Psalm 23:4
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
God is great. He bigger than anything. He can do anything. He is in control. He is amazing, wonderful, mighty, gracious, loving, kind, and awesome. He will never leave me nor forsake me. He will be with me even unto the end. I have NO FEAR because he is with me!
Because He loves me so much He corrects me with His rod and guides me back in line with His staff. Thank you!!!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Weak and Weary?
Psalm 23:3
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
God knows us so well and loves us so much that He is aware that we get weak and weary. The blessing is that He will restore us. HALLELUJAH!!!
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
God knows us so well and loves us so much that He is aware that we get weak and weary. The blessing is that He will restore us. HALLELUJAH!!!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
He Knows
Psalm 23:2
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
This verse is extremely comforting to me because it expresses how God knows exactly what I need to live, flourish, and survive. For us as His sheep the Word of God becomes our green pastures. Once we have eaten the Word, we can lie down or rest. We don't have to be worried, anxious, or fearful. The Word of God helps us to grow and become stronger in our faith.
However the knowing the Word is not enough. Water is necessary to help the sheep to digest the green grass. In the digestive process all of the nutrients from the green grass can be delivered to do their job and operate in the specific area of the body. The Holy Spirit is our water. The Spirit is here to lead, guide, and help us digest the Word so that it may be applied to the various areas of our lives.
I am so grateful that the LORD is my shepherd and He knows just what I need and He leads me to it.!
I had the privilege of hearing an eighteen year old, Kenneth Cunningham, preach his first sermon about two months ago. He shared this revelation about the sheep. The shepherd leads sheep to green grass because they have dull teeth. Brown grass could cause them to choke. Therefore the green grass is what is best for the sheep. Sheep's mouth and nose are very close together. For this reason they need still waters because choppy waters may cause them to drown. Still waters are best for them because of their physical make up. A good shepherd knows his sheep and knows what is best for them.
Praise the LORD because He KNOWS!!!!!!!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Follow the Shepherd
Psalm 23:1
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
This is probably the first passage of scripture that many of us learned when we were younger. At that time we really had not experienced life and truly did not understand the meaning of the words we were simply reciting from memory.
I encouraged you to journey with me and reread this familiar passage and truly think about how it relates to your life and relationship with God.
The "Tevin Experience" would have been extremely difficult for me if I had not become totally engulfed with these words. Just from verse one we can gain a great deal of faith and confidence. Tevin knew that the LORD was his shepherd as well because he would constantly say and sing our God is an awesome God.
When life presents unfavorable situations just remember that the LORD is your shepherd. The shepherd is the one in control and has a plan. The shepherd is the one who knows what's best for the sheep. The shepherd is the one who takes care of us by providing what is necessary for us to live. The shepherd leads and guides. All we have to do is follow and we will want for nothing because the shepherd provides all.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
This is probably the first passage of scripture that many of us learned when we were younger. At that time we really had not experienced life and truly did not understand the meaning of the words we were simply reciting from memory.
I encouraged you to journey with me and reread this familiar passage and truly think about how it relates to your life and relationship with God.
The "Tevin Experience" would have been extremely difficult for me if I had not become totally engulfed with these words. Just from verse one we can gain a great deal of faith and confidence. Tevin knew that the LORD was his shepherd as well because he would constantly say and sing our God is an awesome God.
When life presents unfavorable situations just remember that the LORD is your shepherd. The shepherd is the one in control and has a plan. The shepherd is the one who knows what's best for the sheep. The shepherd is the one who takes care of us by providing what is necessary for us to live. The shepherd leads and guides. All we have to do is follow and we will want for nothing because the shepherd provides all.
Friday, August 27, 2010
It's Not in Vain
1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
steadfast - firm and unwavering in purpose or loyalty; firmly fixed on constant
abounding- be plentiful, thrive, flourish
vain- failing to have or unlikely to have the intended or desired result (unsuccessful)
Be encouraged to continue your work in the Lord. Stand firm in your purpose. Be loyal to Him. Always thrive in the work of the Lord. Please know that your labor will not fail. What you do for Him will last and be successful.
Note: Even if you don't see the successful results, know that what you are doing is making a difference and touching lives. Willingly serve the Lord with joy and gladness.
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
steadfast - firm and unwavering in purpose or loyalty; firmly fixed on constant
abounding- be plentiful, thrive, flourish
vain- failing to have or unlikely to have the intended or desired result (unsuccessful)
Be encouraged to continue your work in the Lord. Stand firm in your purpose. Be loyal to Him. Always thrive in the work of the Lord. Please know that your labor will not fail. What you do for Him will last and be successful.
Note: Even if you don't see the successful results, know that what you are doing is making a difference and touching lives. Willingly serve the Lord with joy and gladness.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Just Believe
Mark 9:23
Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.
Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
We Need the Fire
Daniel 3:19-23, 24-25
19Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.
20And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.
21Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
22Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
23And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
Note: When the Hebrew boys were thrown into the furnace they were bound.
24Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
25He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
When the king looked into the furnace he saw the men loose and walking around. Let this encourage those of you who may be going through and wondering why you are in such a fiery (hot) situation. There are many reasons God allows us to face trials. One reason is the burn away the things that have us bound. In the fire the Hebrews boys were not burned. As a matter of fact if you continue reading, you find that they didn't even SMELL like smoke! However the ties that had them bound were burned in the fire. Fire is a purifier. We need are fiery trials to free us from things and/or people who have us bound. Once we have entered into the fire and trust God, as the Hebrew boys did, the fire can actually free us!
WARNING: This process produces a great end result, however it does not feel all that great. Sometimes we are bound by our relationship with certain people and the fire will burn those people away. Sometimes we are bound by our own attitude and we can be down right stubborn. In those cases the fire may have to be turned up seven times or we may have to stay in the fire a little longer. Sometimes we are bound by our feelings. When are feelings that have us bound are burned, our feelings get hurt.
The key point to remember is that when you have gone through the fire, you will be free!
19Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.
20And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.
21Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
22Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
23And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
Note: When the Hebrew boys were thrown into the furnace they were bound.
24Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
25He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
When the king looked into the furnace he saw the men loose and walking around. Let this encourage those of you who may be going through and wondering why you are in such a fiery (hot) situation. There are many reasons God allows us to face trials. One reason is the burn away the things that have us bound. In the fire the Hebrews boys were not burned. As a matter of fact if you continue reading, you find that they didn't even SMELL like smoke! However the ties that had them bound were burned in the fire. Fire is a purifier. We need are fiery trials to free us from things and/or people who have us bound. Once we have entered into the fire and trust God, as the Hebrew boys did, the fire can actually free us!
WARNING: This process produces a great end result, however it does not feel all that great. Sometimes we are bound by our relationship with certain people and the fire will burn those people away. Sometimes we are bound by our own attitude and we can be down right stubborn. In those cases the fire may have to be turned up seven times or we may have to stay in the fire a little longer. Sometimes we are bound by our feelings. When are feelings that have us bound are burned, our feelings get hurt.
The key point to remember is that when you have gone through the fire, you will be free!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
That Was Good!
Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
All is an inclusive word which includes everything. In Romans we learn that "all" things work together. This means the good, the bad, and the ugly. Not all situations we face will appear to be favorable to us. But be encouraged and know that all things work together for good. Don't worry about the circumstances......just LOVE Him.
The Tevin Experience
If Tevin had not been born with an illness, we would not personally know that God is a healer. That was good! Note: God heals through what we know as an earthly death, but those in Christ shall rise again. I will expand on that later.
If the illness had not been incurable, we would not have learned that God is in control and not man. That was good!
If Tevin's illness was not so progressive, I would not have desired a job in the Marion School District. That was good!
If we had not been able to completely keep our sanity during the process, we would not have learned that God is faithful and a keeper. That was good!
If the situation had not lasted as long as it did, we would not have developed patience, strength, and endurance. That was good!
There are many more "that was good" experiences through Tevin's illness. Look back over your life and find your "that was good" experiences. I guarantee you that you will. Sometimes when we are in the unfavorable situations it is hard to see the good. But when we come through we can look back and see the good. Once we see the good from a past situation it will inspire hope for future situations. Be encouraged...it's working together for good.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Praise Him
Psalm 100
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
AWESOME
Our God is an awesome God
He reigns from heaven above
With wisdom power and love
Our God is an awesome God
He reigns from heaven above
With wisdom power and love
Our God is an awesome God
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Take Joy in Him
Psalm 37:4-5
Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
Delight - to take a high degree of pleasure or enjoyment
Desires - something that brings satisfaction or enjoyment
Commit - to give in trust or charge
Way - manner, method, plan; means of achieving a goal; direction
Trust - to have confidence in; rely or depend on; believe
Take enjoyment in the Lord. Give him praise for all the things that He has done. Worship Him for who He is. When you take joy in Him, He will give you the things that bring you satisfaction and joy. He desires that we give Him charge of our manners, methods, and plans. God wants us to have confidence in Him and believe. He is able to bring it to pass. With God all things are possible! Take joy in Him!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Trust Him
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Our thoughts are not God's thoughts. Our ways are not His ways. He has a perfect plan for each and every one of us. He is in control of all things. He has all power.
Many times we try to understand, figure out, and work out the situations in our lives. What we really should focus on is turning the situation over to the Lord. Trust him to be who He is. He will never leave us nor forsake us. Even though we may feel that we are alone in our circumstances, He is there.
When we acknowledge His presence, He will direct us. Once He gives us direction we only need to follow. Trust HIM! He is AWESOME.....that's all I know.
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Our thoughts are not God's thoughts. Our ways are not His ways. He has a perfect plan for each and every one of us. He is in control of all things. He has all power.
Many times we try to understand, figure out, and work out the situations in our lives. What we really should focus on is turning the situation over to the Lord. Trust him to be who He is. He will never leave us nor forsake us. Even though we may feel that we are alone in our circumstances, He is there.
When we acknowledge His presence, He will direct us. Once He gives us direction we only need to follow. Trust HIM! He is AWESOME.....that's all I know.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Don't Worry......Seek
Matthew 6:31-33
31Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
33But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Don't worry about anything! Take comfort in knowing that God knows your every need. Focus on Him and seek him diligently and he will reward you by adding those needs to you. Your job is not to worry. Your job is to SEEK Him!
31Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
33But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Don't worry about anything! Take comfort in knowing that God knows your every need. Focus on Him and seek him diligently and he will reward you by adding those needs to you. Your job is not to worry. Your job is to SEEK Him!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Obedience
If we are obedient to observe and do what God commands us (live/love right, give much, & pray always), God will bless us beyond measure.
Here is the blessing of obedience from the Word of God in Deuteronomy 28. God remains the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. May we take confidence in His word and let it compel us to be obedient, not just because of the blessings but because He loves us that much!
Deuteronomy 28:1-14
1And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:
2And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.
His blessings will overtake you!
3Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.
4Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.
5Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.
6Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.
You will be blessed wherever you go! He will bless you in the city, in the field, coming in, and going out. He will bless and increase your fruit (whatever you produce).Hallelujah!
7The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.
WARNING: Enemies will rise up. CONSOLATION: They will be smitten (struck with a hard blow).
8The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
God will bless everything you do!
9The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.
Obey!
10And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee.
11And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.
12The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.
He will make you have plenty for yourself and enough to loan to others!
13And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them:
14And thou shalt not go aside from any of the words which I command thee this day, to the right hand, or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.
God's desire is that we be obedient to his commands. When we are obedient he is faithful and just to bless us. God has a plan to prosper us in every way and every area. He loves us enough to want us to have the very best. We should love Him enough to give Him our very best in every capacity.
Here is the blessing of obedience from the Word of God in Deuteronomy 28. God remains the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. May we take confidence in His word and let it compel us to be obedient, not just because of the blessings but because He loves us that much!
Deuteronomy 28:1-14
1And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:
2And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.
His blessings will overtake you!
3Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.
4Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.
5Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.
6Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.
You will be blessed wherever you go! He will bless you in the city, in the field, coming in, and going out. He will bless and increase your fruit (whatever you produce).Hallelujah!
7The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.
WARNING: Enemies will rise up. CONSOLATION: They will be smitten (struck with a hard blow).
8The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
God will bless everything you do!
9The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.
Obey!
10And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee.
11And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.
12The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.
He will make you have plenty for yourself and enough to loan to others!
13And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them:
14And thou shalt not go aside from any of the words which I command thee this day, to the right hand, or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.
God's desire is that we be obedient to his commands. When we are obedient he is faithful and just to bless us. God has a plan to prosper us in every way and every area. He loves us enough to want us to have the very best. We should love Him enough to give Him our very best in every capacity.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Need Something?
Philippians 4:19
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
No other comment needed!
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
No other comment needed!
Monday, August 16, 2010
Love Your Brother
Tevin was shopping with his grandmother. As most children do when they are in a store, he asked for a toy. His grandmother bought him a toy. Then Tevin said, "I need to get something for my brother too." This scenario helped quite a bit. Tevin was very mindful of others.
What have you gotten or done for your brother lately? Your brother may not need a toy, but he may need your support, love, care, understanding, forgiveness, compassion, and/or prayers.
We are blessed to be a blessing. Let us consider someone else today. Love your brother!
What have you gotten or done for your brother lately? Your brother may not need a toy, but he may need your support, love, care, understanding, forgiveness, compassion, and/or prayers.
We are blessed to be a blessing. Let us consider someone else today. Love your brother!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Love
Mark 12:30-31
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. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
I Corinthians 13:13
And abide faith, hope, love, these three, but the greatest of these is love.
Love - a profoundly tender, passionate affection (fond attachment) for another person; a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection.
Love is what we are commanded to do. We are to have and demonstrate tender affection for one another. This emotion and action is easily given when we are loved in return or have a good, positive relationship with the other person.
Hebrews 13:16
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Sacrifice - to surrender or give up, or permit injury or disadvantage to, for the sake of something else
If we love each other, why does the word refer to doing good as a sacrifice.
WARNING: This tender affection is to be given towards ALL. Yes, that even means those who are not loving towards us.
Luke 6:35
But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.
Loving in spite of is one sign that you are a Christian. Luke tells us that when we love our enemies we are children of the Highest. The only way we are able to love everyone in spite of is because of the Holy Spirit of God that is on the inside of us. As Tevin would say, "You should love all you can!" Be encouraged today to check your level of love and the conditions under which you give love. How do you know you are a Christian?
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. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
I Corinthians 13:13
And abide faith, hope, love, these three, but the greatest of these is love.
Love - a profoundly tender, passionate affection (fond attachment) for another person; a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection.
Love is what we are commanded to do. We are to have and demonstrate tender affection for one another. This emotion and action is easily given when we are loved in return or have a good, positive relationship with the other person.
Hebrews 13:16
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Sacrifice - to surrender or give up, or permit injury or disadvantage to, for the sake of something else
If we love each other, why does the word refer to doing good as a sacrifice.
WARNING: This tender affection is to be given towards ALL. Yes, that even means those who are not loving towards us.
Luke 6:35
But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.
Loving in spite of is one sign that you are a Christian. Luke tells us that when we love our enemies we are children of the Highest. The only way we are able to love everyone in spite of is because of the Holy Spirit of God that is on the inside of us. As Tevin would say, "You should love all you can!" Be encouraged today to check your level of love and the conditions under which you give love. How do you know you are a Christian?
Saturday, August 14, 2010
What Chistians Do
Hebrews 13:16
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Shortly after being baptized, Tevin told his grandmother, "You know I am a Christian now!" She said,"Well, Tevin, how do you know you are a Christian?" Tevin said,"Because I do good for other people." Keep in mind Tevin knew this at five year old.
How do you know you are a Christian? Does anyone else know you are a Christian without you saying you are one?
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Shortly after being baptized, Tevin told his grandmother, "You know I am a Christian now!" She said,"Well, Tevin, how do you know you are a Christian?" Tevin said,"Because I do good for other people." Keep in mind Tevin knew this at five year old.
How do you know you are a Christian? Does anyone else know you are a Christian without you saying you are one?
Friday, August 13, 2010
The Gospel
Romans 10:9
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
In the summer of 2000, at the age of five, Tevin heard the meaning of becoming a Christian and the baptism in Sunday School. After the lesson, Tevin asked, "What do I have to do to be baptized?" I told him that he had to believe what he had just heard me teach him in the lesson. He said, "I believe that Jesus was good and died for me." That Sunday after worship service Tevin confessed to believing that Jesus was God's son and he died, was buried, and arose again for our sing.
It is one of our responsibilities as Christians to share the gospel with everyone. At the age of five Tevin was listening to the lesson and understood. Don't disregard our children because of their age or anyone else for any reason. All need to hear the good news!
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
In the summer of 2000, at the age of five, Tevin heard the meaning of becoming a Christian and the baptism in Sunday School. After the lesson, Tevin asked, "What do I have to do to be baptized?" I told him that he had to believe what he had just heard me teach him in the lesson. He said, "I believe that Jesus was good and died for me." That Sunday after worship service Tevin confessed to believing that Jesus was God's son and he died, was buried, and arose again for our sing.
It is one of our responsibilities as Christians to share the gospel with everyone. At the age of five Tevin was listening to the lesson and understood. Don't disregard our children because of their age or anyone else for any reason. All need to hear the good news!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Pain
2 Corinthians 12:7-9
And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
At one point during Tevin's illness, he suffered excruciating muscle spasms in his arms. Tevin received botox shots and was on several different muscle relaxers. Sometimes these things would aide him during the pain. However there were other times when the shots didn't help. The medicine didn't work. His mother, father, or brother couldn't soothe him. He had to endure the pain.
When faced with situations that cause us pain, we are not always delivered from the pain. Sometimes we have to endure the pain. We have to and need to experience the ache. These experiences and uncomfortable circumstances remind us of who we are and more importantly who God is.
This is the time for us to put our faith in God. During these times we must stand boldly on the word of God, as we endure. We must remember that God is a God that he shall what lie. His word will not return to Him void. He has a plan for peace and not harm towards us. All things work together for good to those who love him. When in pain remember His grace is sufficient.
And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
At one point during Tevin's illness, he suffered excruciating muscle spasms in his arms. Tevin received botox shots and was on several different muscle relaxers. Sometimes these things would aide him during the pain. However there were other times when the shots didn't help. The medicine didn't work. His mother, father, or brother couldn't soothe him. He had to endure the pain.
When faced with situations that cause us pain, we are not always delivered from the pain. Sometimes we have to endure the pain. We have to and need to experience the ache. These experiences and uncomfortable circumstances remind us of who we are and more importantly who God is.
This is the time for us to put our faith in God. During these times we must stand boldly on the word of God, as we endure. We must remember that God is a God that he shall what lie. His word will not return to Him void. He has a plan for peace and not harm towards us. All things work together for good to those who love him. When in pain remember His grace is sufficient.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Trust God's View
Isaiah 55:8-9
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
As Tevin was losing his sight, he was determine to hold on to his independence. He continuously attempted to move through the house on his own. It was as if he did not realize that he was blind. He was totally relying on his own abilities, which happen to have been impaired at that time. But as parents we could see where he going and more importantly we could see what was in his way. We would try to instruct and guide him. He would say, "I can do it. I know where I am going."
Tevin acted just like we do at times with God. God reveals to us where he wants us to go. Then we try to get there on our own. In all actuality we are just as blind as Tevin was. We do not have the vision that God has. Let God be God. Trust Him to lead and guide you exactly where He would have you go.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
As Tevin was losing his sight, he was determine to hold on to his independence. He continuously attempted to move through the house on his own. It was as if he did not realize that he was blind. He was totally relying on his own abilities, which happen to have been impaired at that time. But as parents we could see where he going and more importantly we could see what was in his way. We would try to instruct and guide him. He would say, "I can do it. I know where I am going."
Tevin acted just like we do at times with God. God reveals to us where he wants us to go. Then we try to get there on our own. In all actuality we are just as blind as Tevin was. We do not have the vision that God has. Let God be God. Trust Him to lead and guide you exactly where He would have you go.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Trust Him
Psalm 31:14
But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God."
Psalm 32:10
Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who tusts in him.
Psalm 37:3
Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Psalm 37:5
Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
Psalm 62:8
Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Isaiah 26:4
Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God."
Psalm 32:10
Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who tusts in him.
Psalm 37:3
Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Psalm 37:5
Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
Psalm 62:8
Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Isaiah 26:4
Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
Monday, August 9, 2010
Faith: Layaway Payments
Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Believe - to accept that something is true or real; to accept that somebody is telling the truth; to accept that somebody or something has a particular quality or ability; to be of the opinion that something exists or is a reality, especially when there is no absolute proof of its existence or reality; to be confident that somebody or something is worthwhile or effective; to be of the opinion that something is right or beneficial and, usually, to act in accordance with that belief
Diligent - showing persistent and hard-working effort in doing something
We must accept the reality that God is... We must have the opinion that He is beneficial and act like we believe. This verse also tells of God's thoughts towards us. He wants to reward us. A reward is an after effect. After we have prayed, after we have endured the trial, after we have diligently sought Him, after we have done the will of God, we will get a reward. That is good news. Please know that our works are not done in vain. God sees what we face and He rewards us when we have faith in Him and do his will concerning the situation. Believe that God is exactly who He says He is and will do exactly what he says He will do. Persistently look for Him and you will see His awesomeness. When you see His glory in your life, praise Him in the beauty of holiness. Worship Him in spirit and in truth.
Layaway Analogy
Although your receipt (faith) identifies the your claim, you are expected to make payments until the set time for you to obtain the item. Payments are simply the action put forth towards what you believe you will receive. In faith we are not expected to "make payments" while we are waiting on the set time. But we are expected to pray, believe, speak it, live right, love right, give much, praise and worship Him. We are expected to put forth actions toward what we believe.
Have you made any "payments" lately on what you are believing and expecting God to do in your life?
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Believe - to accept that something is true or real; to accept that somebody is telling the truth; to accept that somebody or something has a particular quality or ability; to be of the opinion that something exists or is a reality, especially when there is no absolute proof of its existence or reality; to be confident that somebody or something is worthwhile or effective; to be of the opinion that something is right or beneficial and, usually, to act in accordance with that belief
Diligent - showing persistent and hard-working effort in doing something
We must accept the reality that God is... We must have the opinion that He is beneficial and act like we believe. This verse also tells of God's thoughts towards us. He wants to reward us. A reward is an after effect. After we have prayed, after we have endured the trial, after we have diligently sought Him, after we have done the will of God, we will get a reward. That is good news. Please know that our works are not done in vain. God sees what we face and He rewards us when we have faith in Him and do his will concerning the situation. Believe that God is exactly who He says He is and will do exactly what he says He will do. Persistently look for Him and you will see His awesomeness. When you see His glory in your life, praise Him in the beauty of holiness. Worship Him in spirit and in truth.
Layaway Analogy
Although your receipt (faith) identifies the your claim, you are expected to make payments until the set time for you to obtain the item. Payments are simply the action put forth towards what you believe you will receive. In faith we are not expected to "make payments" while we are waiting on the set time. But we are expected to pray, believe, speak it, live right, love right, give much, praise and worship Him. We are expected to put forth actions toward what we believe.
Have you made any "payments" lately on what you are believing and expecting God to do in your life?
Faith: Set Time
James 2:26
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Work - the function of completing a process or carrying out a task; the physical or mental effort directed at doing or making something
There is a set time at which your faith (belief and trust) must go to work. Our faith should cause us to complete the process. There should be effort to make it happen. WARNING: We operate on God's time schedule. Pray, listen, and receive explicit instructions regarding your set time for your faith to move (go into action). Moving at our own will and not by the spirit of God may cause our efforts to be void, delay the process, or cause hurt or harm to ourselves or others. These things will definitely frustrate us. Therefore we have to be sure to move by the Spirit.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
Let's Revisit Layaway
In faith we have been speaking (God's Word)and praising Him about what we desire. In the natural, there is a set time when you return to the store with your receipt(faith). Your receipt(faith) is used to identify what belongs to you. When the timing is right and the requirements have been met, you put your receipt to work and you are able to retrieve the item that you couldn't see. It is so with your faith. What we believe in the Spirit will manifested in the natural at the set time.
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Work - the function of completing a process or carrying out a task; the physical or mental effort directed at doing or making something
There is a set time at which your faith (belief and trust) must go to work. Our faith should cause us to complete the process. There should be effort to make it happen. WARNING: We operate on God's time schedule. Pray, listen, and receive explicit instructions regarding your set time for your faith to move (go into action). Moving at our own will and not by the spirit of God may cause our efforts to be void, delay the process, or cause hurt or harm to ourselves or others. These things will definitely frustrate us. Therefore we have to be sure to move by the Spirit.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
Let's Revisit Layaway
In faith we have been speaking (God's Word)and praising Him about what we desire. In the natural, there is a set time when you return to the store with your receipt(faith). Your receipt(faith) is used to identify what belongs to you. When the timing is right and the requirements have been met, you put your receipt to work and you are able to retrieve the item that you couldn't see. It is so with your faith. What we believe in the Spirit will manifested in the natural at the set time.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Faith
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Faith - belief in, devotion to, or trust in somebody or something, especially without logical proof
Substance - physical reality that can be touched or felt; the essential meaning of something said or written
Hope - (v) to wish to get or do something or for something to happen or be true
Evidence - something that gives a sign or proof of the existence or truth of something, or that helps somebody come to a particular conclusion
My Faith Analogy
I go into a store and see an item that I wish to get. However I am not able to get the item right now. So I put the item in layaway. When I put the item in layaway, I get a receipt for the item. The receipt is the same as faith. I don't have what I am hoping for; I can't even see it. However the receipt is my substance; it shows the essential meaning of my hope (desire). The receipt is also my proof that the item exist and belongs to me, although I don't actually have the item yet.
In the natural because the receipt is the key to me getting the item that I am hoping to receive, I keep it. In the spiritual faith is the key to getting what we are hoping for; we have to keep the faith. I also hold on to the receipt until I actually have the item in my possession. Just as we should hold on to our faith until what we are hoping for manifests in the natural.
If you don't see it right now........now faith is.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Faith - belief in, devotion to, or trust in somebody or something, especially without logical proof
Substance - physical reality that can be touched or felt; the essential meaning of something said or written
Hope - (v) to wish to get or do something or for something to happen or be true
Evidence - something that gives a sign or proof of the existence or truth of something, or that helps somebody come to a particular conclusion
My Faith Analogy
I go into a store and see an item that I wish to get. However I am not able to get the item right now. So I put the item in layaway. When I put the item in layaway, I get a receipt for the item. The receipt is the same as faith. I don't have what I am hoping for; I can't even see it. However the receipt is my substance; it shows the essential meaning of my hope (desire). The receipt is also my proof that the item exist and belongs to me, although I don't actually have the item yet.
In the natural because the receipt is the key to me getting the item that I am hoping to receive, I keep it. In the spiritual faith is the key to getting what we are hoping for; we have to keep the faith. I also hold on to the receipt until I actually have the item in my possession. Just as we should hold on to our faith until what we are hoping for manifests in the natural.
If you don't see it right now........now faith is.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Confidence
Hebrews 10:35-36
Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise.
Confidence - full trust; belief in the powers; reliability of a person or thing
Reward - something given or received in return or recompense for service, merit, hardship, etc.
Endurance - the power of bearing pain, hardships, etc.; the ability or strength to continue or last, esp. despite fatigue, stress, or other adverse conditions
Trust and believe in God. He will reward you. There will be pain, hardships, and adverse conditions. However if you trust in the power and reliability of God, you will have the ability to continue despite the stress.
Confidence Builder
Keep a prayer journal and a praise journal or box. In the praise journal or box, record God's blessing of deliverance, protection, provision, etc. When your confidence level is low, read your praise journal and think about how God has already rewarded you! This will definitely help you to remain confident in God's ability. Remember He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all you can ask or even think (Eph. 3:20).
Your confidence in God will cause you to endure. You definitely want to endure because at the end of the trial, after you have done the will of God, He will reward you! Be confident in God and stay in the race!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Present vs. Future
Romans 8:18
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
What you are going through right now is not even worthy to be compared to the glory (great praise, honor, or distinction) that will be (in the future) revealed in you. Don't be mistaken about the world we live in; we will have trials, tribulations, and sufferings. But they are not even valuable enough to be compared to what we will see in us. So it is not necessary to spend your time on those things or to dwell in the area of depression, pity, guilt, or self-loathing. Instead praise Him for the glory to come. Look and focus on the things that are good.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philipians 4:8)
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
What you are going through right now is not even worthy to be compared to the glory (great praise, honor, or distinction) that will be (in the future) revealed in you. Don't be mistaken about the world we live in; we will have trials, tribulations, and sufferings. But they are not even valuable enough to be compared to what we will see in us. So it is not necessary to spend your time on those things or to dwell in the area of depression, pity, guilt, or self-loathing. Instead praise Him for the glory to come. Look and focus on the things that are good.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philipians 4:8)
Thursday, August 5, 2010
2 Corinthians 4:7-18
Purpose for Our Weakness
verse 7
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power be of God and not of us.
Spiritual Reality
verses 8-9
We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.
Purpose for Our Suffering
verse 11
For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.
The Answer for Christians
verses 13-15
And since we have the same spirit of faith according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," we also believe and therefore speak, knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. For all trhings are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.
God's Promise About Our Affliction
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at things which are seen, but at things which are not seen.
verse 7
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power be of God and not of us.
Spiritual Reality
verses 8-9
We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.
Purpose for Our Suffering
verse 11
For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.
The Answer for Christians
verses 13-15
And since we have the same spirit of faith according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," we also believe and therefore speak, knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. For all trhings are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.
God's Promise About Our Affliction
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at things which are seen, but at things which are not seen.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
See the End While in the Middle
Romans 5:3-4
3And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;4And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
Glory – v. to rejoice proudly
Patience – bearing provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like; the ability to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay; quiet, steady perseverance; even-tempered care
Endurance – the fact or power of enduring or bearing pain, hardships, etc.; the ability or strength to continue despite fatigue, stress, or other adverse conditions
Paul encourages us to rejoice in troubles, trials, and suffering. While on the other hand, we feel as though we want to crawl in a hole and die. Notice Paul does not tell us to be happy when we come out of the trouble but to be happy while we are "in" the trouble.
In the middle where there is trouble, but the middle is producing the end where there is patience, experience, and hope. This will make you better able to handle the next tribulation.
Your problem is giving you strength to continue despite fatigue. This world is full of adverse situations and circumstances. There is no way to avoid unfavorable things happening in your life. But God loves us so much that through the events that happen in our lives He allows us to "grow" through them. Because of our ability to bear the pain, we gain the experience. Once we have had an experience, we see God's deliverance, power, and love. So in the next problem, we have a stronger more confident hope in God.
My son was diagnosed with a terminal illness. The doctors said he would die within two years. Well one of my personal lessons from the experience was to obtain a new level of patience and endurance. Despite the end that was predicted by he doctors, Tevin lived for six years. This time frame was designed to confront me with delay so that my patience and endurance would be built. While in the middle of this situation, I continued to pray, fast, worship, go to church, read and study the Word of God, go to bible studies, and even praise him in dance.
Here is my breakdown of why we can be happy while in the middle because we focus on the end. Don't focus on the end that we think may happen, not the end that man predicts (doctors, family, friends, enemies, frienemies), but the end that God has promised. My faith in God did not fail because while in the middle, becuase I focused on what God says about the end:
3And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;4And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
Glory – v. to rejoice proudly
Patience – bearing provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like; the ability to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay; quiet, steady perseverance; even-tempered care
Endurance – the fact or power of enduring or bearing pain, hardships, etc.; the ability or strength to continue despite fatigue, stress, or other adverse conditions
Paul encourages us to rejoice in troubles, trials, and suffering. While on the other hand, we feel as though we want to crawl in a hole and die. Notice Paul does not tell us to be happy when we come out of the trouble but to be happy while we are "in" the trouble.
In the middle where there is trouble, but the middle is producing the end where there is patience, experience, and hope. This will make you better able to handle the next tribulation.
Your problem is giving you strength to continue despite fatigue. This world is full of adverse situations and circumstances. There is no way to avoid unfavorable things happening in your life. But God loves us so much that through the events that happen in our lives He allows us to "grow" through them. Because of our ability to bear the pain, we gain the experience. Once we have had an experience, we see God's deliverance, power, and love. So in the next problem, we have a stronger more confident hope in God.
My son was diagnosed with a terminal illness. The doctors said he would die within two years. Well one of my personal lessons from the experience was to obtain a new level of patience and endurance. Despite the end that was predicted by he doctors, Tevin lived for six years. This time frame was designed to confront me with delay so that my patience and endurance would be built. While in the middle of this situation, I continued to pray, fast, worship, go to church, read and study the Word of God, go to bible studies, and even praise him in dance.
Here is my breakdown of why we can be happy while in the middle because we focus on the end. Don't focus on the end that we think may happen, not the end that man predicts (doctors, family, friends, enemies, frienemies), but the end that God has promised. My faith in God did not fail because while in the middle, becuase I focused on what God says about the end:
God says that He has a plan to prosper you not harm you to give you hope and an expected end (Jer. 29:11).When faced with a hard situation, rejoice! You not rejoicing beacause of the situation but because of what you know about the end. Know that God is using that experience to build your hope and faith in Him. As you look back over your life God has allowed you to go through and come out of many, many different things. He has always been there keeping you and He will always be there keeping you until the end. See the end while in the middle!
Jesus says that He will be with you always even until the end (Matt 28:20).
Deuteronomy 31:6 tells us that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
WAIT!
Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
Be still! Know Him! Wait for Him! Hope in Him! Worship Him! Watch Him!
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
Be still! Know Him! Wait for Him! Hope in Him! Worship Him! Watch Him!
It's Good to Wait
Lamentations 3:24-26
The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore I will hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait on the salvation of the Lord.
Portion – piece; share
Share - the full portion belonging to an individual
Soul – the complex of human attributes that manifests as consciousness, thought, feeling, and will, regarded as distinct from the physical body; a person’s emotional and moral nature, where the most private thoughts and feelings are hidden
Hope – (n) a feeling that something desirable is likely to happen; source of success; a feeling of trust; (v) to have a wish to get or do something or for something to happen or be true
Good - being positive or desirable in nature
Wait – to stay in one place or do nothing for a period of time until something happens or in the expectation or hope that something will happen
Seek - To try to locate or discover; search for; endeavor to obtain or reach;go to or toward;inquire for; request;try; endeavor
The most area of my being where my most private thoughts and feelings are say that the Lord is my full portion. Because of that I can wish that something desirable is going to happen. He is my source of success. I trust him. He is good to those who stay in one place until something happens and try to locate or discover him. It is good (WARNING: not easy) to wait on Him.
God wants the best for you. He knows what's best for you. Wait on Him.
He'll be good to you!
The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore I will hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait on the salvation of the Lord.
Portion – piece; share
Share - the full portion belonging to an individual
Soul – the complex of human attributes that manifests as consciousness, thought, feeling, and will, regarded as distinct from the physical body; a person’s emotional and moral nature, where the most private thoughts and feelings are hidden
Hope – (n) a feeling that something desirable is likely to happen; source of success; a feeling of trust; (v) to have a wish to get or do something or for something to happen or be true
Good - being positive or desirable in nature
Wait – to stay in one place or do nothing for a period of time until something happens or in the expectation or hope that something will happen
Seek - To try to locate or discover; search for; endeavor to obtain or reach;go to or toward;inquire for; request;try; endeavor
The most area of my being where my most private thoughts and feelings are say that the Lord is my full portion. Because of that I can wish that something desirable is going to happen. He is my source of success. I trust him. He is good to those who stay in one place until something happens and try to locate or discover him. It is good (WARNING: not easy) to wait on Him.
God wants the best for you. He knows what's best for you. Wait on Him.
He'll be good to you!
Monday, August 2, 2010
His Mercy and Compassion
Lamentations 3:22-23
22It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
23They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Mercy – compassion, sympathy, empathy, understanding
Consume – eat, use, burn; destroy, devour, devastate, torn down
Compassion – concern, consideration
Fail – be unsuccessful; stop working
New – recently made, created, or invented; replacing something of the same kind that already exists; changed, especially for the better; revived, different, improved, or more advanced form of something that already exists or existed before
Great – huge, enormous; absolute; countless; wonderful, magnificent, excellent
Faithful – unwavering in belief; believing firmly in something or somebody; consistently trustworthy and loyal, especially to a person, promise, or duty (syn. – true, realistic, authentic, close, accurate, exact, true to life, truthful, believable, loyal, devoted, dependable, dedicated, committed, reliable
Be confident today because of the Lord's mercy (compassion) toward you. You are not torn down. His concern for you will not stop. (HALLELUJAH) As a matter of fact his compassion toward you is more advanced, improved, and better than it was yesterday! His consistent trustworthiness and loyalty are huge. Be encouraged. No matter how it looks or feels to you right now, know that God is concerned about you.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Anxiety, Worry, and Fear
Anxiety
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I Peter 5:6-7
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Worry
Luke 12:22-26 (NIV)
Then Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?’
Matthew 6:34 (NIV)
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Fear
Psalm 34:4
I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.
Hebrews 13:6
So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Isaiah 41:10
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Note: There are many more scriptures that deal with these topics. Search the word or contact me to find out more about what God says about anxiety, worry, and fear.
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