praise and thank you for all your great
mercies and your continuing and constant grace. Amen.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
We will never forget
We will never forget you , nor can we ever thank you enough for all you do and have done to keep us free. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.............................May God continue to cover,guide and protect each of you. In Jesus' Holy Name...... .Amen
Thank you and God Bless
Thank you and God Bless
Friday, May 28, 2010
Temporary Visible Things, Eternal Invisible Things
Temporary Visible Things, Eternal Invisible Things
For our light affliction—is working for us—[an] eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
Our gracious God wants to use the trials in our lives ("our light affliction") to produce for us eternal blessings ("eternal weight of glory"). He intends to use our daily difficulties to enlarge our spiritual capacity to experience more fully the glorious eternal realities of knowing, worshiping, and serving God forever! The Lord desires a full, rich inheritance to await us in heaven: "For so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:11).
A life of great difficulty here on earth does not guarantee enriched experience in heaven. The process of earthly trials producing heavenly blessings is not automatic for God's children. Verse 18 tells us exactly when this process is occurring: "while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen." The difficulties of life are turned to eternal blessings "while" we turn our attention upon unseen realities.
Many believers waste their afflictions by focusing upon "the things which are seen." They set their minds on themselves, their circumstances, or some conventional human wisdom. Such an approach to life's problems fosters temporal frustrations, not eternal blessings. To accrue eternal benefits from temporal situations, we must look to unseen eternal resources, because "the things which are not seen are eternal."
What are these unseen things? They are the resources of the grace of God. This includes grace for consolation and hope: "Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has…given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace" (2 Thessalonians 2:16). This also includes grace for endurance: "My grace is sufficient for you" (2 Corinthians 12:9). It actually includes "grace upon grace" (John 1:16) for whatever is needed.
All of this is available through daily dependence upon the Lord. "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). The Christian life is lived by faith in the Lord, not by mastery of observable circumstances. God's people enter into His blessings by trusting in Him. It is by looking to the grace of God during our difficulties that afflictions are turned into an "eternal weight of glory."
Lord God of abundant grace, I confess that I have frequently wasted my afflictions by concentrating upon temporal things—very often focusing upon myself. Please help me to look to the resources of Your unfailing grace, that my trials might have eternal, heavenly significance. Through Christ Jesus, I pray, Amen.
For our light affliction—is working for us—[an] eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
Our gracious God wants to use the trials in our lives ("our light affliction") to produce for us eternal blessings ("eternal weight of glory"). He intends to use our daily difficulties to enlarge our spiritual capacity to experience more fully the glorious eternal realities of knowing, worshiping, and serving God forever! The Lord desires a full, rich inheritance to await us in heaven: "For so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:11).
A life of great difficulty here on earth does not guarantee enriched experience in heaven. The process of earthly trials producing heavenly blessings is not automatic for God's children. Verse 18 tells us exactly when this process is occurring: "while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen." The difficulties of life are turned to eternal blessings "while" we turn our attention upon unseen realities.
Many believers waste their afflictions by focusing upon "the things which are seen." They set their minds on themselves, their circumstances, or some conventional human wisdom. Such an approach to life's problems fosters temporal frustrations, not eternal blessings. To accrue eternal benefits from temporal situations, we must look to unseen eternal resources, because "the things which are not seen are eternal."
What are these unseen things? They are the resources of the grace of God. This includes grace for consolation and hope: "Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has…given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace" (2 Thessalonians 2:16). This also includes grace for endurance: "My grace is sufficient for you" (2 Corinthians 12:9). It actually includes "grace upon grace" (John 1:16) for whatever is needed.
All of this is available through daily dependence upon the Lord. "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). The Christian life is lived by faith in the Lord, not by mastery of observable circumstances. God's people enter into His blessings by trusting in Him. It is by looking to the grace of God during our difficulties that afflictions are turned into an "eternal weight of glory."
Lord God of abundant grace, I confess that I have frequently wasted my afflictions by concentrating upon temporal things—very often focusing upon myself. Please help me to look to the resources of Your unfailing grace, that my trials might have eternal, heavenly significance. Through Christ Jesus, I pray, Amen.
GOD'S TREASURE REVEALED
GOD'S TREASURE REVEALED
2 Corinthians 4:7-12
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:7-12
Dear Father, powerful sustainer,
Thank you for putting your treasure in a cracked clay pot like me
so that it will be evident that the treasure is from you, the
transcendent and powerful God, and not from me, the container.
Thank you for upholding all who serve you. When I am afflicted in
every way, I am not crushed; when perplexed, I am not driven to
despair; when persecuted, I am not forsaken; when struck down, I am
not destroyed.
Reveal your immortality through my mortal body. May unbelievers
see the glorious work you are doing in my life.
I come as your humble servant, in the name of your only Son. Amen.
2 Corinthians 4:7-12
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:7-12
Dear Father, powerful sustainer,
Thank you for putting your treasure in a cracked clay pot like me
so that it will be evident that the treasure is from you, the
transcendent and powerful God, and not from me, the container.
Thank you for upholding all who serve you. When I am afflicted in
every way, I am not crushed; when perplexed, I am not driven to
despair; when persecuted, I am not forsaken; when struck down, I am
not destroyed.
Reveal your immortality through my mortal body. May unbelievers
see the glorious work you are doing in my life.
I come as your humble servant, in the name of your only Son. Amen.
OPEN STATEMENT OF TRUTH
OPEN STATEMENT OF TRUTH
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:1-6
Dear Father, powerful sustainer,
You have called me to minister your mercy to the world, so let me
never lose heart or give up! May I renounce disgraceful,
underhanded ways in all forms and refuse to practice cunning or to
tamper with your word.
Let me state truth plainly and thereby commend myself to every
one's conscience in your sight. Even if the message of Good News is
veiled to some, it is veiled only to those who are perishing! Open
the eyes of those whom the god of this world has blinded. May they
see the light of the Good News, the glory of Christ, your very
likeness.
May I not put forth myself, but Jesus Christ, for I am your
servant, your slave, for Jesus' sake! For you have said, "Let light
shine out of darkness." I invite you to shine out of my heart so
that others will see the light of your glory, the face of Jesus
Christ, in my life.
In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+4:1-6
Dear Father, powerful sustainer,
You have called me to minister your mercy to the world, so let me
never lose heart or give up! May I renounce disgraceful,
underhanded ways in all forms and refuse to practice cunning or to
tamper with your word.
Let me state truth plainly and thereby commend myself to every
one's conscience in your sight. Even if the message of Good News is
veiled to some, it is veiled only to those who are perishing! Open
the eyes of those whom the god of this world has blinded. May they
see the light of the Good News, the glory of Christ, your very
likeness.
May I not put forth myself, but Jesus Christ, for I am your
servant, your slave, for Jesus' sake! For you have said, "Let light
shine out of darkness." I invite you to shine out of my heart so
that others will see the light of your glory, the face of Jesus
Christ, in my life.
In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
A GLORIOUS TRANSFORMATION
A GLORIOUS TRANSFORMATION
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+3:17-18
Dear Father, transformer of my life,
Lord God, I thank you for your Spirit, for the Lord, and for the
freedom I have in them. Thank you that I, with unveiled face, can
look freely and intently on the glory of the Lord, and be changed
into his likeness, from one degree of glory to another.
Help me remember that such transformation comes, not by my
inherent wisdom or efforts, but only from the Lord who is the
Spirit.
Make me like Jesus! Help me want to share in his sufferings so
that I can also share in his glory and his resurrection life!
In the name of Jesus and because it is his will, I make these
requests. Amen.
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+3:17-18
Dear Father, transformer of my life,
Lord God, I thank you for your Spirit, for the Lord, and for the
freedom I have in them. Thank you that I, with unveiled face, can
look freely and intently on the glory of the Lord, and be changed
into his likeness, from one degree of glory to another.
Help me remember that such transformation comes, not by my
inherent wisdom or efforts, but only from the Lord who is the
Spirit.
Make me like Jesus! Help me want to share in his sufferings so
that I can also share in his glory and his resurrection life!
In the name of Jesus and because it is his will, I make these
requests. Amen.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Encouragement for Others, Glory for God
Encouragement for Others, Glory for God
So then death is working in us, but life in you…For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God. (2 Corinthians 4:12 and 15)
We who live under the new covenant of grace are earthen vessels. We have no true spiritual life in ourselves. "You have no life in you" (John 6:53). The treasure who lives within us (Jesus) is our daily source of spiritual life: "Christ who is our life" (Colossians 3:4). Consequently, we must always be dying in order to live. We must be embracing the cross of Christ so that our bankrupt self-life will not be our resource for living. We must look to the Lord as our sufficiency.
The Lord helps us in this process by putting us into impossible situations that necessitate our dependence upon Him. He faithfully responds to our trust and manifests Himself through us. "For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh" (2 Corinthians 4:11). Others observing this receive encouragement to look to the Lord for the life they need. Thus, Paul could write to the Corinthians (who were aware of this process in his life): "So then death is working in us, but life in you."
Every difficulty that God brings into our lives not only has significance for us, but it can also have an impact on those to whom we are ministering. "For all things are for your sakes." How important it is to have a perspective on life that includes God working in us that He might touch others. Paul certainly viewed life and ministry in this manner. "I now rejoice in my sufferings for you…Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all…Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory" (Colossians 1:24; Philippians 2:17; Ephesians 3:13).
As the Lord works His grace into and through our lives, grace can be spreading to many other lives: "that grace, having spread through the many." When God's grace is at work in people's hearts, thanksgiving is so often the beautiful fruit that results. Such thanksgiving brings much glory and honor to God: "may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God."
My God and Father, teach me to handle trials in a way that will encourage people to trust in You. I want to touch others with life, as I am dying circumstantially. Please make my life a vessel through which You cause Your grace to spread to many lives. May much thanksgiving result, all to Your honor and glory, Amen.
So then death is working in us, but life in you…For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God. (2 Corinthians 4:12 and 15)
We who live under the new covenant of grace are earthen vessels. We have no true spiritual life in ourselves. "You have no life in you" (John 6:53). The treasure who lives within us (Jesus) is our daily source of spiritual life: "Christ who is our life" (Colossians 3:4). Consequently, we must always be dying in order to live. We must be embracing the cross of Christ so that our bankrupt self-life will not be our resource for living. We must look to the Lord as our sufficiency.
The Lord helps us in this process by putting us into impossible situations that necessitate our dependence upon Him. He faithfully responds to our trust and manifests Himself through us. "For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh" (2 Corinthians 4:11). Others observing this receive encouragement to look to the Lord for the life they need. Thus, Paul could write to the Corinthians (who were aware of this process in his life): "So then death is working in us, but life in you."
Every difficulty that God brings into our lives not only has significance for us, but it can also have an impact on those to whom we are ministering. "For all things are for your sakes." How important it is to have a perspective on life that includes God working in us that He might touch others. Paul certainly viewed life and ministry in this manner. "I now rejoice in my sufferings for you…Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all…Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory" (Colossians 1:24; Philippians 2:17; Ephesians 3:13).
As the Lord works His grace into and through our lives, grace can be spreading to many other lives: "that grace, having spread through the many." When God's grace is at work in people's hearts, thanksgiving is so often the beautiful fruit that results. Such thanksgiving brings much glory and honor to God: "may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God."
My God and Father, teach me to handle trials in a way that will encourage people to trust in You. I want to touch others with life, as I am dying circumstantially. Please make my life a vessel through which You cause Your grace to spread to many lives. May much thanksgiving result, all to Your honor and glory, Amen.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Matthew 23
Matthew 23
1 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,
2 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:
3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and laythem on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
6 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,
7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.
9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go inyourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.
14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.
15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.
16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!
17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.
19 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?
20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.
21 And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.
22 And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne ofGod, and by him that sitteth thereon.
23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightiermatters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
24 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.
25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
29 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,
30 And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.
31 Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.
32 Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.
33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape thedamnation of hell?
34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:
35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.
36 Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.
37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!
38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.
39 For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
1 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,
2 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:
3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and laythem on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
6 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,
7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.
9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go inyourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.
14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.
15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.
16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!
17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.
19 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?
20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.
21 And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.
22 And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne ofGod, and by him that sitteth thereon.
23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightiermatters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
24 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.
25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
29 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,
30 And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.
31 Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.
32 Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.
33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape thedamnation of hell?
34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:
35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.
36 Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.
37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!
38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.
39 For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
CHRIST, OUR SEAL OF APPROVAL
CHRIST, OUR SEAL OF APPROVAL
2 Corinthians 1:20-22
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:20-22
Dear Father,
Thank you, my God, that you utter Yes to me. You establish and
affirm my very being through Christ, and not only me but all your
elect people.
Thank you for putting your seal of approval on me and giving me
your Holy Spirit in my heart as your guarantee.
Thank you for saying Yes to me! Yes in yourself, yes in Christ,
yes through the Spirit!
Thank you, Father, thank you. How I love you! How I praise your
name on earth in hope that I may someday praise you for ever in
heaven.
In the name of Jesus I ask this and utter my Yes! my Amen!
according to his will. Yes! Amen!
2 Corinthians 1:20-22
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:20-22
Dear Father,
Thank you, my God, that you utter Yes to me. You establish and
affirm my very being through Christ, and not only me but all your
elect people.
Thank you for putting your seal of approval on me and giving me
your Holy Spirit in my heart as your guarantee.
Thank you for saying Yes to me! Yes in yourself, yes in Christ,
yes through the Spirit!
Thank you, Father, thank you. How I love you! How I praise your
name on earth in hope that I may someday praise you for ever in
heaven.
In the name of Jesus I ask this and utter my Yes! my Amen!
according to his will. Yes! Amen!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Our Message in Ministry
Our Message in Ministry
Lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. (2 Corinthians 4:4b-5)
The enemy of men's souls wants to keep perishing people in spiritual blindness. "But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe." (2 Corinthians 4:3-4a). This counterfeit god is working on all unbelievers (even as he formerly did with us). "In which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience" (Ephesians 2:2). His influence is so extensive. He works through every system (political, economic, educational, etc.) within the unbelieving world. "The whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one" (1 John 5:19).. The primary purpose of Satan's blinding activities is to keep those in darkness from seeing God's light: "Lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them."
Into this dark and blinded world, we come with the message of light: "the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ." Only the light of Jesus can overcome spiritual darkness. Our Lord proclaimed this wondrous remedy: "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (John 8:12). When the light of Jesus shines into man's darkness, it brings liberating life from God. Paul was sent out with this great gospel: "To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God" (Acts 26:18).
We are also sent out as vessels of light. "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). We are light, because Jesus (the true light) lives in, and can shine through, each of us. "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8). We can show forth our Lord in deed and in word. As we follow Jesus, His glorious light shines through us. As we speak of Jesus, we declare His glorious majesty.
Remember, the light of the gospel is about the glory of Jesus: "The light of the gospel of the glory of Christ." Our message is not about us. "For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake." We are but His servants. He is our message. He is the Lord over all. Thus, He is able to save from all that blinds and binds.
Dear Lord of glory, I praise You for Your glory. I thank You for bringing me the light of life. O Lord, may Your glory shine in my walk and my words. Please make my message about Your glory, not about my flesh, in Your holy name, Amen.
Lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. (2 Corinthians 4:4b-5)
The enemy of men's souls wants to keep perishing people in spiritual blindness. "But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe." (2 Corinthians 4:3-4a). This counterfeit god is working on all unbelievers (even as he formerly did with us). "In which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience" (Ephesians 2:2). His influence is so extensive. He works through every system (political, economic, educational, etc.) within the unbelieving world. "The whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one" (1 John 5:19).. The primary purpose of Satan's blinding activities is to keep those in darkness from seeing God's light: "Lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them."
Into this dark and blinded world, we come with the message of light: "the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ." Only the light of Jesus can overcome spiritual darkness. Our Lord proclaimed this wondrous remedy: "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (John 8:12). When the light of Jesus shines into man's darkness, it brings liberating life from God. Paul was sent out with this great gospel: "To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God" (Acts 26:18).
We are also sent out as vessels of light. "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). We are light, because Jesus (the true light) lives in, and can shine through, each of us. "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8). We can show forth our Lord in deed and in word. As we follow Jesus, His glorious light shines through us. As we speak of Jesus, we declare His glorious majesty.
Remember, the light of the gospel is about the glory of Jesus: "The light of the gospel of the glory of Christ." Our message is not about us. "For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake." We are but His servants. He is our message. He is the Lord over all. Thus, He is able to save from all that blinds and binds.
Dear Lord of glory, I praise You for Your glory. I thank You for bringing me the light of life. O Lord, may Your glory shine in my walk and my words. Please make my message about Your glory, not about my flesh, in Your holy name, Amen.
CHRIST, OUR YES
CHRIST, OUR YES
2 Corinthians 1:12-20
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:12-20
Amen! Yes! Abba, Dear Father,
Let me find pride in this - that my conscience testifies that I
live my life in this world with holiness and godly sincerity, not
by earthly wisdom but by your graciousness.
Help me not to vacillate as I make my plans. Don't let me be like
those who are worldly, ready to say "Yes" and "No" at the same
time, talking out of both sides of their mouth.
As surely as you, God, are faithful, let me act in good faith
toward others. For your Son, Jesus Christ, in whom I believe by the
preaching of the Good News, was not Yes and No, but was Yes! For
all your promises find your Yes through him. So through him we
utter the Yes, the Amen, at the close of our prayers - to your
glory.
In the name of Jesus I ask this and utter my Yes! my Amen!
according to his will. Yes! Amen!
2 Corinthians 1:12-20
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:12-20
Amen! Yes! Abba, Dear Father,
Let me find pride in this - that my conscience testifies that I
live my life in this world with holiness and godly sincerity, not
by earthly wisdom but by your graciousness.
Help me not to vacillate as I make my plans. Don't let me be like
those who are worldly, ready to say "Yes" and "No" at the same
time, talking out of both sides of their mouth.
As surely as you, God, are faithful, let me act in good faith
toward others. For your Son, Jesus Christ, in whom I believe by the
preaching of the Good News, was not Yes and No, but was Yes! For
all your promises find your Yes through him. So through him we
utter the Yes, the Amen, at the close of our prayers - to your
glory.
In the name of Jesus I ask this and utter my Yes! my Amen!
according to his will. Yes! Amen!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Those We Hope to Reach through Ministry
Those We Hope to Reach through Ministry
But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe. (2 Corinthians 4:3-4a)
In this servants-of-grace ministry God has given us, He wants to use us to reach people. These people are in a desperate spiritual condition. Those we hope to reach are perishing, spiritually blind, and unbelieving.
Those who do not know the grace of God in Jesus Christ are "perishing.." They are spiritually dead (just as we once were). "And you…were dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). Even worse, they are heading toward an everlasting death. "The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:13-15).
These who are dead (and facing everlasting death) are lost. They are wandering from the fold of God, taking a path of self-service.. "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way" (Isaiah 53:6). They need a shepherd to seek after them. "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it…for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 15:4; 19:10).
These perishing and lost ones are also spiritually "blinded." This is why they cannot "see" the truth we share with them. "But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded." The false god of this world (Satan) is blinding people to the truth by feeding them with lies and deceptions. He is constantly offering counterfeit philosophical and religious messages to keep men from embracing the truth.
Ultimately, the problem with perishing, lost, and blind people is that they "do not believe." Consequently, they already stand guilty. "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God" (John 3:18). However, a loving God has provided the remedy. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). By God's grace, we can proclaim this great message.
Dear Lord, thank You for all that You did to rescue me from among the perishing, the blind, and the unbelieving. I rejoice now in faith toward You! Open my eyes to see the desperate condition of those all around me, Amen.
But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe. (2 Corinthians 4:3-4a)
In this servants-of-grace ministry God has given us, He wants to use us to reach people. These people are in a desperate spiritual condition. Those we hope to reach are perishing, spiritually blind, and unbelieving.
Those who do not know the grace of God in Jesus Christ are "perishing.." They are spiritually dead (just as we once were). "And you…were dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). Even worse, they are heading toward an everlasting death. "The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:13-15).
These who are dead (and facing everlasting death) are lost. They are wandering from the fold of God, taking a path of self-service.. "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way" (Isaiah 53:6). They need a shepherd to seek after them. "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it…for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 15:4; 19:10).
These perishing and lost ones are also spiritually "blinded." This is why they cannot "see" the truth we share with them. "But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded." The false god of this world (Satan) is blinding people to the truth by feeding them with lies and deceptions. He is constantly offering counterfeit philosophical and religious messages to keep men from embracing the truth.
Ultimately, the problem with perishing, lost, and blind people is that they "do not believe." Consequently, they already stand guilty. "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God" (John 3:18). However, a loving God has provided the remedy. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). By God's grace, we can proclaim this great message.
Dear Lord, thank You for all that You did to rescue me from among the perishing, the blind, and the unbelieving. I rejoice now in faith toward You! Open my eyes to see the desperate condition of those all around me, Amen.
Those We Hope to Reach through Ministry
Those We Hope to Reach through Ministry
But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe. (2 Corinthians 4:3-4a)
In this servants-of-grace ministry God has given us, He wants to use us to reach people. These people are in a desperate spiritual condition. Those we hope to reach are perishing, spiritually blind, and unbelieving.
Those who do not know the grace of God in Jesus Christ are "perishing.." They are spiritually dead (just as we once were). "And you…were dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). Even worse, they are heading toward an everlasting death. "The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:13-15).
These who are dead (and facing everlasting death) are lost. They are wandering from the fold of God, taking a path of self-service.. "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way" (Isaiah 53:6). They need a shepherd to seek after them. "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it…for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 15:4; 19:10).
These perishing and lost ones are also spiritually "blinded." This is why they cannot "see" the truth we share with them. "But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded." The false god of this world (Satan) is blinding people to the truth by feeding them with lies and deceptions. He is constantly offering counterfeit philosophical and religious messages to keep men from embracing the truth.
Ultimately, the problem with perishing, lost, and blind people is that they "do not believe." Consequently, they already stand guilty. "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God" (John 3:18). However, a loving God has provided the remedy. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). By God's grace, we can proclaim this great message.
Dear Lord, thank You for all that You did to rescue me from among the perishing, the blind, and the unbelieving. I rejoice now in faith toward You! Open my eyes to see the desperate condition of those all around me, Amen.
But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe. (2 Corinthians 4:3-4a)
In this servants-of-grace ministry God has given us, He wants to use us to reach people. These people are in a desperate spiritual condition. Those we hope to reach are perishing, spiritually blind, and unbelieving.
Those who do not know the grace of God in Jesus Christ are "perishing.." They are spiritually dead (just as we once were). "And you…were dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). Even worse, they are heading toward an everlasting death. "The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:13-15).
These who are dead (and facing everlasting death) are lost. They are wandering from the fold of God, taking a path of self-service.. "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way" (Isaiah 53:6). They need a shepherd to seek after them. "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it…for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 15:4; 19:10).
These perishing and lost ones are also spiritually "blinded." This is why they cannot "see" the truth we share with them. "But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded." The false god of this world (Satan) is blinding people to the truth by feeding them with lies and deceptions. He is constantly offering counterfeit philosophical and religious messages to keep men from embracing the truth.
Ultimately, the problem with perishing, lost, and blind people is that they "do not believe." Consequently, they already stand guilty. "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God" (John 3:18). However, a loving God has provided the remedy. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). By God's grace, we can proclaim this great message.
Dear Lord, thank You for all that You did to rescue me from among the perishing, the blind, and the unbelieving. I rejoice now in faith toward You! Open my eyes to see the desperate condition of those all around me, Amen.
A GOD OF DELIVERANCE
A GOD OF DELIVERANCE
2 Corinthians 1:3-11
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:3-11
Dear Father, great and gentle one,
When I am utterly, unbearably crushed so that I despair of life
itself, when I feel as if I have received the sentence of death,
remind me that I am to rely not on myself but on you, the God who
raises the dead.
It is only you who can deliver from deadly peril. I have set my
hope on you. You deliver me again and again and again. How faithful
you are!
I pray for my many brothers and sisters in Christ throughout the
world, that they will experience relief from suffering, deliverance
from peril, and comfort after grief and despair.
Grant bountiful blessings to your people, my God, in answer to
many prayers. Please receive this one and make it count among the
many others! Thank you, Father. Thank you, Lord. Thank you, Spirit.
Jesus has taught to besiege you with constant prayer. Here we are
again, coming in his name. Amen.
2 Corinthians 1:3-11
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:3-11
Dear Father, great and gentle one,
When I am utterly, unbearably crushed so that I despair of life
itself, when I feel as if I have received the sentence of death,
remind me that I am to rely not on myself but on you, the God who
raises the dead.
It is only you who can deliver from deadly peril. I have set my
hope on you. You deliver me again and again and again. How faithful
you are!
I pray for my many brothers and sisters in Christ throughout the
world, that they will experience relief from suffering, deliverance
from peril, and comfort after grief and despair.
Grant bountiful blessings to your people, my God, in answer to
many prayers. Please receive this one and make it count among the
many others! Thank you, Father. Thank you, Lord. Thank you, Spirit.
Jesus has taught to besiege you with constant prayer. Here we are
again, coming in his name. Amen.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
VERSE:
VERSE:
The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save,
he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he
will joy over thee with singing.
-- Zephaniah 3:17
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Zephaniah+3:17&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
So God likes to sing too! He even likes to share his lullabies
with those he loves. Not only is God Abba Father, he is also like a
mother. He gently rocks and quiets his children with his
affectionate care.
PRAYER:
O God, I pray that when the storms of life rage against me, I
will remember these words and find refuge, comfort and peace in
your sheltering care. Make me aware, O God, of your singing in my
life as you make your salvation clearer to me each day. Through my
Savior Jesus I pray. Amen.
The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save,
he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he
will joy over thee with singing.
-- Zephaniah 3:17
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Zephaniah+3:17&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
So God likes to sing too! He even likes to share his lullabies
with those he loves. Not only is God Abba Father, he is also like a
mother. He gently rocks and quiets his children with his
affectionate care.
PRAYER:
O God, I pray that when the storms of life rage against me, I
will remember these words and find refuge, comfort and peace in
your sheltering care. Make me aware, O God, of your singing in my
life as you make your salvation clearer to me each day. Through my
Savior Jesus I pray. Amen.
A GOD OF COMFORT
A GOD OF COMFORT
2 Corinthians 1:3-11
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:3-11
Dear Father, great and gentle one,
Blessed are you, God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are
the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort.
You comfort us in our affliction, so that we may be able to
comfort others who are in affliction with the same comfort with
which we ourselves are comforted by you.
You enable us to know that as we share abundantly in Christ's
sufferings, so through Christ we shall share abundantly in comfort
too.
Thank you that our suffering is not meaningless, but is for the
comfort and salvation of others. Thank you for a hope that cannot
be shaken.
Jesus has taught to besiege you with constant prayer. Here we are
again, coming in his name. Amen.
2 Corinthians 1:3-11
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Corinthians+1:3-11
Dear Father, great and gentle one,
Blessed are you, God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are
the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort.
You comfort us in our affliction, so that we may be able to
comfort others who are in affliction with the same comfort with
which we ourselves are comforted by you.
You enable us to know that as we share abundantly in Christ's
sufferings, so through Christ we shall share abundantly in comfort
too.
Thank you that our suffering is not meaningless, but is for the
comfort and salvation of others. Thank you for a hope that cannot
be shaken.
Jesus has taught to besiege you with constant prayer. Here we are
again, coming in his name. Amen.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
The Gospels Church History
The Gospels Church History
Luke 7-8Sunday: Galatians 1-3
Monday: Exodus 37-40
Tuesday: I Kings 5-9
Luke 7
1
Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum.
2
And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die.
3
And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant.
4
And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this:
5
For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.
6
Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof:
7
Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.
8
For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
9
When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
10
And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.
11
And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.
12
Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.
13
And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.
14
And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
15
And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.
16
And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.
17
And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.
18
And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things.
19
And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
20
When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
21
And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight.
22
Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.
23
And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.
24
And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind?
25
But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts.
26
But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.
27
This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.
28
For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.
29
And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John.
30
But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
31
And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like?
32
They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.
33
For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil.
34
The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners!
35
But wisdom is justified of all her children.
36
And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat.
37
And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,
38
And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
39
Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.
40
And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.
41
There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.
42
And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?
43
Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.
44
And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.
45
Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.
46
My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.
47
Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
48
And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.
49
And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?
50
And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.
Luke 8
1
And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,
2
And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,
3
And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
4
And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable:
5
A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.
6
And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.
7
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.
8
And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
9
And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?
10
And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
11
Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
12
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
13
They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
14
And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
15
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
16
No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.
17
For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.
18
Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.
19
Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press.
20
And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.
21
And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.
22
Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.
23
But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy.
24
And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm.
25
And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.
26
And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee.
27
And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs.
28
When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not.
29
(For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness.)
30
And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him.
31
And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep.
32
And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them.
33
Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked.
34
When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country.
35
Then they went out to see what was done; and came to Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.
36
They also which saw it told them by what means he that was possessed of the devils was healed.
37
Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes round about besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned back again.
38
Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying,
39
Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him.
40
And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him.
41
And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:
42
For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him.
43
And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any,
44
Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched.
45
And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?
46
And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.
47
And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.
48
And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.
49
While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master.
50
But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.
51
And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden.
52
And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth.
53
And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead.
54
And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise.
55
And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.
56
And her parents were astonished: but he charged them that they should tell no man what was done.
Luke 7-8Sunday: Galatians 1-3
Monday: Exodus 37-40
Tuesday: I Kings 5-9
Luke 7
1
Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum.
2
And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die.
3
And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant.
4
And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this:
5
For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.
6
Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof:
7
Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.
8
For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
9
When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
10
And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.
11
And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.
12
Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.
13
And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.
14
And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
15
And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.
16
And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.
17
And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.
18
And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things.
19
And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
20
When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
21
And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight.
22
Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.
23
And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.
24
And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind?
25
But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts.
26
But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.
27
This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.
28
For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.
29
And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John.
30
But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
31
And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like?
32
They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.
33
For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil.
34
The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners!
35
But wisdom is justified of all her children.
36
And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat.
37
And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,
38
And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
39
Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.
40
And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.
41
There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.
42
And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?
43
Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.
44
And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.
45
Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.
46
My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.
47
Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
48
And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.
49
And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?
50
And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.
Luke 8
1
And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,
2
And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,
3
And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
4
And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable:
5
A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.
6
And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.
7
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.
8
And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
9
And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?
10
And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
11
Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
12
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
13
They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
14
And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
15
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
16
No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.
17
For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.
18
Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.
19
Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press.
20
And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.
21
And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.
22
Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.
23
But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy.
24
And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm.
25
And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.
26
And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee.
27
And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs.
28
When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not.
29
(For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness.)
30
And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him.
31
And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep.
32
And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them.
33
Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked.
34
When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country.
35
Then they went out to see what was done; and came to Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.
36
They also which saw it told them by what means he that was possessed of the devils was healed.
37
Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes round about besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned back again.
38
Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying,
39
Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him.
40
And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him.
41
And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:
42
For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him.
43
And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any,
44
Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched.
45
And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?
46
And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.
47
And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.
48
And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.
49
While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master.
50
But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.
51
And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden.
52
And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth.
53
And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead.
54
And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise.
55
And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.
56
And her parents were astonished: but he charged them that they should tell no man what was done.
HOLY SHARING
HOLY SHARING
1 Corinthians 16:13-20
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+16:13-20
Dear Father,
In watchfulness, may I stand firm in faith, be courageous, and be
strong. Let everything I do be done in love. Help me to subject
myself to those in your church who have devoted themselves to
serving all the saints and to refreshing the spirits of your
servants. May I be a true fellow worker and sincere laborer in your
vineyard, always extending joyous greetings and sincere blessings
to brothers and sisters in Christ.
Most of all, help me to love the Lord Jesus Christ with all my
heart and soul. If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be
accursed. Maranatha! Lord Jesus, come. Come now in spiritual
presence. Come finally in visible manifestation! Amen.
May the love and the grace of the Lord Jesus, in whose name I
pray, be with us for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Corinthians 16:13-20
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+16:13-20
Dear Father,
In watchfulness, may I stand firm in faith, be courageous, and be
strong. Let everything I do be done in love. Help me to subject
myself to those in your church who have devoted themselves to
serving all the saints and to refreshing the spirits of your
servants. May I be a true fellow worker and sincere laborer in your
vineyard, always extending joyous greetings and sincere blessings
to brothers and sisters in Christ.
Most of all, help me to love the Lord Jesus Christ with all my
heart and soul. If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be
accursed. Maranatha! Lord Jesus, come. Come now in spiritual
presence. Come finally in visible manifestation! Amen.
May the love and the grace of the Lord Jesus, in whose name I
pray, be with us for ever and ever. Amen.
Verse
VERSE:
As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the
bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou
knowest not the works of God who maketh all.
-- Ecclesiastes 11:5
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Ecclesiastes+11:5&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
I don't know. I don't know! That has to be one of the hardest
phrases for us to use. But when thinking about God and his ways,
that's really all we can say. What we know about God is only what
he in his grace has chosen to reveal to us. He is the Mystery of
mysteries. He is the supreme knowable Unknown. Yet what we do know
of him, what he has revealed to us in Jesus, is not only mighty and
awesome, but loving and merciful.
PRAYER:
To you, O Lord God, I can only offer my wonder and awe. When I
consider the vastness of the universe in which our tiny blue planet
spins its existence, I am humbled at your wonderfully complex and
expansive sovereignty. At the same time, Abba Father, I treasure
your nearness. You are the God far above all I know, the God who
transcends space and time, and also God my Father who is ever near.
Thank you for being accessible but not penetrable, available but
not controllable. I thank you and praise you in the name of Jesus.
Amen.
As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the
bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou
knowest not the works of God who maketh all.
-- Ecclesiastes 11:5
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Ecclesiastes+11:5&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
I don't know. I don't know! That has to be one of the hardest
phrases for us to use. But when thinking about God and his ways,
that's really all we can say. What we know about God is only what
he in his grace has chosen to reveal to us. He is the Mystery of
mysteries. He is the supreme knowable Unknown. Yet what we do know
of him, what he has revealed to us in Jesus, is not only mighty and
awesome, but loving and merciful.
PRAYER:
To you, O Lord God, I can only offer my wonder and awe. When I
consider the vastness of the universe in which our tiny blue planet
spins its existence, I am humbled at your wonderfully complex and
expansive sovereignty. At the same time, Abba Father, I treasure
your nearness. You are the God far above all I know, the God who
transcends space and time, and also God my Father who is ever near.
Thank you for being accessible but not penetrable, available but
not controllable. I thank you and praise you in the name of Jesus.
Amen.
Monday, May 10, 2010
VERSE:
VERSE:
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell
him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee,
thou hast gained thy brother.
-- Matthew 18:15
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Matthew+18:15&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
The right thing is so hard to do sometimes. It seems so much
easier to gossip about someone who has wronged us, or to mention
them in a group prayer as needing help, or to pass around an
innuendo when talking about struggling Christians. But, only one
thing is the right thing when we have been wounded by the action of
another brother or sister in Christ! Go to the person who has
wronged you, try to keep the damage contained to just the two of
you, and work on being reconciled. This is God's desire, and should
be our goal as his children.
PRAYER:
Lord God Almighty, forgive my foolish and selfish ways. Give me
courage to lovingly confront those who have sinned against me, but
if I cannot bring reconciliation, help me through the power of your
Holy Spirit to forgive as you have forgiven me. In Jesus' name, and
because of his atoning sacrifice for sin I pray. Amen.
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell
him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee,
thou hast gained thy brother.
-- Matthew 18:15
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Matthew+18:15&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
The right thing is so hard to do sometimes. It seems so much
easier to gossip about someone who has wronged us, or to mention
them in a group prayer as needing help, or to pass around an
innuendo when talking about struggling Christians. But, only one
thing is the right thing when we have been wounded by the action of
another brother or sister in Christ! Go to the person who has
wronged you, try to keep the damage contained to just the two of
you, and work on being reconciled. This is God's desire, and should
be our goal as his children.
PRAYER:
Lord God Almighty, forgive my foolish and selfish ways. Give me
courage to lovingly confront those who have sinned against me, but
if I cannot bring reconciliation, help me through the power of your
Holy Spirit to forgive as you have forgiven me. In Jesus' name, and
because of his atoning sacrifice for sin I pray. Amen.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Ministry of Condemnation versus Ministry of Righteousness
Ministry of Condemnation versus Ministry of Righteousness
For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. (2 Corinthians 3:9)
Here is another vivid contrast between living by the old covenant of law versus living by the new covenant of grace. God's holy law is a "ministry of condemnation," which exposes the bankruptcy of man's resources. God's glorious grace is a "ministry of righteousness," which offers the richness of God's resources.
When we try to live by the law, we walk in condemnation. When we try to minister by the law, we put others under condemnation. This is inevitable, since the law is a "ministry of condemnation." Living and ministering by the law depends upon human performance. The law demands righteous living. "You shall be holy" (Leviticus 19:2). The only resources available for law-performance are natural human abilities (the flesh). All natural abilities are flawed by unrighteousness. "We are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6). This makes the flesh incapable of producing a righteous life. "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing" (John 6:63). Consequently, when we try to live by law (that is, attempt to meet God's standards by our resources), we sense condemnation. When we minister the law to others as a means of developing a godly life, they also experience condemnation.
On the other hand, when we live by grace, we grow in righteousness. When we minister the message of grace to others, they can grow in righteousness. Godliness results from ministering the new covenant of grace, because it is a "ministry of righteousness." The message of grace tells people that righteousness is available by faith. "But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed…even the righteousness of God which is through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all who believe" (Romans 3:21-22).
In addition to this initial gift of righteousness (imputed, or credited to our account in heaven), grace also provides ongoing practical righteousness (imparted for our daily lives on earth): "That the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit" (Romans 8:4). As we humbly depend upon the Lord, the Holy Spirit brings forth a more Christlike life through us, by His grace.
Lord God of righteousness, I have often walked in legalistic condemnation. Also, I have pointed many others in that direction. Forgive me, Lord. Please teach me how to walk in righteousness, through humble dependence upon You. Equip me to minister Your righteousness to others, in Jesus' name, Amen.
For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. (2 Corinthians 3:9)
Here is another vivid contrast between living by the old covenant of law versus living by the new covenant of grace. God's holy law is a "ministry of condemnation," which exposes the bankruptcy of man's resources. God's glorious grace is a "ministry of righteousness," which offers the richness of God's resources.
When we try to live by the law, we walk in condemnation. When we try to minister by the law, we put others under condemnation. This is inevitable, since the law is a "ministry of condemnation." Living and ministering by the law depends upon human performance. The law demands righteous living. "You shall be holy" (Leviticus 19:2). The only resources available for law-performance are natural human abilities (the flesh). All natural abilities are flawed by unrighteousness. "We are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6). This makes the flesh incapable of producing a righteous life. "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing" (John 6:63). Consequently, when we try to live by law (that is, attempt to meet God's standards by our resources), we sense condemnation. When we minister the law to others as a means of developing a godly life, they also experience condemnation.
On the other hand, when we live by grace, we grow in righteousness. When we minister the message of grace to others, they can grow in righteousness. Godliness results from ministering the new covenant of grace, because it is a "ministry of righteousness." The message of grace tells people that righteousness is available by faith. "But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed…even the righteousness of God which is through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all who believe" (Romans 3:21-22).
In addition to this initial gift of righteousness (imputed, or credited to our account in heaven), grace also provides ongoing practical righteousness (imparted for our daily lives on earth): "That the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit" (Romans 8:4). As we humbly depend upon the Lord, the Holy Spirit brings forth a more Christlike life through us, by His grace.
Lord God of righteousness, I have often walked in legalistic condemnation. Also, I have pointed many others in that direction. Forgive me, Lord. Please teach me how to walk in righteousness, through humble dependence upon You. Equip me to minister Your righteousness to others, in Jesus' name, Amen.
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