Bible Study: October 31, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me. Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue."- Psalm 120:1-2
It is Wednesday October 31, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke 21 -- 22. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn of the widow's offering; signs of the end; Jesus' last Passover; the Lord's Supper; a prayer in the garden; Jesus' arrest; and Peter's denial.
The Israelites' annual Passover meal was a reminder that the blood of an innocent lamb and obedience to the Word of God had made it possible for their ancestors to be redeemed from death, set free from Pharaoh and Egyptian slavery, and to enjoy freedom in the promised land. On the evening of the Passover, Jesus talked with his deciples. "And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you." (Luke 22:19-20). At this Passover, our Lord identified Himself as the sacrificial Passover Lamb.
The Lord's Supper is a reminder that Jesus' death on the cross delivered us from Satan, and set us free from the condemnation for our sins to receive eternal life. This ordinance is so sacred that the Holy Spirit emphasized its importance through the Apostle Paul who wrote: "For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, this cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me." (I Corinthians 11:23-25). It is of the utmost importance that we consider carefully that our Lord said: This do in remembrance of Me. He did not make a suggestion but a command. Jesus reminds all His followers: "Why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" (Luke 6:46).
The Lord wanted us to know that His death on the cross made the difference for us between spending eternity in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14-15) or in heaven with Him. The Lord's Supper is a continuing reminder that there is forgiveness for all who, by faith, accept Jesus' atoning sacrifice as the only means of receiving eternal life. It is also a time to consider what attitudes of ill will toward others, revenge, and lust need to be confessed and forsaken. The Lord's table is a reminder of what happens when we falsely accept Jesus "Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body." (I Corinthians 11:27-29).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
I recognize that I have not lived my life for You up until now. I have been living for myself and that is wrong.
I need You in my life; I want You in my life. I acknowledge the completed work of Your Son Jesus Christ in giving His life for me on the cross at Calvary, and I long to receive the forgiveness you have made freely available to me through this sacrifice.
Come into my life now, Lord. Take up residence in my heart and be my king, my Lord, and my Savior.
From this day forward, I will no longer be controlled by sin, or the desire to please myself, but I will follow You all the days of my life.
In Jesus' mighty name, I pray.......Amen.
Have a wonderful, safe and blessed filled day. Happy Holloween!
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 30, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase."- Psalm 85:11-12
It is Tuesday October 30, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please Read Luke 19 -- 20. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about Jesus and Zacchaeus; a triumphal entry; cleansing the Temple; a parable of wicked tenants; paying taxes; the resurrection; and Jesus' authority.
The Pharisees conspired against Jesus with the cooperation of the nonreligious political party called the Herodians, a group which urged Israel's submission to Rome (Matthew 22:16). These opposite-thinking groups of people hypocritically sent an investigative committee from the Sanhedrin, pretending to be interested in following Jesus. "And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor. And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?" (Luke 20:20-22). Since the majority of Jews deeply resented paying taxes to the Roman government, this "committee" was sure the crowd would quickly turn against Jesus if He said "Yes." And the Pharisees could also say He was not the Messiah of Israel if He taught subjection to a Gentile government. But, if He said "No," the Herodian party could then accuse Him of conspiracy against the Roman government and Pilate could have Him arrested for treason.
But Jesus was aware of their tricks, "But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me? Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar's. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar's, and unto God the things which be God's." (20:23-25). While the image upon a coin is representative of governmental authority, we must also submit to a higher authority because we are created in the image of God. This means that the words of Jesus are still just as true for us today.
Some misguided citizens accept the benefits of government but avoid paying taxes. They ignore the two reasons for paying them. Christians are to pay required taxes and obey the law, but they also pay them as a requirement to please God. We simply cannot ignore His clear command to "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers" (I Peter 2:13-14).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank you, Lord for everything that you provide me with.
I surrender my financial affairs and concerns about money to Your care.
I ask that you remove my worries, anxieties, and fears about money, and replace them with faith.
I know and trust that my debts will be paid and money will flow into my life.
I have only to look to nature to see proof of the abundance you provide.
I release all negative thoughts about money, and know that prosperity is my true state.
I commit to being grateful for all that I now have in my life.
I learn to manage my finances wisely, to pay what the government requires of me and seeking help where needed.
And finally, I ask you to help me understand my purpose in life and to act on that purpose with courage and strength. I know that prosperity will come, in part, by doing work I love. Please help me use my skills and knowledge to be of service to You in the world.
In Jesus name, I pray......Amen
Have a wonderful day full of many unexpected blessings,
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 29, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name's sake."- Psalm 79:9
It is Monday October 29, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please Read Luke 17 -- 18. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about forgiveness; 10 lepers; Christ's return is foretold; a rich young ruler; Christ's death and resurrection foretold; and the healing of a blind beggar.
No one question could be of greater importance than that of a certain ruler who came running, and kneeled to Jesus. He was a young man wealthy man that thought he was doing everything right in the sight of the Lord until he asked him to do something that he was not willing to do. "And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save (except) one, that is, God. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother. And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up. Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me. And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich. And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." (Luke 18:18-26).
No one ever addressed a scribe or a rabbi as Good Master, only God was called good. Three of the Gospels report that this young man recognized Jesus as more than just another Teacher, but as the Good Master. He knew that, beyond this physical life, there was an eternity that he wanted to inherit.
In response to his most vital question: What shall I do, Jesus told him: Follow me, sell everything that you have, give it to the poor and you will receive treasures from heaven. This should not be twisted to mean that eternal life can be earned by self-effort or sacrificial giving. Eternal life can only come from Him who loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood. He was unwilling to let Jesus be Lord of his life. He would not give up the influence, prestige, and financial security that his wealth provided. He was a good man, and very religious, but sadly he was eternally lost.
The Bible does not condemn people just because they are rich, but it says: "Charge (instruct) them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded (conceited), nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate (share); Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." (I Timothy 6:17-19).
Your daily decisions and your lifestyle reveal what you really believe. The young ruler illustrates why Jesus said: "Narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (Matthew 7:14).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
I thank You that salvation comes from You alone and You that You are enough. For we would come up far short if we relied on our good works, our charming personality, our status in life or our worldly accumulation to purchase our salvation.
You are the sinless Lamb of God, the only acceptable sacrifice to God, who provides salvation to every man, woman, boy and girl from every region on the face of this earth who call upon Your name.
Keep reminding us that we cannot earn our salvation because You give it freely. We choose to receive Your gift of salvation through faith in You, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Also, Lord, teach us to not depend on the riches of the world, but to depend on You for all the things we need and desire. I know that through You all things are possible.
In You moghty name, Jesus', I pray......Amen.
Have a wonderful day and week.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 28, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace."- Psalm 29:11
It is Sunday October 28, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke 14 -- 16. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about humility; more parables; the prodigal (wasteful) son; the rich man and Lazarus; the joy of eternal life with Abraham; and the horror of eternal hell.
Our Lord illustrates the two alternatives in life. The first choice is a self-centered son who demanded freedom from his father's authority, and then took his journey into a far country, where he wasted everything he had on wordly living. "And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want." (Luke 15:12-14).
A wise alternate choice is illustrated by this prodigal son "And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants." (15:17-19). The word "prodigal" means a waster; the young man wasted his father's substance. After he repented, his father made him aware of the seriousness of his former life as a sinner when he said: "For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry." (15:24).
Just as the prodigal son discovered that his father's love was far greater than he had previously realized, so too will every repentant sinner discover that our Heavenly Father is waiting with great compassion to forgive all who come to Him.
Jesus then told of a rich man who never recognized that he had wasted his life, even though he had become very successful. He never appreciated what he had nor did he help those less fortunate than him. When he died he ended up going to hell and all he could do is look up at those who were in heaven. "And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented." (Luke 16:23-25).
It was only then he discovered that hell was eternal and that, between him and Abraham, there was no way he could escape. "And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence." (16:26). The rich man's preoccupation with success crowded out any desire to use his abilities or resources for the glory of God. The foremost purpose of our brief life on earth is to prepare for an endless eternity, and then do what we can to provide spiritual food for others.
All mankind, whether rich or poor, has one thing in common physical death will open the door to either the joy of eternal life or the horrors of eternal hell. "Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;." (Hebrews 2:1-3). The only thing you have to lose by not accepting Jesus is living an eternity in hell.
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We ask you to open our eyes that we may value and appreciate all people, recognising what we have in common rather than focusing on what our differences might be.
Inspire us to distinguish between what is important and what is not, and open our minds and hearts that we may always be people of good will who bring life and joy to others.
In Jesus' name, we pray......Amen.
Have a great day/night.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 27, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing. I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart."- Psalm 101:1-2
It is Saturday October 27, 2007 and today we are contuining our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke Chapters 12 -- 13. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the warnings against greed, hypocrisy; parables, healings, and teachings.
The Lord illustrated the deceptive danger of greed and envy, "And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." (12:16-21). By hard work in the highly-respected occupation of farming, this man had become wealthy. There is no hint that he had gained his wealth by dishonest methods. His soul-destroying sin was that he spent his lifetime in self-gratification. God called him a fool, and then added: So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
We as Christians should not allow material desires to distract us from doing the will of God. We are not to worry about our future needs. As important as food, clothing, and shelter are to maintaining life, our first concern should always be to seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness. By keeping our priorities right, we prepare ourselves to be all that our Lord wants us to be to accomplish the purpose for which He created us.
How we use our time and talents is an expression of our Christian faith. Christ taught that life is truly fulfilling by loving, serving, and giving to extend the Good News to a lost world. Regardless of how much or how little talent, or possessions we may have or acquire, as good stewards we should prayerfully consider what Jesus would have us do with them.
"But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." (I Timothy 6:11-12).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life.
Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk.
As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon You, Jesus.
Help me to stay focused on putting You first above all things and to realize that all material things will do nothing to make me fill the emptiness deep inside.
In Your mighty name, Jesus' I pray......Amen.
Have a wonderful day and weekend.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 26, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee. Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good."- Psalm 122:8-9
It is Friday October 26, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke Chapters 10 -- 11. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about seventy sent out into the community; a Good Samaritan; Martha and Mary; teaching on prayer; and the Pharisees denounced.
A scribe who was an official interpreter of both the Mosaic Law and the traditions of the elders, stood up, and tempted Jesus. "And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" (Luke 10:25). Jesus replied: "What is written in the Law? He answered: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. And Jesus said: Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?" (10:26-29).
Jesus illustrated the answer, "And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise." (Luke 10:30-37).
My neighbour is anyone who needs my compassion and whom I have the opportunity and ability to help. It does not matter what his position, race, or religion may be. We are simply to enter into the feelings of another's sufferings or misfortunes as God has done for us. Whatever is mine actually belongs to God and whatever belongs to God should be shared with my neighbor because my neighbor was also created by and in the image of God. "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15).
All of us need to be reminded of our Lord's answer to the lawyer's question. What shall I do to inherit eternal life? Jesus caused him to recognize that the evidence of eternal life within us is a desire to obey God's Word. Jesus said: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another" (John 13:34-35).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Jesus,
Help me to have the heart and motivation of the Samaritan when he saw the needy man along the way.
Taking the time to stop and help wasn't on his schedule and his medical expenses weren't in the Samaritan's budget.
He didn't consider these factors to be an obstacle that would keep him from extending Your mercy to one in need.
Jesus, help me to be Your hand extended reaching out to the needy, the sick, and the oppressed.
And, Lord, when it is not within my ability or power to directly reach that person in need, prompt me to bring him before the throne in earnest prayer.
Help me to be a vessel that You use to heal the broken-hearted as You bind up their wounds.
And I will do it in Jesus' name and for Your honor.
In Jesus' name, I pray........Amen.
Have a wonderful day/night and weekend.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 25, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite. The LORD lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground."- Psalm 147:5-6
It is Thursday October 25, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke Chapters 8 -- 9. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the teachings of Jesus; more miracles are made; the 12 apostles are sent forth; 5,000 are fed; Peter's confession; and the transfiguration of Christ.
Jesus put the sincerity of would-be disciples to the test when a certain man said to Him, Lord, I will follow you where ever you go. "And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head." (Luke 9:57-58). The foxes illustrate the clever ones and the birds of the air illustrate the worldly. Jesus pointed out to this man that, if he chose to follow Him, he could expect hardships. Jesus was also saying that He was not attached to earthly possessions, nor could His followers expect any guarantee of earthly resources.
Another person approached Jesus and said he too will go where ever he goes, but when he had the time. "And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God."- (9:61-62). Our Lord did not welcome volunteers who were only willing to join Him on their own terms; serving Christ requires a lifetime commitment. Love dictates that there be no compromise in following Him. Jesus was not then, nor is He now, in the midst of a membership drive, nor is He counting converts to prove His success.
Self-seekers and compromisers are often misled, believing there will be a more convenient time when they can choose to follow the Lord. Their excuses reveal that they have divided hearts. Some lack the "single eye" of devotion to Christ where, by comparison, all else in this world is of little importance. Others fail to put Christ first in their daily decisions and, yet, all who do will discover that the satisfaction of self-denial far exceeds fleeting earthly rewards. Each of us needs to consider whether there is someone in our life or something in our heart that is keeping us from giving Christ, His Word, and His will, first place in our lives.
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
I ask you to open my eyes as you did with the blind man, so that I may really see.
And to tune my ears as you did with the man who was deaf and dumb, so that I may really hear what you are saying to me.
May the many experiences of my senses remind me to be aware of others and of all that is around me.
May all that I experience lead me closer to you.
In Your mighty name, Jesus, I pray......Amen.
Have a wonderfully blessed day/night full of many unexpected blessings.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 24, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I."- Psalm 61:1
It is Wednesday October 24, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke 6 -- 7. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about Jesus and the Sabbath; the 12 apostles are chosen; the Sermon on the Mount; healing and miracles; John the Baptist's question; and Jesus is anointed.
We all have sinned beyond our ability to count, and we should be deeply thankful that our Heavenly Father forgives us when we repent of our sins. If we are truly grateful, we will approach everyone who sins against us with the same mercy and compassion that we receive from the Lord. Jesus, who knows how the human heart tends to be hypocritical, warned: "And why beholdest thou the mote (focus on others sins) that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye (the sins that you have done)? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye." (Luke 6:41-42).
It is our responsibility to recognize the evil for what it is, but we must first consider our own negative attitudes and criticism of others. Only then are we qualified to help others with their needs. A heart of compassion and concern to help others is in striking contrast to those who overlook their own faults and failures, but who rarely miss an opportunity to gossip about someone else's conduct or failures. We are prone to imply evil motives to others' actions, and may even exaggerate them.
Thankfully, God is a merciful God, who fully forgives us when we repent of our sins. But, we tend to judge ourselves by our good intentions and others by their mistakes. Since we expect God's mercy toward us, it makes a vital demand upon us to extend that same mercy to others. "If ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matthew 6:15).
Criticism is often an act of self-righteousness in an attempt to build up one's own self-esteem by putting others down. Also, it is easy to jump to conclusions without hearing or caring about all the facts. We have an amazing ability to misjudge the thoughts and actions of others. Judgmental people thrive on faultfinding and find something wrong with everything that is said or done by another whom they would love to belittle. It is this self-righteousness that Jesus spoke of when He said: Cast out first the beam out of thine own eye. Then the love of Christ can be expressed through us.
If anyone is overtaken in a sin we are to help them and not judge them. "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:1-2).
Today's Prayer;
Dear Lord,
I know that I've done wrong through my thoughts, my actions, and the things that I've said, sometimes by mistake and sometimes on purpose.
I have gone my own way and not put you at the center of my life. I am very sorry and ask that you please forgive me.
I thank you that I can ask you this because I truly believe that your Son, Jesus, died in my place and, through Him,
I have access to you. Please help me to follow you more closely every day and live a life which gives glory back to you.
Also Lord, I ask you to forgive me for judging others of their sins and to help me stay non-judgemental no matter what they have done.
In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen
Have a great day/night.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 23, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation."- Psalm 95:1
It is Tuesday October 23, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke Chapters 4 -- 5. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the temptation of Jesus; His teachings; healings; the miraculous catch of fish and other miracles, and the call of Matthew.
Some think they can worship God just as well while on the lake fishing or at home resting as they can in church. In contrast, Jesus recognized the need to honor God by regularly attending worship services. We read that He taught in their synagogues, "And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read." (4:15-16).
It was here in Nazareth that Jesus was invited to speak, "And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. " (4:17-19).
The Scripture Jesus read contained a clear mention of all three Persons of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, the Father, and the Anointed One. The people were amazed, "And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?" (Luke 4:20-22).
They marveled at His gracious words but knew He clearly referred to Himself as the Messiah who had been foretold by Isaiah and other prophets beginning with Genesis 3:15. You can imagine how startled they were when Jesus said that He whom they assumed to be the son of Joseph was really their long-awaited Messiah. However, the congregation listening to Jesus was so angry at His equating Himself with God that they disrupted the worship service, seized Jesus, and attempted to put Him to death for blasphemy by pushing Him off a hill. "And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong. But he passing through the midst of them went his way," (4:28-30). Luke emphasized that Christ is God (the Messiah).
How easy it is to be mistaken when we follow emotions rather than the truth revealed in God's Word. In contrast to the Jews of Nazareth, later the Jews in Berea received the Word with all readiness of mind. "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." (Acts 17:11).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We come before you as we are. We ask you to take away from us all that makes us less than human. '
Strengthen us with the power of your Spirit that our attitude and outlook may develop, and our ‘way of looking' may become more like yours. Help us to remain positive - encouraging and appreciating one another, looking upon people in the same way that you do.
In Jesus' name, we pray.....Amen.
Have a wonderful day/night
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 22, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. This also shall please the LORD better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs. The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God."- Psalm 69:30-32
It is Monday October 22, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke Chapters 2 -- 3. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the birth of Jesus, the shepherds' adoration; Simeon's and Anna's prophecies; Jesus in Temple; John the Baptist; the baptism of Jesus; and the genealogy of Jesus.
The Passover brought Mary and Joseph to Jerusalem every year. The year Jesus was twelve years old, in the busy preparation for returning home after the feast, "And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers." (Luke 2:43-47).
Mary and Joseph for him in the Temple, "And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing." (2:48). Jesus calmly explained to Mary His reason for being in the Temple, saying: "How is it that ye sought Me? wist (know) ye not that I must be about My Father's business?" (2:49). Jesus made it very clear who His real Father was. Devotion to His Heavenly Father's interests drew Him to the Temple; but His submission to the will of His Father also caused Him to return to Nazareth where He was obedient to his earthly parents. "And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart." (2:51).
In this age of rebellion, many young people are not disciplined to be in subjection to their parents or to anyone else. Honoring and obeying God-ordained parental authority is the first commandment, "Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth." (Ephesians 6:2-3). Parents who are in submission to God have a responsibility to their children to spiritually train them especially by personal example, through daily devotions, and by regular attendance in a Bible-teaching church on the Lord's Day.
"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation (eternal punishment)." (Romans 13:1-2). Pity the parents who rebel against restrictions which are placed on them on the job, at church, or in the community. Such people may even think they have a right to be independent of God-ordained authority, yet they still expect their children to be obedient to various authorities. If we want our children to obey the laws of the world we too must obey.
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord<
How grateful are we for those who've gone before us showing us the way. They not only instructed us in the ways of the Lord but they lived exemplary lives so that we could see faith in action. We are grateful for their positive examples in our spiritual journey.
We can not help to pause and think of those who have taken a wrong direction only to turn away from all they held dear at one time.
Would You remind us of the serious consequences of their sinful choices when we're tempted to do the same.
We lift those people before You asking the Holy Spirit to convict and guide them back to the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Keep us faithful to the very end so that as time unfolds we can declare with the apostle Paul, 'Now I am old and praise be to God I am by His grace a prisoner of Christ Jesus, my Redeemer!'
In Jesus' name, we pray.......Amen
Have a great day/night and week.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 21, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare."- Psalm 75:1"
it is Sunday October 21, 2007 and today we will begin our studies on the book of Luke. Please read Luke Chapter 1. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the virgin birth of Jesus foretold; Mary's visit to Elisabeth; Mary's praise to God; and the birth of John the Baptist.
Jesus would have been born with the sinful nature of Adam if Joseph had been His biological father. This would have made Jesus a sinner like all mankind and, thus, unable to be the sinless substitute for our sins. But Gabriel, the angelic messenger of good news came to speak with Mary. "And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women." (Luke 1:26-28)
"And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." (1:31-35).
Luke records that Mary was deeply troubled at his saying, "And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be." (1:29). Joseph also was troubled when he learned Mary was pregnant and contemplated a private divorce, "But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:20-21). "Jesus" in Hebrew is the same as "Joshua" meaning "Jehovah (Yahweh)" is salvation. How comforting this must have been to Mary. Instead of living under suspicion, there was a miraculous confirmation to Joseph of her virginity.
About 700 years before, Isaiah foretold: "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 7:14; 9:6). Jesus' birth revealed His unique nature as both God and Man.
The prophet Micah had foretold that the Messiah, whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting would be born in Bethlehem of Judah. "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." (Micah 5:2). This small town, about six miles south of Jerusalem, was called the city of David, for that is where David was born. where Zacharias prophesied. "And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life." (Luke 1:67-75).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Until the time of pen and ink, people copied the gospel, writing it by hand. Slowly the gospel took shape both on the page and deep within themselves.
I ask that the gospel may be written in me not with ink but with the Spirit of God.
Only then will I grow as a credible witness of the wealth of your love.
Day by day, as the pages of my own life turn over, remind me that you write my name on the palm of your hand.
In Jesus' name, I pray......Amen.
Have a great day and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 20, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Remember me, O LORD, with the favour that thou bearest unto thy people: O visit me with thy salvation; That I may see the good of thy chosen, that I may rejoice in the gladness of thy nation, that I may glory with thine inheritance."- Psalm 106:4-5
It is Saturday October 20, 2007 and today we are completing our studies on the book of Mark. Please read Mark Chapters 14 -- 16. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about Jesus's last Passover; Gethsemane; Peter's denial; Jesus stands before Pilate; and Jesus's crucifixion, burial, resurrection, and ascension.
Simon, a leper who had been healed by Jesus, lived in Bethany, a small town less than two miles south of Jerusalem on the slope of the Mount of Olives. Just a few days before Jesus was crucified, Simon invited Him and the apostles to his home for supper. "And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head." (Mark 14:3).
This ointment of spikenard was valued at more than three hundred pence which was about a year's wages for a common laborer. "And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her." (Mark 14:4-5).
It is recorded in the book of John that it was Judas who spoke up, saying: "Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him, Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein." (John 12:4-6)
To Judas, anything that was poured out upon Jesus was wasted; he coveted the money that the ointment might have brought. "And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me. For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always. She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying." (Mark 14:6-8).
The lost opportunity to sell the ointment and pocket the money, coupled with the strong rebuke from Jesus and the great honor bestowed upon Mary, probably angered Judas, who then went to the chief priests. They were so glad that he wanted to betray Him that they were going to pay him."And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him." (Mark 14:10-11).
"And (Judas) said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him." (Matthew 26:15-16) The betrayal, and even the amount paid to Judas, had been foretold by one of the Lord's prophets 600 years earlier. "And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver." (Zechariah 11:12).
Our generation is no different than in the time of Jesus. Human nature remains the same. You can not follow both paths, so every person must make the personal choice whether to accept or to reject Jesus as Savior and Lord of their lives. Would you betray Jesus for a price?
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You have mercy on us all, take away from me my sins, and mercifully set me ablaze with the fire of your Holy Spirit.
Take away from me the heart of stone, and give me a human heart, a heart to love and adore you, a heart to delight in you, to follow and enjoy you.
In Jesus' name, I pray......Amen.
Have a great day/night and weekend.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 19, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast."- Psalm 57:1
It is Friday (TGIF) October 19, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Mark. Please read Mark Chapters 12 -- 13. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the wicked tenant farmers; paying taxes to Caesar; the resurrection; the greatest commandment; a widow's offering; and signs of the end.
Jesus was questioned, "And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all?" (Mark 12:28). Jesus quoted Deuteronomy 6:4-5. "And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment." (Mark 12:29-30). Jesus then quoted Leviticus 19:18, saying: "And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (12:31).
The Hebrew word Elohenu is translated in English as our God. However, God chose to use the plural form, Elohim, meaning Gods, 2500 times in reference to Himself as the Self-Existent, One True God. This, then, is what the sacred proclamation to Israel literally says: Hear, O Israel; The Lord our Gods is One Lord. Furthermore, the Hebrew word for One used here is also a solemn declaration that the Lord is a plurality in unity. One ('echad) is a word which expresses one in the collective sense. It signifies a compound unity -- not an absolute unity. For example, God said "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." (Genesis 2:24).
Even with numerous children, they are still called one family. The one Tabernacle (Exodus 36:13) included many individual parts. However, there is a Hebrew word for one in the sense of an absolute one. It is the word yacheed and this word is never used to express the Godhead, although it is used many other times in Scripture. This truth exposes the ignorance of all who refuse to recognize Jesus as the One True God, the Creator of all things.
The Holy Spirit guided the Apostle Paul to write of Jesus:"For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:" (Colossians 1:16). Those who reject Jesus as God and the Holy Spirit as the One who will guide you into all truth are, in fact, rejecting the revelation of God Himself as God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus left no doubt as to who He was when He said: I and My Father are One.
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Lord my God, teach my heart this day where and how to find you.
You have made me and re-made me, and you have bestowed on me all the good things I possess, and still I do not know you.
I have not yet done that for which I was made. Teach me to seek you, for I cannot seek you unless you teach me, or find you unless you show yourself to me.
Let me seek you in my desire; let me desire you in my seeking. Let me find you by loving you; let me love you when I find you.
In Jesus' name, I pray........Amen
Have a great day and weekend.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 18, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness."- psalm 143:10
It is Thursday October 18, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Mark. Please read Mark 10 -- 11. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about Jesus commenting on divorce; children sre blessed; a rich young ruler; a blind Bartimaeus is healed; a triumphal entry; and cleansing the Temple.
King Herod arrested John the Baptist, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. (see Matthew 14:3-10) In an effort to have Jesus arrested and, hopefully, executed by Herod, the Pharisees tempted Him. "And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again. And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him." (Mark 101-2).
Jesus was not intimidated and quoted the Word of God, saying: "But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder (divorce)." (Mark 10:6-9).
Although numerous imperfections exist within the Church, Jesus does not give up on the Church and seek some other means of uniting people to follow Him. Furthermore, Jesus doesn't force anyone to be in submission to Him. The husband's conduct toward, and compassion for, his wife need to be like that of Christ for His Church. Christ leads the way and sets the perfect example in compassion, kindness, and forgiveness. The foremost responsibility in a marriage relationship rests with the husband. "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;" (Ephesians 5:25).
When a man is in submission to Christ, he prepares the way for his wife to desire to be in submission to him: Therefore as the Church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. It is imperative that a wife feel secure in her husband's love. It is his responsibility to let her know by word and action how very important she is to him.
God created the world and put Adam in charge of it. He created Eve to be Adam's helpmate. Husband and wife are a team, "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:32).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Surround me with your light, Jesus, and penetrate the very depths of my being with that light.
Let there remain no areas of darkness in me or in my family members, but transform our whole being with the healing light of your love.
Open me completely to receive your love, Jesus. Thank you for being our family healer and my personal healer.
In Jesus' name, I pray.......Amen.
Have a great day/night.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 17, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning."- Psalm 130:5-6
It is Wednesday October 17, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Mark. Please read Mark 8 -- 9. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the feeding of 4,000; leaven explained; the healing of a blind man; Peter's confession of faith; Jesus' death and resurrection foretold; transfiguration; disciples unable to heal a boy; a dispute over who is greatest; and the terrifying torments of eternal hell,
Jesus and His disciples had been in the famous idol-worshiping town of Caesarea Philippi. It was here that He talked with His disciples. "And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am? And they answered, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets. And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ." (8:27-29).
A short time later, Jesus invited the people to follow Him, but with certain qualifications. "And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." (8:34-38).
It was in this same region that, six days later, Jesus and three of His disciples went up on a high mountain and He was transfigured before them. "And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them. And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them. And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus." (9:2-4).
Moses and Elijah were now in the presence of their Messiah. At this momentous event, the two Old Testament prophets spoke with Jesus about His death which He should accomplish at Jerusalem. Moses representing the Law and Elijah representing the prophets appeared to honor Jesus prior to His suffering, death on the cross, and physical resurrection.
Peter made the mistake of suggesting they make three tabernacles, "And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. For he wist not what to say; for they were sore afraid." (Mark 9:5-6). However, since Jesus Christ is the Only Begotten Son of God, He alone is worthy of our worship and obedience. Nothing, or no one, can replace or equal a personal communion with Him as our Lord.
After Peter's three tabernacles suggestion, a Voice came out of the cloud, "And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him." (Mark 9:7)
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
It is in my hour of need that I see Your powerful provision in my life. When I'm in need of comfort, You are my Comforter.
When I'm in need of courage You go before me. When I'm in need of friendship You are my friend that sticks closer than a brother.
When I'm in need of stability You are the Anchor for my soul. When I'm in need of finances You own the cattle on a thousand hills.
When I'm in need of peace You are the peacemaker. When I'm in need of food You are the Bread of Life.
When I'm thirsty You are the living water that leads to eternal life. You are my Shepherd and I shall never be in want of anything.
Thank You for meeting every need I have.
In Jesus name, I pray......Amen
Have a great day/night.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 16, 2007
Hello Friend & Guest,
"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."- Psalm 139:23-24
It is Tuesday October 15, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Mark. Please read Mark 6 -- 7 In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the apostles sent out among the community; John the Baptist is beheaded; 5,000 are fed; Jesus walks on water; the rebuke of the Pharisees; and the faith of a Syrophoenician woman.
The Pharisees insisted the Law be observed as the scribes interpreted it; they believed in the Old Testament Scriptures, but they followed the tradition of the elders more than the Scriptures. "Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault. For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders." (Mark 7:1-3). They believed that Jesus' disciples were unclean because they did not ceremonially wash before eating as prescribed by former scribes in the tradition of the elders. It should have been a wake-up call them to hear Jesus say: "He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do." (7:6-8).
Later, Jesus explained to His disciples: "And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man." (7:17-23).
Satan often suggests evil thoughts, but they only become sin when we accept them and dwell upon them. We are deceived if we assume there is no harm in dwelling upon sinful thoughts as long as they are never verbalized or physically carried out. The Holy Spirit led the Apostle Paul to write: "That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally (sexual) minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity (hostility) against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be." (Romans 8:4-7).
Christians have the responsibility, and the ability, because of the indwelling Holy Spirit, to be overcomers of sinful thoughts: "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;" (II Corinthians 10:5).
A commitment to read through the Word of God with a desire to please the Lord will produce inward changes in conduct and attitudes that will affect all that we say and do. "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
Jesus, as we earnestly seek and follow You our minds are being renewed daily. Our ambitions, goals, and affections are being transformed into Your likeness.
The ways of the world have less grip on us as we fix our thoughts upon Your faith. Leqad us away from daily temptations and guide us along the path that You have chose for us.
It is in dying to the world that we become alive unto You, Christ and it is through Your mercy that we offer our lives today as living sacrifices.
In You minghty name, Jesus' we pray......Amen.
Have a great day/night
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 15, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children. Ye are blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth." Psalm 115:14-15
It is Monday October 15, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Mark. Please read Mark 4 -- 5. In Today's Scripture Reading we will read about Jesus' parables; the storm calmed; a legion of demons cast out; and Jairus' daughter is raised.
Jesus described in a parable four kinds of responses from those who hear His Word. "And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine, Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up." (2:3-4) This means that some people respond to the Gospel with self-destroying indifference.
"And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:" (4:5). This means that at first they are receptive, but soon lose interest. "Stony places" means solid rock beneath a shallow covering of soil. These converts appear promising and full of life; but confronted with a lifestyle that is inconsistent with the Christian life, or persecution because of the Word of God, they immediately quit.
"And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts." (4:15) This represents the hearer who expresses no concern for spiritual values but is open to pleasures and self-indulgence. "And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended." (4:16-17).
Other converts are like seed sown in thorns, "And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful." (4:18-19). This represents people who seem to recognize the true worth of Christ and eternal life, but have never made a break from their past. When the things of the world that keep a person from being devoted to the Lord are not weeded out, they gradually take control of their hearts and spiritual interests are eventually crowded out.
But a more serious group of people who hear the Word of God are like seed sown on good ground. "And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred." (4:20). By faith, these people break up their stony places, removing the things that hinder spiritual growth. They root out the weeds and thorns of mixed motives, and they bear much fruit.
Jesus has said to all: "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing." (John 15:5).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
Even as the water, sun, and nutrients from the soil make the plants flourish we are reminded that as we are faithful in reading Your Word and applying its Truths to our lives we, too, will be fed spiritually.
Our roots will go deep into the fertile soil of faith and our branches of spiritual life will reach heavenward as we keep our hearts and eyes focused upon You, Jesus.
Thank You, Jesus, that You are the One who establishes our faith through Your redemptive work on the cross of Calvary.
In You mighty name, Jesus' we pray......Amen.
Have a great and wonderful week.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 14, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me." - Psalm 36:11
It is Sunday October 14, 2007 and today we will begin our studies on the Gospel according to Mark. Please read Mark 1 -- 3. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the Ministry of John the Baptist; the baptism and temptation of Jesus; His Galilean ministry; the twelve apostles chosen; and the unpardonable sin.
No disease occupies so much space in the Scriptures as leprosy. Back in the days of Moses God directed him on how to handle lepers. "Command the children of Israel, that they put out of the camp every leper, and every one that hath an issue, and whosoever is defiled by the dead: Both male and female shall ye put out, without the camp shall ye put them; that they defile not their camps, in the midst whereof I dwell." (Numbers 5:2-3). Strangely, it first appears as just a white, then pink spot. As leprosy slowly progresses, it becomes loathsome, and often fatal in its effects. It illustrates how insignificant sin may seem at first, but, if continued, its consequences are devasting.
A leper eventually loses sensitivity to pain. Still worse, as leprosy progresses, fingers and toes decay and fall off. For centuries, lepers were incurable and were considered the untouchables of society. One of these pitiful outcasts boldly made his way to Jesus "And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean." (Mark 1:40). When the leper said: If Thou wilt, he had no doubt that Jesus could heal him. What he doubted was His willingness to do so since leprosy was much worse than just a hopeless disease, it made him ceremonially unclean. It was not, Could He?, but Would He? "And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean." (1:41).
The book of Matthew records that this leper worshipped Him (Matthew 8:2), and the book of Luke said that he fell on his face before Him (Luke 5:12). Only Mark tells us that Jesus was moved with compassion and that His loving hand reached out to this defiled leper and touched him. Jesus was moved with compassion is one of the deepest of human emotions and a true expression of the loving heart of Jesus.
Jesus's touch expressed sympathy which expressed through His Words to hiim, "Be thou clean".
Today Jesus says: "Now ye are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you" (John 15:3). "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Romans 10:17). Once saved, like the cleansed leper who began to tell everyone you too will want to tell others what Jesus has done for you. Jesus spoke to him before he left, "And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter." (Mark 1:44-45)
As we observe sinners all about us and see how sin is destroying the spiritual lives of people, it is important to also remember that "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (II Peter 3:9).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You know the longings of my heart. When I seek thrills and quick fixes to satisfy these needs I am eventually disappointed.
Your supply of Living Water never runs dry and satisfies the inner desires of my heart because You are the only One who can meet my spiritual needs.
Lord, as I come today dry and thirsty I look to You, for You satisfy the thirsty and fill the hungry with good things.
In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen
Have a wonderful day/night.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 13, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever." - Psalm 125:2'
It is Saturday October 13, 2007 and today we are completing out studies on teh book of Matthew. Please read Matthew 27 -- 28 In Today's Scripture Reading we will read about Judas' suicide; Jesus before Pilate; Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection; and the Great Commission.
The resurrection of Jesus gave His disciples the key to understanding that their King and His Kingdom were both eternal. "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:18-20).
When we are baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost (Spirit), we proclaim the fullness of the Godhead. By public baptism, we confess to the world that God is our Heavenly Father. The phrase "and of the Son" is our witness to the world that Jesus is now Savior and Lord of our lives. Upon our confession, the Holy Ghost becomes our indwelling Sanctifier, Comforter, and Guide throughout life. This confirms the Trinity of the Godhead and proclaims One God expressed in Three Persons.
Being born again by His Spirit is a supernatural experience which changes the heart and transforms the life to one of daily worship and service to the Lord. This does not mean that we will reach perfection in this life; but as Peter urged: "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious." (I Peter 2:2-3).
The Lord has provided just one Book and His Holy Spirit to tell us how to live and what He expects us to do. Titus proclaimed: "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee." (Titus 2:11-15).
Without exception we all at times fail the Lord but, let us say with Paul: "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended (sinned): but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you." (Philippians 3:13-15).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
You told your beloveds not to worry about the future.
You showed them how to have the attitude of simple trust that young children have, so that they could place themselves into You caring hands.
And so I ask for the power of your Spirit that I may remain positive throughout all that is going on in my daily life.
I know that your touch can change people and situations, so I ask you to touch us and teach us to praise You also during the suffering and sacrifices that we endure.
May any difficulties, frustrations and pain of this day be transformed in your presence.
In Your Mighty name, Jesus' I pray......Amen.
Have a wonderfully blessed day/night and weekend.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 12, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved."- Psalm 16:8
It is Friday, October 12, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Matthew. Please read Matthew Chapters 25 -- 26. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about more parables; the plot to kill Jesus; Jesus anointed; the Lord's Supper; Christ's agony and prayer; Judas' betrayal; Jesus' trial; and Peter's denial.
Jesus represented Himself in a parable saying: "For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey." (Matthew 25:14-15). These talents did not belong to the servants, but remained the property of their master. They were to be his managers of the goods entrusted to them. The goods of this parable represent the opportunities and abilities that God has given to us and that He expects us to use for His Kingdom.
The servant who received five talents recognized that what he had received belonged to his master. "And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord." (25:20-21).
And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. "And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two." (25:17). He was not expected to gain five since he had been given according to his own ability. Both faithfully doubled their talents and both were equally commended.
The third servant had received one talent. He put forth no effort for his master. Instead, he went and hid his lord's money. "But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. 24Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents." (25:18, 24-28). His effort for earthly security was inexcusable. He tried to excuse himself like the person today who shows great diligence working in the secular world, but says: "I'm too busy now. I'll serve the Lord at some more convenient time, or after I retire."
The consequences of neglecting the opportunities to serve his master were irreversible; there was no second chance to relive his life. The master declared: "For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 25:29-30).
We can choose to ignore our opportunities to serve Him, withhold our tithes, and defile the Lord's Day; but, without an exception, "So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God." (Romans 14:12).
"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." (I Corinthians 6:19-20).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
I give you my hands to do your work. I give you my feet to go your way. I give you my eyes to see as you do.
I give you my tongue to speak Your words. I give you my mind that you may think in me. I give you my spirit that you may pray in me.
Above all, I give you my heart that you may love in me your Father and all mankind.
I give you my whole self that you may grow in me, so that it is you, Lord Jesus, who live and work and pray in me.
In You mighty name, Jesus', I pray.....Amen
Have a great and bless filled day and weekend.
TGIF!
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 11, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple." - Psalm 19:7
It is Thursday October 11, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Matthew. Please read Matthew Chapters 23 -- 24. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about hypocrisy denounced; the destruction of the Temple foretold; and the signs of Christ's return.
Following the cleansing of the Temple and the denouncing of the religious leaders as hypocrites, the Lord sat with His disciples on the Mount of Olives. "And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." (Matthew 24:11-14). Like the Pharisees of old, the false prophets today substitute contemporary opinions and situation ethics for the authority of God's Word.
On the Mount of Olives, just three days before His crucifixion, our Lord foretold the destruction of the Temple. It was destroyed about 40 years after His resurrection. He also spoke of His future return from heaven, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." (24:35-37). He also warned: "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." (24:42-44).
Jesus made no attempt to give details concerning the soon destruction of Jerusalem, nor the more distant end of the age. But these words from the King emphasized the importance of always being prepared by speaking a parable of two servants. Jesus said: "Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods. But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 24:45-51).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
In the maze of life's events where we're often a passenger on the rollercoaster of life's ups and downs, may we never lose sight of You, Jesus.
You are the unseen but ever-present Shepherd who protects, guides and tenderly comforts us in all our trouble.
Thank You, Lord, that when change is constantly about us, You remain steadfast, faithful, and dependable.
You are the Anchor that keeps us grounded in the unseen but eternal truths we build our lives upon.
Keep us faithful and help us to always believe!
In Your mighty name, Jesus' we pray......Amen.
Have a great day/night.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 10, 2007
Hello My Friend and Guest,
"I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings." - Psalm 77:11-12
Today is Wednesday October 10, 2007 and today we will continue our studies on the book of Matthew. Please read Matthew Chapters 21 -- 22 . In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about Jesus' triumphal entry; a Temple cleansed; a fig tree cursed;the authority of Jesus is questioned; parables; taxes; the greatest commandment; weeping and gnashing of teeth in eternal darkness.
On Monday preceding His crucifixion, and just one day after His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, Jesus went into the Temple of God. "And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:12-13) This was prophized in Isaiah, "Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people." (56:7).
The chief priests were outraged and dispatched a delegation to interrupt Jesus as He was teaching. "And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?" (Matthew 21:23). They were referring to His accepting all the praise that the multitude had given Him as the Messiah, as well as questioning who gave Him authority to dismiss their money changers. "And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him? But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet. And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.It was for these reasons that they conspired to kill Him." 21:24-27
After pronouncing His judgment upon the Temple activities, Jesus spoke to them again by parables explaining to them that many are called, but few are chosen.(Matthew 22:1-14).
Because eternal separation from God is so final and so terrifying, Jesus said more about the horrifying torments of eternal hell as a lake of fire (Revelation 20:10) than all the writers of the New Testament combined. In this parable, Jesus exposes all who assume they are good enough for heaven. The Apostle Paul said, "For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: 16They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate." (Titus 1:10,16)
Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life.
Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk.
As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon Jesus.
When the howling winds and forceful storms of this life attempt to shipwreck my faith may they instead prove my faith to be more than sufficient to withstand the continual assaults from the enemy.
Because I take refuge in Jesus my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory.
In Jesus' name, I pray......Amen.
Have a wonderful day,
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 9, 2007
Hello My Friend & Guest,
"Ye that fear the LORD, trust in the LORD: he is their help and their shield." 114:11
It is Tuesday October 9, 2007 and today we will continue our studies on the book of Matthew. Please read Matthew 18 -- 20. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about humility; the lost sheep; forgiveness; marriage and divorce; a rich young ruler; workers in the vineyard; and two blind men are healed.
Peter asked a far more important question than he realized when he inquired of Jesus: "Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:21-22).
Peter thought he was being generous in suggesting seven times. This was twice as many times as required by the traditions of the scribes, plus one more, for a total of seven times. Unwillingness to forgive everyone of their sins against us while, at the same time, expecting Christ to forgive us of all our sins against Him everyday for a lifetime is, a fatal sin. He has warned "But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." (6:15).
The Lord gives an illustration of a servant who owed his king "Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents." (18:23-24). The amount was impossible to repay even in a lifetime. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. "The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt." (18:26-27)
But he was not so kind to a fellow servant who owed him very little and put him in prison. "But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt." (18:28-30).
When his lord found out what happened, he was angry, and delivered him to his tormentors until he paid for everything he owed him. "Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses." (18:31-35).
When the fear of the Lord is considered, we find it much easier to forgive others. To fear the Lord is not to be afraid of Him like so many people are led to believe. To fear the Lord, means to respect Him, honor Him, and follow Him. "1Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, your mercy endures to all generations.
Your truths are timeless and Your provisions are abundant to those who call upon your name.
Help us to declare Your faithfulness to our generation and the generations that follow.
Thank you that my great-grandfather, Isaac, proclaimed the faithfulness of God to His children and I now have the blessing and responsibility to proclaim your faithfulness to my family.
Generation by generation we proclaim the salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
In Jesus' name, we pray...... Amen.
Have a great & mighty day/night.
God Bless You
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Bible Study: October 8, 2007
Hello My Friend and Guest,
"For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD." - Psalm 117:2
It is Monday October 8, 2007 and today we will continue our studies on the book of Matthew. Please read Matthew Chapters 15 -- 17. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about the Scribes and Pharisees rebuked; 4,000 fed; the leaven; Peter's confession; the transfiguration of Jesus; and the disciples' unbelief.
Caesarea Philippi was the of the famous worship center of the Greek god Pan, representative of all gods of paganism, as well as the Baal god, considered to be a "lord of heaven and earth." It was located about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee. It was situated at the foot of the southern slope of Mount Hermon, with its snowcapped peak 9000 feet above sea level, the "highest mountain" in the promised land. In the midst of large numbers of idol worshipers, Jesus confronted his diciples, "When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." (16:13-16).
Our Lord then introduced the word Church for the first time, "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16:18). A "church," is a community of ones who are caring brothers and sisters in fellowship with one another and with Christ who is the Head of the Church. The Church is composed of people redeemed by His blood and committed to Jesus as their Savior and Lord under the discipline of the Word of God. They recognize their responsibility to help one another in living their covenant relationship with Christ since the Church is the Body of Christ. "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." (I Corinthians 12:27).
Strange as it may seem, some of the followers of Christ disregard their responsibility to fellowship with other believers on the Lord's Day. Unknown to them, their spiritual influence with their own family becomes weak and ineffective. Still worse, too often they desecrate the Lord's Day for selfish pleasures.
In striking contrast, Christ also loved the Church, and gave Himself for it. "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." (Ephesians 5:25-27).
During this time also the transfiguration of Jesus took place, a tranfiguration is to transform the appearance of somebody or something, revealing great beauty, spirituality, or magnificence. "And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him." (Matthew 17:1-3).
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life.
Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk.
As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon You.
When the howling winds and forceful storms of this life attempt to shipwreck my faith may they instead prove my faith to be more than sufficient to withstand the continual assaults from the enemy.
Because I take refuge in You, Jesus my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory.
In You mighty name, Jesus' I pray......Amen.
Have a wonderful day and week.
God Bless
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Bible Study: October 7, 2007
Hello My Guest & Friend,
"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" - Psalm 27:1
It is Sunday October 7, 2007 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Matthew, Please read Matthew Chapters 13 -- 14. In Today's Scripture Reading we will learn about Jesus' parables, the execution of John the Baptist, the feeding of 5,000, and Jesus walks on water.
In the first parable of Jesus that Matthew recorded, Jesus described four kinds of responses from those who hear His Word. The true disciple of Christ is represented by the good ground that received seed. "And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold." (Matthew 13:3-8).
His second parable was of weeds that grew in the same field with wheat but produced no fruit. "Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn." (13:24-30).
The tares (weeds) look identical to wheat as they grow. In its young stages, only the expert can tell the difference. But, when these weeds reach maturity there is no head, exposing its lack of value. In this parable, the Master said: Let both grow together until the harvest. Jesus explained "The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels." (13:38-39). The weeds represent those who outwardly appear to be converts to Christ, but who have never truly received Jesus as Savior and Lord of their lives. They may join the church, give their tithes, and deceive members of the church, but not Christ. It may seem startling to read that "The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear." (13:41-43).
No one expects to be hurled into a lake of fire, where there is weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth forever. Jesus said: "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (7:13-14). These few have characteristics that are not true of the majority of people. They recognized that they were sinners and needed a Savior, and they asked the Lord to forgive them of their sins, and to make Him the Lord of their lives. They look forward to attending worship services on Sunday.
"And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." (Acts 16:31), This means much more than a mental assent to the fact, it's a way of living.
Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and rekindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created and you shall renew the face of the earth.
My Lord, who has taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in Your consolation.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord, we pray.....Amen.
Have a great day/night
God Bless
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