All believers are "after the Spirit' even if they sin and do not "walk after the spirit" all the time. The verse above is about being "in the Spirit vs in the flesh"!
Rom 8:9 "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness".

 

Now the opposite of that is to be lost and not saved and therefore being "after the flesh"! All unsaved are "in the flesh" and no matter how good, nice or giving they are they cannot please God as they are still sinners spiritually speaking!

 

Then Paul addresses the saint that is "in the spirit" by saying this.
Rom 8:12 "Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live".

 

Therefore, because you are 'IN" the Spirit and spiritually alive do not "walk after the flesh" but "walk after the spirit and Live"! We are debtors to the spirit because the spirit has made us alive and gives life! By the Holy Spirit and through Christ Jesus you are alive in Him, therefore do not live after the flesh but live, walk and put on the Spirit by renewing your mind daily!

 

 

In Romans 7 Paul has stated that sin is in man's flesh and yet Jesus coming as a man and in the likeness of that sinful flesh yet was without sin.

 

Now when His flesh body died on the cross He condemned sin, and thus fulfilled the requirement needed by the law for sin! Blood was needed by law and His blood was for all sin, for all men forever.

 

So, when we come to Christ by faith, we too have died with Him, and we receive the righteousness of the law by the Holy Spirit. So, we can give thanks and praise to Christ who paid the price for us according to the law, so we cannot be condemned by the law, and we can receive the gift of righteousness. Every believer has received this gift so cherish it with all your heart!

 

 

One of the greatest and most popular verses in all the bible! While some bibles do not include the last part of verse 1 were it says, "who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit", it does not really change the meaning.

 

There is no condemnation or damnation for those who are saved! The believer is sealed and set apart spiritually for eternity. In the Spirit lives the living God, our Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit! Our spirit is now one with the Holy Spirit as well as God and His Son Jesus, so we are one, whole and holy in spirit!

 

The law of the Spirit of life in Christ means that every true believer has the Holy Spirit and in Christ! It is a law meaning if you are a believer than that is a fact and those that are not believers are in the law of sin and death!
So, PRAISE GOD and give Him the GLORY and be THANKKFUL!!!

 

BUT SIN DWELLETH IN ME!
Paul understood the fleshly weakness that we all have. That sin dwells in our flesh and that "sin dwelleth in me"!
Rom 7:13 "Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. ... 17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. ... 20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me."

 

He didn't try to hide the fact that he sinned, and neither should we. Part of the struggle of walking by faith is because we often walk by our flesh. Part of why the church needs the Body is because we all struggle with sin. Part of being transparent and vulnerable is because we sin.

 

When I hear the so called "holier than thou" people who say they never sin or that say, "if we sin, we are not of God", I just cringe! Their emphasis is on sin and not Christ as well as hurt people who are struggling and need help.

 

Part of being honest in life and with us is admitting when we do sin and not trying to defend or hide it!
After all look what Paul wrote in that same chapter... Rom 7:24 "O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin."

 

Jesus has paid the price for that sin, therefore while not trying to sin, we may sin and then give thanks to Jesus Christ our Lord and continue to receive from Him His love, acceptance and forgiveness!

 

 

Paul starts this chapter 7 with an example of marriage. Just like a woman who is married must not have an affair or be married to another man while her husband still lives YET if her husband dies than she may remarry another.
And just like the husband who died so did the law, and the law being now dead has freed us to become married to Jesus! We then are delivered from the law and serve in the newness of the spirit. Now we belong to Jesus under grace and in the freedom that comes with that.

 

You are under grace and can walk by the Spirit not by the letter of the law!  
(Ps: By the way this has nothing to do with being the bride of Christ but just a way of showing us to whom we belong too!)

 

WHAT A GREAT VERSE!!!
Perhaps the greatest verse in the bible!
Rom 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord".

 

In a nutshell everything we need to know and to come to Christ! This verse tells us what we receive because we are in sin and do sin. The wages of being a sinner is death!

 

BUT the gift of being in Christ is Life! By faith we can choose to receive that gift and have eternal life in Him! Thus, making us a saved saint in Him, a New Creature and member of the Body of Christ! Much different than a sinner who will receive death!

 

No longer do we need to fear death but now we have eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord!

 

We can use this verse to share with others who are lost. We can use this verse to remind us of what we have in Him. I encourage you to memorize this verse and to remember the simplicity and yet deep meaning of it!

 

 

The main thing in this chapter and perhaps in the bible is this, we are under GRACE! Gentiles never had the law to begin with yet God in His Great Love for us offered salvation to us by the cross and without Israel or works of the Law!
Sometimes I wonder if people actually understand that God could have required gentiles to come under Law too or He could have not let Christ die for sins or not used the cross to reconcile the world at all, but He did!

 

Grace from God is His extended hand of salvation to reconcile the gentile world without any performance on our part! We simply trust and believe in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ!!!
Salvation is by grace accessed by faith alone!

 

 

I probable hear this at least once a week from some church folk when I teach the message of grace! They want to stop everyone from sinning yet miss the mark. It seems we are so programed to walk by law and control people to the point of missing this great message from God!

 

Do we encourage and continue in sin NO, but will we sin YES! BUT Grace gives us the motivation to not sin and to walk by the Spirit! Grace means the way God extended salvation to the gentiles without Israel or Law! Grace is God showing kindness and favor to a gentile world by offering that salvation through Jesus Christ!

 

It is also the way we come to Him in that salvation meaning without works of the law.  It never means go ahead and sin and then I will "grace" you and not punishing you! That is mercy for one and two that is taken away by the work of the cross and by the propitiation of Christ! God has already reconciled and forgiven us!

 

Law drives sin and death by sin but grace brings life! Law makes us perform to gain acceptance and approval while Grace is not a license to sin but a motivator to not!

 

BORN IN DEATH!
Rom 5:12 "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:  
The bible teaches we are all born in death! We are born in sin which is death because of Adam! There no one that is born "sinless" nor alive in Christ!
I sometimes hear folks say, "I have been a Christian all my life", which sends up red flags for me. Now they may mean they were saved when they were young and meaning there "whole life", but if they mean they were saved when they were born that would not be true! No one is born a Christian! No one is born saved and alive spiritually speaking, NO ONE!
Because Adam sinned, his offence was put upon all men, But the "free gift" of Eternal life is given to those who trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior! Those who by faith believe and have been received and forgiven are made righteous!
Rom 5:21 "That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord."
Oh, let us never forget where we came from and always give THANKS for where we are NOW, IN CHRIST!!!
5/172023

 

In these 3 verses we see 3 major things!

 

WOW the Big 3 are truly BIG!

 

 

God showed His love for us before we were born! Before we even sinned, while even being born sinners He loved us!
Christ death shows the incredible degree that God would go to, to save us. He could have done it in a different way if He wanted to instead of making Christ pay for it. Yet that would go against everything He had set up through the law for the atonement of sin!

 

Blood was necessary and overcoming death was needed! To die for sins is unbelievable to rise again is even more so!!!

 

Give thanks and always remember that Jesus Loves You!

The answer to all your problems!
Rom 5:2 "By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."
The biggest problem we all face is a spiritual one. Born sinners we need to be saved and have life spiritually, from that we can now draw from the life of Christ into our everyday life experiences. We all go through trials of some sort. Health, financial or relational, we all have some issues to deal with.
Paul tells us that when we go through a "tribulation" no matter how big or small we can persevere because we have hope we get that hope from knowing the Love of God within! That love tells us we are secure in Him and regardless of the outcome from this tribulation we are loved and with Him.
So, if you have a relationship problem, you are not alone! If you have financial problem and lose everything, you still have Christ and therefore you can get another job and as a new creature in Christ, it is not a identity problem or "what" you do for work but it is work and you can start over! If you are having a health situation the worst that can happened is that you die and go to heaven and can talk with the Lord face to face in His loving arms!
So, put on His Love daily and walk through those problems in Victory!!!
5/13/2023

 

Paul tells us that are justified by faith in Christ and that we have peace through our Lord Jesus Christ! Justified means to be made right and to be Spiritually alive in Him!

 

We are born spiritually dead without God and therefore in sin! But as soon as we receive the Holy Spirit by faith and are saved we are then spiritually alive with God and made righteous! This is justification and it is the judicial word from the judge of the universe! It means we are declared not guilty and then made righteous! It is the action word needed by God who has condemned us and saved us through Jesus Christ!

 

Now this means our Spirit is Holy and blameless and in Christ even though our soul and body may still sin. So walk in this new justified and righteous Spirit that you now have!

 

Abraham was not weak in faith but stood strong in faith! He beleived God and walked in faith, which gave God the glory! By this he was saved and therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.

 

In other words He beleived, trusted and was saved by God and by that he attained the favor of God! Abraham was blessed and those that would follow by faith would be blessed with eternal life also!

 

So we must be "in" the faith, walk by faith and put on that faith daily! We need to renew our minds until peace and victory is manifested.  As we are challeged by our circumstances in life, we can apply faith and overcome the issues we face. It maybe fear or rejection or some habit but the first step is always by faith!

 

Just as Christ told Paul that His grace was sufficient, Paul needed to recieve it by faith!
The Christian life and your daily walk is lived by faith in Christ Jesus alone!

 

Justified by faith!
As we travel through Romans, we come to chapter 3 which starts out telling us that we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, but then we come to this verse,

 

 

And oh, what a GREAT verse it is too! That a man is justified by faith and not by the works of the law! That by faith a man can be saved and have life and be "just" before God! Just means to be made "right", not guilty and to be as pure, holy and innocent spiritually speaking! It means to be made acceptable and approved before God!

 

Spiritually speaking this is how we are as sons of God through Jesus Christ our Lord! Spiritually speaking this is our position in Christ! Spiritually speaking this how God see's us!
Salvation is by faith and accounted for as righteousness!

 

All under sin!
Rom 3:9 "What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; ... 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"

 

In chapter 3 of Romans, Paul brings the first 3 chapters together in the sense that All mankind are sinners. Jew and gentile are all the same and both under sin. Both fall short of the glory of God!
No longer will the Jew hold a spiritual influence in this world and no longer are they the leaders for they have fallen. Jews come to Christ the same as the gentile and the grace of God is extended to the gentile world without Israel or works of the law. The fellowship of the mystery is a gentile fellowship as there is no more Jewish influence, traditions or ordinances.

 

 

So just as gentiles were called sinners by the Jews so now, they are included and must be saved by faith in the cross of Christ alone!
5/9/2023

 

Paul says in short; we are judged by our spirit and heart that is to mean are we saved in Christ!
Rom 2:16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.
Religion means to "do" things that "look" spiritual or in some kind of devotion yet miss the mark because they are not genuine from the start. The true belief of the person, doctrine or both is not true!

 

It is not the fleshly, natural acts that save us but the spirit being saved and alive in Christ. So, fleshly circumcision, law and ordinances helps no one for it is by faith and the circumcision of the heart that matters.

 

You can act pious or spiritual but if you are not in Christ, it is dead works and disregarded by God!
Look at your own heart and make sure you're in Christ, by being saved by faith in the cross work of Christ!
5/8/2023

Inexcusable!
Paul tells us that there is no excuse for a dead man to judge another dead man. In other words, all are born sinners, and all need a Saviour to save them from sin and death!
Rom 2:1 "Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things."
Praise God for God's goodness that reaches us from the cross of Christ! That goodness, that love is shown to us and if we can grasp it, by faith, we will be saved! It leads us to a "change of mind" from self-centeredness to Christ centeredness and from flesh to faith we might say!
... "4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?"
But it makes no difference to God today who you as He doesn't look at nationality anymore. He does not say that the Jew is better than the gentile. He does not care about the color of your skin or if you are male or female, He looks at our heart and if we are His by faith in His Son Jesus Christ!
... "11 For there is no respect of persons with God."

 

Paul tells us in Romans 1:21-32 that those who worship the creature are fools. A fool is one who acts and makes unwise choices! They can't see the truth as they are blinded by their pride and arrogance!

 

So many in this world are fools, and sadly many in the church have bought into the world's foolishness! They have believed a lie just as Eve had done in the garden.  ... 25 "Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen." They believe a lie instead the truth of God!

 

I laugh every time some new thing for our health comes out and a year later, they say the opposite, or they finally say this is "right" or "good" and the bible has said that all along!

 

 

Romans1:21-32 tells us that homosexuality is sin and those that support it are just as guilty. This chapter also tells us that the world is full of unrighteousness and believe the great lie also! Don't worship the creature but worship the Great Creator Jesus Christ!!!

 

Just because the world says it is ok does not mean it is. Walk by faith and don't believe the lies that the world pushes on you!
5/5/2023

The Wrath of God!
While we love to hear about God as a loving God and He is by the way, He is also a just God! He requires Godliness and righteousness, and He desires faithfulness and holiness! Of course, that all comes through Christ, but He will hold accountable those who are not faithful in coming to Him.

 

 

Now this wrath will be in the tribulation and ages to come period and could have come right after the crucifixion of Christ, but God put that time on hold and created the age of grace to the gentiles. Now that time of wrath will come, and it will be a horrible time for those who go through it and not come to faith in Christ!

 

No one has an excuse for not coming to God, No one! Everything that you see, hear, touch and even breath was made by Him!  
19 "Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:"

 

Just realize dear saint that you will not go through this time of wrath for you are in the Body of Christ and are spared it as Paul says in 1Th 1:10 "And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come."
So be comforted and thankful and rejoice in the Lord!!!

 

Romans 1:13-16 

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

The gospel of the grace of God is the Power of God! If you want to have the power of God working in your life than get to know the gospel of God! The right gospel in the bible is important as there are several gospels in the bible.

 

Paul says in 1Co 1:17 "For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."

 

That gospel that preaches the cross of Christ is the power of God! The gospel that teaches salvation by faith through grace is the gospel for today. The gospel that Jesus gave Paul and preaches Jesus Christ according to the mystery is the gospel for today!

 

 

So, Paul says he is not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, and neither should you be ashamed to proclaim it either!

 

ROMANS 1:1-12
Paul begins the letter to the Romans with normal greetings and then says this,
Rom 1:11 "For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; 12 That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me."

 

Paul so longed to see them and spend time with them. He desired to minister to them as well as be comforted by them after being around such hostile enemies of Christ! Joining them was of great comfort to him as it is to all of us when we are around others that are saved and believe in Jesus Christ.

 

There is something about being with likeminded people and especially saints that are one in Christ. The same faith and hopefully the same doctrine and heart! Serving and praising Jesus Christ according to the revelation of the mystery and knowing the freedom in the grace message brings such unity and closeness! Not looking at ourselves but something so much bigger, the God of all creation and our Lord and Saviour!

 

Spend as much time as you can with Jesus and then meet with other likeminded believers! Find those who teach and walk after the fellowship of the mystery and grow in the love and grace of Jesus Christ!

 

WHAT REALLY MATTERS!!!

 

The thing that so many Christians struggle with today is the outward, earthy and fleshly things that are traditions in the Christian church today. The ordinances that were unto Israel are now used by the church today. In other words, they seem to be more concerned with water baptism or ceremonial things as if they matter.

 

What really matters is the spirit, inward heart and faith in man! Paul says this in

 

The fables, genealogies, questions mean nothing and just cause arguments. They do not edify and are not of faith!
BUT what really matters is a pure heart, good conscience and genuine faith do edify!!! It is the inward man they should be concerned about not the outward!

 

Paul tells Titus this in
Tit 1:16 "They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate."
and although he was speaking about Cretians this could apply to believers today or should I say Unbeliever's!!!

 

You see we should look at what is important and really matters we would get past this formal, outward and worldly type of Christianity and get to what really matters!
5/1/2023

Which Jesus do you preach!
I sometimes get feedback that says I shouldn't talk about doctrine and that I should just preach Jesus! The problem is that just preaching Jesus without context and doctrine brings false doctrine and even cults!
2Co 11:3 "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him."

 

You see there are lots of churches who preach Jesus and even use the bible. They may use other books also, but it is the doctrine that makes the difference. For instance, every cult uses law to control, but many churches that are not cults use law also, both are wrong! Mormons, Adventist or Catholics all use the bible but live and preach law and distort Jesus to add.

 

Paul says here in 2 Cor 11, "another Jesus, another spirit or another gospel"!!! You see without explaining the doctrine you can end up with a false Jesus, false spirit and false gospel!!! These false churches are taught false doctrine and therefore JESUS becomes false!

 

Yes, Jesus should be taught and the simple plan of death, burial and resurrection but always under grace by faith and according to the revelation of the mystery given to Paul!

 

Are you a minister of Christ?
Paul said I am a minister of Christ!  He was always being questioned about his authority and relationship with God.  
2Co 11:23 "Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft."
He said he was a minister of Christ so that brings up the question, are you? I think so many believers see themselves as someone who needs help and just barely hanging onto Christ. They go to church to "get" some great feeling, or their conscience cleared for the week or feel closer to God but really, they struggle to do anything else.
But we are all called to be ministers! No, I don't mean minister as a position of authority such as "pastor" "teacher" or "director" as such but a minister that reaches out to others.
The word minister means to serve or to be a servant of a master! The master is Jesus Christ, and we serve others as He served us! He served us by giving His life on the cross and then giving us HIS LIFE for eternity! He loved and forgave us, and accepted and reconciled us to God! He redeemed us and made us righteous before God! He gave and gave and gave and given so much!!!
We are not to be sitting on the couch, lazy and self-centered but rather we are to be giving, working and serving others in some way. Get up and serve in some way and grow in faith, grace and ministry!
/28/2023

Discernment Needed!
One of the biggest problems in the church today is that there is no discernment. Folks do not know or study the bible and therefore believe every preacher that has something "good" to say. They may be charismatic or good looking and able to give a good sermon, or the church may have good music or a great kid's program, but none of that means anything if the doctrine is off!

 

Paul says this in
2Co 11:13 "For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works."

 

Paul is saying that these Corinthians need to discern these guys. They will look and sound good, but we need to look at doctrine not personality! We need to ask ourselves what this guy believes not what just comes out of his mouth. Part of being deceived is telling enough truth and fluff to grab you but underneath it all is deceit. What do they believe and actually stand for.

 

Some folks tell me when I tell them about their church, "well he never says too much about that" or " we never hear them say that", even though it is written in their church beliefs! You see they are caught up in supporting a pastor and church and not the word of God! They are comfortable in their church regardless of its belief and if it is taking them down the path or deceit and sin! Sometimes what they say is NOT what they believe!!!! Yet what they believe will bring you into bondage!!!

 

Spirit vs Flesh!
It is interesting that Paul wrote his letter this way. In the bible we put chapter and verses but when Paul wrote he did not break up with chapters and verses.

 

Chapter 7 ends like this,
Rom 7:25 "I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin."

 

And chapter 8 begins like this,
Rom 8:1 "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."

 

Yes, we all still sin but PRAISE THE LORD, there is therefore NO CONDEMNATION for those who are IN CHRIST JESUS!!!

You see we need not be afraid of failure, yet we should not boast or take that for granted either. Because of grace and forgiveness, we simple acknowledge our sin and keep on "SERVE THE LAW OF GOD" WITH OUR MIND! In other words, we renew our mind, put off and put on and walk by the Spirit!

 

Maturity comes through repentance! A consistent "change of mind" until Christ be formed in us!
Gal 4:19 "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,..."

 

Free by the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus!!!

 

We are set free from the law of sin and death by the Spirit of life in Christ!

 

No longer are we in bondage to sin as our spirit has been made alive in Christ! Our God and Saviour Jesus Christ lives in our spirit.

The Holy Spirit dwells within us and gives us spiritual Life!

 

 

Before being saved we were spiritually dead in Adam and lived in sin because our spirit was dead! But now after receiving the Holy Spirit and being sealed, baptized and filled with the Spirit we now are free from sin and eternal death!

 

You have LIFE in You saint, so live like it! Think and tell yourself the truth daily! That you are a child of the living God, and you are filled with the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus!!!

 

Be Kind!
As I watched the highlights of the recent women's college basketball championship, I noticed a girl from the winning team taunting the other team. I thought "you may have one and been the better team today, but you just became the "biggest loser" in character!

 

We are called to be kind to one another. We are told to respect one another even when we defeat someone else in sports.
Eph 4:32 "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

 

Little kids brag, boast and taunt their opponents while adults respect and give honor to them! I remember to great athletes, Walter Payton and Barry Sanders who never spiked the ball or celebrated after scoring a touchdown, they just handed the ball to the referee. They were humble on the field and always spoke of the other team kindly for the most part. They taught their boys the same values and they corrected their boys when they celebrated a touch down when they played.

 

There is no place for name calling or personal attacks, just be kind, humble, respectful and honor the other person even if you disagree!

 

Are you ready to die for Christ!
When Paul wanted to go back to Jerusalem the saints warned him that the Jews would want to arrest him. But Paul said this,  
Act 21:13 "Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."

 

Paul not only wanted to go and face them but more importantly he would die for the name of Jesus Christ!
Now in this day and time how many of us today would die in the name of Jesus. Some might die for a child or spouse but for Christ I don't know. I would like to say I would, but would I really go to that point!

 

Many in China and other countries have died for the name of Christ! Many have been locked up and imprisoned for years in hard labor camps for the name of Christ! They understand the cost because they truly understand the power, forgiveness and love of Christ.
Do You?

4/22/2023

FLESH VS SIN NATURE!
No where, that I know of in the King James bible is the words sin nature. The NIV uses this wording to describe the flesh. If you have a NIV bible, you will even see that they tell you it is the flesh in the notes somewhere.
Rom 7:18 "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not."     

 

I say this to bring attention to the fact that we have only one true nature! It is either "In Adam" or "In Christ"! You are either saved or not! You are either a sinner or saint and you cannot be both at the same time!

 

 

Nature deals with the Spirit of man! The believer has the divine nature! (2 Peter 1:3-4) That nature is God, Christ and the Holy Spirit within! The lost unsaved man has a dead spirit and does not have God within!

 

Sin dwells in my flesh NOT in my Spirit as a child of God, and God dwells in you Dear Saint!!! Stop trying to fix your flesh and start telling yourself what is true about you in your Spirit! That the living God and Christ lives in you and loves you! Walk by the Spirit and you will not do the works of the flesh!!!

 

Condemnation!!!
The unbeliever is condemned and judged by God! All of start out life in this condition!
Rom 5:16 "And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. ... 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life."
But as Romans 8 says
Rom 8:1 "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
The saved saint is not under that condemnation any longer! The believer is now in Christ and justified through Him. He is saved, sealed and sanctified spiritually forever.
So, stop walking around like a condemned, lowly sinner who always fails and start walking in your new identity in Christ!  
4/20/2023

DEATH VS LIFE!
As ECC. 3 says there is a time for everything and there is a time be born and a time to die. There is also spiritual death and spiritual life in Christ. To be a lost sinner is to be dead and to be a saved saint is eternal life!

 

The unsaved person will be carnally minded and in death, but the saved saint will be spiritually minded and reap life and peace!
Rom 8:6 "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."

 

An unsaved person cannot please God because he is dead spiritually speaking even though he is human and walks and talks just like saint would. Both survive and eat, work and perhaps have a family.
... 8 "So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his."

 

But a saved person is alive spiritually because the living God is in them. God lives in the spirit of the believer and therefore LIFE is within! It cannot be seen from the outside yet may be observed in behavior, deed and attitude. The spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ change the thinking and understanding of the believer and the believer then can now choose how he will go.

 

While the believer is now alive in Spirit he can still choose to think and behave sinfully which is a form of death! Not Spiritual death but mental and emotional death!

 

 

Choose to walk after the spirit and you will have peace and life no matter what situation you are in!

 

The heart of Apollos!
We should all have the heart of Apollos!! What I mean is that while being bold and energetic and wanting to speak and share the news of the coming Messiah, he was also limited in what he knew.  
Act 18:24 "And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly."
Yet his heart was willing to receive from others and to grow in faith. He did not act like a "know it all" in his ignorance. This is something we can all do and grow in.
So many folks not only don't understand the word, but they preach out of arrogance and pride! Unwilling to receive instruction and help. Now some saints know the gospel and the difference in law verses grace doctrine BUT their attitude needs adjusting.
You can be ignorant but humble or you can be intelligent but prideful! Let us be as Apollos and be humble yet bold! Receiving and giving what we know with grace and love!
4/18/2023

His Good Pleasure!
God is always a gentleman you might say. He never forces His will yet desires you and I to submit and yield ourselves over to His.
Phl 2:13 "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

It is His pleasure and joy to be in us and is according to His eternal purpose that we be saved in Christ and allow His spirit to move through us.
Eph 3:11 "According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:"

 

As we give ourselves to God it gives God great pleasure as He then can work and do as He pleases!  

 

How to deal with authority!
We all are under some authority, even those who are self-employed. It may be industry, town or police but we all answer to some authority. While we may not be slaves or servants in the same way as in the biblical times we still work for others in some way. Paul says this in
1Co 7:20 "Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. 21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. 22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 24 Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God."
So how does this help us? How does this tell us to behave with authority no matter who it is? We are to "be not ye the servants of men" but rather be " Christ's servant."We are not to be self-centered and "victims", but we are VICTORIOUS" and more than conquers through Christ!!!!
Have the thinking and attitude that says "I am serving Christ" in all things regardless of who is in charge. Serve with ALL your heart and you will be free in Christ no matter what. Serve Christ with all your heart and you will not be a slave of men!

Why do I point out bad doctrine!
2 Cor 11:12 "But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. 13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works."

I and others point out bad doctrine and name false teachers because it is just that bad doctrine and false teachers. Paul did the same and while I have heard some say to stop doing this and focus on the lost, you have to understand that while bringing others to Christ under the right doctrine we must also mature them in right doctrine as well.

 

Paul says that even "Satan is transformed into an angel of light", therefore we need to point out bad doctrine and teachers as well as teach right doctrine and the freedom that comes from it, until Christ is formed in the individual believer and the Body of Christ is in unity of faith and no longer tossed around with every wind of doctrine!!!!
Gal 4:19 "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,"

 

Eph 4:13 "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;"
4/14/2023

Don't be deaf or blind!
So many believers still are taught to follow the law. They are told to "do" this and to "do" that! They want to "DO" good and "be" good but are going about it all the wrong way, which creates burn out. They are performing the Christian life.

 

Paul says do you not "HEAR" the law?
Gal 4:21"Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?"

 

We need to hear the harshness of the law! We need to hear that we are under grace and to not do the works of the law! "Works and rewards" are important, but they come from receiving from God and allowing Jesus to do those things through us first, not doing them to "feel" good about ourselves.

 

The law does not make anyone perfect instead it shows the flaws and condemns. The law was good to show a "shadow" but not to "SEE" the very image of that which perfects us and that is JESUS!!!  
Heb 10:1 "For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect."

 

We are not under law but UNDER GRACE in which that GRACE motivates us to think righteously, choose righteously and behave righteously.
4/13/2023

Appointed?
At times certain words create confusion and often different theologies. Complete doctrines can be affected by a single word and even by using the wrong bible translation.
For instance the King James Bible uses the word ordained instead of appointed. Now I believe the KJB is the correct bible to use, and the word ordained in verse 48 means "set to receive" or "able to receive by faith"! The word "SET" in verse 47 is the same Greek word for "ordained".
Act 13:46 "Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. 48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed."
So, who was set or able to receive salvation, the gentiles! Salvation was now "sent" or "appointed for them to receive"! Notice the context in the preceding verses which Paul's says he went to the Jews first and judged themselves to be unworthy. "WE TURN TO THE GENTILES" and then in 47, "I have "SET" thee to be a light of the gentiles" that they "shouldest be for salvation...."!
Then in 48 again it says that they "the gentiles" heard this.... they were ordained to eternal life"! They were able to come to Christ now by faith just as Rom 10:17 says "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
Reading the right bible in the right context and for the right meaning will keep you on the RIGHT TRACK!
4/12/2023

Why do believers have such a hard time understanding the bible? Why do they tend to walk after law and make up different things to prove to themselves and others that their religion is correct. Why do cults arise only to mislead so many today?
The answer is simple and found in this verse, 2Ti 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

 

All cults and religious beliefs come from not rightly dividing the word. They confuse Israel's prophecy program with the mystery program given to Paul. They mix the dispensation of grace given to the gentiles and the books that contain that doctrine, with the books written to Israel.

 

Paul's doctrine was given to Him by the revelation of Jesus Christ!
Gal 1:11 "But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."
And given for the edification to the gentile world.
Rom 11:13 "For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:"

 

Which is why Jesus died for ALL so ALL may have a opportunity to come by faith!
1Ti 2:3 "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time."

 

Christ died for you and rose for you and offered all this by grace and accessed by faith! Learn to rightly divide the word of God by memorizing the books that Paul wrote, Romans through Philemon!
4/11//2023

Give attendance to...
Paul writes Timothy a letter how he should work and teach the church. We too can learn how we should walk, teach and relate with others.
Paul says to not let our age be a factor! Young or old we can be a example of the believers. A example in word, conversation, and charity. We should also be a example in spirit, faith and purity in all things.
We do this by reading the word teaching the word and exhorting the word. Now we probably understand reading and teaching but exhort is different. It means to appeal, encourage, correct or admonish the saint to walk by faith and to come to Christ. It really is the "doing" or practical part. It is the part that shows "good works" and actions and behavior. For instance, someone may be saved and a believer but live a lifestyle of sin. Perhaps having an adulteress affair or lying, stealing and a self-centered lifestyle. We are to help and encourage that person to have a change of mind and live a lifestyle that resembles what is true about them in Spirit and the life in Christ.
We should meditate on the word and to understand right doctrine and therefore edify the Body!
Read the word daily, meditate daily and live in Christ daily!!!
4/10/2023

EASTER!
I hope you all had a nice Resurrection Day! We had nice quite one and as we tend to think, every day is resurrection day!
Now the word Easter believe it or not in the Christian community has great meaning and bad meaning! The good meaning of course is the resurrection of Christ, but the bad meaning is that some Christians want to call it a pagan holiday to a goddess or something along those lines. Now they say this because 1. don't see it in the bible they use, and 2. they go look up things on the internet! Both are wrong and if you use a King James Bible you will see the word Easter in it.
Act 12:4 KJV "And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people."
The word Easter means "Passover" and is used for the holiday and festival time of the year. Now Passover for Jews is at the same time we celebrate the Resurrection of Christ which has been called Easter. Now while for Christians it is not the Jewish "Passover", But it is the so called "Passover" of Christ. Just as the Passover in the Old Testament had blood involved so does the "Passover" for Christians!
1Co 5:7 KJV "Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:"
Now I prefer to use the word Resurrection Day instead of Easter because it has become so commercialized and misused. It seems to be about bunnies and hidden eggs and so kids are not taught about the great sacrifice of Christ and His resurrection but let us not demonize the word Easter either!
There is enough division in the Body without causing more with lies, fiction and false doctrine!
4/8/2023

SEEK CHRIST!
When Jesus went to the garden, Judas brought the band of men to arrest Him. Jesus spoke and said twice "whom seek ye?"
John 18:4 "Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye?

... 7 Then asked he them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth."

 

Now they were seeking Jesus to take Him into custody but can we sinners seek Christ? Can we seek Him prior to be saved?

Act 15:17 "That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things."

 

Some like the Calvinist say that men are so depraved that they won't seek after Christ. That they are so bad that they can't seek Him or come to Christ unless God says they were chosen to be saved.

 

 

The writer of Hebrews says Heb 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."
He that cometh to God must believe (by faith) and know that God is a rewarder of them who seek Him!!! Man can seek God if he wants to, and man can be saved by faith in the finished work of the cross and man can make decisions!

 

Lastly Paul says for us to continue to "SEEK" Jesus after we are saved too.
Col 3:1 "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory."
4/7/2023

ALL THINGS!
We now know through Paul's doctrine that all things were created by Jesus. Heaven and earth were created by Him and for Him!
Col 1:16 "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:"

 

We also know that all things work for our good if we allow them too. The issues we have and go through are to drive us to Christ.  
Rom 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."

 

The issues and circumstances we go through, whether good or bad are to encourage us to come to Christ and say THANK YOU!
1Th 5:18 "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

 

No matter what you are going through stop and give God the Glory and Thank Him for giving you eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord!
4/6/2023

"HE'S ALIVE"!!!
Christ has been crucified and buried and Mary goes to check and to put fresh smelling spices in the sepulchre.
John 20:1 "The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. 2 Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him."

 

"HE ISN'T THERE SHES SAYS"!!!! Peter takes off running and John catches up and goes in the tomb first!
3 Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre. 4 So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. 5 And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in. 6 Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, 7 And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself. 8 Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed."

 

"WHAT"! "WHERE IS HE"??? "HE'S GONE"!!! But they don't understand!
9 For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead. 10 Then the disciples went away again unto their own home."

 

They are sad that he is gone and thinking someone took Him, "now what do we do", they say?

 

THEN...
John 20:15 "Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. 16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master."

 

"HE'S ALIVE"!!! "HE'S ALIVE" "MY MASTER IS ALIVE"!!!! She screams!!!
PRAISE THE LORD DEAR SAINTS, JESUS IS ALIVE!!!
4/5/2023

YOU ARE EITHER ALL IN OR NOT???
When I read this verse, I always think in this way, "Your either all in or you're not!" There is no room for wishy washy saints in this verse!
1Co 15:12 "Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not."
If you call yourself a Christian, a believer that is saved and you don't believe this, then you are not a believer or saved! In other words, you either believe that Jesus rose and that the dead will rise, or you are a liar! Your faith is meaningless, and you are lost!
I say to you here and now that Jesus Christ rose again and the dead in Christ will rise also!!!!
Don't try to maneuver around or argue with me look at yourself, what do you believe!!!!
4/4/2023

Liberal, licentiousness and liberty!
I was watching T.V. recently and I had seen the CMA award show. That means the Country Music Awards and I was shocked. It no longer is a more conservative music community but has become a liberal and licentious community. No wonder many of the old stars no longer go to it. Just to warn and say to you the ones that seem to speak out in country music are no longer the "rebellious looking" ones only but the pretty gals you might say, don't be fooled by their looks!
Many confuse the words liberal, licentiousness with liberty! Yes, they all start with "L" but that is where the similarly ends, and they are not all good. You see liberal means to accept ideas or opinions as well as Indvidual rights above all things. The liberal left accepts all things regardless of being Godly or not.
Which is where licentiousness comes in. It means to lust for what is evil and perverted. To lust for the forbidden things instead of Godly things!
Then there is Liberty which means to be free. To have freedom in Christ and Paul tells us we should stand in that freedom.
Gal 5:1 "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."
Doing whatever you please and disregarding God does not bring freedom, in fact it will put you into a bondage!!! Think of someone who uses drugs. At first, they get the high but afterwards the "high" gets them and they have to have it, this is how all sin can be!!!
The only true freedom is found internally and that is an eternal relationship in Christ!
4/3/2023

Yield!
In this day and time, we see the church operating more and more as the world. It is a "work", "do" and "perform" type system. Satan uses anything to get us to not receive the love and grace, and the peace and power of the Spirit! It is a shifting back to a works under law instead of a rest under the grace of God!
Paul says this in  
Rom 6:16 "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"
In Chapters 6-8 of Romans Paul is talking about our soul. Chapter 5 of Romans tells us about our Spiritual condition, which is justified, reconciled and righteous in Him. But beginning in 6 we see the change to our thinking which is in our soul. We are free from sin so we can YIELD in our thinking to righteous living. YIELD means to "submit, present and give ourselves over to"! We are to not work in our flesh to be accepted, approved or abide in Christ but we are to receive, rest and refresh by RECIEVEING by FAITH what we already have in Christ! This is called "BEING SERVANTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS"!
There are 4 things in chapters 6-7 that Paul's tells us to be servants, serve or receive from.
1. Romans 6:18 servants of righteousness
2. 6:22 servants of God
3. 7:6 serve in newness of SPIRIT!!!!
4. 7:25 serve the law of God, which means the law of love in rightness and Godliness by faith!
The first thing that you need to do in order to YIELD will be to THINK! THINK BY FAITH before doing anything! Give yourself to Christ just as you did when you first came to Christ. You did nothing to be saved and you do nothing to "keep" that life in Christ except receive by faith!!!
4/1/2023

TAXES!
Yes, it's that time of year again. Taxes are due and while no one wants to pay more than they have too we should pay.
I know one believer who did not believe in paying income tax and did not pay for over 10 years, and he lost his home, wife and more. He went from a million-dollar, 4000 sq. foot home to a rented 1200 sq. foot home in not good area in the city. Now this was a guy who took home over $10,000 per month just so you get the idea. He was very fortunate that he did not go to prison. He had a true change of heart, paid all he owed and reconciled with his wife and children and was back to a nicer home too!
Paul encourages us to owe no man but what is due him. The word tribute in the KJB means taxes and they were to pay them.
Rom 13:6 "For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law."
Paying taxes really can be a good thing too as many taxes help in many ways. Health aid for the poor along with the roads that you drive on. Children and others are helped by taxed based programs so we should not think that taxes are always bad.
BUT Paul says the thing we should give and owe others is LOVE! Godly, righteous love is the greatest gift we can give to others all wrapped up in the salvation message in Christ!!!
3/31/2023

Superficial power!
Have you ever seen a miracle, or someone speak in tongues, or someone raised from the dead, WOW we might say!!!
In the church today there seems to be a lot of attention on the miracles and the power of God through signs and wonders. Both the Catholic church and protestants seem to be looking to see the next exciting things so they can "see" and claim that there really is a God!
But sadly, that is not faith that is flesh. You see you can have a "form" of godliness without the true power of God as Paul says here in 2Ti 3:5 "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away."
The true power of God today is found through the cross of Christ when an individual is saved, spiritually transformed and becomes a child of God! It is the cross, the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ that has the power and it is not by sight or superficial power!
1Co 1:18 "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."
Paul says not to go back to weak and beggarly elements which brings bondage!
Gal 4:9 "But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?"
The weak and beggarly elements are in the works of the law and traditions of man. They are in the ordinances and things we can touch and see. They are those things that "look humble, godly and religious" but are not as they have no true power to change a human life from a spiritually dead sinner to a Spiritually Living Saint!!!
3/30/2023

The vain jangling of the Rosary!!!
I once was invited to a lady friend's house for a get together. Now she is elderly and comes to our bible studies and she invited her friends from her church for a lunch. Now they call themselves Spirit filled charismatic Catholics who get together to sing together and prayer in tongues and so on. While we were eating around the table a few or more which knew we were not catholic started talking about praying the rosary and the spiritual power and things that have happened in history when it is prayed! Like always the Catholics are looking for a "spiritual experience" and to "see" some "sign" to talk about!
1Ti 1:6 "From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;"
But the rosary is no more than vain jangling by "religious" people! It is empty talk and rambling that religious leaders have told to "religious" people over the years. It is not magic, nor relational nor genuine to Christ but repetitious words, like Jesus told Israel Not to do!  
Mat 6:7 "But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking."
These things like so many "works" are exactly why Paul said they are shadows and not the real thing which is Christ!
Col 2:17 "Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ."
Satan uses "shadows" and "religious" things to get our thinking to be off and do anything but the "real deal" and that is
JESUS CHRIST!
3/29/2023

Peace comes when we are content in Christ!
Anxiety is the one thing we all have. Some more than others but we are born in fear and anxiety is fear of the future. We may know that our future is in heaven with Christ but that does not stop our day-to-day worries. We may get up thinking I need to hurry and get this done and hurry to work or does my spouse love me, so I better be good and do this or that! Will my kids be ok and am I being a good dad or mom to them and on and on......!!!
You see anxiety can be in the small things. Fear can be ever so subtle and isn't that what happened in the garden with the serpent and Eve.
Gen 3:1 "Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?"
We all want to have peace of mind. Our thinking is usually running, and our emotions are all over the place so what we want is peace. A place we can focus on is what is needed, and the bottom line is where we find it.
The bottom-line deals with life and death, because it can't be worse than that. So, if we know where we are going when we die that's a good start, and everything else means nothing compared to that. We also know that Christ died for me because He loves me and if He loves me, I need not fear the rejection of others. I can rest in that love and can "feel" peaceful!
Renew your mind constantly and learn to discern your thoughts and feelings. Don't ignore them or do the so called "church" thing where they say, "don't live by your feelings" and so you do nothing! You may think your ignoring your feelings when really you are living by them.
Be content in Christ and take things to the bottom line what really matters in life! If you lose your job, find another, if you lose your house find another, if you are rejected go to Christ! ALL things are to be used to take us to Christ and only there will we find freedom from anxiety!
Here are some verses to read and study and really dwell on daily.
Eph 2:14 "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;"
Phl 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. 5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 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. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Col 3:15  And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
2Th 3:16  Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.
3/28/2023

What is that to you!
Jesus said this to Peter...
John 21:19 "...Follow me. 20 Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? 21 Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? 22 Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me."
After Jesus had asked Peter 3 times if he loved Him, Jesus told Peter to follow Him and then said it again. Peter was so concerned about himself and self-centered! He was jealous and was thinking of John!
Often, we compare ourselves to others and even get jealous of them. We may think how do they get so much attention and acceptance when they say or do the wrong things? Why are they so popular when they are so shallow?
Even pastors and teachers can teach bad doctrine or be shallow and yet have so many people listening to them. I have found that the big mega churches can be the shallowest of all, and the most elementary in their teachings. Not really teaching the bible but talking about feelings and how to "do" better and fix themselves. How they can be a better person and operate in this world.
But we are to focus on "following Jesus"!!! Even better we are to know we are "IN JESUS"! We are in Heaven with Him and He is in us here on earth. Letting Jesus live and work in us and allow Him to do His will through us! The word of God is about Jesus, and we should make it our focus. Jesus is the "fixer" and the one who has done the work.
We are to focus on who is in front of us! We are to be helping, teaching and serving whoever is front of us at the time. If you have 1 child at home love them and if you have 10 love them! If your church has 2 people great, if your church has 200 great love them, teach them serve them!!!
Forget about being great or popular or wanting what others have. Just receive from God and our Lord Jesus and give to whoever is in front of you!
3/27/2023

Universal Salvation!
I had a guy ask me recently, "do you believe all will be saved?" I said, "no that Christ died for all but not all will come to the Lord by faith!" He said, "that he could not be friends with me because he is only friends who believe the bible and it says that all will be saved!"
No where in the bible does it say ALL meaning everyone will be saved! There is no such thing as universal salvation for all!
Now the bible does say that Christ died for all.
1Ti 2:3 "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time."
As you can easily see here it says "who will have all men to be saved" means that God desires all men to tbe saved and then "who gave himself a ransom for all..." which means He died for all, but none of that says THAT ALL WILL be saved!!!
IF all would be saved there would be no need for hell!!! If all would be saved, then it does not matter if you have faith!!! If all would be saved then what did Christ died for!!!
Just as Calvinist believe God has already chosen the saved, this group believes ALL will be saved, Both are wrong!!!
2Co 4:3 "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:"
Salvation and justification ONLY come by FAITH, to those who BELIEVE!!!
Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
3/24/2023

I am amazed and ashamed at the Body of Christ sometimes. How we treat each other is astonishing to me. While we want people to come to Christ under grace and know the freedom that is in Him, we turn around and beat those that are weak in faith and don't understand to death! The only real and honest reason to do this is we want to be right!
Paul says this in
Rom 14:1 "Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations."
We should always be respectful even if others disagree or don't believe what we believe. We should not manipulate, shame or misuse our freedom to degrade another.
Paul says this in
Rom 15:1 "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification."
We want to edify not demolish saints. Edify means to build up those who are weak while demolish means to take down, beat and crumble those who don't understand.
I recently read a post from a grace believer who copied and pasted a conversation/comment with another saint, only to point out how this guy didn't believe the same. Now while I get the discussion and actually agree with the guy on the issue, I would never copy and paste the conversation especially since it does not help the guy who disagreed, because he had already blocked him Yes, he was wrong and yes he is weak in faith, but don't paste it so everyone else can attack and put down. This guy had already blocked him, GET IT!!!!
It is sad that in today's times that copy and paste or recording others can be done so easily just to hurt others. In fact, in some states recording another person without their consent is against the law!
Let us be patient, encouraging and yes even correct others if necessary but let us stop and not misuse and abuse others!
3/23/2023

We can be to nice to those who oppose!!!
I often hear believers say or in social media, that when they are opposed by someone who is obviously disagrees and uses law or are outside the boundaries of sound grace doctrine that they won't say anything. They just don't respond and ignore these folks. Sometimes that may be wise, but I like what Stephen did in Acts.
Act 7:51 "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye."
He has just given Israel's history and then WHAM!!! He hits them upside the head with "Ye stiffnecked"! Now most of us today would say "that isn't very Christian or that does not show love" does it!
YET Jesus himself shows approval as He stands up and stands with Stephen against Israel! Jesus' posture changes from sitting at the right hand of God to standing!!!
... 56 "And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God."
Stephen did not mix words and was straight forward! At times we too need to be straight forward with those who oppose sound doctrine. Those who are argumentative over everything. Those who still believe and walk in law and want us to do so. Those who take away from the cross of Christ by doing ordinances and performance-oriented Christianity! Those who are not of the faith and stand in this perverted world!
OH NO I SAY!!!! I WILL TAKE A STAND AGAINST YOU!!!
YET look what Stepehen said just before dying and being received into heaven.
... 60 "And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."
All I can say is WOW!!!
3/22/2023

Use and Misuse!
There are 2 ways to use or misuse verses in the bible. We can use it for how it was intended or misuse for our denominational and religious gain.
For instance, here is verse that has been used both ways for years.
John 16:2 "They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. 3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me."
The intended use was to tell the 12 apostles and the little flock what can and will happened to them. That the religious leaders will kill them and "say we did this for God"! But they really did it for themselves because they did not know the Lord Jesus as the Messiah!
Now we could use this for today's time too. There will be those who will call us names and be argumentative and say that we are "grace" folks who believe "once saved always saved" and tell us we are still to "do" and "follow" the law and so on! That we are to do this ordinance or jump through this hoop in order to belong to a church. I could go on forever with this, but you get it I hope.
BUT the misuse of this verse can come by those like Mormons or the "Koreshes" other cults who use this verse in a martyred way! They use it to control their people, and to say follow me and ignore these people who tell you we are a cult or wrong.
How can we know the difference? Well for one there should always be free will and freedom that comes from knowing the truth and only in the grace message is there that freedom. "NO DOING"!!!  All cults or even denominational teaching are under law, ALL!!! They are teaching you it is Christ +++ something, but we see in
Col 2:10 "And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:"
Don't let "religious folks" misuse scripture to move you back into bondage, under law, or their control and always take a stand in the freedom you have in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ!
3/21/2023

Let your speech be always with grace!  
Sometimes when I hear those who claim to be believers share it saddens me. Their language can be so bad it embarrasses me yet doesn't seem to bother them, and this tells me they cuss all the time. Their comments on social media or the way they talk to people is just rude. They describe things in vulgar terms in order to get their point across. They can be controlling with attitude and remarks.
"How" we share is as important as "what" we share. Paul says Col 4:6 "Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."
No one is perfect but a cussing or dirty mouth is not a grace filled mouth, it is not seasoned with salt which edifies and helps others.
Take the time to learn how to talk to others. Look at how you communicate to your spouse or family. If you have heard others say things about how or what you say, listen to them. It may help you love, share and communicate the gospel better as well as not offend others.
Learn to speak with grace and love!
3/20/2023

Are you ignorant of Satan's devices!
Many of you would say no I am not ignorant of Satan's devices.
2Co 2:11 "Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices."
Yet so many believers are and don't even know it. They are deceived by what seems normal doctrine. What seems to be normal teaching of the word. I have had many a saints say to me "well if we just teach the bible, it will be clear and right, right!"
But we can twist the scriptures for our own gain or belief. This has gone on for years and even churches and denominations have been built on bad doctrine. They have become ignorant of Satan's devices!!!
Here is what I want you to see. If Genesis through Acts and Hebrews through Revelation are under law and written to Israel why would you follow that program, but many do!
AND If Paul's books are written to gentiles and under grace and the will of God for today, why don't we follow it!
We sometimes think that we are fleeing Satan when really, we are cooperating with him!!!!!
Jas 4:7 "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
It is so important to understand right doctrine so that we think right, choose right, feel right and behave right!!!!
3/18/2023

Honesty!
Rom 12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Being honest with yourself is something we need to do in order to come to Christ. Looking at ourselves rightfully and saying we are lost and need salvation is the first step. But also, being honest with others is very important. I have seen time and again believers who would cheat or manipulate others! They don't pay the bill at the store or restaurant for whatever reason.
Now I am not saying to pay more although I would rather pay more if necessary to clean up a situation, it is always better to be cheated than to cheat others.
So be honest, don't cheat others and be responsible for your part in all situations!
3/17/2023

Help, exhort, wait and note if necessary!
I was thinking as I read this verse how I could communicate to you how we should approach our brothers in Christ. What might be a good way in steps how to minister to others in a general way. Now always remember that each situation will be different and must be handled correctly if possible.
1.)
Gal 6:1 "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."
2.)
1Th 5:14 "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men."
Patient is the key here but keep moving forward! Be discipline yet kind! Be persistently patient but always exhorting!
Hopefully they will repent and have that "change of mind" and will walk by faith, with the mind of Christ and seek forgiveness from those they have offended if needed.
BUT...
3.)
2Th 3:14 "And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed."
Wait a while to let them think about it or even respond and waiting can be hours or months at times but wait and note that man! That means if they do not respond and walk faithfully then remember that man and not keep company with him! That means to separate. That can be physically, mentally and emotionally if necessary! Some believers are more fleshly than faithful.
4.) and remember this too...
2Th 3:15 "Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother."
5.)
Don't sit and do nothing for a carnal Christian can do harm to the church and to the Body of Jesus Christ!
3/16/2023

Magic, signs and Wonders!
Have you ever seen a magic trick and can't believe it and then say, "do it again"! You see our minds can't wrap around how this could be, so we want to see it again. To add we love the stimulation and thrill we get from it. We feel and see something we can't grasp but if we can see something it takes no faith.
Rom 8:24 "For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?"
John 12:37 "But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:"
Sadly, while showing His power through miracles Israel still did not believe. This is one of the reasons the sign gifts are no longer needed today.
People tend to be in Awe of a miracle and then turn around and say, "do it again"! They want to experience it over and over and say "look it's Jesus"! They are always trying to experience something because they are not content in what they have if they a saved! Catholics and Charismatics practice this as well as prosperity and healing ministries today! Seeing a miracle or feeling closer to God in some external way is how prosperity preachers can seduce and manipulate people.
Then to often these same people go out and tell everyone about this sign or miracle and they get the praise from others, while trying to act humble and saying it is of God, all the while not being content in Christ.
John 12:43 "For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God."
Don't seek to see another miracle or sign or anything else externally for that is not faith but rather believe what God has done through the cross of His Son Jesus Christ, For it is the power of God!!!!
1Co 1:18 "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."
3/15/2023

My dearly beloved son!
Paul called Timothy his dearly beloved son. He was not his biological son but as a spiritual father who led Timothy to Christ, he called him his son.  
2Ti 1:2 "To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord."
He taught him how to be a man of God in the doctrine of grace and I don't believe he did this from a pulpit, preaching and using notes. As they walked, rested and ate together, he would instruct him, and at times probably rebuked and corrected him but always in love as you would your flesh and blood.
1-2 Timothy are called the pastoral letters as they teach how to disciple others. How to fellowship with the congregation and train others for the ministry. Paul tells Timothy to train faithful men who will train others!
2Ti 2:1 "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also."
4 levels are seen here, from Paul to Timothy and from Timothy to faithful men who teach others. You really know how faithful the ones that you disciple if they disciple others.
Are you teaching someone? Start at home and read the word to your family members. The best way to disciple someone is in a relaxed comfortable place. Teach them how to walk by faith, by you walking by faith then they will see it as you tell them. Tell them about the revelation and fellowship of the mystery and that Paul is their apostle. Teach them to look at themselves honestly and if you have not been discipled, get others to help you, you might be surprised at how blind you are when comes to how you really are.
3/14/2023

Acts and Hebrews!
Both of these books are transitional books, meaning they transition from one dispensation to another. From one focus to another and then back again.
Acts moves from Israel and the messianic church in the first part of Acts to what is called the Body of Christ. It is a gentile church under grace by faith alone.
When Stephen was stoned Jesus stood up and that was a declaration against Israel. We might say Jesus said "Enough!"  
Act 7:55 "But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,"
Shortly thereafter in Chapter 9 Paul is saved and the Body of Christ is formed, and the transition now is moving. From Israel under law to gentiles under grace. From Peter to Paul and the gentile world is able to be saved by the extended hand of God by grace.
Faith without works or law is now the gospel being preached. Faith in Christ burial and resurrection is the way to salvation. Faith alone by the cross of Christ!
Then in the book of Hebrews we see the opposite taking place, from The Body of Christ back to Israel. We see that the rapture of the Body of Christ has taken place (1thes 4:16-17) and that the tribulation will begin. Hebrews is that book that will encourage Israel to follow their Messiah. The book of Hebrews is written to, you guessed it "Hebrews" as well as James, 1-2 Peter, 1-2-3 John, and finally Jude. Revelation tells us of that period of time and the wrath of God as well as the Kingdom to come!
Don't confuse these books nor their purpose under God's eternal will and plan!
Eph 1:9 "Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:"
Eph 3:11 "According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:"
3/13/2023

Jesus came to give Life!!!
While He was here in His earthly ministry to Israel Jesus spoke these words.
John 10:10 "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
They are still relevant for us today in the fact that Satan still wants to steal, kill and destroy! He will use any means possible to confuse or keep you in bondage.
While you cannot lose being a saved sealed saint spiritually speaking, Satan will try to make you weak by confusing you. When we walk by law instead of grace or mix the earthly promises and covenants to Israel with all the spiritual blessings you have now!
Don't let him confuse you and take away your freedom and joy in Christ! Don't let him take the fruit that is yours by putting you back under law and works!
FOR,
2Co 1:24 "Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand."
Gal 5:22 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
3/11/2023

THANK YOU!
A big thank you to all of you who responded to yesterday's devotional. Everything went well and now after a year of chemo I will go back just for CAT scans and Dr.'s appointments every 6 weeks, unless something is found.
Eph 1:16 "Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;"
Thank you for your prayers and well wishes! Please keep praying the ministry as well as for our health.
Please know that we are praying for you all, always!
Col 1:3 "We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,"
Peace to you all and in His love,
Howard
3/10/2023

LAST DAY!
I am heading out this morning for my last day of chemo. I will do blood work, see Doctor and then finish with chemo. A great day to praise the Lord as I see the sun come up while I am there and think about His wonderful love for me! Such love that brings contentment and comfort to me! Such love that over comes the fear of cancer or death that can come on me. Such love that over comes the sickness and death that can be seen in the hospital. The love that conquers all things while going through anything.
Nothing to do but rest in His love for it is His love and His work and His day!
Praise the Lord Jesus Christ!
Eph 2:4 "But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,"
3/9/2023

Baptized into...!
We have been baptized into Christ and His death! And we are raised with Him in Life!
Rom 6:3 "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:"
Now this is a Spiritual baptism and identifies us into Christ Himself and His death, burial and resurrection! This is not a flesh cleansing or water baptism, but it is addressing the spiritual area.
The word baptism has to do with identity. We identify into His death and by that the power of sin through our old man is dead. We are then raised with Christ and receive eternal life spiritually! The old man which was controlled by sin is now dead. The Spirit is now alive and made holy by Jesus Christ Himself!
We are alive spiritually and our spirit is made righteous through the Holy Spirit! Spiritually speaking no longer in bondage to sin but must now "choose" to walk according to what is now within our spirit! That "choosing" is by our soul which contains our will! Our will then has the power to "choose" what we will think and do!
You are now free, to "choose" WHO you will serve daily, God or yourself, CHOOSE GOD!
3/8/2023

Withdraw and not keep company!
2Th 3:6 "Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.
... 14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed."
As I was teaching in 2 Thes 3 yesterday we come across these verses. They are always hard to grasp because they say to separate from others. They say to "withdraw or not keep company" with those that are disorderly. "But Howard are we not supposed to love and tell others about Christ?" Yes, we are, and we are also to help others walk by faith and be obedient too. We should speak gently yet boldly with words that tell them what they are doing wrong and wait for their reaction. Hopefully it is a repentant reaction, and a good response but it may not be and those are the ones we separate from. Now remember to discern their age, their upbringing, and their understanding of the word. How mature are they in life and in the word and give it some time it may take a week or more for them to process what you shared with them. Be discerning and patient with them because what you are telling them may affect them in many ways. Sometimes the one thing they are doing may affect other things in life. It may be separating from someone in a bad relationship but that may also affect them financially or housing.... That doesn't mean they shouldn't separate but give it some time for them to understand then act on it.
Now in this case disorder means they were not working or being responsible in life. They were being a busybody which means gossiping and not being productive. It also means that are self-centered and not doing what Paul commanded them to do which was for one love others first. They were selfish and looking out for themselves only.
There are many verses that tell the believer to separate from sin of the world and these are just a couple, but we are to be Godly, righteous and not give into sinful behavior. We are ambassadors of Christ, so His righteousness is on the line so to speak. Don't join others in their sin, regardless of a brother or sister in Christ or if it is a non-believer.
Don't question the word but rather be faithful to it, even if you "feel" like you're doing something wrong, for that is most often your flesh crying out for acceptance from man!
3/7/2023

Mar 16:11 "And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not."
These had been with Jesus this whole time, yet they still did not believe! Why didn't they believe after all they had seen Him perform miracle after miracle right in front of them? Why?
When we need miracles to prove something and put faith in the miracles, we will need to keep seeing and experiencing them in order to believe. In other words, we are walking by sight instead of faith! We are carnal and looking for something we can touch or feel! We are looking "FOR" Christ instead of knowing Christ! We will be looking for some experience over and over. This is why so many denominations do the oddest and weird things. This is why charismatics are always telling stories of great things that happened. They want to see it to believe it. They tell the story so that people can visualize it in their minds! This is not faith!!!
But the greatest miracle and the only one we should tell is this one!
1Co 15:4 "And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: ... 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive."
Christ has risen and you either walk by faith or not! Do You walk by faith? Or do you still need a miracle or experience to believe?  
Walk by faith and be totally content in the Risen Lord Jesus!
3/6/2023

Discern good and evil!
Can you discern between good and evil? How about life and death or light and darkness or are you still feeding on the milk instead of meat of the word?
Heb 5:11 "Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
We cannot always apply what we understood before coming to the Lord because it made sense. We have to apply faith and faith in the word. What may make sense before we were saved does not necessarily go with scripture anymore.
Some feelings are a form of death, yet we may think they are normal. Some actions seem normal to us, yet they are a form of sin, death and darkness!
I see believers continuing to live like they did before they were saved and thinking it is ok because of grace! Some things need to change!
We need to take an "honest appraisal" of ourselves and our thinking and if it goes with scripture. We may need to see if we are truly "in" the faith or are we walking "by" faith! Do we know the basics of "righteous living" or are we behaving the same as before but now we believe in this "Jesus"!
If you struggle with discernment, then get help from an older mature believer or fellowship. Talk with others that will tell you the truth not just what you want to hear. But more importantly read the word and read Paul's books, Romans through Philemon. Pray for discernment as well as be honest with yourself. Learning to discern is so very important to your spiriual,menatl and emotional health and walk in Christ!
3/4/2023

Losing loved ones!
When I was 10 years old my older sister was dating a guy in high school. He was killed in an auto accident by two guys hitting his car. Now what I remember most at the funeral was that the parents of this young man were not crying but ministering to others. You see they were believers and were able to comfort others in that time of grief.
In the last week I have had 4 friends that have lost loved ones. This is always a sad time for the family and friends. We are told to comfort those who are going through this lost.
2Co 1:3 "Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."
Since God has comforted us with His love, we too need to comfort others with His love. We want to pray for them and help them with as much as possible. Even cooking can be a chore especially if the family comes for a funeral. So let me encourage you to first rest in God's love and allow the peace of God to fill your mind and heart and then comfort others. God's peace in such times can serve others more than you think!
2Th 3:16 "Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all."
3/3/2023

Because they received not!
In the end time tribulation period, there will be those who will not be saved, because they "received not" the love of the truth.
2Th 2:10 " And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved".
They will be deceived by Satan and his antichrist partner. They will be tricked by all the signs and wonders that they can see and touch. They will worship the antichrist and celebrate the unrighteousness of that day!
Sadly, it does not sound different then today! Many "receive not" because they are too busy having fun and looking for excitement in all the wrong places. They are worshiping themselves or others who they deem worthy of praise. Sports news are always saying "who" is the GOAT, which means the "greatest of all times"!
I say to you "WHO CARES"! Whoever is the greatest at some sport cannot save you! Whoever or whatever seems exciting cannot give you eternal life!
Sadly, I see some of this in the church today where they are looking at the signs and wonders verses the word of God! They want the charisma of the pastor and music. They want to "feel" close to God in some sort of experience and music and excitement seems right to them. Yes, they may be saved but they are still in bondage to the flesh and excitement that tantalizes their minds!
Don't fix your eyes on the earthly things but look up unto the heavenly things!
Col 3:1 "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth".
3/2/2023

SPIRIT-SOUL-BODY!
We humans have 3 parts, our Spirit, which relates to God, our Soul which contains our mind, will and emotions and lastly our body which is made up of our 5 senses. The body's 5 senses are touch, smell, taste, sight and hearing.
1Th 5:23 "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ".
Now we often think our problems are spiritual, but really as a believer it is not. The Spirit has been sanctified meaning set apart in Holiness. The Holy Spirit is in our spirit! Jesus Christ is in our spirit! God Himself is in our spirit so it is not a spiritual problem but a soul problem.
The mind is such an important part of walking by faith. The mind thinks and the will chooses what to think as well as what to do. Our emotions follow our thinking unless we are led by our emotions then we are in trouble!
This is why we need to read the word so our mind knows "what" to think and then choose to think and do what it says! We have to renew our minds with God's word until Christ be formed in our mind! By the way Christ is already formed in your spirit so it is in our mind that He needs to be formed again and again until it is more natural to be faithful than unfaithful!
Gal 4:19 "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you",
Put on Christ and renew your mind and you will walk after the Spirit!
3/1/2023

Doctrine over personality!
Too often as in yesterday when I was talking with a lady, people say I am going to go to this church because of the music and preaching. They like the "personality" of the church, and how it "feels"! Sadly, what they don't get is that while the music may be good and the pastor's personality may be exciting, the doctrine is bad! They want personality over doctrine and that is why they are so weak in faith and always looking for the next "feel good" moment!
Paul says this in Gal 2:6 "But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:"
He was saying that these add nothing to his salvation, knowledge or position. In other words, he was not affected by their status or personality. Just because a pastor has charisma and "good" words does not make them more accepted before God!
Then he says this in Eph 4:14 "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;"
This is how so many believers are today, they are blown by every wind of doctrine, meaning whatever feels good type of doctrine. "Oh, what great music" and "What a great sermon" yet being deceived by the words of these pastors!
Now I know to some extent the way a pastor preaches, and their personality plays into how it is heard and received, but first and foremost the doctrine should be checked out. If they BELIEVE and teach under law instead of grace, they are teaching wrong doctrine. If they BELEIVE and teach Calvinist, prosperity and the "name and claim" message they are teaching bad doctrine. If they do ordinances, "...lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect" (1 Cor 1:17) it is wrong doctrine.
What does your church BELEIVE? Not just what you hear on Sunday morning for they may hide or teach on something else that day, but what do they BELIEVE? For what they BELIEVE will come through their filter in some way! Do you know what to BELIEVE and what your fellowship BELIEVES and teaches?
2/28/2023

Agree to Disagree, can be dangerous!!!
I often hear folks say "I agree to disagree" when it comes to doctrinal issues, but that can be very dangerous. Meaning just because you disagree does not make it good or right, it just makes it your opinion! Now I know there are things that all of us disagree on or don't see the same but too often these things are easily fixed by "right division" of the scriptures. No matter what Law and grace don't mix.
Paul says this in  
Eph 4:27 "Neither give place to the devil".
When we give place to the devil, we are submitting to his plan which is to keep us in bondage. Living under law and doing works is a bondage lifestyle. Knowing correct doctrine is vital so that we are not bouncing around in confusion and working hard and getting nowhere. Paul says this in
Eph 4:14 "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive";
Satan more than anything wants to keep believers deceived and confused and therefore working hard for acceptance and approval from God! He does not want you to have peace, victory or contentment! He does not want you to have FREEDOM OR LIFE IN CHRIST!
What doctrine do you follow? If there is one thing you live under law in, then that one thing needs to be addressed. Sometimes we only see that one thing but really there are many we don't see! You need freedom in that One thing! What is it?
2/27/2023

No longer a mystery, But Now!
Robin and I love watching Dateline or a "who done it" type show. It is a mystery, and we try to figure out who did what! Then when it is told we can see if we were right or wrong and it is a fun time for us.
The bible had a mystery too until Paul came along and Jesus saved and revealed all the truths to him. Paul, like Moses in the Old, was the minister Christ used as we see here in
Col 1:25 "Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; 26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints":
Notice he says, "to fulfil the word of God"!!! In other words, God had certain revelation that had not been revealed yet and Paul was the agent to put on paper for us. Now all of this new revelation from Paul is given by the Holy Spirit working through Paul and Christ is the author!
"BUT NOW"
With that said many of the old ways were done away with. The way God dealt with Israel and the Law were changed and done away with, now that God has extended grace to the gentile world. We are no longer under the bondage of the law. Most believers like and would agree with this part because they see the advantage and positive part of that. Yet many still want to "do" things that were under law in order to "feel" good about themselves and they don't want to "miss" something they think they "should" do in order to be obedient, after all that would be called sin, wouldn't it. So, the thinking goes like this "do everything I can, even though I can't save myself, I can still do something"!
This type of thinking still puts us back in bondage to a standard, even if it is our standard and Not God's!
Do you still believe and do things that God has said is not necessary to be saved, accepted, and justified in Him? Think about that for a second.... and if so then you truly are in disobedience!
2/25/2023

The correct response!
Have you ever been in a really bad situation where you needed help? You needed food, shelter, clothing or money! You were in a bad situation, and someone comes along and gives you want you so desperately needed! What was your response to them? Was it an ungrateful and "Could you give me more", "It's about time", or "I can't receive this" type of thing, OH I hope not!
Well, the same goes for our spiritual life. Sadly, many saints "only" think about doctrine or "what the bible says" type of thing, and while what the bible teaches is very important how you respond to the word of God is just as important. If the bible says to love and you don't than you are not responding correctly! If the bible says to forgive and you don't than you are in violation of God's word!
The correct response is vital to how we think! In fact, how we think is how we respond to things. We need to know how to respond so we know how to think the right way.
Here is an example, how do you respond to sin? What do you do when you realize you have sinned? Well, most saints react by asking for and seeking forgiveness from God don't they! They are saying the "Could you give me more", "it's about time" or "I can't receive this" type of thing, which is a self-centered attitude and the opposite of what we are told to do! We are told to walk by faith and to be faithful!
Paul says this in
Rom 14:23 "... for whatsoever is not of faith is sin".
And here we see that God has forgiven us of all sin!
Eph 4:32 "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you".
Col 2:13 "And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses".
So how should we respond in faith to this, by saying "THANK YOU"!!!
1 Thess 5:18 "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you".
A truly thankful heart shows that we truly understand our sin and what Christ did on the cross. A thankful response is a faithful response, but an asking or begging reaction is one of fear and doubt! It is asking for something you already have in Christ! After the cross, the blood and the Holy Spirit baptizes you into Christ, we don't see Paul saying "ask for forgiveness' but rather he says by faith receive!!!
Be thankful for everything you have in Christ, and you will be responding in faith!
2/24/2023

I beseech you all, be of the same mind in the Lord!
The word beseech means to appeal, encourage or entreat! Paul uses the word beseech here in
Phil 4:1 "Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. 2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord".
He is trying to appeal to Euodias and Syntyche to be of one mind in the Lord! We too need to be of one mind in the Lord. Now what is that one mind look like.
More than anything else it needs to be one in Christ and that means one in grace! We need to see and be one in the fellowship of the mystery which is the dispensation of grace. By being one in that we also understand salvation and the working out of our daily sanctification.
All of that includes the Love of God working through us to Love others and being obedient to Him! Being of one mind is critical to the Body working together in order to share the gospel, the gospel of the grace of God!
2/23/2023

The One washing for today!
On social media I hear all kinds of wild crazy doctrine, and I recently heard this one. Someone was saying that water baptism is for today what circumcision was under the old covenant. Now that is funny since they did water baptism under the old covenant, and John the Baptist baptized Jesus under the old covenant! The word "washing" means the same as baptism, as we see the people and priest being sanctified, which means set apart, holy and consecrated unto God.
Exod 19:10 "And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes",
Exod 29:4 "And Aaron and his sons thou shalt bring unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and shalt wash them with water".
and here is an example from Hebrews verse 2.
Heb 6:1 "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment".
The word baptism here is washings, and while this is an outward washing and cleansing, we today only have ONE washing and it is by the Holy Spirit INTO Christ!!!
Eph 4:5 "One Lord, one faith, one baptism",
1 Cor 12:13 "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit".
This is another reason to rightly divide the word of truth as Paul says in
2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth".
Don't confuse the Old or New covenants with the Body of Christ! They were written for Israel.
Jer 31:31 "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah":
but the Body of Christ is a New creation!
2/22/2023

FALSE PROPHETS AND CHURCHES!
Matt 24:11 "And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many".
This is what many false prophets will quote. when they are trying to convince their church to follow them. The scripture is not bad of course but their use of it is!
While watching the news today I had seen that the LDS, or Morman church was being fined for hiding $30 some Billion dollars of investments. That is an enormous amount of money to be hiding from the church as well as the government and their church. But my point is not just the money but the deceitfulness of it all. The LDS church was built on deceit from the beginning. They have always been deceitful, and they even admit to lying in order to protect themselves and their polygamy ways in the beginning.
ANY church that is deceitful in any way is a false church!!!!! Let me say it again ANY church that would lie, cheat or deceive in some way as an organization or doctrine and day to day living is a false church with false prophets!!!
We often hear of their different splintered sects like Warren Jeffs and others who believe in polygamy and marry underage girls and who use fear and intimidation to control, Yet the mainstream church will do the same thing in different ways if they can get by with it "in the name of God"!
Don't be fooled by them and do not give them the respect you might give other protestant churches as being Christian churches for this is another deceitful thing they try to do.  
Rom 16:18 "For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple".
While there are other churches and preachers who I may disagree with, the LDS church is not a Christian church!
2/21/2023

Faith and the Big Bang!
It is funny to me that those who believe in the Big Bang theory have such great faith, yes, I said faith as it takes faith to believe it. It cannot be proved, nor has it ever been proved, it is a theory. But that type of theory has been around a long time.
Acts 17:18 "Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection".
The Stoicks were a Greek philosophy and school that believed that the universe was an eternal self-created and self-destroying type thing. So just like the Stoicks school of thought so is the big bang in which it was created by itself. But both of these take a certain amount of faith as it takes to believe something that you can't see or prove. It may sound logical therefore they believe it but that does not make it true. Logic does not make things true because our logic changes just like our feelings. What seems logical today may not be tomorrow. I think it is funny how many times I hear the scientific and medical field say coffee or wine is good for you and then turn around and say it is not. One day it gives you cancer the next day it saves your life, HMMMM!!!
So, the point is that faith by itself does not make it true nor does it save you. What matters is what the faith is In, or better said, WHO it is in! Faith in a dead Buddha will do nothing, neither does faith in a dead Muhamad, Joseph Smith or anyone else! Only Jesus Christ died and resurrected as it says in the verse above!
Put your faith in the LIVING SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST!!!
2/20/2023

When Faith grows, so will love!
Paul tells the Thessalonians that he is so glad and thanks God for their growth in faith and charity.
2 Thess 1:3 "We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth";
You see when you are walking by and growing in faith you will grow in love!
Gal 5:6 "For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love".
When we renew our minds and walk in the security of God's love by faith, we then grow in that security and confidence and then love others as Christ loves us. Now Christ gave His life for us so we too may need to sacrifice our life for another. Now we may not literally die physically but we may suffer emotionally in the name of Christ for loving that person.
For instance, if sin is dominating your family member, friend or brother in Christ you may have to speak with them and then separate from them. That separation may hurt and cost you that relationship, but it is in love if communicated correctly. Yes, you suffer but it is also a righteous thing to do.
Notice what Paul says in Rom 13:8 "Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law".
Love is the only law for the Body today and when we love one another as Christ loved us, we would have kept the righteousness of the law. Again, righteousness would say to help, minister and serve others while at times it says to correct, rebuke or separate. ALL for the sake of righteousness and Godliness!!!
We are told to abound more and more in faith and love!
2 Cor 8:7 "Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also".
If you struggle to love someone, it is because you are not experiencing, feeling and putting on God's love! When you do experience God's love then you will love that person as Christ loved you!
2/18/2023

Proud, Humbled and Conqueror!
When you go into the military there is a time of boot camp, and they break you down. They humble you and then build you up we might say. You become one unit and function as a team instead of self-focused. You become focused on the nation, duty and saving one another if the need should arise.
The same goes for the believer you might say, we are born prideful and arrogant, and we need to be humbled. We need to see that we are born sinners in need of a Saviour. We need to realize that we don't have all the answers to life and that life itself comes through Christ!
James says this.
Jas 4:6 "But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble".
So being humbled is a good thing and after being saved we become a New Creature!
2 Cor 5:17 "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new".
The old man and shameful ways are gone, and we are told that we have become an Ambassador for Christ.  
... 20 "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God'.
Now an ambassador is one that represents and holds a high position to the one in charge. The believer represents Jesus the creator, King and Lord of all!
The problem I see is that too many saints want to continue to act in the early stage of being humbled and in a way stay self-focused instead of understanding who they are and that is a Victor. In fact, more than a victor, a Conquer!
Rom 8:37 "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us".
So, Stop living as if you are a no-good rotten sinner who needs to be humbled constantly and start walking in who you are in Him and being the solder and fighting the good fight for Christ. The church doesn't need babies but adults who know they are and take a STAND FOR CHRIST!
YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD AND BELONG TO THE KING, LORD AND MORE, SO ACT LIKE IT!!!
2/17/2023

Doctrine does not prove salvation!
Doctrine does not prove salvation, but doctrine tells us how we are saved! Many will say that you can't be saved if you do works or law or idol worshipping or any other sin for that matter, but I say that is not true! There are saved folks that don't know correct doctrine and still do works or law or idol worshipping!
Let's look at what Paul says to the Corinthians!
1 Cor 3:1 "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men"?
They were carnal meaning fleshly and immature. They did not understand nor walk by correct doctrine, but they were saved. Paul calls them saints and the church of God at Corinth. This means they were saved they knew Jesus Christ and His works on the cross and they were saved by faith, but they still did things that were not faithful.
Paul rebukes, corrects and tells them they are acting like babies in Christ! Now with that said correct doctrine brings life, security and freedom. We are to teach them and help them see their sin and false beliefs. We are to help them come to Christ by faith and to bring that freedom in all points of life.
I have counseled many who still walk by law and works. They still do not understand the cross work of Christ and that they are completely forgiven but they are still saved! Let us not judge someone to be unsaved just because they are taught wrong by their church and pastors and do not know correct doctrine nor walk by the Spirit? Most of us come from denominational church teaching and had to re-learn the grace of God according to the revelation of the mystery!
The word says for us to edify and teach and be patient with all.
1 Thess 5:14 "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men".
2/16/2023

There are basically 3 ways God uses to minister to us today!
1. By the Word of God!
Rom 10:17 "So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God".
1 Tim 4:13 "Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine".
2. By the Holy Spirit!
2 Cor 3:17 "Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty".
Gal 5:16 "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh".
and last but not least,
3.The Body of Christ
1 Cor 12:12 "For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. ... 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it".
Rom 15:14 "And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another".
Now the Body can minister in many ways. Preaching and teaching from the pulpit or a class or one on one like a friend or someone in church or in counseling and discipleship. The body can give financially or materially as in clothes or shelter. The Body can also be correcting, rebuking and exhorting someone, usually this last one is due to folks not reading or listening to the Spirit.
So, all 3 are important and we should be willing to listen and learn from each and then minister to others in the same way. We should edify them with the word, walk after the Spirit and as the body minister to one another.
Grace to you all.
2/15/2023

SAD, DEPRESSED AND FEAR!!!
Often times we go through things and think it is ok to "feel" a certain way and to a point it is. But most often we don't understand that it is not by faith but flesh. Paul says in
Rom 14:23 "And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin'.
"Whatsoever is not of faith is sin" that means often times we feel sad, depressed or fearful and don't see it as sin. Now it is not necessarily overt sin like stealing, lying or murder but it is still sin. It is not victory but a form of death as Paul tells us.
Rom 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord".
Death looks and feels like sadness or depression or other feelings that dominate our thinking. We may lose a loved one and yes that is sad, but we don't need to live in pity or be depressed in fact we can make this an opportunity to minister to others by first renewing our minds!
Rom 12:2 "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God".
And putting off that thinking and putting on Jesus and His love which brings victory, freedom and confidence.
Col 3:8 "But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him":
Even in the midst of loss and sadness we can have victory and minster to others that are hurting. Remember no matter how much pain or hurt or sadness you have it won't bring back the person and you may even see them again in heaven with Christ. Death is a part of this earthly life, but it is not the end but just the beginning!
2/14/2023

Follow!
Following someone is important in the bible and important for us in our daily lives. Knowing who, how and why to follow is just as important as anything else in life. Everyone has parents but many lose a parent or for whatever reason, grow up not having parents and therefore do not follow anyone. When that happens the person becomes very independent and will do whatever they please or do whatever THEY think is right, which is often ungodly. They are insecure and controlling and they trust no one and therefore are always being their own god, you might say!
Paul tells us to follow him WHO followed Christ!
1Co 11:1 "Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ".
Paul says to follow him as he had received the gospel of grace and the revelation of the mystery given to the Body of Christ. Now we don't worship Paul as God nor do we worship those we follow but we learn to watch and learn, submit and live life correctly with the right heart and attitude toward authority. We then learn how to pass that down to others as we mature under someone. We grow up in a more natural way and protected as well as how to set certain limits and boundaries. We become secure, and not need others attention or acceptance. We become steady, giving people, instead of self-centered, head strong and prideful.
Now we can become that self-centered person even if we have parents, because they don't teach the grace of God and they don't lead!  We can also become that independent person because we don't follow either even if they do teach us but that is called sin too!!!
Follow Paul's doctrine and learn to follow, listen and mature under someone who teaches the grace message given to Paul! Remember this if you can't follow someone you can see you will never follow God who you can't see!!!
2/13/2023

Not wrath but salvation!
1Th 5:9 "For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,"
Over and over Paul tells the Body of Christ that they are not called to wrath! Why so many Christians can't get this is beyond me, but the point I want us to focus on today is the 2nd part of this verse. Paul says that we are not "appointed" to wrath, but we are "appointed" and have obtained salvation! You see it is saying that God never had in mind for the Body of believers to have wrath and that He always wanted to save us!
He wants to save us and be with us and to have that relationship with Him. He is not a God that just rules but He is God who wants to spend time with us. God has always desired for mankind to be with Him, but they must do it by faith in His Son Jesus Christ! God is Spirit and must be worshiped in Spirit. God is righteous and therefore we too must be righteous, and we are made that way by His son Jesus!!!
If you are saved don't run from God thinking you are going to be punished but run to Him even more and in the safety and love of His arms!
2/11//2023

SPIRIT -SOUL-BODY!
We are made up of a Spirit, Soul and Body as it says here in  
1Th 5:23 "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ".

Our Spirit is different than our Soul and is Spiritually aware, motivated as well as sensitive and understanding of spiritual things. Our Soul is our mind, will and emotions and it separated from our spirit.
Heb 4:12 "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart".
This is why the believers Spirit is saved and sanctified today. Our soul struggles daily, we are told to think spiritually and walk righteously. We are to think and choose to put on what is already true spiritually. Now our Spirit is alive, righteous and Holy as Christ is righteous and Holy and Christ is in us, and we are in Him!
God is Spirit and can only be worshiped by the Spirit, so renew your mind with the truth that lives within!
2/10/2023

Rom 4:19 "And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb:"
Abraham may have been old and weak physically; he wasn't weak in faith Paul says! He received what God said and believed even though he had no way of knowing the outcome. He had blind faith you might say!
This how we want to be to a certain extent in our faith. We should believe what the Word says regardless of when everything  naturally says different.
How many times has science said this or that only to find out 10, 50 or 100 years later it wasn't that way at all, and it was how God said it was!
Be like Abraham, strong in faith even when the odds are against you!
2/9/2023

TO LIVE OR DIE!
When you have cancer, it is easy to think of dying. Things are put into perspective even faster than normal. We all will die someday but for someone with cancer it no longer is just a saying it is reality.
Paul says this in  
Rom 14:7 "For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. 8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. 9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living".
If you're a believer, the hope that you have is in Christ. Dying then becomes not a scared or fearful thing but a great and rewarding thing! It is an opportunity to be with the Lord Jesus Christ and the peace that only comes from being in Him is now reality!
Yes, we will all die, but will you go in fear or peace! Will you go in the freedom and victory you have in Him or defeat and sadness! Oh, Dear Saints the difference between one or the other is in your mind!  It is as simple as putting on faith and renewing the mind. It is repenting, which means "a change of mind", From walking in fear to walking by faith and having the victory a reality!
Don't fear death but welcome it and know that you will be in a far greater place. Don't morn for those who are saved and sleeping in Him for they are in the greatest place of all, the arms of Jesus!
2/8/2023

How do you preach Christ?

 

We are all called to preach Christ! Preaching means to proclaim and as believers we are to proclaim Jesus as our Lord! But how we do that is most important too, so Paul says this in
Phl 1:15 "Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: 16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: 17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel".

 

You see we can proclaim Christ out of envy, strife and contention. In other words, trying to be right and have power over others. We do it out of self-centered motivation and not out of love for others or Christ! I see this all the time in the church and even among rightly dividing grace believers.

 

Now I am not talking about agreeing with every doctrine and accepting everything everyone believes. No, I am just saying how our attitude and heart can show even if we share the right doctrine.

 

I know I have been guilty of preaching Christ in this way in order to win an argument or to be right and cause contention, have you?
2/7/2023

The Stoning of Stephen!
All through the bible we see something happen so something else can be ushered in. The stoning of Stephen was just that, an ushering in so to speak!
Act 7:58 "And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul".
Luke quates an Old Test. verse to say what Jesus was doing after He ascended to Heaven. Jesus was sitting down at the right hand of God.
Act 2:34 "For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool."
Jesus's posture was to sit and wait for Israel's decision, but they rejected the risen Christ that Stephen preached about. So, after they stoned him, Jesus stood up and took a stand against Israel.
Act 7:55 "But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God".
This was then the fall and diminishing of Israel as spoken about in Romans 9-11 and the ushering in of the Body of Christ! Paul was saved as recorded in Acts 9 and made the Apostle to the gentiles. The dispensation of grace to the gentile world was beginning and still going today! No law, Temple or external things needed but all internal and by the Holy Spirit alone.
God did not give up on mankind after Israel's rebellion OH NO, He reached out and gave an even greater grace than before! There is always a new beginning in Christ! There is always a refreshing and resting time in the Lord. Stop trying so hard and just stop and be thankful and content in Christ!
2/6/2023

God is the judge!
Rom 3:6 God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world?
We should let God be God and therefore the judge of this world! Only God can say "your guilty" and sentence us to death as we say! Only God can condemn us to hell and only God can take vengeance and show His wrath against mankind. Only God can do whatever He wants and has given His word in advance.
Now since God can do all that can't He also judge us to be saved, righteous and reconciled to Him by faith. Yes, God can condemn but He can also save! God can take vengeance, but He can also forgive! God can take out His wrath on all unrighteousness but also give His righteousness through His Son Jesus Christ! God is Love and therefore He gives His love to those who are His children. We belong to Him and He is our protector, and He protects us by letting us be in Christ!
Don't ever forget that God is "the judge, jury and executioner" but He is also "the Redeemer, Reconciler and Rock" in which we stand!!!
2/3/23

Love, Evil and Good!!!
Paul encourages the Body to love! And we are to love sincerely not with a manipulative motive. Our tendency is to "love to get" or "lust for love"! But we are to love others as Christ loves us. Therefore, you need to know, put on and receive God's love daily.
Rom 12:9 "Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good".
Paul then says to abhor evil which means to "Hate" or "detest" evil. The church today in many ways does not detest evil but actually tries to embrace evil in the name of love! We tend to entertain it instead of getting rid of it. We sometimes use the phrase "in the name of grace" I can do this instead of saying "OH NO! ABHOR EVIL"! When we entertain evil it will change us before we change it.
Then we are called to cleave which means to "join, attached or be glued to" good! Good means "righteous" and "Godly" not good as if the world would say. It means being faithful in all things and that is a good work unto God.
Finally, Paul goes onto to say these practical things,
... 17 "Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. 18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good".
Remember the 3 "W" s, which are your Worth in Christ, so you can Walk in Him and do the Work of our Lord!!!
2/2/2023

All sin brings death, but not all death is eternal!
The bible says,
Rom 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord".
All sin brings death but not all sin is eternal, let me explain that!
When we are born, we are born spiritually dead and lost and without being saved and having the life of Christ spiritually in us we are eternally dead! So that sin is eternal separation from God.
BUT NOW,
After being saved and having eternal life in Christ, we still sin and that sin is not eternal death, but temporary. Now what do I mean by temporary. For example, if I lie or lust for something a certain guilt comes across my mind, that guilt is a form of death, but it is needed to show us we sinned and how it feels when we do sin. That way we can put off and put on by faith the love and forgiveness of Christ and not lie again. We renew our minds and walk by faith.
So, we don't lose salvation, we don't lose fellowship or anything else we simply feel that sting of death but not spiritually or eternally!
When you sin don't deny it or defended just admit it! Who cares what others think after all they sin too; they just don't admit it. Funny to we try hard not to admit sinning when sin is already paid for!
2/1/2023

Grace to you!
Grace to you is a common phrase by Paul to the saints. He uses it in the beginning of every book as a greeting and a reminder.
1Co 1:3 "Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;"
Its meaning is always God's love and kindness upon you! Everything about God's grace is in God Himself. God's grace is love, kindness and favor and He showed this favor by extending grace to us gentiles without the nation of Israel. He used the cross as the instrument and sacrifice to reconcile mankind therefore by-passing the need for any other sacrifices.
God's loving kindness is extended to you and received by faith! And while grace is sometimes used as not punishing us for our sins, and that meaning "we are graced" that really is His mercy being shown by grace.
So, remember that God's grace is His way of allowing you to be saved without law, works and Israel. It is His kindness being shown through His Son Jesus Christ!
1/31/2023

LOVE!
The word love can mean so many different things these days. We see performers who want and say, "give some love" and people clap or stand for them. We hear folks say things like "I love my dog, or I love pizza"! We use love to mean things we desire or want but really love is much more than that!
The bible says God is love!
1Jo 4:8 "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. ... 16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him".
Love is sacrificial even for those who don't deserve it or will not ever receive it!
Rom 5:8 "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us".
Sacrificial love means what is the best things for that person at the time, to bring them to Christ!!! Sometimes that means to correct, rebuke or even separate yet not in hate or to harm but to suffer long enough so they will come to Christ.
And because God is love those who have received shall never be separated from that love!  
Rom 8:35 "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ... 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord".
Now because we who are saved in Christ have this love, we do not need to be insecure, for we are loved by the creator and judge of this world. Because of this love we do not need to feel inadequate or inferior to anyone. We do not need to walk in shame or guilt or fear for He has accepted and forgiven us. We are His children, and He is our Father and He has given us life!
So, tell yourself the truth that God loves me, and I need not feel any rejection or condemnation from anyone including myself for I am deeply Loved by the God of Love!  
And may
1Co 16:24 "My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen".
1/30/2023

Don't use your freedom in Christ to take advantage of others!
I recently had to deal with a guy taking my post for his own on Facebook. I think that is called plagiarism and I gently confronted him about it. He said "I was borrowing it" with smiley faces! Nothing more was said, then he did it again and perhaps more, but I don't know for sure. I then confronted him again and in short, he said "I can take and do whatever I want with them"! Now this is a Christian and claims to be a grace believer on top of that!
Now I am not as concerned about getting credit for them as much as I am that he had not thought of asking for them. I have had others that ask or want to share my post or devotions and I always say sure but to have no respect or love for his fellow brother or seeking forgiveness or some type of apology, after I said something is sad. He then blocked me and unfriended me!
You see he used his freedom in Christ to take advantage of another brother. He defrauded (which means to take advantage for selfish use) his fellow believer by just taking it.  
Paul says this in
Gal 5:13 "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another".
AND THE THIS IN
Eph 4:32 "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you".
Now I have went through the process of forgiving him and that is all I can do. I can choose to warn and teach others that another brother is continuing to be self-absorbed, fleshly and take advantage of the Body of Christ. Be aware of those in the Church that use their freedom to defraud you and don't you use your freedom to do the same!!
1/29/2023

Authority!
I write this devotion today in light of the recent news we see on T.V about a young man who died in Memphis. He died from injurious when he was stopped by policeman, and while I do not know what led up to that and I would like all of us to take that into consideration, what I am mostly concerned about is the disrespect and anti-authority issues we have today.
All unrighteousness can be stemmed back to a lack for authority. God is "THE" authority, and so we when we act like our own god as Gen 3:5 says we are trying to be the authority in life.
We then see even more anti-authority in leaders that fuel our rebellion. This is what I sense in our government leaders in all levels. Even if they do something good, how they say it or do things that can be bring on more rebellion and anti-authority attitudes. I am not saying we shouldn't hold offenders accountable, but we need to see the attitude in which do things. Paul says this in
Rom 13: "1 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. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake".
Please dear saints never disrespect and misuse your rights under the law or take advantage of our freedoms, just so you can get your political or doctrine or whatever across! How you say things is just as important as what your actions are, and your actions should be Godly and righteous after all we answer to GOD, THE ONE TRUE AUTHORITY!
1/27/2023

STEPS OF FAITH!
Rom 4:12 "And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised."
Abraham walked by faith, and we too are to walk in the "steps of faith"! While believing there is a God and that Christ was who He said He was and that He died for our sins, many believers do not walk by faith. They walk by their feelings instead of faith. Even many that are faithful in love for God will walk by their feelings. Many Charismatic folks love to sing and lift up their hands and shout and so on but when it comes to being obedient to the word, they don't even read it.
Read the word and renew your mind daily! Just like walking and taking steps to go somewhere you must also take one step at a time to grow in faith. "Steps of faith" is a daily putting on of the love and forgiveness of Christ and knowing the work is finished and the attitude is thankfulness!
 

 

BE SOBER AND WATCH!
1Th 5:6 "Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. 7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. 8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. 9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ",
Sober in the bible can mean different things yet all can be tied together. It means to be awake, aware and of a more serious mind set. It is being discipline and doing what is best and righteous. This is why Paul speaks of NOT being drunk. Those that party and drink get drunk and are not thinking about God nor His church but focused on self!
You have heard me say many times that I don't believe in the Christian drinking alcohol as even one drink affects your mind. CAN a Christian drink, sure but what does it help! Even one glass of wine affects your mind. By the way Who will it edify and who will you offend? You're not building up anyone and your witness in my opinion goes out the door when non-believers see you act, and drink like them. Don't use grace as an excuse to do whatever you want as so many do!
To add the point in Thess. is that we be ready for Christ return and while waiting we walk by faith and love. Would you want to be drunk when He comes? Would you want to be slobbering all over Christ when He has come to take you away into heaven.
10 "Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him".
Christ died for you, and you will be with Him forever so be sober, so you don't miss anything!!!
1/25/2023

OSAS!
OSAS stands for "Once Saved Always Saved"! And there a lot of folks who just can't believe it and even call it heresy. But the problem with their thinking is 2-fold.
1. They do not "rightly divide" between the Old/New covenants given to Israel verses the Body of Christ being formed. They use scripture that is used before the Holy Spirit's coming and do not realize we are sealed by the Holy Spirit and In Christ!  
Eph 1:13 "In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,"
We are also "sealed" unto the day of redemption which means until we are with the Lord!
Eph 4:30 "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption".
AND 2.
They look at activity as a way of salvation verses salvation itself! You can go to church every day of the week and not be saved. Activity can be teaching, serving or even pastoring. It can be singing in the choir or teaching a Sunday school program, but it does not mean they are saved. You cannot be saved one day and lost the next! Activity means nothing as far as salvation is concerned.
So don't judge a man's salvation by his activity nor believe in the wrong doctrine. Wrong doctrine will take you down the wrong road eventually and you may still be active and driving but lost for sure!
1/24/2023

What are you seeking?
It seems we live in a most self-centered world as it has always been self-centered! Yet sadly the church, those that are saved can behave the same way. They talk about themselves constantly and seek attention from others. They ask for prayer which sounds spiritual but it is always for themselves and their issues.
Paul says this in Philippians,
Phl 2:21 "For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's".
The church has become as self-centered as the world without much distinction because they seek their own instead of seeking those things above, which is Christ!
Col 3:1 "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God".
What you seek is what you will find! Life or death are found in seeking the right or wrong thing. Do you seek life or death?
Let me encourage you to seek Christ daily and set your heart and mind on Him and then you will truly have life!
1/23/2023

YOUR FAITH!
Paul mentions "your faith" to the Thessalonians 5 times in chapter 3.  He mentions " your" heart, charity and sakes also so clearly "your" is a theme here.
By using the word 'your" he is pointing out responsibility! Who is responsible for "your faith"? Well, YOU are!!!
Too often I see the blame game, or the irresponsible way of life take place and that is to blame others and even God for things. It started in Gen. 3 and continues till today. Some even put the responsibility on God for their faith. They say God gave me faith and God must continue to give me faith or else I have no faith. Now Jesus is the author of faith meaning He created all things including faith, but He didn't give you faith first and then save you. He gave man a free will when he created man. That is how we became sinners to begin with remember. He allows man by their free will to exercise faith.
Here are the 5 things Paul says about their faith.
1. He wanted to establish and comfort them in their faith!
1Th 3:2 "And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:"
2. He wanted to know their faith!
1Th 3:5 "For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain."
3. He was encouraged by their faith!
1Th 3:6 "But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:"
4.Their faith comforted Paul!
1Th 3:7 "Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:"
5. Edify their faith!
1Th 3:10 "Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith"?
We too need to be concerned about the faith of others especially if they are "in the faith". We can be encouraged, comforted and established by others we listen too. We can also edify and build them up and allow the Body of Christ to grow in unity by faith!
Walk By faith and take responsibility for "your daily faith"!
1/20/2023

That sin that dwelleth in me!
Rom 7:14 "For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. 16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me."
Paul admitted to sin and did not try to hide it, as so many try to do today. All of us sin, even those that say they don't sin still sin, and that is just a function of our flesh. It is not "A" sinful nature as some say but our flesh which resembles our old sin nature.
Nature is who we are spiritually speaking, so we are either "sinners" or "saints"! You cannot be both at the same time. Those who are saved in Christ are called saints which means Holy! You must be a saint in order to be accepted by God because God only accepts those who have the "Holy" Spirit with in. So, we have the divine nature within us, yet we still sin because we choose to yield to our flesh instead of yielding to Christ and righteousness!
The battle is one of the "will" which is our "chooser". The mind is our "thinker and our emotions are "feeler", but the will is our chooser, and we have a choice every time in what we will yield too!
Yield to Christ and be content and allow His love to comfort you instead of someone or something else!
1/19/2023

Ministers and Stewards of God!
1Co 4:1 "Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful."
You are a minister and steward of God!
We too should see ourselves as ministers of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God! While Paul is our Apostle and he is talking about himself, we can apply this to ourselves, and as he said if stewards then we need to be faithful!
A minister is one who serves, and we are to serve Christ as He has already served us. A steward is one who manages, administrates or oversees something. We are to oversee and distribute the gospel which is the mystery of God for today!
We need to protect, guard and boldly share this gospel and not fall back under the law system given to Israel.
To many churches, pastors and leaders still teach law as the motivation and doctrine of the church today! Don't you buy into it for one second! Keep on telling yourself and others that salvation is by grace accessed by faith only! Maturity comes by faith day by day and by reading the word of God. We need to rightly divide so we under this mystery gospel for today. Even if you don't understand it all you can stand on that until you know and grow more in it!
1/18/2023

WALK WORTH!
Now our worth is in Christ and the book of Ephesians especially tells us our worth. Paul always starts out telling us our Worth then our Walk and finally our Work!
Col 1:10 "That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;"
We are told to walk worthy of our Lord and of God! Worthy means to be upright in our behavior. It means to be faithful and allow the Holy Spirit to work through us. It is being Godly, righteous and doing things that are appropriate and edify the body of Christ!  
1Th 2:12 "That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory."
While we have the freedom to do whatever we please we should not use that freedom if it is not worthy of God.
This "worthy" thinking keeps good boundaries for us. In other words, if we are outside of this we are to put-off, put-on and walk worthy. Walking in the Spirit and with a genuine, sincere faith is the key to walking worthy!
1/17/2023

I once heard a pastor say that Romans did nothing for him until he started teaching it! Well Romans is the greatest book in the bible in my opinion. From Genesis to Revelation, we see the bible say man has sinned and is guilty! Everything in life is about being right or wrong, sin or sinless or to be punished or not! We sometimes punish others or ourselves as we want to be right and not fail. We all want to be right in mind, heart and even with people. We want a clear conscience and to be able to say, "I am right, innocent and blameless"! This is why we all struggle to admit sin to each other we want to hold onto our pride and dignity.
So, Adam sinned, and that sin went down through man and therefore we are ALL guilty!
Rom 3:23 "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
And the wages of that sin are death, and the place is called hell!
Rom 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
BUT when we come to understand that we are guilty and take the responsibility for our sin we then see we need a Saviour and receive the gift of God by faith, we then are saved.
And then we are spiritually justified, which means to be "right, blameless and innocent"! It means to be as we were supposed to be before God!
Rom 5:1 "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:"
Our Spirit is now "Righteous" because Christ is there and has given us His righteousness. We are Spiritually "whole, holy and blameless! We are complete and alive in Christ!
Rom 5:19 "For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous."
Realizing you are no longer to be punished for your sin nor held guilty for it and made right before God should give us a Great since of appreciation and love toward God! We should be very thankful and comforted in His love and forgiveness!
Thank God today and every day for that gift, that gift of LIFE IN HIM!
1/16/2023

Teaching through Romans!
As I teach through Romans in church yesterday, I am always reminded of how twisted some churches can become. It is bad enough when Christians are not sure even though they have the word in front of them, but they are not confident in the word as the world and even some pastors pressure and teach that homosexuality is normal. BUT what is really bad is when the pastors', leaders and churches adopt this belief and allow a perverted pulpit!
Rom 1:24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
Please take a stand against this sin, while it is no greater than other sins, it is the only sin that gets the approval of man!
1/14/2023

Shrinking God's standard!
I continue to see "RD" (rightly dividing) or Pauline/grace folks whatever they identify with, make the same mistakes that other churches will do and that is to shrink the standard of God! In other words, they take God's standard and make it even harder or looser to fit their desired theology.
Satan deceived Eve and Eve did exactly that!
God told them Gen 2:17 "But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die".
God said not to eat He didn't say not to touch! She added to His standard and so often we do too.
Gen 3:1 "Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:
3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die."
Sadly, I see RD folks changing scripture to fit their particular theology, just the same as Calvinist or LDS!  I had a RD guy tell me that Christians were "not" forgiven because Jesus died for all sin! Now I agree Jesus died for all sin but that does not take away from being forgiven!
Here are 3 verses that say we are forgiven...
Eph 4:32 "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you'.
Col 2:13 "And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses";
Col 3:13 "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye".
So, while I teach to Rightly Divide, we should not divide, divide, divide until there is no gospel to "divide". RD saints can be just as guilty as any other group if we begin to change the Word of God!
Gal 1:10 "For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ".
1/13/2023

Deceived!!!
Gen 3:1 "Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden"?

 

Satan is subtle, crafty and deceives us! He does not always use big billboard signs and say, "Hey I am going to deceive you now"! Oh No, he deceives us gently and quietly you might say. If he can get our great, great, great grandparents deceived he knows it will be handed down to us at some point. If he can get the church and its leaders down through the ages to preach law, works and guilt or anything else other than the gospel for today than he has won the deception game!

 

Notice what Paul here says about being deceived.
Tit 3:3 "For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another."
All of us have been deceived Paul says.
And again 1Ti 2:14 "And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression."

 

But this one is one I want to address today!
2Ti 3:13 "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived."

 

These can be in the church and its leaders down through history. If they can get us to believe in the jumping through hoops, works and performance-oriented things than we will be deceived for life.

 

Here is a quick example illustrated to see what I am getting at.
A couple will sometimes live together before being married. They eat, sleep and even own a house together. They are intimate and seem to care for one another just like any other couple but not married! They may look into each other's eyes and say, "I love you", but they have never said "I DO" legally, so they are not married!

 

While it looks like a normal marriage it is not. You see they are deceived into thinking that what they have is a marriage, without the commitment. They are not committed under God, and they have changed the standard to their own way of thinking a marriage should be. You see until you say, "I DO" and papers signed off you are not legally married! Everything looks like a marriage, but it is not.

 

The same goes for our relationship with Christ. We can go to church, get water baptized, do communion or be confirmed by the church in some ceremony and attend our whole life and not be saved. We have been deceived, by religion, church leaders and Satan!

 

You see until we say "I DO" to Christ personally we are not saved! Just like being married and saying "I DO" is a one-time event so is the Life and salvation of Christ in us a one-time event!
1/12/2023

1Ti 4:11 These things command and teach. 12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

 

Paul tells Timothy to command and teach! Teaching the Word of God is so important but teaching others how to live is needed also. What do I mean by this, well we must teach the word and then watch the believer "live out" the word, then help them when they struggle. We should exhort others which means to encourage and call to one's side, as well as train and correct!

 

Too often we don't train the heart and attitudes of others, we just feed them more info which just makes them more prideful.
A good example of how not to do this would be like telling your child to clean up their room and never show them how nor make sure they did it. You're just telling them information that does not transform into good, moral or practical living.

 

It is easy for a pastor to get up and give a sermon but never know or check on the daily living of the church he pastors! In fact, I have seen many pastors who themselves need to be discipled and taught what their own life and attitudes really look like.
There is more to teaching than just talking and giving info, this is why parents as well as pastors and leaders should teach, train, correct and discipline in love.
1/11/2023

The so called Great Commision is not to us!

Folks like to ask questions in our bible study groups or after class. One recently asked about the great commission. I call it the "so called" great commission because it does not say it is the great commission in the bible, but man has called it that for years. Now with that said I always tell them that it is not "to" us but was a commission to the Apostles. Peter as head and the other "little flock" that followed Jesus earthly ministry.

 

Mat 28:19 "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen".
Even from Matthew 10 nothing changed they were sent to the nation of Israel and NOT to the gentile world.
Mat 10:5 "These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:"
Jesus whole earthly ministry was to the "lost sheep of Israel" not us, gentiles!
Mat 15:24 "But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel".

 

Now "IF" Israel had accepted and received Jesus as their Messiagh then the "world" would have come to God but they rejected Him!

 

SO, and NOW!
Since Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose again our commission is to bring the world to see what the fellowship of the mystery is, and the power of the cross and faith in His death, burial and resurrection
Eph 3:9 "And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ":
1Co 1:17 "For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect".
1Co 15:1" Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures":

 

 Both commissions preach about Jesus, but Israel is looking for the Messiah, King and Kingdom under law! The other is preaching Jesus according to the revelation and fellowship of the mystery. It is preaching the cross, not as a curse as Israel sees it but as the "POWER" of God, under grace, and by the baptism and power of the Holy Spirit!

Rom 16:25 "Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,"

 

Just remember everything that was for Israel is good for Israel, but everything that is for us today is for the world!!!
1/10/23

Going to Church, Good or Bad habit!

 

Habits can be both good and bad! Some habits can be good to start with then turn bad as they become a obsession and law in the mind. Some habits like reading, studying and dwelling on the word of God daily are good. Being good and not smoking, drinking or fornicating are good too as well as not overeating or coveting things like money or cars and so on.

 

Now when it comes to church most believers and certainly every pastor will quote this verse!
Heb 10:25 "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching".

 

They want you to come to "their" church even if they don't say "their" church. And I would say to go to "A" church is a good also. Going to a "GOOD" church is a "good" habit too! But going to a "bad" church is not good either! What I mean buy a bad church is one that teaches bad doctrine, or a work base doctrine. One that teaches a different gospel than Paul teaches.
2Co 11:4 "For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him".

 

Paul said this to say to them "see you listen to those who teach a different gospel"! You are listening to the wrong people and accepting it. And if it is a different gospel then Paul gives then it is a different Jesus and Spirit! If it is a different Jesus and Spirit, then it is a false doctrine and a cult and it is accursed Paul says!
Gal 1:7 "Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed".

 

Just like any "BAD" habit you have to stop doing it! If you are an acholic you don't keep going to bars or buying booze! You may need to re-access where you go to church and to whom you listen to on the radio in order to hear the real, pure milk of the word. I am not saying to never go back to church but find a bible study, online ministry or those who teach the grace of God according to the revelation of the mystery and be a part of that ministry. It is better for your mind and heart to be growing in grace doctrine than to making church and Hebrews 10:25 another LAW!!!
1/9/23

Family Affair!
Years ago, I use to watch a show called "Family Affair"! It was about a rich uncle who was not married and had no children take in his 2 nieces and nephew after their parents died. They had a butler called Mr. French who always had the right answers and things to say!

 

Families are important as well as all relationships.  All lives matter and by "lives matter", I mean that we all need salvation. It does not matter if you are "family or friend", " or "red or yellow, black or white" or "male or female" we all need Christ. Paul says this in Gal 6:10 "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith".

 

Notice he says to "do good unto all men" yet "especially unto them who are of the household of faith" meaning believers in Christ. Those that are saved, sealed saints in Christ. Those that express their faith and are not ashamed of being called a child of God and walk worthy of the Lord, and by worthy, I mean with a genuine, sincere faith.

 

1Th 2:20 "For ye are our glory and joy".
Now those who are saved, Paul says "you are our glory and joy"! He is proud of them, and it brings great joy to him as it should to all of us also. We are to genuinely care for the well-being of others and by that, I mean their salvation and edification after that. We want to bring them to Christ as well as teach them how-to live-in Christ daily. We should want to see them succeed in faith until Christ is formed in them, Gal 4:19 "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you",

 

Now while relationships are important, they are not to become an idol or more important than Christ. The order is not family first than Christ but Christ than family and friends. To many saints make "PEOPLE BIG, and God small"!
Just remember the whole point of relationships is to bring them to salvation so that they can bring glory to God!!!!
1/7/23

The dispensing of God's Grace!

 

Most churches teach some sort of grace message. In other words, they will say "we are graced" but they teach that you should follow the law or teach the books that are under law as "our doctrine"! In other words, they teach and emphasize Jesus earthly ministry in the books of Matthew-John all under law but then say we are graced and by graced they mean forgiven.

 

BUT that is not the grace message at all, and the difference is huge! Paul says this in
Eph 3:1 "For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, 2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:"

 

The dispensation means God's will for today! It means that God has extended the gospel and salvation to the gentile world without Israel! That was never to be done as Israel was to be the nation that led all other nations and people to Christ!

 

So, it is not that we were sinners and forgiven that makes it grace but rather God has moved from Israel to the gentile world and that is the "grace" gospel for today!

 

 The dispensing of grace is God reconciling the gentile world to Himself by faith in Jesus Christ!

 

(Oh, and before you say "Jews too" you should know Jews come to Christ today the same as gentiles by Faith in the works of the cross, as there are no differences. The Jews status no longer gives them privilege and they must come the same as a gentile and the grace message was offered to gentiles not Jews!)
1/6/2023

Some habits bring bondage, confusion and insecurity!
You won't believe how many tell me after a class that they had never heard of the things I teach. I teach them the gospel according to the revelation of the mystery and that Paul is our Apostle. That we are saved by faith in grace alone and that there are no longer hoops and ordinances to jump through. I teach them what the bible says and who they are in Christ!
Now there are good habits and traditions to keep. Reading the word daily is a good habit. Renewing the mind is a good habit! But there are bad ones too.
Unfortunately, most of us grow up being taught the word of God under bad traditions. These traditions form our beliefs and even make the word of God of no effect! Many are consumed with their traditions and false understanding that has been taught them all their lives
Mar 7:13 "Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye".
We tend to believe the teaching of a church rather than the word of God, and because we are young and don't know the word it is easy to be sucked into a false belief. This is why it is so important for parents to know the word of God and to train their kids to read and study the word.
Col 2:8 "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ".
It is easy to be deceived when we are young, but we need to mature and get off the milk and start eating the meat of the word.
1Co 15:33 "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners".
The next thing we need to do is stop the bad habit and tradition. Now this one will hurt a little, but here is a example for to see. If you were a alcoholic and wanting to stop drinking would go to a bar or hang out with those that do!!!! NO I HOPE NOT! That just keeps you tempted and struggling. Make a clean start and stop going to bars and place that serve alcohol.
So, stop going to a church or bible studies that teach bad doctrine and begin reading, studying and seeking those that teach the pure milk of the word. The mystery message of grace is only found in Romans-Philemon! The doctrine for today is only in Paul's books! Form new habits and thoughts based on the grace of God given to us today!
1/5/23

Can man have faith apart from God!
Many teach that man can do nothing on his own. That he has no ability to have faith apart from God putting it into him first.
But the bible teaches that man can exercise faith without being in Christ. Look at Cain who could have exercised faith but didn't!
Gen 4:6 "And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him".
He would have been accepted had he been obedient by faith. There was NO Spirit in man nor was he in Christ at the time.
Let's look at these verses in Mat 9:29 "Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you".
notice it says, "your faith", in other words the man had to exercise faith, and this was before the Holy Spirit had come at Pentecost.
Now the same goes here in
Luk 8:25 "And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him".
Jesus says to them where is "your faith" and again no Holy Spirit and No cross or blood and not in Christ yet!
and then
2Co 10:15 "Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,"
If God gives faith, then they should have the faith they need but Paul says, "when your faith is increased"!
Now some will say that Hebrews says that Jesus is the author of our faith....
Heb 12:2 "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God".
And He is!
He is the one that created faith as He created everything! He is the one that created man to begin with, so in that creation is the Soul which contains the will!  The will is the part of you that chooses and therefore exercises faith!
Notice in this verse it says,"to save them that believe".
1Co 1:21 "For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe".
We have the ability to exercise faith before you are saved, and by doing so you are saying"not my will but yours God"!
1/4/23

Allowing and accepting Sin in the church!
I recently was looking for an old friend on Facebook. I put in his name and of course there are lots of people with the same name. One of them caught my eye and I looked at his page and had seen that he called himself a pastor. He has a church and ministry, and he posted a lot on Jesus and other scriptures, but then I looked at his profile picture again as well as all his other pictures and posts and noticed something, he was always with a guy. He was a homosexual and openly said so! He has perverted the word of God to his own agenda, and he does not understand the word at all!
God is not mocked it says in Gal 6:7 "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap".
and he has perverted the word of God and preaching another gospel!
Gal 1:7 "Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ".
Let me be as straight forward as I can, Homosexuality is sin! It is not an alternative lifestyle nor is it ok to do just because God died on the cross for all sin! That would be like saying it is ok to murder, steal or lie just because Christ died for those sins!
Paul says it this way in
Rom 6:1 "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein"?
AND ... 15 "What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid".
Let us STOP this sin from taking root in our church and leadership and take a stand against it. Stop giving into it in the name of "love" which it is not love and allowing the perverted lifestyle to take over. Speak up every time you can and tell those that say, "it is like all other sin isn't it", by saying "Yes, it is, and it is Un-Godly and Un-righteous and why do we allow it to be accepted and OK"!!!!
You don't let a child continue to misbehave by giving them what they want we discipline them and say "NO"!!!!
1/3/23

HOPE!!!
Our hope is in Christ coming. The book of Thessalonians is about His coming and tells the church that is the Body of Christ will be taken up before the tribulation period. We have our hope in being with Him.

 

In every chapter there is a reference to His coming. 5 times he says something about His coming and being saved from the wrath to come!

 

1Th 1:10 "And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come".
1Th 2:19 "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming"?
1Th 3:13 "To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints".
1Th 4:17 "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord".
1Th 5:9 "For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,"

 

There are those that question and even say there is no rapture but clearly there is and to say otherwise goes against His Word! Don't get caught up in those that doubt for it is just unfaithfulness to believe otherwise.
Be comforted in the understanding that you will be with our Lord Jesus and stand firm in hope!!!
1/2/23

May your New Year's resolution be, to Abound!

Most people enter a new year with certain standards they want to set and accomplish although few follow through I am told. Mostly it is weight loss or financial things, but it can be anything.

 

I want to encourage you to make your New Year's resolution be something that will help you more than anything in life! May it be to abound in things that really matter and can truly change your life.
2Co 8:7 "Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also."

 

But especially grace! The grace that comes from knowing God's grace toward us today. The grace of knowing that Jesus died for your sins and rose to give you life! The grace that only comes from Paul's books and ministry and in the dispensation of grace today. The grace that comes through the cross of Christ! The grace that only comes through faith in response to God's extended reconciliation toward us!

 

2Co 9:8 "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:"
He says to abound in "good work"! That means by growing in God's grace we will grow in sharing God's word, reaching out to others and being discipline in our own lives!

 

Phl 1:9 "And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;"
That our love and devotion to God will grow also and therefore be discerning. We will know God word and therefore can make righteous judgements! That may mean with others as well our own behavior. The stronger we are and grow in God's word the stronger we are in setting boundaries with others. We don't look to others for acceptance or approval or what we can gain from them but rather we walk in God's righteousness regardless of others.

 

1Th 3:12 "And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:"
And again, we abound in love so we can Love the church which is called the Body of Christ and help those that are lost come to know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour!

 

So, abound this year in all things that are of God and make your resolution this year to read, study and rest in God's Word even more!
 

 

JESUS!
Phl 2:9 "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:"
Jesus, name above all names! This is what the bible says of Jesus! His name is to be praised and He is to be worshiped.
At the end of each year, they always honor those who die on T.V. They say how great they were and what they accomplished, and some are worthy of "some" honor, but no person is more honorable and deserves more than
JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD!
In this day and age, it is easy to get caught up with another human and think highly of them. Perhaps even try to be like them. A sports hero or a famous actor or someone that has power, riches or fame but it is Jesus whose name is above all.
Think about the name Jesus, "Jehovah is Salvation" for it is God who will judge the intents of man's heart for eternity by Jesus Christ!
Rom 2:16 "In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel".
12/30/22

This Great truth never gets old to me!
Rom 5:8 "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
The very basic of truths from God's word never changes! God loved us so much that He was willing to sacrifice His son and the son was willing to sacrifice Himself for us! Now that's love! To be willing to stand and die when knowing many will reject you!
Now He didn't wait till we deserved it, He died for the whole world, meaning all sinners! We all were sinners and we all deserved death.
Never forget this and put this on daily!
"God Loves Me"!
"I am so deeply loved by the God of the Universe"!
"The creator of All things loves me that much"!
12/29/22

Deep things of God!
1Co 2:10 "But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God."
As a pastor/counselor I often hear and get into deep things with folks. So often I hear people talk about shallow things and mostly that is all they talk about. Even Christians talk about shallow things. Some saints will press onto deeper things in a very general way meaning they go past the norm, but it is still shallow.
It reminds me of a farmer plowing the ground. Most saints are like non-believers who are like the farmer that never plows just talks about things they see on top of the ground.
And some may begin to plow but only go an inch into the ground and nothing can be planted, but the ground is turned up some, deeper than nothing but still very shallow.
And then there is the farmer who goes about a foot down and really turns the soil over,
YET never plants any seed!
WHAT?
Yes, sometimes we believers are like that! We go a foot down and dig deeper than most and love to tell how deep we are but never really plant anything. We are just boastful and proud and critical of others as we obviously know more!
While being saved is the important thing, that is just the beginning. The deep things are not just doctrine, but you need to begin there. What doctrine you live under shapes your heart and mind and therefore will only take you so deep!
The deep things are the things that comes from the Spirit and being transformed and growing in His love and sharing His love in a "loving" way! Knowing truth is first but you must also receive and give truth. We need to understand that if all we have is knowledge then we will become proud, arrogant and fearful and then begin to defend ourselves in all situations.
Romans through Philemon is our doctrine for today and we need to read, study and dwell there and we also need to allow the truths of that teaching minister to us by faith and allow it to transform us!
Rom 10:17 "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
12/28/2022

"OLD vs NEW vs BODY OF CHRIST"!!!
Heb 8:7 "For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. 8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: 9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. 10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: 11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. 12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. 13 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."

 

Now when you read this you know to whom it is addressed too! It is addressed to Israel as it says, "10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:"!

 

BUT we also know this is for Israel for 2 reasons. 1) because it is from
Jer 31:31 "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: 32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD: 33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more."

 

AND also, because it is prophecy which was told "since" the world began!
Act 3:21 "Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began."
All prophecy is "since the world began",
BUT
the mystery of the Body of Christ was not known!!!!
Rom 16:25 "Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,"...
The Body of Christ was not formed until Israel fell and Paul was given the instructions for it! It was a mystery, and it is the doctrine of God's will for today!
Don't be confused by the covenants given to Israel vs the doctrine, grace and reconciliation of the Body of Christ by the works of Jesus Christ on the cross!
12/27/22

Envy!
Jas 3:14 "But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."
James was written to the 12 tribes of Israel and lawfully minded. It is a book written for those going through the tribulation period, and it is not the doctrine for us today, but it does contain some wise words for us such as these verses.
Envy can mean a good thing or bad thing, but when you put "bitter" before it, it means a bad thing! The good thing is Zeal for something, but the bad thing means jealousy for something someone else has, which is to covet by the way. To desire and lust for power, wealth or even love! To lust for something and become even angry over it is sin! This is why it is earthy, sensual and devilish because it is lusting for something you can see and touch but don't have!
Confusion comes because we lie and manipulate and cheat and deceive others with our motives to gain. We defraud others in some way which means to cheat and take with selfish motives. Paul talks about defrauding others in many ways but especially in relationships. We are not to defraud our spouse of intimacy in marriage nor are we to defraud outside or before marriage by taking and giving ourselves either!
I know folks who have problems with family and in-laws especially because they lust for respect, power or control. They want to have the final say so in all things, and even speak disrespectfully to their parents or in-laws! This is all because of bitter envy, strife and lust in their hearts! It is a 3-letter word called "sin" simply said! This sin cannot be changed by behavior modification but must be addressed as any other sin by coming to the cross of Christ! To repent and renew, to put off and put on and walk by the Spirit!
Be aware and discern the intentions and motives of others as well as yourself and don't be envious or stiving for something but be content with Christ and His love!
12/26/22

WHO?
I am often reminded around this time of year of "who" I belong to when it comes to family. Who are my family? Just as Christ said when told that his mother and brothers wanted to see Him, He said this...
Luke 8:20 "And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. 21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it."
Many of those to whom we are biologically connected are as far away from us as can be. Yes, they know us differently than other folks. And they may say they know the "real me", the one who has sinned were others outside may not see and that is true. Yet others know the real us too, as they know that we love the Lord but cannot express that very well to those that don't know Him!
Then there are those in the family that are saved but walk after the flesh. They are carnal and use scripture to justify their behavior or to defend against correction.
It is hard at times to be around those who are not saved or who are and will not submit to the spirit. This is why Jesus said those who hear and "DO" it!!! Many hear the word, but few "do" the word!
Which one are you?

12/24/22

The Christmas story!
I always think it is best to teach what the bible says and not just what we have been taught by society or religion! The bible paints a little different Christmas story. Here is a very brief part of it...
Luk 1:5 "There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth."
Now Abia is the 8th position for the priest duties according to
1Ch 24:10 "The seventh to Hakkoz, the eighth to Abijah,"
Each course was 1 week long, twice a year. Now the first Hebrew month was called Nissan and it starts for simple terms between March and April of our months! So, Abijah would begin 8 weeks later approximately the June time frame.
Then we find that Elisabeth which is married to Zacharias and is pregnant with John, known as John the Baptist! She then hid herself for 5 months and then in then in her 6th month The angel Gabrial shows up in Nazareth and speaks to Mary!
Luk 1:24 "And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying, 25 Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men. 26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,"
Now six months after the course of Abijah would be December, and the Angel said to Mary...
... 30 "And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS".
JESUS which means JEHOVAH SAVES or JEHOVAH IS SALVATION
Now Mary was willing but how can this be, she had never been with a man!
Luk 1:34 "Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?"
BY THE HOLY GHOST!!!
... 35 "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."
AND
Luk 1:37 "For with God nothing shall be impossible".
JESUS WAS BORN!
Luk 2:7 "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn."
CHRIST THE LORD!!!
... 11 "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Now 9 months after the time the Angel spoke to Mary, and she became pregnant with Jesus would have been in the month of September!  Jesus was born in September and born like any other natural baby!
But what is important is not that he was not born in December nor was His birth any different than any other,
But that He was conceived by the Holy Spirit!!!
This Christmas season keep your heart and mind on the Spiritual things above and not on the natural things you can see,
even if it is baby in a manger!
12/23/2022

REST AND PEACE!
The book of Hebrews was written for Israel and the tribulation saints, which talks about a Sabbath rest. Now the Sabbath means a "holy rest"! A "Spiritual rest" for the people of Israel and it was on the 7th day. Saturday being that day, yet we see in Hebrews that, that day is in Christ! If they who enter into "HIS" rest, cease from "his" works!
Heb 4:9 "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. 10 For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his."
In other words when that saint comes to Christ by faith, that saint no longer needs to "work', or "strive" to be accepted by God for Christ has done all the works necessary!
"BUT NOW"
Another way of saying at "rest" is the word peace! Paul uses the word peace as we gentiles have peace with God through Jesus!
We are in a state of rest also as believers with God! The saint is at peace with God based on Christ and accessed by faith!
Rom 5:1 "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:"
Christ is our peace!
Eph 2:14 "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;"
And Spiritual peace and rest comes by being Spiritually minded!  
Rom 8:6 "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
That "Holy Rest" comes from Christ and Christ alone! A 24-hour period never gives spiritual, mental or emotional rest. It may give physical rest but that is all! Rest in the Lord always and you will have a peace of mind!!!
12/22/2022

FAITH!
Heb 3:19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.
Heb 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.
No matter what dispensation in the bible, faith is always involved. Under the Old Test. faith was needed and required. Without faith it is "just" works and that will not be enough. God always desired a relationship with man by faith. A heart that desired to be with God and to follow and obey!
While Israel had the Covenants, Law and Temple they still were to walk by faith.
Today we still are to walk by faith even though under grace and a different dispensation, faith is still required.
Now I think it is important to note that while faith is needed, we are not under the cursing and blessing program either.  We are saved by grace accessed by faith and ALL by the works of Christ! Jesus did the work needed at the cross and our job is to simply believe!
Walk by faith and therefore by the Spirit and then rest in the love of Christ as He works through you!
12/21/22

Heb 2:9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

Hebrews is a Great book for us learn the things that God wanted Israel to know.
It is a book that is for those tribulation days and saints. It is telling them that Jesus is above all things and above Moses and Law and Temple! To follow Him and see that His sacrifice was indeed the great and only sacrifice needed for salvation. That He is the Messiah, King and Priest!
Now this verse tells us that Jesus tasted death for WHO? Every man!!! Now I am not sure what part of "every" the Calvinist can't see but I am still pretty sure "every" still means "every" or "all"!
Now does that mean that "every" or "all" men are saved, of course not! Man has the free will to receive or reject! He has the free will and can be saved BY FAITH!!!!
Don't listen to those who teach Calvinism and Reformed theology! They are wrong and lying to you! And just so you know if Christ did not die for "every man" as Calvinist/Reformed theology teaches than you may NOT be saved nor EVER can be!!! Think about that for a while!!!
12/20/22

Eph 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Paul says, "be strong in the Lord"! Being strong in the Lord does not mean being strong in our flesh. It does not mean to be over controlling yet we may need to take control in some things. It does not mean rebuking or correcting someone, yet we may have to rebuke or correct someone.
In other words, we can do a lot of things that look like we are being strong in the Lord, yet we are really just sinning and carnal!
I often here folks over correcting on everything or applying something they just learned to every situation in life when it has nothing to do with the issue. Maturity takes time and it takes time in the word! When saints speak out before they are mature, they sound like a noisy " sounding brass or tinkling cymbal" as it says in 1 Cor 13: 1,... which yes is loud and strong like but does not sound good!
Learn to be strong "IN THE LORD" not yourself! Be strong by maturing in the word, walking by the Spirit and seeing your own heart and then be humble!
12/19/22

1Th 5:21 "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil".

Too often I see believers that say things that are on the shady side. I mean they say things that are mean or nasty or even a dirty joke. They may cuss or use language that is not edifying but is negative and sinful. Cussing to me is one of the worst things you can do as far as your testimony goes.
Now when it comes to negative speech, I am not talking about a rebuke or warning I am talking about wording that comes across awkward and sinful. It may be a small word or a twist of words. It may be a slant of a sexual nature in a most inappropriate time. Some men seem to think in a sexual way on everything and so they make it dirty no matter what. You may be at a church function, and someone say, "hey anybody want some booze"! WHAT! Yes, I have heard that and more!
We are to abstain from all APPERANCE OF EVIL. I have heard it all when comes to excuses. I have heard folks say when being single they spent the night at their girlfriend/boyfriends' house, but nothing happened. "Yea right" but even if nothing happened it "looks" like it did. The neighbors see it and others know it and it "appears to be evil"!
Let's stop playing games with words and actions and remember that if it even "appears evil" it is not good! Our reputation and testimony are at stake and even more the name of Christ and the Body of Christ are hurt by it!
12/17/22

A Bishop, Elder and Pastor!
Tit 1:7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
Bishops, Elders or Pastors are all overseers of a church. They are the leaders in some way. Now there could be other leaders also that do not hold a position, but these hold a position.
Now some churches have 1 and some have more than one. Some have what they call a board of elders and some just have one with helpers or deacons. I am not a fan of a board of elders because it takes too long to make decisions, and everyone wants to speak and make their point, but they do at times have their value.
What matters most is that they are saved, faithful men of God! That they know sound doctrine and that are able to teach the gospel of grace. That they are able to "rightly divide" the word of truth in the "But Now" dispensation.
It also matters if they are able to work with others and not self-willed meaning arrogant. I have seen many preachers including right dividing grace bible believers who are arrogant!
They also need to be able to convince and exhort others without being rude or come across as arrogant! They need to be able to show the word and let it speak for itself.
We also need to remember that leaders are people with flaws, and to not over judge them to harshly yet holding them accountable to a degree for their teachings and behavior!
Love your leader today and tell them you appreciate their work as much as you can, because they may not hear it very often, but I guarantee they are attacked a lot and hear that!
12/16/22

Walking by Law?
I can always tell believers who walk by the law verses by the grace and the mystery message. They may say "no we walk by grace or by faith" but turn around and do something because they think they "have too".
Let's take tithing for example. First, they say they tithe but it really is just giving. Tithe is 10% and is by law a "have too" thing. They "tithe" to the church no matter what but not to ministries that actually helps them.
I counsel people and since we don't charge "per hour" they give nothing. Paul says this in
2Co 9:7 "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
and this in
Gal 6:6 "Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things."
Communicate means to "share, partner or partake with" in other words give. Notice that it says, "let him that is taught the word" give to him who teaches, it does not say "a church".  The "church" are the people not the building and it means give to those who are teaching you to live and understand God!
Give to those who minister to you not an institution by law. If you go to a bible study or counselor or conference or anything else give to them. Those ministries are the ones doing the work that your "church" is supposed to do but not doing and getting nothing for it because of legalism!
Don't walk by law but walk by faith and grace and don't take advantage of those who minister to you!
12/15/22

Self-centered!
2Ti 3:1This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Yesterday I heard of a famous person who committed suicide and couldn't help but think about this verse. Suicide is a selfish act that says what this verse says, "For men shall be lovers of their own selves,"!
While so tragic and sad and we can feel empathy for them and the family the truth of the matter it is still a fleshly, selfish act.
The answer to suicide is first knowing Jesus Christ! 2nd putting on His love daily and growing in that love. It is love that makes us secure and Jesus shared His great love by dying on the cross for us! Knowing who we are and our identity in Christ is so important too. Renewing the mind until Christ is formed in the believer is a day-by-day thing. Until the temptation and wanting out of life is gone.
If you need help ask for it, but more importantly know Christ and experience His great love!
12/14/22

Be Mission Minded!
I once had a church that met in another church. We didn't have a building of our own, so we met in their church. The sign going into the parking lot said just that "parking", but on the other side of the sign as you go out it said "you are entering the mission field".... So no, I don't mean to go to some foreign country or anything like that, I mean to be ready to share the gospel of grace and the cross of Christ!
2Ti 4:2 "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine."
Now preach means to proclaim or share the gospel. Take advantage of who is in front of you and share something about Christ. It might be at the checkout stand in the grocery store. Tell the person that Jesus loves them, or you will pray for them.
Today at Christmas time ask your children if they like presents and Christmas and then share that the greatest gift anyone could receive is the gift of salvation in Jesus Christ!
Be awake, ready and mission minded! The mission is to share the cross of Christ, not Santa Clause or trees or gifts! The mission is telling and bring others into a relationship with our Lord!
Paul says this in Rom 1:15 "So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also."
Paul says he was ready, are you?
12/13/22

This Mission is Possible!
Not mission impossible, but rather this mission is possible! Let's look at some of the missions we see in scripture and especially for this Christmas season.
Jesus Mission!
Christ mission was to come and save his people from their sins it says in Mat 1:21 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins."
John's Mission!
While John's mission was to "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight"!.
Mat 3:3 "For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight."
Both were doing their mission in the way they were suppose too, yet Israel still did not receive!
Our Mission!
BUT NOW our mission as ambassadors for Christ is to bring the world to Christ. We are to reconcile lost folks with the Saviour of the world. We are to share the gospel of grace and the love of Christ to those who don't know Him.  
2Co 5:20 "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God."
This Christmas season share with family and friends the reason for the season and give them an opportunity to come to faith in the death, burial and resurrected Jesus!
12/12/22

Messenger vs Ambassador!
Mar 1:1 "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; 2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee."
John the Baptist was the last Old Covenant Prophet! He was called the messenger and sent to preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. He was to preach and prepare the way for the Messiah to come.
Now while he was a messenger telling Israel about Jesus, we too are to do the same, but we are called ambassadors! We represent the Lord, as ambassadors and we are to share the ministry of reconciliation unto God through Jesus Christ!
2Co 5:19 "To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God."
Now John was one man, but we are a worldwide Body of Believers. We are not a nation or Temple but rather a living organism that moves freely across the world. We don't tell others to repent for the remission of sins but rather to come by faith to have eternal life through Jesus. The cross, the blood and Holy Spirit are now active and working. The Word of God is to be preached and the believer is sealed in Christ forever.
While John did his job and it was great, we too have a job to do, and it is even greater! Share the reconciling ministry of the death, burial and risen Lord Jesus Christ!!!
12/10/22

Love Lives!
2Co 5:14 "For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again."
Paul understood God's love perhaps more than anyone! He was an enemy of Jesus and tried to destroy the church. Jesus saved him and so he knew this great grace and love given to him.
Because he experienced the love of Christ it constrained him, which means it held him together and he was urged to share it! He so wanted to edify the church and to minister to them.
Now he says that Jesus died for all because all of us were dead and by that, we too should know that great love! We too should say to ourselves "God showed He loved me by sending Jesus to die for me"!
Which should encourage you too then LIVE! Live for Christ, in Christ and through Christ! We should not be self-centered, but Christ centered!
Being a Christian gives meaning and knowing Christ love gives security and purpose, so grow in Christ love and live for Him!  
12/9/22

Words with no substance!
1Th 2:5 "For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:"
I was listening to a documentary on the Kennedy's lately and thought to myself "what great words the President had"!
Many democrats seem to be filled with great words without any real substance! What I mean is that they give good speeches, but their beliefs and policies are full of self-indulgence and sinful behavior.
It does not edify anyone to have policies that hurt society in the long run. The democrats' policies support same sex marriage and the homosexual/transexual agenda, which is destructive in so many ways and goes against God's will and plan for mankind!
Flattering words are empty words if the point and finish is nothing more than to men-please and to allow perverseness to be law!    
Don't swallow the words of many that teach with a covetous heart. Those that preach the name and claim and prosperity and charismatic movement as well as the "you need more self-worth" doctrine. These all have pieces of truth but miss the true mark of God's righteousness!
Stay rooted and grounded in God's word and truth and grace and allow the Love of Christ to comfort you always!
12/8/22

Argumentative saints!
Tit 2:9 "Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;"
The bible has truths that are specific and can be used in general. For instance, this verse addresses servants (specific) yet can be used for all of us in general. In other words, "not answering again;" is a way of saying don't be argumentative!
Sadly, I find in the church people who are argumentative over everything. They have to say something that may be true but does not flow with the conversation or things written in a post or devotion. They seem to ride a "one horse pony", which means they may say the same thing over and over for every argument and comment.
Even grace believers will say the same thing over and over such as "rightly divide" or Pauline, Pauline, Pauline! Now remember I said before that what they say may be true, but it doesn't flow with the discussion and may even cause trouble when trouble is not needed. It may even hurt weaker saints not because it is not true but because it causes separation in thinking. Their words don't edify which means to build up but rather slant, slander and slice things to a point that does not help. Their words are really self-centered instead of other centered even if they are true and biblical!
Remember we are to be of one mind and that mind is not just doctrinally only but also in feelings, heart and love!
Phl 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
12/7/22

The least to the greatest!
I have been sick as of late with the flu. It is easy to feel a little useless or down and wondering will I ever get back to normal. Things fall behind and it was work just to keep them moving at the healthy stage to begin with.
But while reading the Word, I am encouraged by what Paul shares here in Corinthians. He was born out of due time and the least of the Apostles.
1Co 15:8 "And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. 9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God."
On one hand he felt like he was not good enough to be an Apostle Yet at the same time was saved by grace and used more than any other apostle, he went from the least to greatest we could say!  
10 "But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed."
You see God can use us for His good no matter who we are or in what situation or issue maybe going on. We may never ever even know while being alive how our life and testimony affected people, but we are to serve and be obedient in faith to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ now!
Little, Least or Large be ready in season to serve Him!
12/2/22

Contrary to sound doctrine!
1Ti 1:10   For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
The list of sins could go on forever, so Paul often says, " if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;"! Now that includes everything that goes against the knowledge and righteousness of God. Any self-centered motivation even if it is a good thing can go against God and is sin.
Don't think that you can do works and it be accepted as righteous, everything must be measured by our motives and heart. Is it Christ centered and for Christ or is it self-centered for our glory and attention!
Sound doctrine is important, and this should be our motive and thinking,
1Ti 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
12/1/22

Not All men have Faith!
2Th 3:2 And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.
Some folks teach and believe that all mankind is saved, and universal salvation has been made for all, which is not true. Paul says here "for all men have not faith".  We need to understand this for two reasons, 1. we need to share the gospel with those who do not have faith and 2. because those that don't, or should I say "won't" come to faith we are to withdraw from including those who are of the faith and will not submit to truth.
... 6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.
Now this verse implies those that we are to separate from are those that are saved but walk in a disorderly way. In other words, if they are saved but rebellious or argumentative, we should separate from them. If they act independently and carnally, we are to separate from them.
Of course, this is the same as non-believers.
2Co 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? ... 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
If you can't or won't separate from such persons, you are men pleasing and seeking acceptance from them. It is your sin now and you must deal with that. Loving others means being obedient to the Word of God first! If you're not obedient than you're the same as the ones for whom you are to separate from!  
11/30/22

Signs and Wonders!
2Th 2:9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
It is easy to get caught up in signs and wonders! It sounds and looks so spiritual, but it is not. Many believers are fooled by this thinking and sadly they do not understand that they are no longer in operation today.
But another reason for them not to be working is that Satan will use any means he can to throw off what really counts and that is Christ. Here in this verse, we see that the anti-Christ will be using these signs as well. Now it will look spiritual which will fool many and he will look like God and act like God, but he is not GOD!
The prosperity teachers and charismatic movement are always looking for miracles or some new touch from God. Don't be fooled by those today who want to impress or seduce into thinking these signs and wonders are for today and therefore you can be rich or healthy by giving them more money!
Keep your eyes on the heavenly things and by that, I mean Christ alone!!!
11/29/22

"We all sin, don't we"!!!
Yes, we all do sin but as I so often hear from non-believers and believers, "we all sin don't we" means "let me do what I want to do" "Let me sin" and "leave me alone"!!!
But Paul points out here in Colossians that we are to mortify and put off these fleshly sins!
Col 3:5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: ... 8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
Mortify means to put to death or take power away, another way of saying it is "STOP IT"! Now while we will still sin it is not to be taken lightly like no big deal either.
Put off means when we see or recognize it put it off and then, put on....
Col 3:10  And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
... 12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Put off the sin and Put on the righteousness of the New man in Christ! Put on good behavior from the internal Holy spirit and heart! Don't just keep on sinning and saying, "oh well" Oh No! Put off and Put on!
11/28/22

CHURCH!
Rom 16:3 "Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: 4 Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ."
Paul uses the term "all the churches of the Gentiles." This means that churches were primarily gentiles even though converted Jews could come. To add it also means that Paul is addressing churches that did not meet in the synagogues, as they had before.
Paul says, "Likewise greet the church that is in their house". House church or home fellowships were the norm after a while and still are in many countries. I for one love this type of environment and community. It is so much fun to share a meal and then read from God's word and have a bible study. It is informal and the saints can share life with one another.
Church does not need to be formal or in "A BUILDING" that is used only once or twice a week. The debt that many churches run into is great and the need for funds can be pushed beyond biblical boundaries. The home fellowship can focus more on the needs of the Indvidual's and ministry.
So, if you don't have a dispensational church that teaches the grace of God according to the revelation of the mystery start one up in your home. Where 2 or more are gathered is great and you can grow from there. Keep it simple, informal and intimate as you can. Teach by reading the Word and encourage others to speak and share. No need for singing, but it is ok if you do!
It is always better to have many small churches than 1 big one! Boards and politics as well as never getting anything done and then the financial pressure and lastly pride that comes as they get too big!!!
It is always a good thing when right doctrine is taught, and people share life together.
11/26/22

Rom 8:10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.
Romans is by far the most important book in the bible as it deals with God's legal and judicial system toward man!
Man is born guilty and needs to be righteous before God in order to be with God. God supplies that means through Jesus's death and life and so by faith in that work, we are found blameless and holy before God, spiritually speaking.
Our bodies are dead because of sin yet our spirit is alive by the Holy Spirit within! The Holy Spirit is that righteousness in us that we so desperately need to come before a Righteous and Holy God!
This tells us that we still sin yet are saved. This tells us that we are saints that sin, yet we do not want to live by the flesh but by the Spirit!
When you sin just admit it and start thanking God for His forgiveness and then walk by faith! The Christian life is not about "not sinning" as much as it is about Christ! The Holy Spirit lives within you dear saint so grow by renewing your mind daily. Read the Word, Study the Word and Live the Word!
11/25/22

2Co 6:1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
I am sad to think that so many do receive the grace of God in vain! Vain means "useless" or "having no meaning or working"!
This seems to be the way so many church folks believe. Yes, they believe there is a God, and that Christ is called the son of God and died on the cross, but it has no real value in life!
The word believing is much more than an intellectual understanding in the bible. Satan believes in Christ, but he does not trust in Christ!
We are called to trust in that grace! We are told to trust in Christ with a sincere faith and a genuine heart! Do you trust in Christ? Or do you "just believe", or have you given your life in exchange for His?
Don't let this grace be in vain, settle it today and trust in the Living Lord Jesus Christ!!!
11/24/22

Be Thankful and give Glory to God!
2Co 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
This is my life verse! I hope to teach others to know this great grace, that they too may be thankful and saved in Christ and then give God the glory!
I hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving and remember why we have it! It is not because of the pilgrims who came from Europe to start a new country, but rather they wanted to have the freedom to worship God without the state controlling them.
To this day that same country has a state church and is ruled by a King!
When you are content in Christ alone and nothing else matters in comparison, we can be Thankful and give God the glory!
11/23/22

The believers Identity!

   Identity given meaning and purpose! Knowing who you are in Christ is important to functioning in this world. We know that Christ is the son of God and is our Lord and Saviour and by those things we know His identity.

Just like the word sinner is an identity, so after being saved we have a New identity. The believer by faith is Spiritually transferred into Christ and becomes a Child of God!

 

1Co 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
Col 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

 

We are now "IN CHRIST" and a "NEW CREATURE"!
1Co 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
2Co 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
The believer is made righteous Spiritually and holy and a Holy Temple of the living God!!
Rom 5:19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
Col 1:22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
1Co 3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
1Co 6:19 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?

 

The believer is now called a saint and no longer a sinner! A saint is one who is set a part, holy and blameless before God Spiritually! A saint is one who is saved and sealed in Christ!
Phl 4:21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you.
Eph 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

 

While a saint still sins, it is his spiritual part that is his new identity not his fleshly. It the believer's spirit that has life and in Christ and is different than the unbeliever, which are called sinners.

 

Knowing who you are gives security and then confidence! Your identity leads you to your purpose which is to receive from God through Christ and serve others.
11/22/22

Labour in vain!
Gal 4:11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.
There is not a pastor that has not felt the same as Paul says here. Often the pastor is not appreciated for his work and sometimes not at all, but that is not the point here. Paul is saying that not only has he worked hard to show the church the gospel but that they did not receive it! They went back to law and works and as Paul says all the beggarly elements which brings them back into bondage.
Instead of walking by faith and by the Spirit they strived to fulfill the law and therefore missed the grace of God! There are too many saints doing the same today. They are striving, working and worrying about the things that do not matter in comparison to Christ! While food, clothing and money are important nothing is more important as Christ.
It is Christ that actually gives us the motivation to do those things that need to be done but with the peace of God within. Don't labor meaning worry about those things you can't change or even need to change but rest in the love of Christ first! Make Christ the first priority in your life after all He is Life!!!
11/21/22

SCOFFERS!
2Pe 3:3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,
We don't need to wait until the last days to see scoffers, for there are plenty of them now! Really scoffers have always been around. Scoffers are those who laugh at Christ and us and do not believe. They don't believe in a God or creation, and they are only looking at what they can see and touch.
This is why it is so important that we
1. Stay faithful
2. Stand strong
3. Don't get caught up in the religious, rudiments and ordnances that we can touch, taste and handle as it says in Col. 2:21.
4. Rightly divide the word of truth!
5. Never stop sharing the cross of Christ! His death, burial and resurrection with others.
There will always be scoffers but there will always be those who are searching for eternal life in Christ too.
11/19/22

Preserve my life from fear, Oh God!
Psa 64:1 (David) Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my life from fear of the enemy.
This Psalm from David is so right on. It tells us the real problem is not the enemy per say but "FEAR" of the enemy! We all have fear and it is a part of sin. From the beginning Adam said "I was afraid" when God came back to the garden looking for Him. Now God was not the enemy, but it expresses how fear can be so controlling over us. Adam was afraid of the very God who loved him and created him, because he knew he had sinned and was guilty.
Fear can stop us in our tracks every time. It stops us from being real and transparent with others. It stops our creative juices so to speak because we are afraid of failure. Fear of what other's think can control us forever if not dealt with.
I like what David say in the chapter before Psa 63:1 (David) when he was in the wilderness of Judah. O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
When we fear, we should go to God in prayer and know that He is "my God" and "early will I seek thee" and "thirst for thee"! In other words, we should be comforted by God when we are fearful. Knowing that we no longer have the spirit of fear, Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
AND IN
2Ti 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
When you struggle with fear, worry or anxiety, just begin to admit to it and then renew your mind in prayer to God and telling yourself the truth over and over that you don't have the spirit of fear but of security in the love of God! For you are a child of God who is deeply loved in Christ!! Then wait as the fear goes away, the old saying "Rinse and repeat" continually until fear no longer dominates you!
11/18/22

Sabbatarians and the law!
Paul the Apostle to the gentiles says this in  
1Co 9:20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 21 To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.
Those that are without law meaning gentiles. We gentiles never ever had the law to begin with! IF we never had the law to begin with why on earth would we follow it now! Follow means to hold the law in front of you as you walk through life. We have Christ before us and in us which is the end of the law for righteousness!
Rom 10:3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
We follow Christ not the law!
So why do Sabbatarians continually want to put us back under the law? They follow the law, (so they think), so they can be accepted and righteous yet while doing this they deny the power of God through the Cross of Christ! They are a very self-righteous group of folks that are following something that is a shadow of the real deal!
Col 2:16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
The real true spiritual sabbath rest for man comes through the internal and eternal Lord Jesus Christ alone!  
11/17/22

With or Without Law?
Which one are we? Paul says about the Jews, that they are under law but then says, "to them they that are without law", so who are they?  
1Co 9:19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 21 To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.
Well, that is you dear saint! You never had the law and were without law. You were born a gentile so don't try to be a Jew and put yourself back under law.
Now Paul says "being not without law to God" which means all of us are condemned as sinners! So, since the law of Israel was "the" law and therefore condemned all men, all of us must answer to God, but we did not follow the law as Israel did! To add we are under the law to Christ meaning we still need a Saviour and to be saved from our sins. This law meaning, like gravity it always works the same no matter what, this law is Christ who gives eternal life! Christ law is the Law of Love as it says in
Rom 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
AND
Gal 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
SO,
Col 3:11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
Today there is no Jew or gentiles in the dispensation of grace! According to the revelation of the mystery there now is only one Body and one church and that is Christ!
The body of Christ is not Israel so don't put yourself back into the weaker ways and bondage of the law but rather live in the Word of Grace by the Spirit and IN CHRIST!
11/16/22

The circumcision of Christ!
Col 2:11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:
Circumcision means to be cut off! It was a token and sign of the covenant between God and Israel! It was to Israel and meant to be cut off and separated from the sinful world and dedicated to God! It was a physical thing to show that dedication, yet all physical things do not mean a true faithful heart!
In other words, just because you have done something physical does not mean the inner man has changed at all! Faith is an internal thinking not a physical thing!
But we have been circumcised spiritually not physically. We have not been circumcised with hands of man but rather by the Holy Spirit! We have been circumcised so that we can put off the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ!
Our "cut off" and "separation" of this evil world is by the internal, eternal Holy Spirit and is in the power of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Don't get caught up in the outward, external things that do nothing for the inward heart and mind, but rather keep focused on the heavenly things that give life through Jesus Christ!
11/15/22

Self-righteousness comes by the law!
Paul says this in Phl 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
It tells us that self-righteousness comes by the law! It tells us that if we follow the law and do the law then we can boast and be proud of ourselves! Yet sadly we all will fail at the law and so then the roller-coaster goes down too. We can keep working and striving to "do" the law but will continue to fail.
Those teachers and churches that teach you to be under law are actually teaching you to be "self-righteous"! They are telling you to "DO" more so you can be proud of yourself, but they are setting you up for failure and performance-based Christianity. They desire to glory in your flesh....Gal 6:13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.
We are under grace and set free from the law and our righteousness is found in Christ! Christ is our righteousness as it says in 1Co 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
We are IN CHRIST and CHRIST is RIGHTEOUSNESS!
11/14/22

NOT THE VERY INMAGE!
Heb 10:1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
As I continue to encourage all of us to know the mystery given to Paul verses the prophecy program under law and to the 12 Apostles, I find myself using a book written to them, to prove a point.
Here in Hebrews, we see that the writer is saying that even those laws and ordinances are only a shadow of the good things to come! They were told to sacrifice an animal and those that did so were following the instructions given them by the law, but even that did not make them perfect! Even that is not the same as the perfect sacrifice, Jesus Christ!
You see just as I have said over and over that the law and ordinances are just a resemblance but not the real deal as they say. JESUS IS THE REAL DEAL! We are complete in Him and no dunking of water, eating of food or giving of money will take HIS place! They were used for a time and reason but no longer needed!
Only the blood of Christ deals with the sin issue and only His life gives eternal life to us!
Don't be confused and trying to be "religious" or "act righteous" by doing an act that the traditional churches use to "see your faith, obedience or commitment" the only true knowing of that is Christ in You the hope of glory!!!
11/12/22

"What does it hurt"?
I get asked this allot from well meaning believers, when I teach on Col 2. The understanding that we are not under ordinances and that we do not perform them today.
The question is "what does it hurt to do them"? But it does hurt as Paul says in 1Co 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
Now if Paul was baptized because he was a Jew how could he say not to do this. He said it because 1) Christ told him not too and 2) because it took away from the cross. You see just like any earthly thing can become bigger than the heavenly thing, the natural takes over instead of the spiritual and it becomes another ordinance to do! It becomes a work instead of a rest in Christ! It becomes the focus of our attention instead of Christ being the focus!
Col 2 says this Col 2:10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
That means nothing else is needed for salvation or sanctification! Nothing is needed to show that you are saved or being obedient, you either are or your not complete!
Then the word says Col 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; 15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
A shadow is not the real thing but it "resembles" it. Now do you want the real thing that being Christ or a "resemblance"? Do want to focus on a fake thing or the real thing? Listen to what Paul says in Col 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
Set your affections, your mind and heart on things above in other words heavenly things! Set your mind on Christ not earthly ordinaces! For you are dead and IN CHRIST, NOT dead in water or anything else but CHRIST ALONE!!!
Just like Satan deceived Eve,  2Co 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.
So can we be by doing ordinaces and works in order to prove our salvation!
11/11/22

Veterans Day!
1Ti 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
Today is Veterans day in the U.S.! It is a day that we honor those who have served our country. Those that have protected and have given their lives to make sure we are safe. I honor and thank you for your service.
It is by you that we may have a quiet and peaceable life style compared to many countries. Yes we have our problems but nothing compared to many other countries.
So, I pray for you and thank you in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord!!!
11/10/22

Born Deceived!
Gen 3:1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
Sadly, we are all born deceived!
Rom 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
We are born trying to make our own way and to be a god!
Gen 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
We want to control life on our own terms and do things our way instead of God's way. When we are deceived, we think we know what is right and believe so strongly in what we have been taught from an early age. It may be a raciest or religious thing or just our prideful, arrogant self-centered belief. Our pride is front, and center and it is hard to "repent", which always means "a change of mind".
While some grace folks teach that repentance is not something we do I totally disagree. Repentance as I said before is a change of mind, meaning we see ourselves as deceived, prideful sinners and turn by faith to Christ! We believe that Christ died for our sins and gives us eternal life! We begin to have a change of mind on a daily basis and begin to put off and put on which is the same as repenting! It is no longer I who live but rather Christ living through me!
Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
It is by faith and no longer being deceived but seeing and living in the truth and reality of God's purpose which is found in Christ alone!!
11/8/22

The Philosophy of some!
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
The philosophy of some churches and Christians can be as off as the philosophy of the world. There are cults and churches who preach different doctrine then the bible teaches, and these are "in the name of Christ" supposedly.
Sadly, I continue to see believers go to these churches because they get a warm fuzzy feeling from the music, or the pastor is dynamic and charismatic with words.
Paul says this about himself in 1Co 2:4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
Paul was not handsome or a great orator, but he knew the truth and power of the Lord. He knew the message of grace as his life proved it. To many churches and men preach a false grace message. One that says "first" do the law, and if your efforts fail then grace comes, that my friend is not the grace message at all! Many still do the works and ordinances that their church says to do or the ones they like and make them "feel" closer to God, YET these ordinances do nothing but feed the flesh in their sinful desires even more! These ordinances keep the person striving to get closer to God, when and if they are truly believers, He is within them. It is like a person who is married yet can never get enough attention from their spouse because they are too insecure. They are looking for outside, external things to bring comfort instead of realizing they are already in Christ!
The grace message is Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
11/7/22

Peace and Reconciliation!
Col 1:20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.
Before Christ died on the cross, God's wrath was upon mankind. God was the one who was offended, yet He was also the one who provided the sacrifice and way to have reconciliation between man and God.
Jesus became that sacrifice for us and by His shedding of His blood became the propitiation for all mankind. That means He appeased God's wrath and made peace between God and us. No longer do we need to fear God's punishment or anger against us. No longer do we need to run from Him but rather we can run "to" Him. We can know that He desires to be with us and spend time with us.
This also helps us in our relationships on earth as we do not need to fear man's rejection either. If God has reconciled us to Himself and He is the ultimate judge, then who are we to fear on earth. So, we do not need to fear the rejection of man.
Notice this verse says that He has reconciled all things unto Himself, that means all things in Heaven and earth. Now the completion of all this will be finished in the Ages to Come but the two different places have both been reconciled to Him!
11/5/22

OLD/NEW VS MYSTERY!
Col 1:26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
The mystery program was not known before, and it is revealed to Paul by Jesus and shared with us. It was hidden and not in the Old or New Covenants given to Israel. While some will say this is the New covenant talked about in Jer 31:31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
Notice it is to Israel and it was foretold! While we get the benefits of the Holy Spirit it was met to keep the law in those end times. Jer 31:33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
So, since the mystery was hidden and 80% of the bible is written to and about Israel than guess which one gets most of the attention! That's right, you guessed it, the prophecy program which WAS known and given to Israel!
Sadly, this is what most saints read and know and therefore still live under law and without victory in their life. While the mystery message is contained only in Paul's books Romans -Philemon few read or worse mix the prophecy/Old/New books with them.
Read and know the difference in these books so you too may have the victory and know the will of God today!
11/4/22

Hope!
Do you struggle and think there is no hope! No hope of the future or life in general.
Hope is the expectation of things to come! It is the other half of faith, and by faith we have hope. Now we can have faith in people, but they are just human and will fail or die. But if we put our faith in Christ and in what is said in scripture is true, we will have hope. Paul says this in
Rom 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Notice when we receive God's love hope comes. When we experience God's love, we have hope, and we can walk through the problem and persevere through our tribulations regardless of what they are. Every problem can be looked at from the perspective of life or death and regardless of what happens I will be with Christ!
Now that is hope and it all begins with God's love!!!
11/3/22

Continue in sin?
Many saints continue in sin as they believe they are in grace and therefore it doesn't matter. I for one would question their salvation, and as they often say, " we all sin don't we", as if to defend their sin.
Paul says this in
Rom 6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? 3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
Do we continue in sin after being saved? Well, it is true we all still sin, but this should not be purposely as if to say, "I can do whatever I want because I am forgiven"! In fact, it should grieve us somewhat when we do sin. It should not devastate us, but it should affect us.
Paul then goes on to say that we have been "baptized into Jesus Christ! That means to be spiritually baptized into Christ. It is not by water, but by spirit and it is to identify with His death and resurrection!
Rom 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
The sting of ANY sin is death 1Co 15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
So don't live in death, live in LIFE, Jesus Christ is Life so choose LIFE!  
11/2/22

Media has power!
We often think that the judicial and political leaders have the power, but I believe that the media has the real power. The news can report their view in a way that gets their point across. The T.V. shows can slant things toward the left, liberal and homosexual agendas.
Paul says this in 2Tim 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
These last days are not the end times thank goodness, but it is not a "good time" either! The media are those who are lovers of self in so many different ways. They want to come across as fair and true, yet they are so ungodly it is scary.
Paul tells us to turn from this sort and not be a part of them. Separate from them and the only way to really do this is to stop watching them.
Don't be fooled by this left wing, liberal and ungodly sort, but rather be aware of their motives and saturation of their agendas. It is a little deceitfulness at a time, and we Christians tend to allow a little at a time and before long we too are deceived and following and believing it is normal and right.
11/1/22

Cult churches that fall under the radar!
A cult is a "misplaced devotion to certain doctrine, leaders or things"! It does not have to be a weird or perverted leader or church such as Warren Jeffs of the LDS. Now the LDS or Mormons as they are also called are a cult, as all cults follow law and traditions.
But there are those churches who are cults that fall under the radar. That means they are the churches that you do not think they are cults and on every other corner of the block. Remember the definition is "misplaced devotion to doctrine, leaders or things"! Paul says this in Gal 1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
A different gospel is an accursed gospel and man. Those who teach anything other than Pauline are teaching a different gospel. They are teaching law and works without even knowing or admitting it! They are perverting the gospel of grace and frustrating the grace of God! Gal 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
So those who teach ordinances, and some have as many as 5, but most have 2 are teaching a different gospel, that is under law and taking away from the cross of Christ!1Co 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
So, look at your church's doctrinal statement and see what they believe and teach. 95% will probably teach some sort of ordinances and then add other things to their "Next Steps" program! We are saved and sanctified by faith alone in grace alone in Christ alone and nothing else added!
10/31/22

Deceived!
In this day and age, it is so easy to be deceived into thinking things are just fun, or that the traditions we have, have no real meaning. Thanksgiving, Christmas and today which is Halloween are all so called holidays that have been pushed on us for commercial gain and to influence our minds.
Halloween is as evil as can be, yet many are deceived into thinking it is just another "fun" night. Anything can be just surfacy enough to be nothing, yet it is much deeper than one might think. Halloween is a celebration of evil. It celebrates the wickedness in this world and stands against all Godly things. It puts death above life and darkness ahead of light! Jesus is the light of this world, and He should be celebrated always!
Gal 1:4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:
As in all things which many do not get because they are deceived 2Ti 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
The more you buy into the idea of things being just nothing but fun the more deceived you are.
Even the things that seem spiritually important in many churches such as the so-called ordinances they have. Water baptism, sabbaths or communion all are just shadows and take away from the cross of Christ. I ask folks all the time are you saved or a Christian and they will say yes "I was baptized in 4th grade"!!! You see Satan twist and uses anything to deceive us into thinking it is good, fun or even spiritual! That the "thing" we do proves or is more important than Christ. Things we can see, touch or taste are more important than Christ Himself! That the cross of Christ is less than these other things and that our heart and mind mean less than the "doing" of life!
Don't be deceived Dear Saint into thinking that the small, surfacy things don't matter. Don't become numb to what is going on around you and therefore give into it! Awake, beware and stand boldly in Christ and against evil things!
10/29/22

Fear, Flesh and Faith!
These 3 "F" words are throughout the bible. They describe how we live day to day and how we live in general.
Living in fear is living by the flesh and all flesh is sin and all sin has elements of fear. I have heard people say "I did this or that because I was scared and fearful" but what they don't understand is that is flesh not faith. That is sin, and all sin begins with the mind.
I hear folks say they were scared of covid, so they did this or that. I have had people say the moved in with someone they were not married to because they were scared and didn't know what to do but that is still sin. I know elderly people that live with others they are not married to because they fear not getting their deceased spouses' money, but they still want to be with someone. That is still sin and walking by fear, and there are many more stories and excuses but still the same sin!
Fear of rejection, failure or even punishment in any form is still NOT walking by faith. It does not matter what the excuse is, it is not faith!
The bible says in Rom 14:23 .... for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
and in Rev 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.This verse tells us that being fearful is the same as murderers whoremongers and liars!
Walking by faith takes courage and confidence in Christ not ourselves. It says I will be obedient regardless of my circumstances. It says I will follow God's precepts in the middle of the storm not after wards when everything is ok! We walk by faith not by sight! 2Co 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
Faith is not just a knowledge "about" God, it is surrendering of our life to Him! It is a marriage in which we are committed to Him in which we stand verses committing adultery. It is not a thing of convenience but a living sacrifice daily!
10/27/22

SCHOOLMASTER!
Gal 3:24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
The law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. Now a schoolmaster was harsh. While the meaning is to "instruct", the human aspect is much harsher than a nice teacher taking care of the 1st grader. The schoolmaster would discipline with words or stick. It could be demeaning and hurtful. Now you might say then that is a bad teacher and yes it was, but reality is the law is also harsh!
Paul says this in Gal 4:21 Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?
Do you not hear and understand the law? There is no break from it or excuse, it is what it is, in black and white we might say! When people say they want to be under law or "do" the law they must understand the whole law! It is not just "do not steal" or "lie" Oh no there is the punishment for it all! The law keeps you on a performance trip constantly and you must perform in order to keep it. Then the curse that goes with that. Those who want to follow the law must understand that there was a blessing and cursing program too!  
Gal 3:13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
Now folks don't understand that today because Christ took the curse as He became the curse for us, but if He hadn't done that there would be a cursing affect. Now stop and think about living under law without Christ cross and you will see that is not easy!
Don't keep trying to live under law, or even say we need to "do" the law, but rather receive the gospel of grace as the only standard there is in order to live in Christ!
10/26/22

When good intentions are wrong!
  There are times when good intentions are wrong. For instance, when government or private entities want to put up the 10 commandments in public! Now they have good intentions in trying to bring some sort of Godliness and Spiritual thing to the public, but the 10 commandments are about law! The problem with making them into a stone piece outside a public building is that it actually increases the problem. 1Co 15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
The strength of sin is the law in other words it drives people to try and be good without Christ! It sets them up to sin even more. They are like the parent that tells the child "Not to touch the light socket" and the child then wants to touch it even more! The child waits until the parent looks away then touches it and gets shocked!
Another way good intentions are wrong might be repeating the Lord's prayer as it is called at school functions or games.
Mat 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. ... 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
While trying to bring a sense of prayer and God to the hearts of the audience they are repeating a prayer that is again under law and conditional. We are not forgiven if we forgive, we have already been forgiven therefore we can forgive! Our forgiveness is NOT conditional on our forgiving others therefore the message is wrong even if trying to have "good intentions"!
Now I am not against bringing Godliness to the public or schools or anywhere else but let us have "good intentions with good doctrine that brings good results" to the hearts of man!
10/25/22

It does not matter what others think!
My mom told me that when she was asked how I was doing after moving away that she would say "he is a pastor and, in the ministry,"! They would then say "HOWARD"!!! As if to mean "you got to be kidding me"!!! Now I was always a pretty good kid so I am not sure why that is such a surprise, yet I guess they did not think I would end up in the ministry.
Paul had the same problem, but for different reasons. He actually persecuted the church. He actually wanted to shut it down, Yet God had other plans didn't He! He was saved and then became the Apostle to the gentiles! They "Glorified God in Me" he says!
Gal 1:23 But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. 24 And they glorified God in me.
You see we all will have naysayers who will say "NO WAY" that person is in the ministry! But Jesus came to save sinners and we ALL fall into that category. Now sometimes the worst of sinners gets saved and is so grateful that they have to share! They want everyone to have eternal life! They will talk to anyone about Jesus Christ and His love for them. They will tell them He died on the cross for their sins and rose to give them eternal Life!!!
You see, it does not matter what other think about your past, just keep focused on Jesus regardless of what others say!!!
10/24/22

Reprobates!
Are you a reprobate? That means "not passing the test" or "proving not to be as you ought to be"!
2Co 13:5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?
I think there are a lot of "church" folks who are reprobates! They may go to church, sing in the choir or even serve in some way. Lot attendants, patrolman or do the sound and lights every week, might be in question if they were saved. Some may even serve on boards, teachers or even elders in their church, and some maybe as I have come across pastors, yes pastors!
Now we are told to examine ourselves that means to ask ourselves are we truly "in the faith" or are we just pretending to be? Some well-intentioned saints may question the bible and what it says. They don't understand what Christ did for them, and they are still trying to work their way to heaven! Now while I don't doubt "some" are "in" the faith but ignorant of the word, but many are not "IN" the faith and are "just" working their way to heaven. Jesus is not Lord but rather "just fire insurance" and a religion to them! There is no real meaning, sincerity or genuine faith but just a "good" habit they have done since childhood! They may be "of" the faith but not "IN" the faith, which is like living together but not married, there is no real commitment!
We have to understand that being in the faith means being "IN CHRIST"! It means trusting in the finish work of the cross and that we have received ALL the heavenly blessings in Christ. We are redeemed, reconciled and righteous in Him! It means we have the atonement and made New in Him! It means we are accepted, approved and adopted in Him! It means complete and completely forgiven in Him! We are now a holy, honorable and heir of God! Our citizenship is in Heaven today and we are not dirty rotten sinners but rather saints of and in the living Lord Jesus Christ!
If you can't believe this and walk by faith in these things, then you might NOT be "in the faith" as you are still looking at yourself and working your way to heaven, and then you would be sadly a reprobate!
10/21/22

LAW!
I often get an argument with those who preach and live under law, when I say the only law today is love!
Rom 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
The law of love encompasses every law yet being under law means it controls you! It means you are more concerned about following the "do's and don'ts" rather than Christ, and to add we are not under law at all!
Rom 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
They often want to include and compare the Levitical law to our modern laws, but we can't do that exactly, for instance we no longer need nor do blood sacrifices or go to Temple worship or do all the other 600+ laws. AND I am also pretty sure they did not have stop signs, traffic and speed signs controlling them back then!
You see don't confuse modern day laws with Levitical law. Now some might say what about the 10 commandments. Are they not all set into today's times? Well stop and think about it! The first commandment is "you shall have NO other gods before me"! Now I'm pretty sure none of us have kept that one our whole life and to add what was the punishment if you didn't do it! Ouch!!!
Now the other ones are for instance "thou shall not steal, lie or kill"! The law of love is saying to give and to think of the other person, so you won't steal, kill or lie! Then we go to the one that says "do not covet" which means to be
self-centered, take pleasure in or greatly desire for selfish reasons! I don't know about you, but I covet something every day! Will I be stoned for this?
You see the Law of Love covers all laws for the Law of love is not self-centered but serving others and looking out for their and God's best interest! You have been given ALL the LOVE you need from God, for GOD IS LOVE so love and serve others!
10/20/22

The Revelation of the Mystery!
Paul declares the revelation of the mystery as it and he was shown by Christ! This mystery was not known until it was shown to Paul. This mystery is not just an unknown thing, but it is a New gospel and dispensational time.  
Rom 16:25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,
It is the beginning of a New creature called the Body of Christ and with New standards. Those standards are all under grace and have no boundaries as compared to that of a nation. It is a living organism that functions without limits throughout the world. It has at its roots, love as its law and is established and growing by faith alone!
It has members that perform it's works out of a genuine heart and sincere faith. While at times disease sets in it is cleansed and purified by the Holy Spirit and the members of the Body!
This church, which means "called out assembly" is a "living" sacrifice unto the Lord and works from a different realm, a heavenly realm verses an earthly one.
This mystery church is the church you enjoy today for it is Christ Body and He is the Head of it all!
10/19/22

Law based giving vs Grace based giving!
Many folks say they are under grace, but they live under law. Perhaps one of the best places to see this is in giving. They tithe to the church, mostly because they are told to tithe by greedy, law using pastors who are trying to build more and get more. They want to control and say "look at what my ministry did" but it is really self-serving! The old saying the more things you have must mean the more successful you are, is not true!
Now the tithe was under the law system and under that is the blessing and cursing system!
Deu 14:22 Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year.
Jos 8:34 And afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessings and cursings, according to all that is written in the book of the law.
Paul shares with us in Gal 3:10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. AND IN ... 13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
So, when folks live under law, they actually put themselves back under a blessing and cursing system and turn away from Christ work on the cross! Thank God that there is no more blessing and cursing system "except" in the minds of the ones who are living under that system!
GRACE GIVING!
The way to give today, is under grace and a by the free will and a cheerful heart system! 2Co 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
Give to others not because you have to or want to be blessed and not be cursed but because you already are blessed with every Spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ!
10/18/22

In the sight of God and men! 

2Co 8:21 Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
I often hear believers express that they only need to answer to God and that they don't need to go to church or minister to others in order to be saved and they are correct. YET all through the bible we see Paul and others say that we are to edify each other. We don't serve to be saved, but because we are saved, we serve!
We are not an island unto ourselves, but we are to minister to others. We are to be honest with God with a good conscience and genuine faith and also with others.
We are to listen to others and pray for them. We are to provide comfort by helping in some way. That can be by food, clothing, or shelter. That maybe financially or physically providing some sort of assistance. You may take them to the Doctor or on a trip. You can do lots of things and nothing is too little as far as serving goes.
2Co 8:13 For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: 14 But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: 15 As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.
There also should be an equal amount if possible. I serve you; you serve me type of thing, yet it should not be to gain something. We don't serve just to get something in return yet that maybe what happens. We serve and receive when given to us with a great big THANK YOU! Either way have a grateful heart! In serving be thankful to God and in serving be Thankful to God and others!
10/17/22

Truth is in You Saint!
Jesus is called the Word and became flesh and is truth as John says here in John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
and John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
Now Paul says that truth of Christ is in Him.2Co 11:10 As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.
Now you are no different than Paul when it comes to having that truth in you! Jesus is truth and Jesus is in you! You are in Christ and therefore the truth lives within you! Now it is up to each one of us to choose to put on that truth that is within us!
One of my biggest problems with believers is that they don't "think"! They want to "feel" the presence of the Lord! They leave everything up to God instead of thinking and choosing on their own. I have heard saints say, " God will have to tell me to forgive or God will have to forgive them for me because I can't"! Thats not faith that disobedience. He has given you His Spirit and His Word so faith acts on that alone!
TRUTH LIVES in YOU SAINTS! Walk in that truth by thinking and willingly choosing to obey!
10/14/22

Love, security and the Law!
I continue to counsel and help those coming out of cults. Many lives have been destroyed over these groups and there are a lot more than you may realize. They are out in the rural area and right under our nose in cities. Some are on college campuses and others look like ordinary church fellowships.
In order to help these folks, they first need to understand Gods love for them. They need to know that Christ loves them and that they need not perform to receive it.
Eph 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
And as they receive, they walk in that love! And the way we walk in love is to renew our minds and put on that love! Over and over and over until the peace that comes from experiencing God's love. Where nothing else matters but that Love!
Eph 4:23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
You see all cults have the same thig in common. Following man and the man using law! The leader, prophet or priest always uses law to scare, control and manipulate people. He uses the "philosophy" of the world for his own power and needs.
BUT we have to realize we are complete in Christ without others. We don't need to please others or get acceptance or appreciation from them, but we are whole, secure and adequate in Christ!
.. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
This in turn leads to not jumping through the hoops that these leaders and churches put on us. There are no ordinances for today. These are just shadows that at one time represented Christ but not anymore for we have Christ Himself!
... 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; 15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
So, grow in Christ Love and walk in that love and understand that you are complete in Christ! Don't be consumed and controlled by leaders, churches or their laws!
10/13/22

Inflation!
Inflation is a word we hear a lot on T.V.! It is used to say that prices on everything are going up and over inflated! Like a tire that is over inflated will burst and blow up so the economy can also.
Economics is the number one issue in the elections coming up and while very important we Christians need to listen and do as Paul says in Phl 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
We need to be content with what we do have. Be content in Christ alone first and then our material things as well. Christ is our peace and brings peace if we are content first. Then we can deal with what we need to do after that. Everything in the right order as life goes. Without Christ death, with Christ Life.
I may starve to death but I will be with Christ forever! Paul says "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me", that means I can be content in having nothing or having a lot. Let me just say here if you have a lot of money good for you save some as you never know when you will need it and give away some to those that may not have as much.
Be content even in this time of inflation and financial trouble. Keep your eyes and mind on things above where Christ sits, and the peace of God will fill you with joy!
10/12/22

Church and State!
In the U.S we have great freedoms that other countries just don't have. In fact, I would say that the protection of those freedoms is so ingrained and protected that common sense has actually been taken out in the name of freedom. For instance, many religions are allowed and protected while Christianity gets its freedoms taken away little by little. Our fellowship is being tested even now in my hometown.
Paul said this when he was taken captive and arrested Act 21:37 And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?
He asked if he could speak and they allowed him to do so up to a certain point but then he said this Act 22:21 And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles. 22 And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live. 23 And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air,
He was allowed the freedom up to a certain point but then they stopped him and said enough! Now what was the crime that he had done? He was spreading the gospel of grace to the gentiles! WHAT! Yes this great crime was sharing the gospel of Christ to gentiles. You see he had the freedom as long as it fit into their way of thinking even though it was not going to hurt them at all.
Would it have been so bad if gentiles came to "their Messiah"! Would it have changed the Word of God after all the Old Covenant says that gentiles will come to God through Israel! No, you see they thought they were better, smarter and they wanted to control everything.
In the name of freedom from the State the Church of Jesus Christ has suffered because it dares speak out! It dares to exist and try to be at least equal to the other "religions or cults" that pop up every day!
While a secular society has taken over more and more the Christian church is being taken out more and more, at least from the normal and traditional way of thinking. BUT make NO mistake my friends the Church of Jesus Christ will not be stopped by a lost and secular society!
10/11/22

Don't keep company with brothers or sisters in Christ!
I have counseled many who would not follow the word! While coming for help they simply continued to do whatever they wanted and was in their interest not God's. They want help and someone to talk to, but they will not follow God's word. They simply do whatever they want! When that happens the word is clear on what to do.
The Word is clear that we are to not keep company with a brother or sister in the Lord that does not listen and follow Him. Now I don't think that everyone who claims to be a believer is a believer, but they say they are so either way I must do what the word says. Also, it needs to be said that we are not to keep company with those who are unbelievers either, but rather lead them to the Lord. In other words, at times, we need to separate from both.
Paul says in 1Co 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
You see if they continue to live a lifestyle of sin without any sign of repentance than we are to separate. Paul says in  
2Ti 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
They will say they are learning but there is not faith applied to that knowledge! Now they will whine and cry and tell you how hurt they are and that maybe true but there comes a time that we must stop living the self-pity life and start living a righteous life through Christ!
The writer in Hebrews says this of Esau. Heb 12:16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. 17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
You see if there is not repentance which means a change of mind from self-centeredness to Christ centeredness than you will be rejected.
I might add that one of the ways I watch for those that say they have repented and changed is the fact that they reconcile with the ones who they have wronged by their sin. The admit they were wrong and seek forgiveness from the body. The transformed life internally now seeks to reconcile externally with body of Christ!
While the one who is being rejected is hurt by this, they must understand that they already hurt the body of Christ by their actions. They also need to know that it is in their best interest to do so for the word also says in 1Co 5:5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.!
10/8/22

BE STRONG IN THE GRACE THAT IS IN CHRIST JESUS!
2Ti 2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
Paul tells Timothy which is telling us to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus! God's grace is in Jesus along with His love and hope and faith! Everything that is in God is in Christ and Christ is in God, while different they are the same. The grace that is in Christ is that generosity of God to be willing to offer salvation to a lost gentile world. To give us favor by faith in His son Jesus and to be willing to receive His life for ours.
When we stand strong which means to not be moved from or follow after law or other ways. It means to be thankful and consoled by His grace which is found in His love for us! It means to be weak in our efforts so that we can be strong by the Holy Spirit! It means to daily put on and grow in grace and understanding His power through His Word.
The way to do all that is to study His Word! It is His written Word that He has ordained for us today! We need to read, study and understand the word for today!
2 Tim 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
If you don't read much, then start off by reading a little more each day. Maybe a chapter a day or more....and if you read but not study, then begin to study one word that you don't know very well or one passage until you do know it. Ask for help and listen to grace teachers, as well as get a Greek dictionary or some things to help you. One step at a time is all that necessary to go further and move forward.
The more you read, study and understand as well as receive by faith the more you will STAND in the GRACE THAT IS IN CHRIST!!!
10/7/22

Love for the saints!
Paul tells the Colosse church how much he appreciates their love for all the saints.
Col 1:4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,
... 8 Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.
How they walked in love and cared for one another! In a way he is saying as he says in other verses that love for one another is the fruit of the spirit and they were showing it.
I have been in some of the best teaching, "right dividing" and Pauline church and NOT seen this. They are defensive and immature. While having right doctrine they lacked genuine love for one another. The teaching was so important and so much emphasis on knowledge of right division that they missed the most important part, love!
Now I am not talking about a sappy, emotional only driven love, but I am talking about a genuine concern and service for one another. A type of love that cares for the other instead of defending themselves constantly. When we defend our doctrine to the point of putting up walls, we will keep people away instead of inviting them in! When our first instinct is to make sure they are "right dividers" then we have missed the mark already. Grace doctrine and Pauline pattern is correct which should produce love not staunch judgmental independent members of the Body!
I have been to wrong doctrine, bad teaching and law driven churches that show more love than some right doctrine Pauline teaching fellowships!
"Study to show thyself approved unto God" is true and the byproduct of that should be love!
10/6/22

God can do whatever He wants, but can we?
Psa 115:3 But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.
God has done what He wanted to do because He is God! He can give life or take it if He chose too. God can be independent of man, but man cannot be independent of God. I am talking about bad or sinful independence not healthy independence. Now we can try to be independent of God and that is called trying to be God, or be "A god", but we will fail. That is sin and the sting of sin is death.
We can have an independent heart even if we are saved. We can live a life that is prideful and arrogant all the while smiling and going to church. We can "look" spiritual, while really being independent of others and God. We can even be loving toward some outwardly, but deep down be independent in mind and will!
Not being transparent, vulnerable or willing to be "REAL" is an act of independence! Not being able to be honest with ourselves and share real "feelings" or ask for help is an independent heart. Not being willing to say "I was offended" when you obviously were by your reaction!
There are many ways to act independent and try to cover it up with a facade of spirituality! True faith and genuiness can admit hurt and be real. True spirituality can be vulnerable and talk about things and be transparent as well as honest without anger and bitterness. It is not covering up feelings or men pleasing or being fake, and it will ask for help!
Only God can be independent, but we saints should not be!
10/5/22

By the will of God!
Col 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother,
"By the will of God" means these 4 "P" words!
IT WAS GOD'S  
1. Purpose- it was God's purpose that Paul be saved and an Apostle which means "one sent"
2. Pleasure- It is by God's pleasure to that he be as well as the rest of us that we be saved in Christ.
3. Precepts- Precepts means law, order and appointed time or that something is done.
4. Promise- It was God's promise to save man kind by Jesus Christ, before time began.
Here are a few verses that go along and help with this understanding.
Eph 1:5  Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
... 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
... 11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
Eph 3:9  And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, 11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
2Ti 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
10/4/22

Paul was the Apostle to the gentiles. Rom 11:13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:

Apostle means "one sent" and "ambassador/messenger that is sent"!

Paul was sent by God by revelation from Christ!
Gal 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) ... 12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Paul was different than the others and they knew it! Gal 2:7 But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; 8 (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) 9 And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.
Now Paul's commission was to the gentiles predominantly and therefore he could travel about into the gentile cities and dine and be a part of them. He was not restricted by any means, but the others were.
This should help us see that the law restricts but the grace of God frees us. Now when I say "frees us" I don't mean to abuse that freedom by sinning but rather to not be controlled or restricted in doing righteous things by some boundary of the law! To be saved by faith alone and by grace alone! To be able to eat freely, to dress freely and to worship freely. To have the power of Christ within without the need to perform to be accepted and forgiven!
Paul's Apostleship and ministry is more than just "His ministry" but is an example for us to see the freedom we have in Christ! Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

 

Run the Race!
Robin and I like watching football on Sunday's! We have a few favorite teams and record them so we can cut through those commercials. The ups and downs of your team scoring or not can be exciting or a bummer at times.
Just like a football game, so can life be. Paul says this in 1Co 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
You see we have a "game" to play too. The game of "Life" you might say, and we are to play to WIN! Now our prize is different and much more important than some trophy. Our game is in salvation and living a godly, righteous life unto Christ. Now we are to strive for that while resting in the Lord. We are to run while allowing Christ to move through us. It is not us running but rather Christ through us. We run for the prize of a good conscience and sincere faith. We will fall short of the "first down" you might say but we are to get up and keep going!
1Co 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
We get an incorruptible crown not one which is corrupted by the world but a internal, eternal Spiritual reward! It cannot be by works of the flesh for those works are not even in the "ballgame" but rather it must be by faith and by Christ! You see we cannot go around Christ to the goal line for HE IS THE GOAL!
Score a touchdown today by living by faith in Christ!

10/1/22

The Blood of Christ!
Col 1:14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:
Throughout the bible God has used a blood sacrifice. The blood sacrifice shows the greatest sacrifice as it is the life within the body. Without blood you die, it is as simple as that!
Lev 17:11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.
Occasionally I hear some "so-called" Christians that say the blood was not necessary and that it didn't happen that way. Well first off to say that goes against the word and second it was necessary to redeem us. Redeem means to ransom which means to pay the price! Let's read from
Heb 9:13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
You see animals were used to redeem man and purify the flesh but only a man's blood or better said Christ blood could redeem our spirit and conscience!
The blood of Christ was necessary and too important to say it isn't true and to add while sounding perhaps morbid in some ways it is also so wonderful!
We often hear folks say no greater thing can a person do than to lay down their life for another, and that is exactly what Christ did but for ALL men forever!

 

9/30/22

Identity!
If I said to you "please go clear the trunk out", you might go into the house and take out the trunk of clothes and start throwing things out. Or you might go to the back of the car and look in the trunk and clean it out, or maybe the trunk of the tree that had honey in it!!!
But I was pointing to the elephant's trunk that had mud and food trapped in it as we worked at the zoo!
You see knowing the context, meaning and reason of words are important, and nothing can be as important as the Word of God.  If not understood for the context other meanings can be applied and change the meaning completely. It can actually make the meaning weak and without the power and attention it deserves!
Like this verse,
1Co 10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
Now many would see this word baptized and think water right! They would say this means they got wet, and they would think in the natural as so many use this word, but it is a dry baptism. It means identified into Moses and the law! It means to follow Moses and be immersed in the doctrine of the law which Moses was given by God. It means this is the way of salvation and to God at that time.
This has nothing to do with water nor food as you see it also says Spiritual "meat"! The meat word is used to say what was digested within by the soul! It is not literal food but thoughts! It is not a steak but the Word of God!
Let's read the next verse
1Co 10:4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
"That ROCK was CHRIST"!! You see they are speaking about being identified in Christ, not water, for the water of Life is in Christ! Don't get caught up in the communion bread and drink but think and be identified in Jesus the bread of life and the work of the cross of Christ!
We are One bread and One Body in Christ....1Co 10:17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.

 

9/29/22

Suffer for doing something Good?
Robin and I like watching shows like Dateline and "who done it" type shows. And occasionally like on Perry Mason the guy who goes to prison is innocent. I used to go to the prisons here in Arizona, so I know what that looks like and I wish no one ever had to go through that if they were innocent!
But my point is that at times we all suffer for doing something wrong. There are consequences for speeding or things like this. They can seem severe at times, but we take it easier when we have done wrong. But no one likes to suffer for doing something good! If we have the right intentions and heart, we can't understand why we shoud suffer for that after all are we not supposed to do what is right. Are we not supposed to help our fellow man!
Well yes, we are but Peter says this in 1Pe 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
We are to do what is right no matter what and if suffering comes then so be it. All the Apostles suffered tremendously for years yet they continued to give and serve.
Don't get to upset when you do something right and good and loving yet get bad feedback from those who cannot see their own hearts and mindset. Who may even be a believer but are just as sinful, harsh and demanding. This comes from pride because they have knowledge of the bible but cannot discern it! They are puffed up with being right and can't love others. They are rude in their approach and speech not realizing how they come across and worse they don't care!
So be patient and at times just move on from them. Be sure and check your own heart and motivation while forgiving them too. Suffering is a part of life and if Jesus suffered than we should be so privileged to do the same!

 

9/28/22

Faith is always in the present!
Faith is always exercised in the present tense. We might say "I use to be more faithful" or "I was a better back in the day faith wise"! But you see that is in the past and what matters is in the present. You may be dealing with your past, but "Now faith is..." it says in Hebrews!
Heb 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
We exercise faith continually and we walk by faith daily. Nowhere is it more important for believers to understand this then in the area of forgiveness! Paul says in Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
We are forgiven is present tense and look at Col 2:13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
ALL TRESPASSES!!!
AND IN Col 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
The believer is already forgiven, and faith is exercised by receiving, accepting and saying, "Thank You"!!! Asking for forgiveness every time you sin is not faith! It may sound humble but it's not! It sounds pious and spiritual but it's not! It is unfaithful and ungodly and NOT walking by faith.
Over my years of counseling and teaching I have found that every person I have ever met with does not know this and is totally surprised at this. It brings such relief and joy to them as it should. The freedom they now have then teaches them to serve, share and live faithfully!
Now it is sad that they don't know this but the reason for it is that the majority of teachers, pastors don't know or live it either and then teach them to ask or beg for forgiveness too.
Walk by faith and receive what you already have and then say, "THANK YOU"!!!

 

9/26/22

Oh, How I wish more believers knew this!
Upon hearing of an old friend who has committed suicide, I can't help but think of this verse and wish every believer could not only understand but experience it!
2Co 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
The reason folks take their own lives is that they still live in shame, guilt and fear! They live in the guilt and shame of the past and the fear of the future. They are constantly looking at self instead of Christ! Failures, rejections and the 'What if's" constantly are on their mind. All the inadequacies, inferiorities and insecurities that we all go through overwhelm them. Their feelings control them, and they don't know who they are in Christ.
No matter what a person has done and what they may face in the future they need to grasp that it all does not matter to God! What matters most is that they are saved and in Christ and therefore a NEW CREATURE! Don't live in shame, guilt or self-pity but renew your mind and know who you are in our blessed beloved Lord Jesus!
9/22/22

The Law of Love!
If a Jew like Paul can say we are not under law and that Love fulfills the law, then what Law or ordinances do we do?
Rom 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
The answer is none! No longer is it an external thing but an internal working of the Spirit. It does not matter if taste, touch or handle things anymore. It does not matter if you eat, drink or follow and observe certain days for it is a heart issue daily!  
You see we humans get caught up in "doing" "spiritual" things. If you look at all the religions of the world they all are trying to get to God. They are trying to get approval and acceptance from "a" god! They are always striving to "see" Him.
I was listening to a song by George Harrison the Beatle called "My Sweet Lord". It is a great song musically but the words like many are so off. "I always want to find" or "I want see you Lord" and he is not talking about Jesus by the way! Like John Lennons song "Imagine" which is also so popular today, but the first line of that song says, "Imagine there is no heaven", WHAT!!!! You see Satan's subtle ways are always working and is deceiving! Great tunes that can suck us in but are really anti-Christ and ungodly!
Well the same goes for Christianity. Many still work to "get closer" to God. They do religious things that "look" spiritual or pious but are not! The only thing that is important is to be saved and receive God's love and give that Love to others!

 

9/21/22

Relationships!
Here are some practical things we are told to do in our daily relationships with one another. Each is directed at the position they are given, and we are to appropriate Christ in all of them.
Col 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
First, we are to do everything in the name of the Lord! That means we are to dedicate our hearts and minds to Him. Knowing our identity and who we are as well as "who" we serve first before the human to whom we see and are serving. We are to have a attitude of thankfulness!
THEN, 18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.
Women set the attitude for daily living. How they react and respond to their husband sets the tone for the home and church.
Husbands,
19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.
Husbands are to care for, and be patient and love in all things. Even when correcting it should be done with gentleness and not in harshness. This harshness, sadly is something I see in alot of beleivers. Even among women, they have been taught by their fathers and husbands to be harsh. I have seen some women act like drill sergents in the Army instead of women who are feminine, gentle and loving.  This comes from parents and husbands that behave harshly and independent from the love God, even if they are believers.
20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
Then we see how the children are to behave. Now again the parents play a huge part in teaching the child from the beginning to obey. If the parents are harsh or abusive don't expect the child to obey. If the parent coddles to much again the child will not obey. They must be taught how to obey, and this is by lifestyle as well as words. The old saying more is "caught than taught" may apply here.  
21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
Dads should not provoke or try to get the child to react in some way just to overpower or to show "who's boss"! This teaches the child to fear at first and then as they grow up they become angry, bitter and rebel. They begin to disrespect authority and go about their own way instead of God's way. This is one reason our prisons are full of disrespectful, rebellious and unwanted "kids" no matter what age they are!
22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
Servants can mean employees today. When you work for someone else you are their "slave" per say. Now that does not mean in a negative sense, nor does it mean you have to stay there. You can quit and go work somewhere else or you can be self-employed, but the point is IF you work for someone work as if you're working for Jesus. Don't just be good in front of them or only do something for a reward or pay but work hard all the time even if you get nothing from it.
In ALL these positions and whatever we do, "do it" whole heartily for the Lord!
23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

 

9/20/22

The more we give, the less we receive!
Paul says this in  
2Co 12:15 And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.
You see often times the more we give the less we receive! Paul gave and gave to the church. He gave His life to protect the doctrine of grace and the name of Jesus Christ. He was beaten so many times and shipped wrecked and hated by both Jews and gentiles. The rejection was huge, yet he pressed on.
When I see so many pastors that get rich and popular for giving the gospel, I have to think does this not go against everything scripturally. Jesus was put on the cross despised by man and placed in a tomb without a so-called funeral! Most of the 12 were martyred, and without fame or fortune.
At times I admit to getting down because I don't hear back from you all. We go without financial support from those we give hours of counseling too. Teaching in bible studies and devotionals and things and at times not only not a thank you but an argumentative and nasty response back. While I would love to hear from you and get compliments and financial support and these types of things, I have to remind myself that not getting them is nothing new and really means we are doing something right.
So don't get down when you help and give to others and get nothing in return for this is normal with man. As Paul says
"...the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved"

 

9/19/22

Long Live the King!
As I watch some of the Queen's funeral today, I am reminded of how far off man can get. How can we possibly worship a person above our KING! Yes, Long Live the King, JESUS! For He is King above all King's and Lord above all Lord's.
1Ti 6:14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
The title of King or Queen of England or any of the other nations on earth is man's way of trying to be God on earth. Trying to dress it up in "service" or "loyalty" and "religion" but it is just another way to show how much man can be wrong and sin!
Jesus the ONE and ONLY true KING was tortured, killed and buried by these same "aristocrats" in life yet God has lifted Him up above ALL man!!!
For me I would rather die as Jesus did than to live as the Queen and King of this day and age!

 

9/15/22

Sincere Love hates evil!
God is Love so love is always righteous and Godly! Sincere love hates evil and should not enjoy any part of it. Paul says in,  
Rom 12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
AND
... 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
AND IN  
1Th 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
Loving others is always in God's best interest for the person. It never celebrates sin or bad behavior. As some say "God loves you to much to let you stay the way you are"! It is patient but not approving of evil. It is not saying it "is ok for you" but go against the word of God!
God's love is not emotional driven but is righteously driven! It is not perverted or manipulation, but it is genuine, faithful and always good!

 

9/14/22

Anxiety and Peace don't go together!
We all have anxiety to some extent. Anxiety is fear of the future. It can be one second in the future or it can be 10 or more years in the future. Many have anxiety over their death, rapture or end times. In fact, the secular media and also the book selling Christian media can actually feed this even more by exploiting this future!
Paul says this in Philippians...
Phl 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. 5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Rejoice means to have joy and be glad internally. It only comes by faith in Christ and that faith creates security and contentment. Contentment is so important because if you are looking to have other things bring joy other than Christ you miss the mark! Being happy in the external things is NOT joy but joy is an internal, eternal mind set by faith!
Now the words "be careful for nothing" means do not be "anxious in anything"! Anxiety is fear and it is in our flesh and is sin which carries fear. Meaning if we are not walking by faith than we are walking by our flesh and fear! It is that simple! Anxiety can creep into every thought in any person. We can be afraid of going outside or not having enough money. We can fear of failure and drive ourselves to succeed or fear of rejection and men please. We may at times over come in some area only to have it show up again in another area of life. Fear and anxiety never goes away completely as long we are in this earthly fleshly suit of ours!
We are to be honest and admit the fear and share with God. The more we share the closer we get with God. The closer we get the more dependent we are on Him. The more dependent, the more peace we have and able to function as mature adults.  
...7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Now the bible does not necessarily put things in order. Sometimes in the bible things are said and then resaid in order to bring more clarity. Let me say that I think this is the case here in Phil. 4:8
When we admit fear and anxiety to God with a thankful heart we also must "renew" our mind. In fact, you can't have a "thankful" heart without realizing God's love, truth and forgiveness can we! So, Paul says here in verse 8 to "THINK" on these things! Think about those things that God says are true, honest and just! Those things that are pure, lovely and good! All of the great virtues and praise unto God!
8 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. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Now all those "things above are in Jesus! All those things are found in God's love for you! All the things that bring peace, security and contentment are in Jesus's love! So, pray, share and be honest with your fears and then "think", put on, renew your mind with God's love and the peace of God shall come and you will be anxiety free.
PS. I should say also this is not a one-time event but an ongoing daily renewing!!!!

 

9/13/22

The 4 categories in Philippians 3!
When you read Phil.3, we see 4 different types of people. Really only 2, the lost and saved, but they are described differently.
Here in 3:2 we see the Judaizers who want you to live by the law! These are those who want everyone to be "UNDER LAW" and live by their control!  
Phl 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.
Paul calls them dogs as they never stop biting and trying to chew people up. They are "dogmatic" you might say. We still have those folks today of course but not necessarily Jewish but Christians! So, beware of these folks today. Don't give into them one inch as they will want more and more and law after law. By the way Law can actually be "the Levitical law" or it can be attitudes and standards that others set that they consider or make into a law.
Then there is the perfectionist! Those that continue to think and say to us, "if you had faith, you would not be sick or sin"!!! "You lack faith and therefore they will not be healed or prosper"! Or "you must be sinning because this thing happens to you and therefore God is punishing you"!
... 12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
We could say Paul is addressing those that still hold to perfectionism which falls back under the law. Some denominational churches literally teach this as doctrine while others have an unspoken standard that this is true.
Then the Hedonist who are completely against Godliness. Who fight against the cross of Christ. Those that may say there is not God or Jesus or heaven or hell.
... 18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)
We see a lot of these today. Now it needs to be said that there are many who go to church who may not be Hedonist or atheist but have "God is their belly"!!! They are self-centered and selfish in every way. They focus on earthly things they can see and do not walk by faith!  
Lastly, the dear beloved saint in Christ who walks by faith and lives in the heavens! Who is saved and in Christ and looks forward to that time when they are with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!!!  
... 20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
 

9/12/22

Lust!
Let's just face it we all lust. In Gen 3 and 1 John 2:16 we see the lust of the flesh being talked about. It is in our flesh as Paul has said. We can lust for acceptance, attention and affection from others. We can lust for food, power and control of others. Many lusts for alcohol, drugs or sex which falls under the affection category. The word covet means to "take for self" or to "desire for selfish reasons"! So, if we are honest with ourselves, we can all say we covet and therefore fail the law, "Thou shall not covet"!
Rom 7:6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. 7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.
Now the law was never given to the gentile, yet it condemns all, as it was an oracle of God given to Israel and the way to God was through Israel therefore all mankind was condemned.
BUT NOW we who are saved are not under law, but grace and we serve in the newness of the spirit and not after the letter of the law. By Christ death on the cross He has taken the punishment for our sin and by His resurrection He has conquered death and by faith we have that life in us since we have trusted in Him.
So, we do not walk by the letter of the law but rather by the Spirit within us. Trying to walk by the law will only condemn you even more for the law does not give life! No one can "do" the law for if you fail in one you failed in all. And since we all lust in some way you did not "do" the law. So then...
Gal 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
PS. Here are just a few things under the categories of lust.
Acceptance: men pleasing in any way, because of fear of rejection or failure and doing whatever it takes to have peace or friends....  
Attention: talking to much or not talking at all, sinning so people give you attention. making jokes and being the center of attention....
Affection: ALL sexual things outside of marriage, heterosexual, homosexual.... seeking affection from spouse for self vs giving love to the spouse.
Appreciation/adoration: Wanting a pat on the back for doing things. seeking a comment or praise for things you do or your position. Seeking love, respect and honor by words in public or home.
 

9/9/22

KING!
The news that the Queen of England has died and now her son is the new king. While we may have empathy for them as humans and a family who have lost their mother and grandmother, we do want to keep things in perspective. We do not have a king or queen here in the U.S neither are we under any monarchy system, thank goodness.
But even more important than that for Christians is that we already have a King. Jesus Christ is our King and our Lord!  
1Ti 6:14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
Now I know some Pauline, mid-Acts, grace believers will argue this point. Thay will say gentiles never had a king nor a kingdom, but Paul clearly states here in Timothy that Christ is above all and the minister over all authority!
Saying this does not take away from the mystery message nor does it change anything it simply is saying that Christ is above all man-made monarchs and kings!
Praise the Lord Jesus Christ today and give Him the respect and love that a rightful King deserves!

 

9/8/22

That form of doctrine!
Understanding right doctrine is so very important. Paul says in Romans 6 that they "obeyed that form of doctrine which was delivered you"!
Rom 6:17 "But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you".
Now I always say to get the big picture first then get more details. If you start off wrong, you will end up wrong so start with the right doctrine which is Grace! The doctrine of Grace is the big picture not Jesus! Now that may sound wrong at first, but we need to remember that Jesus first came to the circumcision. His earthly and first mission was to Israel, not gentiles. So, if someone was to say Jesus they could be talking under law and that would be the wrong place to start.
Then Paul tells us in Romans That we are free from sin and servants of righteousness! In other words, we are no longer slaves to sin but can make a choice not to sin. We are saved and have "Life" in us and therefore we choose who we are going to serve. Will we serve ourselves or Christ! Will we serve "uncleanness and iniquity" or righteousness unto holiness"! Our choice but we are free to do what we want!
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
Yield and Choose righteousness by starting in the right doctrine and thinking! After all God's grace brought salvation and teaches us to say NO to sin and YES TO HIM!
Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

 

9/6/22

NO LAW, NO SIN?
I consistently hear some believers say that since we are under grace and Jesus was the fulfillment of the law and since there is no law for us today, we do not sin, and then they quote this verse!
Rom 4:15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.
NO LAW, NO SIN, they say...
Well, that is just false doctrine and an excuse to be irresponsible with scripture and self-reflection.
Paul says in Romans 5 that there was sin before the law, but it was not imputed or understood as sin because it was not known. This is one of the reasons for the law to begin with.
Rom 5:13-14 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
Sin being death, was from Adam to Moses which was before the law. Now then we see that Paul's says that the law made the offence known and abound but after grace has come, grace abounded even more.
Rom 5:20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Grace did not take sin away per say but gives the freedom of choice instead of bondage to sin. You see Paul goes onto say here in Rom 6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
You see we can still sin....and we are not to yield to sin, but we still "do" sin!
... 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
And again, Paul goes onto say
... 15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
You see salvation by grace and accessed by faith takes away the old man, but not the flesh. The flesh can still resemble the old man, but it is not the old man.
Rom 6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
Here what Paul says in Gal 5:16 "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law".
Walk by the Spirit and you will automatically not sin. If you focus on NOT sinning, you will sin!
Be honest with yourself and don't be blind to your own sin but just admit it, renew your mind and walk by faith!

 

9/5/22

Knowledge vs Faith and The Rise and Fall of Israel!
Now that is a long title, but it shows us some big things!
We see that Israel always had the advantage. They always knew about God compared to the gentile world. They had the oracles of God. Rom 3:1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? 2 Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.
and the adoption, glory and the covenants! They had the Law, service and promises given to them also. They had all this knowledge and responsibility that the gentile never had.
Rom 9:4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;
But they went about it all wrong and tried to establish their own righteousness by their works.
Rom 10:1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. 2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
Then came the fall and the diminishing of the nation unto God!  
Rom 11:11 I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. 12 Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?
But that fall also was a thing that God used to bless you and me. Through that fall God now extends grace to the gentile world. Salvation by grace through faith without law, works or Temple worship. It just goes to show us that you can know a lot and have no faith. As so many Christian leaders fail and fall in their great knowledge and theology because of their lack of faith, the simple faith of a child in A GREAT GOD!
Degrees and knowledge do not give you faith and in fact even bring pride just as it did in the nation of Israel! Remember their failure and fall and don't make the same mistake they did for it can be devastating. Put your faith in Christ not in your knowledge or degrees!

 

9/2/22

Differences that matter!
After the rapture and throughout the tribulation these saints will need encouragement. James says this
James 4:9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
He is saying knock off the fighting and arrogant attitudes. You are lusting and want your way instead of following the Messiah. You are Prideful so humble yourself and draw near to God! They will be constantly under pressure to follow the world's system of the time instead of Jesus the Messiah. They will have to work hard to not go back into the unfaithful traditions that led them astray to begin with.
BUT notice Paul's words in Philippians, Rejoice!!!  
Phl 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. 5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
These words are to the church today and we are in Christ in the Heavenly places. We already have everything we need, and we have forgiveness and reconciliation with God. We have all the heavenly blessings, and we are saved, sealed and secure in Christ! We have peace so we do not need to be anxious or worry about our future.
SO, SAINTS, REJOICE!!!
 

9/1/22

They are without excuse!
Rom 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
Wow, the wrath of God is scary, and to have that come upon you would be horrible. Thank goodness no believer today will have to face that. We will not go through that tribulation period nor face that wrath when God pours it out, for we will be taken up as 1 Thes 4:17 says.
But in these verses, there is another great piece of info, that piece being that man is without excuse. God has manifested himself to ALL men. In other words, all men can see that there is a God by the things that are made. By the sky, trees and other things. They can see that there is a God from their thoughts and intelligence compared to the animals which also show there is a God. They can sense spiritual things going on and even desire to know spiritual things. He has revealed Himself to All mankind in some way and we are without excuse!
Now if man is without excuse and knows that there is a God tells us that God wanted to save them to begin with and two, man has the ability to resist OR accept by faith!
This completely blows the Calvinist doctrine away because they believe man can NOT resist!!! If God wants to save someone then they will be saved regardless of if they believe or not!
BUT scripture says otherwise,
Act 7:51 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.
Rom 13:2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
2Ti 3:8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
Man has the ability to resist the truth, ordinances of God and the Holy Spirit
Don't buy into this reformed Calvinist doctrine as it is a false doctrine! What does your church teach?

 

8/31/22

Saved by Faith!
Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Throughout the bible God's says, "I will save you"! God saves man and "IT" salvation is the gift of God! God does not need to save us, but He desires to save us. Now He saves when man receives by faith into what He has offered. At one time it was offered by faith and in following the law, BUT NOW it is by grace and without works. His grace is the offering of being saved by faith in the works of Christ! Grace is the offering of salvation without doing works, but by faith alone!
This verse is often misused and easily twisted and changed to give the meaning, God saved us FIRST by His grace and "then" gives the person faith! This is not true, and false doctrine.
Grace is God's hand extending from heaven and we must grab onto it, in order to be saved!
Have a great day in the Lord and remember to walk by faith not by sight!
 

8/30/22

We are raised up, so we can walk in newness of life!
The believer is identified with the death of Christ on the cross. We are to believe and know that we have died just as Jesus died. We have been buried just as He was buried and raised just as He was resurrected.  
Rom 6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
This is the identity issue we go through when we are saved. This is how we are free from the bondage of sin. This how we should live and why it is so important that we understand the sin issue as well as the living issue for today. YES, we died but now we are alive in Christ!
Just think about being dead for just a few minutes in the hospital. The Doctor pronounced you dead and the sheet goes over your face but then wait, the nurse yells "DOCTOR, HE'S ALIVE!!! You would say "Praise God, Thank you Jesus, and I am going to live everyday like it is my last day for Christ"!!!
This how we should feel everyday saints. You are no longer in chains and in bondage to death but are released to live and LIVE IN CHRIST!

 

8/29/22

Schools today!
Schools are starting back up in most of the country. Dorms are being filled with kids going back to college. Sadly, the ones that call themselves "Christian" colleges are not "Christian"! They claim this but their curriculum is secular. Their thinking is worldly and just like every other state secular school. I once was talking to a pastor that went to a Christian college about counseling, and he asked me "do you do biblical or psychological counseling"? I said "biblical of course", and he said he did "psychological", and he was a pastor!!!! WOW, you can imagine how shocked I was, and this was a Baptist church and pastor which promoted a certain "Christian college" here in Arizona!
The modern school system is so messed up and politically influenced that it is scary. They put emphases on things that shouldn't and degrade the ones that should be emphasized. They are teaching kids what to think instead of "how" to think! They are secular, evil and sadly most parents will support them because they too were brought up in this system.
I am always encouraged by this verse in scripture that says Act 4:13 "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus".
These men were unlearned meaning uneducated per say but these men were not dumb or stupid. Now these men turned the world upside down forever. Act 17:6 "And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also".
These men knew what they believed and taught with confidence and that did not come from a state school. They did not have a diploma that said "BA, AA or Masters nor Dr."! Oh No these guys were taught by the river, in the park and wherever they walked constantly! They were trained through bad circumstances and discipled one on one.
Parents should be careful and alert to what their kids are being taught as well as correct unbiblical thinking. If possible, I encourage homeschooling and not the homeschooling off of the internet, 90% should be face to face, if possible.
Degrees mean you passed a course and have knowledge of something, but we look for transformation from within and eternal!

 

8/26/22

Unworthiness!!!
Sometimes folks are so self-centered that they won't accept help. They think they are unworthy and need to be self-righteous by their own works. They can't receive because they are busy in their minds and trying to control every move they make. Paul says this to the Jews in Acts 13:46 "Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles".
They "judged themselves"... in other words they rejected the gospel and the Messiah and will forever be dead and in hell. Now some may say "well they were just confused or vulnerable or weak" and perhaps that is true but either way they rejected JESUS!
We can be overtly or covertly rebellious, but it is still rebellion. Overtly is openly saying "NO" or showing rebellion, while covertly is not showing it and hiding behind something but it is still rebellion.
When our time comes to die and see Jesus it won't matter "why" someone rejected Christ it only matters that they did!

 

8/25/22

Accountable!
Are we as Christians accountable to men or just God? Many saints believe that they are only accountable to God. They think that they only answer to God and as far as salvation is concerned that is true but there is more to the Christian life than just being born! We then have to live and grow up just like humans do in this world. While we are ultimately held accountable to God for eternity, we are held to account in this present life by man also.
All through the bible we see man answering to God but also to men. To authority and we too have authority. Look what Paul says in Rom 13:1 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. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
Paul is driving at the fact that there is authority, and we are to respect it even if we don't agree with it. Now of course there are different types and positions of authority, and we need to be willing to discern but the point is that we don't dismiss man completely.
In Corinthians Paul tells the church "Not to keep company" with or to "put away" brothers who sin willingly and won't repent!
1Co 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore, put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
We not only are to be held accountable, but we are to "judge" righteously. We are to look into the hearts and motives and discern with GREAT patience and LOVE yet "judge" none the less. Yes, we will mess up and yes, we will sometimes be overbearing and make mistakes just like parents do but we are still to parent, aren't we?
I might say that those saints who stay at home and say I don't need to go to church and listen or be around others are the very ones who need discipline and love. They are the ones who need help, but also need to be held accountable too!

 

8/24/22

Sin Not!
In the church today we have in general 3 groups of preachers and churches. Those that over emphasis sin to the point that they really have nothing good to say and are always bashing folks. Then there are the ones who seem to never talk about sin and always talking about prosperity and things without any discipline or caution. And lastly, we grace folks who try to do both but tend to emphasis walking after the Spirit and sometimes pushing away from the sin part.
I too will say and do believe that the bible says to walk by the Spirit, and you will not sin!
Gal 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
But at times as in 1Co 15:33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.
We need to just say it, "Sin Not"! As grace believers we need to understand that while we all sin never is it a license to sin, or ok to sin. Now is sin paid for yes in fact notice it says first "Awake to righteousness"!!! Be alert and awake to righteousness and then sin not. Don't be deceived it says into thinking it is just one and not the other. Any one of us can fall into sin so we have to be mindful and awake or else our senses become dull and not discerning our flesh. The more we walk by the Spirit and awake to righteousness we can see the flesh and self-centeredness.
So don't be deceived, Awake to Righteousness and sin not!!!
 

8/23/22

Some things never change!
In Acts 22 we see Paul describing what The Lord Jesus Christ said Annias said to him. That he was that chosen vessel and a witness for Christ to all men.
Act 22:14 "And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. 15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard".
Then in verse 18 we read Jesus telling Paul to get out of Jerusalem, because the Jews will not receive his testimony and teachings. Act 22:18 "And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me".
Then in 21 "And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles. 22 And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live".
He was commissioned to go to the gentiles. Now no one from the 12 Apostles were given that command. No one else was told by Christ to do that. Yes, some heard it from Paul but no one else heard it from Jesus Christ Himself.
Now my point is this that not only did the Jews reject Paul's teaching and unique ministry so do Christians today! Many saints still reject his teachings and words. Many will say that he is just "another" Apostle and not above the others especially Peter, but he was. Not above as in a better person but better in the fact that he had seen and heard from Jesus Himself and was held responsible for the doctrine today. He had the unique Apostleship to the gentiles and the understanding of the mystery and grace of God to us today!
You would do yourself good to over emphasis Paul's books in your daily study and understand the revelation of the mystery and the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ!

 

8/22/22

What are you Zealous for law or grace?
The church today is called the Body of Christ and is under grace! Yet many still struggle with knowing the difference between law and grace and the different churches in Acts! Now church just means "a called-out assembly"!  And as I have said before the book of Acts is a transitional book. It deals with the nation of Israel and then transitions to the gentiles, and then from Peter to Paul and from Law to grace! Let's read in Acts how the Jews received the news of the gentiles being saved but mostly their reaction to Jews being saved!!!
(Notice this is Chapter 21 some time had passed here)
Act 21:19 And when he (Paul) had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry. 20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:
You see they were zealous for the law yet believed! They kept their customs and followed the law yet had faith in their Messiah, Jesus Christ!
AND then notice how Jews felt about Paul when it came to the Jews not following the law!
21 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.
They thought he was telling Jews to not follow the law and customs of the law. You see even though believers today think that the church was all about grace with no law or Israel from Acts 1 it was! That means this church at the Temple is different! This assembly was made up of called out Jews or proselytes who were under and followed the law and were even Zealous for it!
Now let's look at Gal 2:7 "But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; 8 (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) 9 And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision".
Paul was saying that there are 2 gospels one to the circumcision and one to the uncircumcision, meaning one followed law and the other didn't! One was under grace and the other under law! Both saved by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ yet different!
TODAY!
"BUT NOW" we all are under grace, and we all come to Christ the same way.  There was a transition from that Messianic Temple church to the church called The Body of Christ and it is under grace! Don't be confused by not recognizing the difference in doctrine and living! Study but don't over emphasize the Old Covenant books and Law nor the gospels Matthew-John or Hebrews -Revelations but read them in context to whom they are for and under! Concentrate on Paul's grace books written to us today the church in Romans-Philemon!
Be zealous as those Jews were for the law BUT UNDER GRACE!!!

 

8/20/22

Faithful followers follow...!
I like this verse in Acts to describe how repentance (meaning a change of mind) toward God by having Faith toward Christ!
Act 20:21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
You cannot follow God if you don't follow Christ! You must have faith that Jesus is who He said He was! He is the Son of God and the one who died for the sins of the world! God says to follow and believe in me you must believe in and follow My Son!
So just like following God means following Christ, Christ said follow Paul! Paul was the one Christ spoke through! Paul is the prophet to whom Christ is using today! Now don't get me wrong Paul is not a reincarnate Christ but rather the spokesman and leader of the church today. The Apostle for us today, who wrote the doctrine for today! It all comes down from Christ to Paul!
Act 9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.
Now in order to introduce the "grace" message God saved the enemy of Christ! And made him the Apostle and author of the church letters and doctrine! Therefore, Jesus tells Paul to us to follow Paul! Follow Paul's doctrine, thinking and pattern!  
1Co 4:16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.
1Co 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
SO THAT WE WILL BE...
Eph 5:1 .... followers of God, as dear children.

 

8/19/22

Following Paul is following Christ!
1Co 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.
I often have people argue about following Paul vs Christ! They say, "I follow Jesus not Paul"! As if by saying that they are more Spiritual, as Paul was just a man and Christ is the one, we worship. Now that is true, we don't worship Paul, but we do worship Jesus and "do" what He says. If Jesus told us to follow Apollos or Timothy or anyone else, I would because He said to, He is the authority.
Now God sent Moses and other prophets to Israel, and they were told to follow them. And God sent John the Baptist and they were told to listen to him as he pointed toward Jesus the Messiah who had come!
And now today he chose Paul, and we are to follow Paul's writings and ordinances. Now you have heard me say that there are no ordinances to "do" in the church today. And that those ordnances are things we can see, touch or taste! But the ordinances that Paul is talking about is the ones you can't see, touch or taste. They are ones that edify one another!
Rom 14:19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
1Co 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
AND  
1Th 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
Edifying, encouraging and building one another's faith up is what is needed today. It is not "doing" more or the "next steps" that are important but the heart, love and building up each other's faith that is important. So, follow Paul and you will be following Jesus and not caught up in the shadows and beggarly things.

 

8/18/22

Heretic!
A heretic is someone who follows or teaches false doctrine. I have been accused of this as well as most bible teachers have at some point in time. It is easy to point to someone's different beliefs than ours and then call them a heretic!
Tit 3:10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; 11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
But calling someone names just because they teach different views can be manipulation and hatred. It can be away to control, shame and demand our personal standards.
Now there are certain standards of the bible that are "a must" and important and cannot be ignored or changed. There is no getting around the belief of salvation by faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. That He was the propitiation for the wrath of God and man's sins, as well as the reconciling of God to man.
But there are some things that are not as crucial as that. Now I believe we have no ordinances in the church today. No extra things added as some churches call "next steps"! But some churches will teach extra things like water baptism, foot washings or communion/eucharist and other things.
Rom 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. 2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
Rom 15:1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
Now I would say these are not necessary and can keep you in bondage, but I would not call someone a heretic if they did them nor would I say they are not saved either. I might say they are taught wrong, hanging onto law or immature and weak in faith, but not a heretic! The Corinthian church is great example of how a church can be so off, yet Paul still calls them saved, sanctified saints!
We need to be careful and not call people names or accuse others and manipulate so we get our way and can then exclude them! No matter what the situation calling someone a name is not acceptable as believers and calling someone a heretic should be reserved for those who truly teach false doctrine!

 

8/17/22

Beware!
There seems to be so much going on in this day and age of the internet! Things can go around the world in seconds and even be made up to hurt someone's reputation. It is to bring down someone or to get juicy gossip.
But we need to beware of this! Paul says in Phl 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.This means to be aware of those who oppose Christ and have no morals. Or those who want to put us back under the Law and back under bondage. Even in the church today we see so many preaching law!
On one hand we need to know that there are some truths that come from the internet! We have to be discerning, and question things and think about it for a little while.
We also need to remember that our problem is not with flesh and blood but the spiritual things that are invading the hearts and minds of the world. Paul says this in
Eph 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
So, beware of what you read and see! Beware but do not fear! Beware but be faithful! Beware of those who talk grace but live law! BEWARE SAINTS!!!

 

8/16/22

Knowing God and making Him known!
This saying is popular by some pastors and churches. Nothing wrong with the saying if it is understood for the right reasons but it may not be.
You see you can "know about" someone but not know them. For instance, a person engaged to another can know about the other person. They can even live and have slept together without being married but that does not make them married! The difference between "knowing" God and being" married" to Him is the giving of oneself completely by faith!!!!
The problem with many marriages is that they give just enough to be legally married you might say but are still very selfish! Well, the same with Christians who come to "know" about Christ, but they don't give themselves to Christ they just "know about" Him! There is no commitment that is outside of their control. If not married, they control the relationship but if legally married the law confirms the marriage and therefore a legal commitment is there.
Commitment is very important, and I believe the reason why there are so many "luke-warm" believers are that they are not believers at all!
Rom 7:4 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.
 

8/15/22

Are All sinners the same?
  We are all born sinners! We are not sinners because we sin, but we are sinners therefore we sin! Yet we are all sinners just the same, so from that view point we could say Yes, all sinners are the same!
Yet Christ treated these sinners differently, and so should we. Too often I hear saints say, "well we are all sinners, so leave them alone". Or "who are we to judge we are all sinners"! But Jesus as well as Paul told us to judge and judge righteously!
Let's look at some examples from Jesus earthly ministry to Israel. The women caught in adultery and by law could have been stoned! They were getting ready to stone her when Jesus said "...he that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone"...!!!
John 8:3 And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, 4 They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? ... 7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. ... 10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? 11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
You see Jesus knew their hearts, but He also knew hers. He knew that her potential would be faithful to him. He showed compassion to her for he knew why she had committed this sin. Now adultery is sin, in fact we might say a "big one" if there was such a thing which there is not. But this was no little white lie oh no this was sexual, but Jesus loved her, and she was faithful.
Now contrast that with the Pharisees! Look how He handles them and if there was anyone that kept the "law" better than others it was a Pharisee!
Mat 23:24 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. 25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
AND
27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. 28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
You see they were good at keeping law and religious things and looking good on the outside but inside they were hypocrites and dead!  Their hearts were hard and callous and unbelieving! They are still sinners like the women caught in adultery, but her heart was ready and soften, humble and ready to receive, or Jesus would not have allowed her to be saved! But the pharisees were just religious and need to be confronted harshly! They needed to be condemned and spanked you might say!
So, while all sinners sin NOT all sinners are alike. We need to be able to discern and see who is able to receive and who is not! Who has a hard, unbelieving and rebellious heart and who truly is seeking help and the Lord!
Be aware of your audience saints and keep on sharing the gospel of grace that saves!!!

 

8/12/22

Babes in Christ can be arrogant!!!
Just like children who when they first learn something think they are the only ones who know how to do it so are babes in Christ. So many are arrogant, prideful and downright rebellious! They act like spoiled brats demanding their way. They tend to stay on the "one horse and pony show". That means the same answer for everything and the same topic over and over and over!!! They have NO discernment and cannot discern good and evil or right from wrong. They cannot give latitude for they still walk by law, THEIR LAW!!!
The author of Hebrews says this
Heb 5:11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
You see babes still drink milk. Now milk is food right. It still is something to eat and nourishment, but it is not meat! It is not mature food you might say but baby food! So are those who learn to "rightly divide" doctrine but cannot discern their own feelings or respect others or know how to love! They cannot recognize their own thoughts and feelings well known others, and worse they don't care too either. They cannot stop preaching long enough to discern "how" to minster to a person the right way they can only complain, correct or rebel! They can't follow the discussion or post because they are so involved in their own thoughts and riding that one horse and pony"!!!
Yes, we need to speak truth and yes, we need to know doctrine, but we also need to discern how to "live" out that doctrine not just preach it! IF all you can do is preach it and don't live it you have become a "NOISY GONG"!!!
1Co 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, (GONG) or a tinkling cymbal.

 

8/11/22

Reconciliation!
I have found over the years that most Christians do not know or should I say do not practice reconciliation. They know it should be done because the pastor teaches it, but they don't do it. They cannot admit their wrong nor do they care if they offend someone. Generally, I find it in those who know "right doctrine" and that is ALL they care about. They talk a lot about what the bible says but they don't live it.
EXTENDING!
The bible talks a lot about extending forgiveness. In other words, we are to forgive always. We are to forgive our enemy's and those that offend or hurt us. Paul says this Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
AND
Col 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
Now some of you will think or say something like this and trying to quote Jesus from Matthew. "If you don't forgive you will not be forgiven", which was not to us and was written in Christ earthly ministry to Israel before the cross work of Christ and not to gentiles. But after that work and the Body of Christ is formed and gentiles are saved by faith, we see that we have been forgiven therefore we CAN forgive. It is not a "IF" you forgive, you are forgiven so extend forgiveness by going to God and thanking Him for forgiving you and then say, "I choose to forgive so and so for...."! All forgiveness needs to go to God because He is the judge of all!
SEEKING!
Seeking forgiveness is something I find most believers don't do. In fact, I think that many non-Christians do it more than many Christians sadly. I have heard many believers including pastors say after being told that they have offending someone say this "I am sorry that you feel that way" and put all the responsibility on the one who was offended. How many men/husbands and pastors would say to your wife who you know you have offended and say, "I am sorry you feel that way". Your wife would either blow up, kill you or die!!!
THAT is not seeking forgiveness!!! AND it is defending your actions and words instead of seeing what you did wrong. It is self-focused instead of other focused. It is not reconciling but BLAMING!
We should seek forgiveness every time someone is offended. Even when sharing the gospel, we can offend by HOW we say it. We need to check "HOW" we say things just as much as what we said. Here is an example, "I LOVE YOU" harshly and angrily said... verses "I love you" gently and genuinely said. Both only say I love you but HOW the first one is said is different and that is what we need to seek forgiveness for!!
Here is a good verse from the Old Covenant in Matthew
Mat 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
The gift today could be associated with what some think as doctrine. In other word believers think "only" about doctrine instead of the people. The gift or religious things is not as important as being reconciled!!!  That is not to say that doctrine is not important because it is, but we have to put in balance and perspective. We need to love and live out doctrine not just preach it! We need to "love" in relationships not just make "doctrinal law"!
Paul also says this in Rom 14:19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
Go and seek forgiveness by saying "I was wrong for .... will you forgive me"? Sometimes it for speaking harshly as I find this is what I do with Robin. I may be right in "what" I said but I was wrong in "how" I said it. I was harsh and it crushed her!
Learn to reconcile daily and keep the unity of peace and love!

 

8/10/22

Women, Wives and the Word!
I recently heard that Serna Williams the tennis star was going to retire. She said she wanted to focus on her business and family. She has a young daughter and I applaud her for desiring to do that for her, but she also said this. "If I was a man I would not need to retire and could focus on tennis and keep working".
So, this got me to thinking about what the bible says. The Word is our manual for life! The Word always has the right answer for ALL things.
God's word says there are certain roles for men and women. There are different responsibilities and different functions for both, and neither are below the other. Paul tells Titus in Tit 2:3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; 4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
While sports can be good it can also take women out of the role they were designed to do. We see this in many women sports, like the WNBA and the Pro golf as well as tennis. They have taken on masculine roles and have perverted God's true intentions. Romans 1:20-32 has much to say about this.
You see when men or women don't do what God says to do what happens is the "Word of God is blasphemed"!!! And that is exactly what has happened in the world today, and not only in the world but among the church as well! Blasphemed means "to revile, defame and go against and to call evil". Can you imagine the word of God being called evil, but this is what is said by many in and out of the church, that it is old fashioned and is not relative anymore!
A housewife who takes care of the home and loves her husband and children and does it ALL to bring Glory to God is to be valued more than anything in my mind and I also believe it touches God's heart too!!!
Learn to value God's word and your role in His Body!

 

8/9/22

The Glory of God!!!
My favorite and life verse if I was to say I had one would be this one!
2Co 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
It is saying that all things I do when sharing the gospel are for others and that the grace you receive from the gospel of Christ will bring thankfulness and glory to God!
I hope that is something you would desire also. I also want to point out that everything we do is to bring Glory to God! And the way we do that is to confess Jesus as Lord! You see when we are saved it is because we believe in Jesus's death, burial and resurrection and we have submitted to Him as our Lord and savior. We recognize that He is who He said He was and that is the Son of God! We are admitting that He is the supreme authority and sovereign Lord!
Now we who are saved are saying Jesus Christ is Lord, but everyone saved or not will someday, and when that happens it will bring GLORY TO GOD!!! Phil 2:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Be thankful and praise the Lord Jesus Christ and God the Father will be well pleased!!!  

 

8/8/22

Charismatic!
I have been accused on occasion of not teaching the whole gospel! The whole gospel to some means speaking in tongues and probably other things but depending on the situation I just let it go. But let me try to say in a very short devotion why I don't teach charismatic and sign gifts today.
First let's read from 1Co 13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
Paul has just said that Charity is the main focus in chapter 13 and then says that when that which is perfect has come meaning the "Word" of God then there is no need for these things. Let's read verse 8, 1Co 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
.... Tongues shall cease...! You see at the time they were necessary as signs to Unbelievers, but no longer are they...
Read this 1 Cor 14:22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
They are a "sign" to Unbelievers so they could prove and share the Word of God!!! But as time went on, they did not believe even with signs, and 2 they missed the cross work by focusing on the "super spiritual" manifestations and 3 the "Word" of God was complete!!!
And to add which is one of my biggest problems with those who say they speak in tongues is this 1Co 14:4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
They edify themselves!!! In other words, most and I could say "all" but anyway are trying to build up themselves and doing it in public to begin with. It is not to be used to edify self but for unbelievers! You see the focus is on self!!!! I have never meant one who is not trying to "be' and "look" super spiritual. I have never meant one who is not still trying to "get to" God verses knowing He is "IN THEM" already!
Then Paul says in 1 Cor 14:19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
I would rather speak "5 WORDS" in a known tongue to "TEACH" others!!!! This the key to it all. It is not building up yourself but rather edify the church! Buildup, encourage and teach the Body of Christ!!! Tongues is "self" promotion, Teaching is other promotion!!! Learn to edify the body not yourself!
There is a difference in having charisma and being charismatic. One is to edify and influence others to come to the cross the other is self-centered and takes people away from the cross of Christ!!!

 

8/5/22

Give up control!
While getting another round of chemo I am always reminded that I can't do anything about somethings and to give up control. I submit to the nurses and Dr.'s as they stick needles and things into me. Yes, it hurts but it is what is necessary to get rid of the cancer within. I also don't know anything about the body at least to the point of healing it. Now Doctors and nurses know the right meds and things to help us get better. I don't know what they are talking about most of the time so then I have to trust them. Now we have all heard of someone dying from bad meds or something that went wrong but 99% of the time they know what they are doing and are safe about it.
Some people control with brute force while others with words. They talk you to death and usually about themselves.  Some control out of being weird or scaring others or they control the atmosphere. In other words, they control were you meet, like their house always. They have to drive all the time or whatever.  
We overtly give up control when we need too and in certain situations, but we need to do that in all of life and do it daily! The word say's 1Ti 6:7 "For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out".
Clearly, we don't control anything!

 

8/4/22

Latin!
Some protestant believers have a hard time with Latin! They think of the Catholic church and have a bitter taste in their mouth, but Latin was a language used back in the day. It was the international common language like English is today.
Many think Saul changed his name to Paul to be a more Greek name, but it is Latin also.
Act 13:9 Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,
One of the words that often causes problems with saints is the word Rapture which is Latin for "caught up"! They deny the Rapture because the word is not in the bible, but you can see from other verses that the word "caught up is used and while again not using the word Rapture it has the same Latin meaning "to catch, take or pull away"!
!2Co 12:2 I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) 4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
The words "caught up" in 2 Cor is the same as here in1Th 4:17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
...in which we get the word Rapture from.
We don't have to say things are not real just because the bible does not use certain language that we are use too. Latin was a language used in that day just like Greek, Hebrew and Aramaic were all different languages used throughout the bible.  

 

8/3/22

THE WRATH OF GOD!!!
As I found out lately by a post on my Facebook page, that people have some strong opinions about the Rapture. Sadly, those that disagree with these strong opinions are usually those with weak faith and fleshly sinful attitudes which results in nasty sarcastic comments instead of just disagreeing. But non the less I thought this would be a time for a short devotional as I always do. Now in these devotionals they are kept short on purpose and cannot cover every bible verse or doctrine completely but hopefully they help and edify.
Now God's wrath is real and thank Jesus for giving us the way to be reconciled to God. But the wrath to come is still real.
Rom 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
Rom 2:5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
Eph 5:6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
That wrath will be in the Ages to Come dispensation and it will not be fun!
BUT for those of the church today we see that we are saved from that wrath to come.
1Th 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so, shall we ever be with the Lord.
Notice it says to meet in the air not on the earth. The church is taken up to meet Him which is different than Jesus's 2nd coming when He comes to set up His earthly Kingdom!
Now notice in these verses that we are delivered from the wrath to come!!!!
1Th 1:10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.
1Th 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
You see there is a Rapture (which is just Latin for "caught up"), for the church, and we are saved from the wrath to come in those end times. Some may scoff or laugh at the idea but that is exactly what many did when told of Jesus Christ and when He ascended into heaven in Acts 1:9-10

 

8/2/22

Praying for you!
Every day in our living room, Robin and I do our separate reading time and then come together and read. We read through the bible and mostly Paul's epistles and we also pray for you all!  
1Th 5:17 Pray without ceasing.
We pray that you will continue to be faithful and grow in grace. We pray that you will be walking by faith and knowing His Great Love for you! We want you to keep your mind and heart on the heavenly vision. We pray for your physical and financial needs as well as your family, friends and church needs. We pray for the lost and for the government to be a Christian nation and to have Godly, righteous standards.
Eph 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
I ask that you continue to pray for us as well. For our spiritual, mental and emotional needs and weaknesses. For financial, physical and ministry needs. That we would be able to keep sharing the Word of God boldly and without hinderance. That we would also be faithful in all that we do. Pray for our bibles studies and counseling friends who come to learn and to be free in Christ!
Please keep praying without ceasing for us, yourself and others and always remember to:
1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

 

8/1/22

SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD!
In this perverse world it is hard not to be "murmuring"! We want to complain about our government and things that go on in Washington. We complain about the gas and economic situation. We gripe about this person or that person and we never seem satisfied in something without complaining.
Paul tells us to stop this and to walk by faith because that is the only way we will be blameless, harmless sons of God.  In this "crooked and perverse world we need to be the "light that shines"!!!
Phil 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
The light that shines and brings Christ to this lost world. We are to let folks know that this world is only a small part of eternity. That this earthly life is short and that we should keep our eyes on eternal things. We should know where we are going after death and to not be afraid of death for heaven will be a step up from this life.
STOP complaining, griping and fighting the things you can't change and start living and walking in Christ!  

 

7/29/22

Britney Griner, Russia and Law!
Do I think that Russia is taking advantage of the situation, YES! But do I think that Brittney Griner the professional basketball play that is in jail for breaking Russian law is in the wrong, YES!
You see the U.S is not the only country in the world, and they have laws too! We need to know the laws of the land we are visiting. It is not only wrong but also disrespectful!!!!
Now this can also be used as a teachable moment not only for the practical but for the Spiritual.
While we do not live in Russia it would be good to know the laws especially if we are traveling there, YET always remember that we don't live there. We live in the USA and have different laws. Things are different here and we live "UNDER" a different system.
As Christians we live "UNDER" a different system too! As Christians we live "UNDER GRACE"!!!! While it is good to know the laws that are under the Old Covenant given to Israel, we do not live under that system. In other words, we don't look "first" at the law before we "do" anything we look at Christ! We don't "DO" works to be accepted by God, we "ARE" accepted by God through Jesus Christ! While the law can be away of condemning someone to know right from wrong it does not save nor give life, it only condemns!
Rom 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
Eph 2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
So, remember where you live and what you are under and to whom you belong too!!!!
7/28/22

Avoid Them!
Believers have a hard time separating themselves from others unless they get really mad or dislike someone which is the wrong way to separate to begin with. That is not the biblical reason to separate from someone.
But none the less some may separate for the right reasons, but it is usually due to some aggreges sin, or lifestyle. Now that is not wrong, but it is not the only reason to separate and avoid someone.
Paul says in Rom 16:17 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple".
We are to avoid those who do not listen and are hard hearted toward the gospel of grace. Now I want to emphasize that the gospel of grace is not Reformed/Calvinism theology nor is it Grace plus works or grace plus anything!!!!
It is the Grace message given to Paul and it is in the Mystery program. Paul's books alone hold the grace message for today. All others are in the prophecy, Israel and Kingdom program. It is the gospel by faith and faith alone. It is by faith in the death burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ alone without anything else.
Notice Paul says these that follow some other doctrine, are not serving Jesus but their own belly meaning self-centered! They may have spiritual words and try to look spiritual and wise, but they are not! They may be charismatic, speak in tongues or say "hallelujah" a lot but that does not mean they are faithful to the grace doctrine.
Don't be fooled by someone who "sounds" faithful what do they believe and teach is what is important!!!
7/27/22

God the Father and Jesus the Son!
In John it says that John 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
and then in John1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
... 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
If God is Spirit and the Word was God and Jesus is the Word, then doesn't that make Jesus Spirit and God! Now before you hang me let's think about this. We know they are one John 10:30 "I and my Father are one".
AND Phil 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
But not only in form but the exact Image of God!
2Co 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Col 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
Heb 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
And Jesus Himself says in John 14:9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?
They had seen the Father because they had seen Jesus! Think about that!
Now in Colossians we have the peak and understanding of "who" Jesus is:
Col 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 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: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
Not only the image of God but the creator!!! All things are created BY Him and FOR Him!!! He was before ALL things and ALL things consist BY Him! So, Jesus is God as well as His son!
So let me close and say this,
The WORD, who is Jesus and who is God, was also sent by God to reveal God, and He spoke as God and is worthy to be praised and worshiped as God!!!
7/26/22

MY PAGE, MY POST AND MY DECISION!
As most of you know I often post things on Facebook. They may be controversial to you, or you may disagree with them, but it is "My page, My post and My decision" to do with it as I please, just as your page is yours. I would never go to your page and disrespect you even if I disagree with you.
Now you may be saying why am I saying this, well a pastor, yes, I said a pastor that is very strong Calvinist commented on my page and post. He was very blunt, argumentative and disrespectful, as I find many Calvinists are, so I blocked him. I don't allow disrespectful or argumentative people to comment nor am I in the habit of allowing false doctrine or teachers to post on my page.
But then after being blocked he did not stop he went on to send me an email and calling me names. This to me is where I start drawing a line. If a person is so out of control and acting so controlling and demanding that they have to chase you down by any means necessary then they A. need help, B. are sinning, and C. need to be brought under control by authorities!!!
Now for info if anyone continues to chase and harass me, I will get whatever authority is necessary to get you under control and to stop. While doing that I will continue to pray for that person to come to their knees, both in heart and doctrine. While they are hurt, bitter and angry at the world, they still need help!
Lastly if you disagree with me that is your prerogative, but you do not have the right to demand me to agree with you. Let's be civil even in disagreeing.
Rom 13:1 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. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
7/25/22

Ministry vs Education and Accreditation!
I worked on staff for many years at a ministry for biblical Christian counseling. It was a ministry that taught, trained and discipled others to counsel. This was what some may say is "lay" counseling, and there was no charge for those who came for counseling, and it was strictly biblical counseling and not secular counseling.
It was not interested in what would be said today as "higher education or accreditation". Degrees prove nothing as far true transformation or ministry. Many educated folks are just as ignorant as well as prideful in the word!   But this has changed there, and I could not be more disappointed in them. They have lost the vision of the original founders and biblical standards. It has moved from ministry to business. It now charges and is more interested in getting folks "educated" with "Master's and "bachelor's" degrees and accreditation instead of being a ministry that serves God and gives away the gospel of Jesus Christ!
Remember the world was turned upside down by "unlearned and ignorant" men!  
Act 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
It is the gospel that frees people not the philosophies of the world!
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
7/22/22

MY REFUGE!
While Paul is our Apostle and from his books, we receive the gospel of grace, we must always remember that the God of today also was the God of "time past".
So not in doctrine for today but in character and understanding we still get a lot out of the Old Test. Such as this verse.
Jer 16:19 O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction....
God is our Strength and God is our fortress and God is our Refuge!
Paul says in Eph 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
When we are strong in the Lord HIS STRENGTH works through us.
AND CHRIST SAID TO PAUL
2Co 12:9 And he said unto me, "My grace is sufficient for thee": for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
A fortress is like a house which protects us, which we can live in and feel safe in. Paul says this in
2Co 5:1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:
We are safe and protected Spiritually in heaven and we must see and live in that realm. All flesh will die but we that are saved are spiritual beings and need to keep our thoughts there.
A refuge is similar to a fortress and Paul says in
Act 17:27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
Paul was saying that they should seek the Lord and find Him and be saved and then know that we "live in Him and have our being"! This means to find refuge in Christ and have life within.
There are so many verses that tell us to "be in" or "live in" and all of them are saying find strength, fortress and refuge in Christ!
I encourage you to 1Pe 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

 

7/21/22

BURN OUT!
All of us feel a sense of "burnout " occasionally. If you feel it all the time there is a lot more going on but all of us, get tired of normal day to day responsibilities. Sometimes the marriage and parental jobs can be especially demanding. Paul's say this in
Rom 15:32 That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.
Paul needed to be "refreshed"! He needed a break from the work he was doing but even more, he needed the Body of Christ and to be around like-minded folks who would encourage and edify him. Now he would encourage them as well, but he would under better circumstances than he was in. Being around strangers who did not believe and trying to convince them and bring them to Christ can be exhausting. Especially if rocks are being thrown at you!
But Paul also knew this
Phl 2:1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
He knew that the refreshing comes from within and by the Lord. The fellowship with the Spirit and contentment comes from within. Anxiety and fears cause most of the problems so being free from that you can be refreshed.
Take an honest opinion of yourself and just acknowledged that you are struggling and need to be refreshed. Be refreshed mentally and physically by renewing the mind and taking a break from your normal life responsibilities.
7/20/22

The Glory of the Lord in You!!!
As I was reading the word, I came across this verse.  
2Ch 5:14 So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God.
Now this happens to be after they built the house of the Lord, and it was filled with the "GLORY OF THE LORD"!!!
WOW isn't that something. The presence of God was so great they could not minister. The cloud was so great that it filled the house of the Lord.
But you know what, no longer is that house in brick and mortar, but we are that house today! This is what Paul says in  
1Co 3:16 "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Even though that house of old is not here and filled with the Lord, A New house is formed, and you have that same Glory with in you! The GLORY of the LORD IS IN YOU!!!
Spiritually speaking you are that temple, and you have God within you. Think about that same glory and power being in you! Renew your mind daily and remember you are not just another house but a TEMPLE!!!!
7/19/22

Pharisees, Calvinist and Eve!
Pharisees and Calvinist have a lot in common with Eve. They all like to change God's word and twist words. God told Adam not to "EAT" of the tree or else he would die.
Gen 2:16 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: 17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
But Eve says to Satan, "...neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die".
Gen 3:1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
Now she took something that God said and added to it. She set a standard that God had not set. She changed and twisted the words of God and made them stricter!
Now the Pharisees did this too. They took the Law and twisted and made it stricter. They twisted and made a new standard that no one could live up to. They changed the wording, just like Eve had done to mean something God had not said. They made their law an idol and religion.
Calvinists do the same! They have changed and twisted words, so it sounds more spiritual.  They too have made their doctrine into an idol and religion. They take words like "All" and make it say "some". They take words like "predestined" and make it into a whole new doctrine! They like to use the words like "sovereign" for God and then say God created all things even sin! They say God is in control of all things including your sin as well as all other things. They say Christ only died for the elect, when clearly the bible says he died for all over and over. They say that God chose "some" to be saved and others to go to hell before the world began but God's word says that God desired all men to come to Him. But then they would say "if God is sovereign and He wanted all to be saved then all would be saved", which takes out free will and the ability to resist the Holy Spirit. Their words twist the real meanings and change doctrine!
Be aware, just like Eve who changed the world and ushered in sin over a "piece of fruit", these men change God's word to a whole new doctrine and standard!!!
7/18/22

Whatsoever!
Here are some "do's" to do! Paul tells us in verse 17 to do ALL things in the name of the Lord Jesus. In other words, because we are saved, loved and forgiven we too can honor Christ by "doing" these things. Now these things are to be done by faith and by walking by the Spirit, they are not to be done to get acceptance or approval from God or others.
Col 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Paul says  
18 Wives, submit
19 Husbands, love
20 Children, obey  
21 Fathers, provoke not  
22 Servants, obey
When these things are done in faith and by the Spirit, we have been a living sacrifice unto Him. This a part of true worship and service.  
Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
So as Paul says twice "whatsoever" you do, do it heartly unto the Lord Jesus and NOT unto men.
Do it and give Thanks always!!!
....23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
7/15/22

DOING LOVE!!!
Jesus tells His disciples that by doing His commandments it shows who they love. In other words, love is an action here. Now as I have said over and over "God is Love"!!! So by abiding in God's love, they will do God's will!
John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. 11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Now these words were written to that "little flock" of Israel, but they can have the same meaning to us yet differently. In other words, they were to "do love" by "doing" the works they were told to do.
We too show our mind set by our works also. Now our works are not to be shown to be saved nor to get acceptance, but it shows us if we are walking by the Spirit or by our flesh.
The thing that is important to understand is that love has boundaries. Love is righteous and therefore can show us our wickedness.
Let me give you an example, I once was talking with a pastor and his wife. The pastor was having an affair with a woman from church, and he was defending his actions in the name of love and God. "GOD told me it was ok"! WHAT!!! I said! Thats not love and that's not God speaking to you either!
You see this man's work was of the flesh, not by the spirit and certainly not love. It was lust and sinful. You have to be deeply carnal to go that far because he couldn't even see that his thoughts before he ever started were of the flesh. You see it all starts in the mind. Our mind actually has a "work" within it. The first steps any sin starts in the mind not in outward actions. So, our works today begin within and work outward toward works externally.
Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Gal 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
... 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,....
Eph 4:17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
Are you "doing love"? Walk by the Spirit and will be "doing God's Love!!!
7/14/22

STAND FREE AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER!!!
When we are saved and in Christ there is an enormous amount of relief. There is freedom from the worldly pleasure, bondage and habits we had. We can now truly live freely through the Spirit and begin to receive and give.
Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Stand fast in the liberty we have means to always live in the grace we have by faith. Not wanting to live by works or law but by the Spirit. The freedom that is ours's give us the freedom to Love others. It is though we are a parent who knowing more and having the security and responsibility to now take care of our children. We have received life from Jesus Christ and now give that life to others. We care for them and want to encourage them. Building them up in love and faith.  
... 13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
When walk in the Spirit meaning to think and put on mentally the thinking of Christ, we then will not be self-centered but other centered. We will not be lusting for selfish needs but rather giving for the welfare of others and God!
Walk by the Spirit and be free to give to others!
 

7/13/22

What do you lack in your faith?
What do you lack in your faith? We all lack something at different times. We may lack because we doubt or fearful! We may lack because we do not read the word and therefore just muddle through life. We lack sincere genuine faith that manifest into good works. We lack because we are anxious and self-protective and on and on.  
1Th 3:10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?
Paul wanted to help all the churches and perfect that which is lacking. James says this
Jas 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. 5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
You see we lack wisdom because 1. we don't go to God first and 2. because we don't walk by faith through the trial because we don't want to suffer. But if we learn to embrace suffering then we can grow and rest in it. Suffering in some way is just a part of life, and we can fight it or faithfully walk through it.
The pastor's main job is fill what is lacking in another in fact I would go so far as to say this is the Body of Christ main function. To edify means to build up the Body in what is lacking in the Body. Be honest with yourself and see your lack and then help others see their lack and build them up in Christ!
7/12/22

The Law as a school master!
The law is called a schoolmaster and it is to show sin. It only condemns and tells us when we are wrong. Now while the law was given to Israel as such, we gentiles were under Israel as far as knowing God. Roman's points that out and says, "for all have sinned...".
Gal 3:24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
Now while the law is strict and has harsh boundaries it can never give life! BUT when Christ came and died on the cross for our sins and for the punishment of sins we now need only to believe. Faith is the agent without works. We are then baptized by the Holy Spirit into Christ.
25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. 26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.  
We are then called children of God in Christ and now have eternal life. Paul goes on in chapter 4 and describes it this way
...4:1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; 2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. 3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: 4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
Notice it says, "under the elements of the world". Like gravity is just a part of this world so are other elements. Like air is a natural part of the earth so are the sinful visible and invisible dominions and powers of the world and Satan. These basic earthly and natural things keep us in bondage until we come to Christ. We live in fear and fight for power. We work hard to get what we want. We lust for things and desire more and more. We think we are always right and show our pride.
Also notice one more thing in the text, Christ came born, "made of a woman, made under law"! This tells us again that Jesus earthly ministry was to Israel and under the law. That the books Matthew- John and those red letters are all written to Israel under law!
We are free in Christ by Faith. No longer under the "schoolmaster" of law! No longer in bondage to the elements of this world but free from sin and to allow the living Lord Jesus Christ to work through us. The Christian life is easy if we allow Christ to live it!!!
7/11/22

The knowledge of love!
Paul tells the Philippian church to grow in love so that they will know God's will and discern good and evil and right from wrong. To be able to see the heart and spiritual aspect not just the external earthly things.
Phl 1:9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;
Paul tells the Roman's that the knowledge of sin is shown by the law.  
Rom 3:20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
But if we are not under law, and we are not, then how are we to know right from wrong.
Rom 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
AND
Gal 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
So, if the knowledge of sin is by the law and love is the fulfilling of the law then the Law of Love is the key! This is the only law we are to follow.
What do I mean by follow? We don't follow the law to be saved or even accepted. We don't go to a Temple for the Temple of God is within us. We don't do the ordinances to be with God for Christ is in us! But the law can tell us we are not loving others when we steal something. Or when we manipulate, cheat or just fear someone. When walk by our flesh and not by the spirit. When we have doubts, fears and insecurity! Yes, those are real too!
Since God is love, ALL righteousness is Love! All Godliness is Love! All goodness is Love.
Now don't confuse the feelings of love with the true act of righteousness. The feelings or emotions only follow the correct, exact and excellent things of God, not the sinful emotions of the world!
Love has boundaries and those boundaries is God's excellent, righteous and perfect will!
7/8/22

Shun Babblings!
2Ti 2:16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. 17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; 18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
Paul tells Timothy to shun babblings! Babblings are things that are not important but when you add vain and profane now you are talking about ungodly things.
I think we all do this way too much. Almost every doctrinal argument is over something like this. We need to state our position without it becoming an ungodly attitude.  The doctrine babbling can be wrong and ungodly, but the attitude can just add to the problem. We should state what we believe without attacking one another?
But just to be clear sound doctrine is important but let's not go down rabbit holes to get somewhere.
Notice the verses say that it increases ungodliness and overthrow the faith of some. I believe there are a lot of cults within the church today. Cults are not just weird Satanic type things but religious cults within the fellowships you attend. One might be the prosperity gospel or Calvinism and another the losing of salvation and on and on. Just like today the question of the Rapture has come up even these verses. They say it has already come while others today try to predict it.
These babblings begin small but then grow to be big. People talking and babbling about such things instead of seeking help from someone who is mature in the Lord or even better study it out in scripture.
Don't get caught up in these vain babblings that are not Godly but SHUN them and move on!
7/7/22

Teaching, bible study and leading!
It is important to be a student of the bible. We should read and grow in knowledge, but it is only a part of the whole. Every church gathering should have a bible study of some sort. I mean that the time you get with other saints whether that be Sunday morning or Saturday night or whenever there should be a study of some sort unless it is just for a fellowship of fun or birthday party type thing.
The church needs to study, and the teacher needs to teach yet it should not become something that is always a student teacher bible study only. A bible study needs to become more than just a study at some point so that the teacher is more than just a teacher but a pastor/ leader. It needs to become a "church" at some point so that the student does not stay a student but in turns becomes a "workman"!
2Ti 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
What is a workman you say? Well, a workman is one who works. One who gets things done. A person who knows what to do then does it.
Teachers teach but a pastor needs to lead! Leading is more than teaching information. Leading is like parenting and it takes work to do it. In parenting you have to teach but you also have to train, correct and even discipline! Leading is a workman that teaches but also parents. The world is full of teens who never submitted to parents and do their own thing. Sadly, the church has a lot of teens! Alot of spoiled babies with bad behavior going on within the church. People who know the bible but won't seek help or guidance from others nor are they workman!
Leading takes more than just telling folks about the bible it takes time and effort to help them LIVE! A pastor leads in love and will have to correct as much as teach. Which are you? Are you just a student or are you a workman too?

 

7/6/22

"YOU OR I"?
Have you ever used the word "you" to describe yourself? "You feel good after doing such things...." for instance. Instead of saying "I feel good" we often say "you".
Most people have a hard time with using the word "I" and it can cause communication problems.
Now another thing most of us do, will be to use the word when talking with others. When you use the word to often or wrongly it comes across as saying "you dummy" or "you no good person". We often attack people with the word "you" and we even hear it from the pulpit. "You need to straighten up"........  "YOU" is often the word for blame and for being irresponsible. We often may say things like "You made me feel..." You are the one who did this "....
Now there are times to use the word "you" but often it is misused and abused.
Most of the time if we used the word "I" and took responsibility for our own thoughts and feelings it comes across better and the person is not offended either. For instance, "I think or feel this is wrong" or" I think or feel this way". The word "I" is used to say "MY" thoughts and feelings and not anyone else's.
Part of maturity, grace and love will be speaking the right words in the right way at the right time!!!
"I THINK"!!!
Gal 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 5 For every man shall bear his own burden.
7/5/22

Rejoice, Christ is Preached!
Yesterday we were invited to a friend's house, and she invited friends that we did not know. We had fun as we sang patriotic as well as praise songs to a guy playing the guitar.  As we got to know one another I realized we had all been through different things they could be devasting to many, but it was not and in some way for the greater good.
We all go through many things in life, and while none of us like pain of any kind it can be for a greater growth as saints in Christ. Physical, mental or emotional suffering can be hard but necessary in order to bring us to dependence on Christ.
When Paul was in prison and chained up, he says this in  
Phl 1:12 But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; 13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;
And this ... 18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
His suffering in prison was actually a "furtherance of the gospel;". It was a circumstance that no one could have thought of, but it increased the gospel message even more. Think about this, while most evangelist of today are trying to preach to thousands at a time and there is nothing wrong with that per say, Paul was preaching to one-person at a time, and usually the guard that was guarding him.
The gospel can be proclaimed anywhere, anytime to anyone! No matter where you are at in life the gospel of Jesus Christ can be declared! The idea is that "Christ is preached"! and we rejoice!!!
7/4/22

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!
I have already written about the Independence from England and the celebration of the 4th so today I thought it would be a good time for something we can "do" on this great day for Americans.
A good work is something we "do" by the power of the Spirit, and we can do that by praying.  Paul tells Timothy in
1Tim 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
We should pray for our leaders and those that in authority. That we be thankful and lead a quiet life.
In today's time I see so many people so upset over the government and things going on that they forget who is ultimately in charge here. God is the authority and God is in control. No not controlling the strings of government but He is control within us. He is the one who gives life and liberty to our inward man.
So, stop complaining and start praying. Stop griping and be content in Christ. Paul was content in a Roman prison, surely, we can be content in Christ in this great country we live in. Compared to the rest of the world we are still THE GREATEST COUNTRY ON EARTH!!!
7/1/22

FREEDOM!
Sadly, many saints do not live in the freedom they have been given.
Gal 4:31 So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.
Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Noe there are differences in everyone. For instance, the newly saved person may still have allot of fleshly tendencies. They don't understand the doctrine of grace yet and can be free spiritually from death and have life, but struggle in the emotional realm.
Then there are those who have been saved for some time yet do not know grace doctrine and still live under law. It could be said that they know allot about the bible yet miss the mark as far knowing the freedom in the fellowship of the mystery.
Then there can be those who know "right" doctrine and have known the freedom that it says in the black and white pages,  BUT still walk after the flesh. Knowing right doctrine is just the beginning, it is "LIVING" it out that matters. I have seen countless saints that are so sensitive, defensive and anxious or they live in the rejection cycle, over and over and over....... that while knowing right doctrine, still live in bondage. They live in the emotional realm of self-protection and self-centeredness. They are like young kids when they first learn to tie their shoes and think they know it all and want to teach the parent how to tie their shoes! They are STILL immature but want to act like "know it all's".
These are folks that if they never humble themselves, they will never be taught nor mature. Hebrews says this
Heb 5:11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
You see if you just "know" the word but don't "do" the word you will stay immature. You will stay in bondage, and you will never experience the freedom that comes with the word! Remember until peace, joy and security... has manifested you are still in bondage to your flesh!
This is why I always encourage some sort of good Godly counsel from someone. The body can minister to one another and the more mature counseling the less mature.  
6/30/22

Jesus the Bread of Life!
John 6:48 I am that bread of life. 49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. 50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.
Now Jesus is the Bread of Life no matter what dispensation! The bread is only a way of saying take me into your spirit soul and body. It does not mean literally in the sense to eat Christ physically.
Some denominations actually teach that the bread and blood literally change into His blood and body! And by the way IF that were true then you would be going against the commandments, which from the beginning says NOT to drink blood from any living thing.
Transubstantiation is the idea and doctrine that the bread and blood change into Christ body and blood. This is not true of course and is a lie as well as mysticism and witchcraft brought into the church.
They believe that this must be a continual thing, for Christ does not live in them unless they take it. And so, they have missed everything from the cross on. At that time, Christ had not died, there is NO cross or blood, or Holy Spirit given.
To add we no longer need the communion bread or blood as we have "THE BREAD OF LIFE WITHIN!!!
Col 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
Don't get caught up in the shadow's but remember you have the real deal within you!
CHRIST THE HOPE OF GLORY!!!
6/29/22

Timothy and the Law!
After the Jerusalem counsel in Acts 15, we see Paul meeting up with Timothy. Now Timothy was a faithful "spiritual son" of Paul. Paul taught and trained him for the ministry. This is something that does not go on today as much as I would like to see. Yes, academics are taught but I am talking about discipleship. I am talking about correcting and training in real life situations. What is going on in their personal lives and living. How do they operate when they're not in the pulpit! Their emotional state as well as their academic state of mind. You are maybe the smartest most knowledgeable and talented preacher on earth but if you walk in anxiety or depression, you still need help and discipleship. I have seen this countless times over the years. Great teachers who can't see their own emotions, fears and issues! This is why 33% or more leave the ministry each year!!!!
Anyway, we see in Acts 16 that after the counsel in Acts 15 and the issue being circumcision, law and salvation that Paul has Timothy circumcised.  
Acts 16:1 Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek: 2 Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. 3 Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.
Now if the counsel says it is not necessary than why would Paul have Timothy circumcised? He did it to gain ground and not offend the Jews. You can't teach someone if they won't listen and come near you. If they find you to be unclean in their eyes, they won't want to listen. Now Paul did not do this to men please but to accommodate the gospel of grace.
Neither Paul or Timothy needed to do it, but they volunteered and that is not law! Timothy was faithful to Paul, but he was even more faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ by being willing to give of himself to advance the Cross of Christ!!!
We too want to advance and even suffer to spread the word of Jesus Christ! The gospel that saves is found in
1 Cor.15:1-4, that Jesus died for our sins and rose to give eternal life. By grace it is given and by Faith it is received!
6/28/22

Outward appearance!
2Co 10:7 Do ye look on things after the outward appearance?.........
Our tendency is to look at things from the outward appearance! When problems come, we tend to function out of our body, which is made up of our 5 senses. What we see, hear, smell, taste and touch. And with our body we also have to think something and that comes from our soul. The soul is made up of our mind, will and emotions.
So, we try to "fix' things the same way! We try to work our way around the problem when the problem is within us. Paul says it this way.
2Co 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 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; 6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.  
Flesh and carnal are alike and it means by our body or natural thinking. It is not spiritual or by faith but by our works and reasoning.
Perhaps the easiest way to describe a stronghold is a "habit", but not just any habit. These habits go against the will of God. It is a thing that controls you instead of you controlling it. Now it can be a thinking such as "I'm not good enough" or a feeling which can be "inadequacy". It can be a feeling like depression or anxiety! It can be physical like smoking, drinking or drugs. It can be overeating or not eating enough. All sin is a part of this, but the idea of strongholds is a sin that repeats itself.
Now ALL strongholds are against God and exalted above God! It is disobedience and the way to "fix" that disobedience is NOT by our flesh or "outward thinking" but by being obedient to Christ. And the only way to be obedient to Christ is by faith. And by Faith it means to renew the mind first with truth. "Every thought" means thinking and where the word "repent" can be used. Repent always means "a change of mind".  A change of thinking, from flesh to faith, from natural to spiritual! From ourselves to Christ! Put off the "stronghold" and Put on God's "love"! Put on God's forgiveness and acceptance! And keep doing that until the stronghold is no longer a stronghold (habit). This will take work to "rest" in Christ. It will take time and you will fail at times but eventually if you persevere in Christ, you will become victorious in Him.
Don't try to "fix the fix that Christ has fixed"! Put on His Love and Rest in Him!!!
6/27/22

Paul!
While there are many highlights to Paul's ministry here are just a few to know.
After being saved in Acts 9 he was told to go on a mission. That first mission was to Asia where he set up churches along the way. Act 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
Paul at always went to the Jews first but they rejected the message of the cross of Christ! Here we see as I call it "strike 1"!
... 46 Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.
Paul then was sent on a 2nd trip and went to Europe. He set up the Philippian church around 50 ad. Probably the first convert was actually a woman from Asia by the name of Lydia. She came from Thyatira and was already a believer who worshipped God but now her faith was in Jesus Christ! His death, resurrection and so reconciliation with God!  
Act 16:14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.
Now on to "strike 2" for the Jews who opposed Christ!
Act 18:6 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.
And finally, "strike 3, you're out"!
Act 28:28 Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.
Paul said and went on to the Gentiles and the church today called the Body of Christ is considered the gentile church. While Jews can of course be apart they must come through the cross just like any gentile. They're no longer any difference in race, sex or nationality but ALL must come by Faith!
6/23/22

DISCERNMENT!
Discernment means to distinguish and judge. We are to discern right from wrong. A mature believer is said to be one who can eat meat verses a baby who is still on milk and cannot discern rightly.
Heb 5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
The problem that I see in the church today is that many cannot discern. They may even have good sound doctrine. They may be able to tell you the difference in Paul's grace and mystery message from Peter's prophecy to Israel, but they cannot discern the difference in everyday life. They have a knowledge of what is right but do not exercise it in life!
For instance, they read in the bible that the world is bad. That the world is a problem and spiritually speaking it is. But not everything in the world is bad. Jesus ate bread and it was in the world. He drank water and wine and that was in the world. He healed folks and that is the natural fleshly part of man. We have food, water and clothes and homes, cars and money and none of that evil, is it. It is what we do with those things that makes them good or bad.
Take for instance in the medical field, we have been given shots to people for years. Most of you have had a polio, measles or mump shot from when you were a baby. Now some people get sick and even have some problems with those shots, but the majority are fine.  
When you get sick you go to the Doctor, and he says take this or do that and you are healed most of the time. I recently had surgery and as I went through all that I just trusted in the Doctors and surgeon to do what they do best. You see we trust in Jesus for the big things, and we trust in man, Dr's or meds for small things. Small is our life here on earth, and big things are eternal!
Don't walk in fear of medicine, or doctors or sickness, but trust in Christ, walk by faith and give up control so you can be healed physically and SPIRITUALLY!
6/22/22

Fellowship!
Phl 1:3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
Paul did 2 things in the verses above. He first thanked God for the fellowship in Christ that was in Philippi. He then Prayed for that fellowship and had great joy for that unity and body.
Now this word fellowship means 4 things in the bible. All "C" words and help us know how the body functions.
1. Communion-  Communion is being one for a certain and particular cause. They were in communion with one another Spiritually. They were one in unity in Christ!
2. Contribution- They contributed to one another in thoughts, prayers and body life. They understood the idea of giving to one another. The different and uniqueness of everyone in the Body can minister to one another. Everyone has something they can contribute. Sometimes it is just the most vulnerable person who actually contributes the most.
3. Communication- mush like contribute but more in line with sharing with one another verbally. Talking and listening as one and in love. Listening is more important than talking. Listening with an ear of sincerity and genuine love is just as important in communication as talking. The idea of being willing to listen intently.
4. Collection- This means to give financially or materially. While many preach the prosperity message which is false, believers still need to pay bills or get things done and at times that takes money. This is not to be misused but rather to stimulate and sustain the ministry of the gospel and each other.
These 4 definitions are important to know and have if we truly want to have fellowship with one another. Just coming together and talking about golf or knitting is not this kind of fellowship. This fellowship is always to bring Glory to God and Joy to the Body!
6/21/22

Rejected and delivered unto Satan for their own good?
As a Christian counselor I see some very tough situations in people. They are not your average pew sitter. They have deeper mental and emotional as well marital and physical problems. They struggle in life and my job is to teach the word and to have them come to Christ, and sometimes for the first time and at other times they are saved and living carnally.
Now that being said many folks come for discipleship and never have a heart change. I can meet with them for years and still they have the same heart. They are like Esau who was rejected even though he cried because he never truly repented.
Heb 12:17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
The goal is not just to know scripture nor to have your circumstances change but to have a transformed heart that serves Jesus Christ whole heartedly! One who has a genuine love, sincere faith and good conscience unto Christ.
1Ti 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
When there is no change, then separation is needed because the person will not listen. They continue down the path of self-centeredness. The only way to help them is to let them go their own way. Paul says in 1 Corinthians to deliver that person over to Satan for the destruction of their flesh SO THAT THEY MAY BE SAVED!!!!
1Co 5:5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
Paul is not saying he wants that person to follow Satan although they already are, Oh No! He is saying let that person be broken by their own carnal flesh and circumstances, Until that person is broken and truly comes to repentance, which means  "a change of mind"! It means to come to Christ with that sincere faith and genuine love!
We often try to rescue folks instead of letting them suffer. Christ learned obedience by suffering Hebrews says.
Heb 5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
And if Christ learned by suffering don't you think we should too.
Just so you know, I love you so much that I will let you suffer until you come to Christ!
6/20/22

Angels!
We often see on T.V a show that worships angels. They make it sound so spiritual. We see folks in the Christian community worshipping angels. They may say you have your "little angel" by your side or some other thing that brings some sort of comfort and feeling. But the bible says something different. Paul says NOT to worship angels!  
Col 2:18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,
Now this looks spiritual and humble, but it is not. It is not humility but prideful and a arrogant thing because it is a work of our flesh. It is trying to "BE" religious and spiritual without faith! It is not faith in the cross of Christ, but it is a shadow only. Shadows are not the real thing, and take us away from the real thing.
Col 2:17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
All religions work hard to "look" devout and humble but that is a work that is trying to "get to God". True Christianity is that God has already come and reconciled us through Jesus! He has already done the work. The more "things" we try to "do" and "look" humble and get "closer to God" is showing our pride and insecurity.
We are to hold on to Christ alone, for He is the Head! He is where we get our salvation, strength and comfort. Never is it found in angels, candles or anything else!
... 19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. 20 Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, 21 (Touch not; taste not; handle not; 22 Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.
Angels are important to God as He created them but Christ is the Head and all things are created to worship Him!
Col 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 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: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
6/17/22

Turn your job into a pulpit!
I once had seen a sign going out of a church parking lot that said, "you are entering the missionary field", isn't that great.
Now perhaps you are one who wants to do more for Christ. You wonder what God's will for your life is. Is it being a pastor or missionary? This is something many saints struggle with but let me tell you what Paul said.
He said we are ambassadors for Christ. That means we are representing Christ on earth, and we are to share the gospel of grace. We are His voice to a lost world. We are to edify the Body and tell others about His cross, love and grace.
2Co 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
He then says to abide in the same calling in which he was called. Now that means stay right where you are in the work or circumstances you are in and minister from there.
1Co 7:20 Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. 21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. 22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 24 Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.
You see it does not matter what you do for a living or if you're in the hospital or what your circumstances are, you are to serve others by telling them about Jesus. Turn your job into a pulpit! No I don't mean get up on the break room table and start yelling but you can talk to others about Christ "around" the break room table. Your "ministry" is right where you are now.
Now you might say "I am a farmer and in the fields all day so I don't see anyone all day". You that time to renew your mind and read the word when you can and when you go to town for supplies or to dine then you're ready to share your faith with them. The ambassador of Christ is a student of the word so study and then make a pulpit for Christ where ever you are!
6/16/22

SHEEP, DISCIPLES AND MEMBERS!
There are distinctives in the bible that are important and need to be known. Now one of those distinctives is what we are called. After Acts 21 Paul no longer uses the word disciple. You see we have become something new and different. We are a new creature in Christ and A New creature is formed called the Body of Christ. We have become "members" of that Body!
Rom 12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
No longer are the words sheep used as that pertains to Israel. No longer disciples as that is one who is just a follower or pupil and student but that does not mean apart of Christ! A student can just listen in school but it does not go any further necessarily.
Members are important to get the function and meaning of "being a part of Christ"! His actual Body moving and sharing the gospel. The agent is no longer "A" teacher and student but literally Jesus himself in the form of His Body!
So we are members not sheep nor disciples. Now the word disciple meaning student can be what a member also will do but the identification of the saint is now a "Member In the Body"!
6/15/22

The negative and positive!
In Romans Paul explains the negative and positive of being saved of the wrath of God. Read Rom 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Now what do I mean by negative. Well knowing that we are sinners from birth and knowing that we need forgiveness of our sins, we then see the death of Christ. We know He paid the penalty for it. Now "IF" He had just done that it is still a great thing but that would mean we are still in our sins, and they are "just" forgiven. In other words, we would still be considered unrighteous in the sight of God. We would be considered sinners "still" instead of saints. While being forgiven of sins is great it is the negative view from God's point of view.
Perhaps an example for us would be good. It would be like you forgiving someone who broke into your house and stole from you, while forgiveness is good, they still go to prison and pay for that sin. They are forgiven but that is all.
Notice the wording in that Romans 5:9 verse "Much more than" and "much more", "AND not only so, but we also".... You see God didn't stop at forgiveness and just a "GREAT" negative view but gave us even more!!!
THE POSITIVE!
He gave us HIS righteousness! He imputed His righteousness to us, by justification by His blood! Justification is the judicial term used by God. God's is righteous and the judge of mankind so He can judge man any way He wants. He has chosen to offer eternal life in Christ to all men who are willing to come to Him by faith. He has imputed His very righteousness to us.  You are made righteous by God dear saint.
Rom 5:18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
AND
2Co 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Now I know most of you are saying that sounds like a WIN-WIN situation and IT IS!!!!
6/14/22

Psa 50:6 And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God is judge himself. Selah.
God is the Judge of mankind. God is just and right. Only God can say who is righteous and not. Man is not born righteous.
Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
God's love encompasses His Righteousness.  Which encompasses His justice. So He shows His love by showing His judgement on mankind. Because Adam's sin was imputed to all and therefore all come short of the Glory of God, God also had to judge that sin. God judged that sin on the cross of Christ, by Christ becoming sin for us.
2Co 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
By God's judgement on one man, He also judged on another, named Jesus and made ALL men righteous by faith. Now it takes faith to have that righteousness but it is by God's judgement that we have the opportunity to be saved from God's condemnation and wrath.
While God is Love, He also is Just! He also is the judge and jury and has made His righteous judgement clear. Come to Christ and be saved or go to hell, it is our choice!
6/13/22

Eph 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Here are 3 things we can do by "walking and being filled with the Spirit".
SING!
Sing in our heart, which means to have a joyful spirit. Singing brings out our emotions in some way. If it is a sad song, then we are sad or an upbeat song we may be glad. But we are to sing with the melody of praise to our Lord! This begins with our thinking and heart! It is a praise and worship type of thing but not an emotional based only type of thing. To many people in church today only "feel" praise when listening or singing music that "touches" them. They "feel" the "beat" instead of praising the Lord! This is about God not our flesh. This is a joy from the internal not external fleshly and emotional type thing. This is something we do can do alone and with others. This is something we can do with two or more and does not need to be a big production and concert type of thing. Also sing the old hymns which are timeless. Sing when you come together, and it does not need to be pitch perfect but with a joyful heart unto the Lord!
GIVE THANKS!
Give thanks in ALL things. By giving thanks in all things, we are saying to God the Father "not my will but your will be done". This is what Jesus said and we are to have the same mind set as Jesus. By giving thanks we are also saying and submitting to God that regardless of the circumstance we will honor, glorify and worship you, Lord. We are thankful Lord for being in You Jesus regardless of the outcome. "Life is in You Jesus" should be our thinking and then peace follows this and is actually one of the greatest things a believer can do, So, give THANKS in ALL things!
SUBMIT TO ONE ANOTHER!
Submit to one another. Now I am not saying to go do everything everyone tells you to do. If someone ask you to sin by lying or to cheat or steal or murder.... don't do that. If your husband, ask you to do something you feel uncomfortable doing you can still "submit in heart and say, "I don't feel comfortable doing that and don't want to do that, but can I get you some tea or coffee"! Your heart is submitting to authority and each other but you're not doing an unrighteous or uncomfortable act. Submission is always a righteous thing to do but starts with the heart. It starts with agreeing with God and then with each other regardless of our flesh.
The key is to Walk by the Spirit and you will do these things! Don't try to do these things "to walk" by the spirit but walk by the spirit first and these will come naturally.
6/10/22

The Body of Christ has to many schisms!
When we are saved we become a part of the Body of Christ. We are Spiritually baptized into His Body. We then are a part of the world wide Body of Christ and seen as one in Him.
1Co 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
But sadly there are problems in this body. There are what the bible calls schisms. Schisms are divisions or gaps. It is a breakdown of doctrine and the misuse of it.
1Co 12:25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
What causes schisms is lust filled desires to be religious and pious with God! It is a independent thinking of man trying to be spiritual without the Spirit. What comes down to is still the same old thing called SIN!
Now we should be able to come together and see these divisions but we don't causing to many schisms in the Body. To the point that in many ways they will never be fixed. But we are to continue to strive to bring unity of doctrine to the Body of Christ. Because without this unity of doctrine we will have fleshly attitudes that may look normal or godly but are not.
Paul was constantly teaching and fighting to keep the unity of GRACE in the church. Teaching the unity of the Spirit, faith and grace doctrine. It will always be a up hill battle but it must be done. In this age of grace we have no ordinances or outward, natural things to do but by a internal, eternal Spirit within we can love one another, and that is the unity in which we are to function in!
6/9/22

ARE YOU READY!!!!
Most of us have heard the song by Hank Williams II on Monday Night Football,
"ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL"!!! I enjoy football but we should be "READY" to share the word of God and His salvation through Jesus Christ.
The bible tells us to " be ready" in season and out! To "be ready" for every good work and "be ready" to give an answer to every man.
2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Tit 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
1Pe 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
Are you ready? The way to be ready will depend on your willingness to read and study the word. You desire to know more and to sit down daily and get into the word. It also will depend upon your wanting help. That can come from different sources but mainly you have to study! The more you know the easier it gets to share and "be ready".
Now one of the most important things you can do at any stage of maturing is to be willing to share your testimony. How you came to Christ and what that looked like in your life. No one can say to you that it is not true because as they say today "it is your truth". Now being willing to share the basics is good and continuing to grow in faith is even better. Share what you know and be willing to say, "I don't have the answer to that question, but I will find out". Then be sure and do it. Find out and get back with them for it may be a life and death situation!
6/8/22

YIELD!
We all who drive have seen the yield sign in traffic. We are to pull back and allow the other to go ahead as they have the right of way.
Well, that is what the word submit is like. The word submit is a yielding of one's personal desires for another. It is a voluntary thing of the heart. Submission is never a forced thing but a yielding and voluntary putting under of oneself. We are told to yield to God.
Rom 6:13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
and to yield to righteousness and holiness...
Rom 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
Paul says in that yielding is the obeying from the heart to the form of doctrine which was delivered to them. In order to submit we must yield from the heart. This is what is meant by submitting to another as it says in
Eph 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
AND IN
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
AND IN
Eph 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
Now even though the word submit is not in this verse the idea is that Husbands yield to Christ and submit to Him and then lead the wife to Christ.
If we do just what we are told without a true yielding to God and to the other person, we are not truly submitting ourselves. But we then are just doing a work and what we are told to do and that is not a righteous heart but a sinful heart.
Yield to God and submit to Him in all things and you will be able to voluntarily submit to others.
6/7/22

Imputed sin!
When God created Adam, he was perfect. He then rebelled and became independent of God instead of following God's orders. When that happened sin was then imputed to all mankind.
Rom 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
Imputed means to be charged with, to be accounted too or given to. It therefore means that Adam as a man passed on the sin filled gene. The man passes that gene on to the woman who has a perfect cell waiting.  
13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
Now before the Law was given there was sin, yet the law gives clear distinction to what sin looks like. Now there is no excuse for not knowing. The Law condemns and shows the inner workings of man. The motivation, attitude and lust that man has within. Therefore, the law was good and did what it was supposed to do, show sin and point to the redeemer.
Adam's sin was passed down to all men before they were born. You and I had no say so in that and some might say "why do I have to pay for Adams sin"? Well by Adam, there is one man's offence, so be by One man's obedience it was corrected! Jesus Christ died for all by dying for Adams sin.  
Rom 5:15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Now we all have personal sin but the original SIN by Adam which is passed onto all men has been paid for and therefore we can be free through Jesus Christ our Lord!
6/6/22

THE WORD!
The Word was given to us by God and man is to live by it.  
Deu 8:3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
And the Lord gave the Word, and it was written and published by men.
Psa 68:11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.
The Word is Jesus and was with God in the beginning. The Word is Jesus and was made flesh in other words born in human form. The Word is Jesus and is full of grace and truth!
Jhn 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. ... 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
We are to preach the Word, in other words "proclaim" Jesus the Living Word!
2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
The Word can pierce man's soul and give life to his Spirit. The Word shows us our sins and gives us eternal life. The Word convicts and inspires us.  
Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Remember the bible is not just another book or something to read once in a while,  
it is JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD! Read the WORD daily and experience a relationship with the LORD of lords!
6/2/22

Divorce!
I recently read a post by a person who would call himself a counselor and one who is trying to bring back traditional bible views, in his words. He said that the true heretic is one who calls themselves a Christian but supports divorce.
Now he would say that anyone who divorces or has been divorced is going to hell. That divorce is so bad that God never forgives it.
Now the interesting thing is that God himself divorced Israel in Jer 3:8 And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also.
Now of course God wanted Israel to repent and not backslide but be faithful to Him.
Now with that said in human terms God does not like divorce either. Now divorce shows that at least one in the union is acting selfishly and not lovingly if not both. A unbeliever is walking in the flesh and can not understand godliness nor God's love. To add it does not mean that all believers are walking by the spirit nor does it mean that they are married to a believer. There are many who's spouse are not saved. So a carnal saint and a unbeliever may act the same way. Well what does Paul say about that!
1Co 7:15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.
Paul, in this age of GRACE says that if the unbeliever wants to leave let them leave. Well in scripture a carnal Christian is one who acts just like one who is not a believer and therefore if they want to leave let them leave. You see the idea is that their heart is not submitted to God in the first place and THAT IS THE SIN! Just like Israel was independent of God and doing their own thing so are people who get divorced. The sin is not the certificate of divorce but the heart of living unfaithfully unto God.
Now also the one who wants to stay in the marriage is not to try to control or manipulate or be bitter but is to be at PEACE IN CHRIST! So while divorce is never the idea thing it is not unforgivable and it is not under law nor to be a thing of shame. Let the church STOP this shame ridden and legalistic view of divorce!

 

6/1/22

Do some Walking Saints!
We all know walking is good for you. A 20 minute walk daily maybe the best exercise you can get. It is cheap and easy on the joints and good for your heart.
Paul says to walk also. The appeal is to our mind and thought though. A good walk daily in scriptures is healthy too. Reading 20 minutes or more every day can help your heart grow in grace.
The bible says to Walk in the areas
Walk in Newness of Life- Rom 6:4
Walk after the Spirit -Rom 8:1
Walk Honestly-Rom 13:13
Walk by Faith -2Cor 5:7
Walk Worthy- Eph 4:1
Walk in Love-Eph 5:2
Walk as children of light-Rom 5:8
Walk circumspectly- Rom 5:8
Walk in Jesus- Col 2:6
Walk in Wisdom- Col 4:5
Walk in truth-3 John 1:4
Now there are many more things it says about walking in the bible. Good things as well as bad things. Things not to walk in such as sin or flesh.
But just know as far as your mind you are walking in one or the other all the time. Walking is part of every believers life. You may have bad legs or no legs but you are always walking in your mind. So keep exercising your faith and "WALK" after the Spirit and have a abundant, victorious life in Christ!
John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

 

5/31/22

FOLLOW!
Eph 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
  Paul tells us to be followers of God. To follow means to imitate. It means to be Godly as God is Godly. It means to be righteous as God is righteous. Now we know that we sin and that we are not righteous or Godly on our own or in our flesh. There is nothing righteous about our human self without Christ, yet we are made righteous Spiritually by the imputation of Christ by the Holy Spirit, therefore we are to think righteous and act Godly.
This is a appeal to the Soul and that is our mind, will and emiotions. It is our thinking and how we are in our day to day living. As we put-off our sin filled thinking and flesh and Put-on our New created Spiritual mind set by faith.  This is our day by day sanctification process and renewal of the mind.
Now with that said I want to appeal to your thinking in this "following" idea. Paul also says to follow God, Jesus and even himself. He tells Timothy to follow his ways as he followed Christ and to teach others to follow Timothy who tell other faithful men.
2Ti 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
Now I believe there is much more to leading and following than just pulpit preaching. There is much more to discipleship than just telling someone what the bible says and then just leaving it up to the individual to figure it all out. It sounds good from the pulpit but we ALL have a hard time looking at ourselves objectivity. We need someone to say to us were we fall short and are blind to our faults and sins.
Sadly, What we have created in the church today is a extreme independent saint. One who never gets corrected or rebuked one on one and continues to behave the same as before being saved  but now loaded with bible knowledge. Loaded with extreme Pride and arrogance. There is a reason Paul said that a pastor should not be a novice, and that they would be full of pride. Well the same thing applies to every Christian even if they are not trying to hold a position i the church. The same pride is there but comes out differently in different areas of life.
I believe the problem in the church today is that few pastors ever do one on one discipleship. Now the reason is usually first that "they " have never been discipled and are just as arrogant and prideful as well as fearful of someone speaking into their lives. And 2nd it is easier to sit in the office and study and then deliver a sermon and go home.
Meanwhile the folks out in the pews are hurting and/or swelling from whatever he has preached on! I see way to many arrogant prideful pastors as well as self willed and independent saints who will never submit to authority or others in Godliness.
A good parent does not let the child think for themselves until they are mature enough to make good decisions on their own. Why would we think that saints are any different!  
5/30/22

The Key to bible study!
The key to any good bible study will be to know "who" the author is talking too. If you pull things out of the chapter without reading the whole chapter from beginning to end you may miss the most important part. In fact let me say that not reading the beginning of the book can even lead to misunderstanding. For instance many a saints get confused when reading these 3 chapters. But if you read the first few verses from the beginning in Romans 9-11 you will see to whom it is written about and why!
Rom 9:1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, 2 That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: 4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;
Paul is writing about his kinsmen, "Who are Israelites"!
AND AGAIN, Israel,that they might be saved!  
Rom 10:1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
And again Israel but this time that He will save them.
Rom 11:1 I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,
You see chapter's 9-11 are speaking about Israel vs the world. That God can have mercy and grace on Israel but also on the gentile. And because Israel has rejected Christ, God has opened up the door of grace to the gentile. This is not about individuals nor predestination of certain people, as some teach.
Oh No this is far greater than all that, this is explaining the GREAT GRACE of GOD to the WORLD!!!  

 

5/27/22

All scripture is given and good for....!
To many times I hear folks say we should follow all scripture. In other words we are to be "under" law and grace at the same time. They quote 2Ti 3:16  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
And many of these well meaning folks are meaning that we should follow the Laws given to Israel. Now when I say law I mean every law not just the 10! I mean all Temple worship All priest and sacrifice and everything else that goes with the law.
But to do that is to go against the Word that Jesus gave Paul. Here is what Paul says in 1Co 10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
So he is talking about Israel and Moses and then 1Co 10:5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. 6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
The Old Cov. no longer exist and is now used to teach us to NOT do as they did. To NOT walk in UNBELEIF  and to NOT do these evil things. 7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. 8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. 9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. 10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
These things are examples and we are not to fall into these temptations but by NOT doing them it does NOT bring salvation or life. It only tells us what sin looks like.
Don't get caught up in the Law but just learn to be faithful in Christ by faith! We are under grace not the performance oriented lifestyle that the law puts you under!
5/26/22

SEEKING FORGIVENESS!
Most believers know we are to forgive. It is talked about allot in the bible. We are to "extend" forgiveness to ALL no matter what the situation happens to be. No matter what extending forgiveness is necessary.
Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Now remember forgiving is not condoning or approving of what was has been done to you but it is freedom for you as well as obedience to God. It actually is a way to say "I will follow God before myself", so extend forgiveness.
Now while extending forgiveness can be hard, "SEEKING" forgivenesses maybe harder. We don't like to say we were wrong. We have the "Fonzie" complex. You know from the show Happy Days were  Fonzie can never say he was wrong or say I am sorry. He stutters and never gets it out. We can be like that because we are so full of pride. Pride stops us from saying "I was wrong will you forgive me"!!!
A great illustration of seeking forgiveness comes from  Mat 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there remember that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.
Now we know that Jesus was talking to Israel and that this is a conditional type thing. We will not be put in prison but it illustrates the importance of seeing our wrong and offense toward others.
We are to put relationships first before tradition. We are to put relationships before everything else except God which is a relationship and He desires that we relate to others in the Body.
Paul says in Rom 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Always extend forgiveness and then seek forgiveness when appropriate!
5/25/22

Grace, How Sweet the Smell!
In this age of grace, we have it made you might say. We have been received or accepted by God, so we receive others. We have been forgiven so we forgive others. We are SO LOVED, so we can love others. Christ has shown us and given us everything we need to accept, love and forgive others.
Rom 15:7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.
Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Eph 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
Now that was not always the case. Under Law the nation of Israel had a conditional type of thing. Here is an example of that in Mat 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
It is conditional and must be done in their own power. BUT NOW we have the Holy Spirit within us as well as the example to think on.
So, when I hear folks say "only" God will have to make me forgive them because I can't" I say "OH NO, for you not only have been told to forgive but have the power to forgive for you are already forgiven". When saints say they "can't forgive themselves I say "WHO are you to say such a thing the God of the universe has already forgiven you  and loved and accepted you"!
We are in Christ and Christ is the Sweet smelling savour unto God. So let the sweet smelling grace of God comfort and work through you. Take the time to allow your thoughts to dwell on how much you are deeply loved, totally accepted and completely forgiven in Christ!!!
5/24/22

Put Off-Put-on!
There are sins and remedies you might say that are mentioned here that we are to put off and put on!
Eph 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
This put off and put on is the same as getting dressed you might say. We take off dirty cloths and put on clean. Don't stand for long without putting clean back on because you will be subject to the elements of the world, like sunburn or freezing, we can be attacked by shame, guilt and fear as well as by the enemy in our minds and emotions.
PUT-OFF                  
1. Lying                
2. Anger/malice/bitterness          
3.Stealing        
4.Corrupt communication
PUT-ON
1.Truth
2. Forgiveness
3.Give
4.Edify
First, we need to see our own heart and take an appraisal of ourselves. This does not need to take all day to do but it might. Then we can pray to the Lord admitting our sin as well as putting on His love, acceptance and forgiveness for us and then put on these things. If we try to put on truth or edifying or giving without a changed heart and mind we will end up doing a "work" and not having a renewed mind as well as not walking by the Spirit. It can be like someone who stops stealing but never comes to the Lord in faith.
Put off and Put on is the same as saying "repent" or "renew" our minds! So take a honest appraisal of your self daily and put off and put on the Lord Jesus Christ!
Rom 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

 

5/23/22

1Jo 4:6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
How do we know if we are in error or spirit? There are so many different churches and doctrines out there, so which one is right?
I hear so many non-Christians say this. Of course, they use it as a excuse not to come to Christ but many a believers say the same thing. How do we know which one is right?
Well, the first thing we need to do is study the word. Read, read, read and study it over and over. 2nd thing is to understand differences. You do not need to be very good at knowing the bible to know there is a difference between Law and grace. Between the Apostles and Paul's ministry.
In fact, many heretic have been said of Paul because they want to follow law so Paul must be wrong or a false prophet. Even the heretic folk's notice a difference don't they.
So get in your head and tell your self over and over "I am under grace"! Grace is the dispensation today and that is found in the books of Paul. If you get confused for a while just go back to "grace" for it is always right.
Freedom comes from scripture so if someone wants you to follow some law, ordinance or jump through some hoops then you know that they are in error.
The verse in 1 John says "...he that is not of God..." If anything, any other person or if any other Jesus or gospel is taught that is not in or under grace then it is not of God!
5/20/22

Be comforted Dear Saint in Christ!
I often get asked about the end times. "Are we in those the end times"? and "are we going to be punished too"? Well, the bible says in 1Thes. that we are delivered from the "wrath to come"!
1Th 1:10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.
1Th 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
We are to be "caught up" with Christ before the "wrath to come"! We are to be with Christ in the clouds and meet Him in the air!  
1Th 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
Now just as you believe that Jesus died and rose for your sins and to give you life in Him, you need to have faith that you will be delivered from the "wrath to come". By the way the wrath to come is after this and it is called the "great tribulation".  
Notice Paul says "caught up". That word means to "go upward" to meet Him,...Not that Jesus is coming down to earth. In other words this is NOT the 2nd coming of Christ but a "rapture" of the Body of Christ! Rapture is the Latin word for "caught up"!
Now receive this by the same faith you believe in the resurrection of Christ! By faith understand that you will not go through the "wrath to come". Know that you are safe and secure in Christ regardless. Don't fear, in fact you are to be "comforted" by this great news, even looking forward to it. ....18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
5/19/22

Please Don't throw the baby out!!!
You have heard the old saying "don't throw the baby out with the bath water"! That means that while the dirt is bad on the baby and let it go down the drain, the Baby is still alive, valuable and important!!! RIGHT!
Well, this is what was happening in Corinth and actually in all the churches. These believers were babes in faith. These babes were acting like babies in their understanding and actually Paul calls them carnal. That means sinful and natural instead of spiritual. They were acting unfaithful instead of faithful. They were not Spiritually discerning but worldly in their thoughts and behavior. Therefore, like babes.
1Co 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. 3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
Paul was correcting, rebuking and teaching them the right way, BUT he never calls them Unbeliever's!!!! He does not call them false prophets! He does not say they have lost their salvation, does he?
The point of the devotional is that I hear so many saints calling "any" one who does not agree with them unbelievers or false teachers. Especially in the Right dividing, Pauline fellowship. Don't get me wrong I believe in "Right' doctrine but I also believe in "TEACHING" the saints. We are to edify the saints and bring them to maturity.
Now with that said that also means that pastors and teachers are also maturing and learning. What I taught 30 years ago or more may be different now, not because I was an unbeliever but because I was ignorant, and I am growing in knowledge of scripture and God also. Just because someone teaches something different (on minor points) does not make them a heretic!  
Here is an example that I hear...The Acts 9 vs 28 controversy. "Now MOST saints don't even know what that means do they"? The argument is over the Body of Christ starting in Acts 9 vs 28. Now I believe in 9 with Paul and I teach that, but others say 28. Now while I would teach, show scripture and encourage Acts 9, I would never say someone is a heretic or false teacher because they think it started in 28! Heck most traditional pastors don't even talk about this as they believe it the church started in Acts 2!!!!
COME ON!  Let's not throw the baby out with the bath water my friends!!!
5/18/22

FELLOWSHIP!
Paul sent letters to the church. He could not be at their church but he wanted them to know that he loved and cared for them. He often sent teachings, correction and even rebukes, but he was involved somewhat the best he could.
He sometimes seemed down as he would not hear back from them and felt that he was not cared for as much as he gave.
He wanted the fellowship even if it was by letter. He wanted to know how they were doing and what they struggled with in life. He wanted to know how they were growing in faith. He desired to fellowship in the best way they could until the time he could see them face to face, IF and when that ever happen again.
Phl 1:5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
Phl 4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.
2Co 12:15 And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.
2Ti 4:16 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.
I tell you that I too desire that from you all. To receive a email or response back for a devotion or even to hear how your doing would be so great. I sometimes think that only a few of you actually read these devotions.  I wonder how many go straight to the "junk" box. I am sharing from my heart that I want some fellowship with you all. It seems that for all the people that are on my email list there would be more response back. I do hear from some when I tell of my cancer or things and I deeply appreciate the prayer and concern yet that is not the same as the fellowship and unity of the saints in Christ.
If you read this devotion(s) please respond back. If you desire to have "fellowship" please let me know by responding.  
And please know that I am praying for you regardless!
5/16/22

Distinctions even in Paul's books!
I have told you about the distinctions in the bible. The difference between Israel's prophecy program and the gentile mystery program. The different dispensations are important to know, but there are also distinctions in Paul's books.
For instance, we see the difference between Paul's missionary books and the prison epistles. Romans-Galatians talks about the justification by faith issue. It lays the foundational understanding of being saved by faith in grace. But they also show the spiritual gifts that were given for the time to serve the churches in those countries at that time. These books show the gifts as being needed for the time but after Paul had new revelation, we see the signs not mentioned at all. By the time Paul was sent to prison the need for these were no longer needed and therefore a distinction is made.
This distinction clarifies an even greater understand of grace and position we have. This helps and keeps us from straying too far into strange and weird doctrines. Paul says in Eph 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
You see it is easy to fall into some religious or so-called spiritual things that is not truly spiritual and takes our eyes off of Christ. Keep in mind these distinctions and you will be grounded in His love and not easily moved by what many believers fall into and that is their experiences.
5/17/22

Controlling Life and Idols!
Have you ever tried to dam up a river? It takes allot of work to get begin with and then the more you try the more it leaks. It will wear you out trying.
As I observe things in life, I see all the small things that happen around trying to dam up that river of life. Meaning when damming up the river and the work that it takes to try and to keep it up in life the more you have to focus on it. It then become the most important thing and takes over our time and mind. We become consumed with keeping up with the dam and river.
This becomes an idol, and we stay busy, so we don't have to think about things like feelings or problems or God. We can ignore these things thinking that they are "just" emotions and not important or that "I go to church, that's enough".
This is how Satan deceived Eve you might say. He related to her about eating the fruit and then death and then being a god! He got her to "think" about anything other than God. By the way it wasn't much, and it wasn't far off the subject was it! It was just a little off, but it produced a huge problem for man forever!
This is what happens when we try to control life and make idols. It can be our family, friends or work. In these times it can be as small as our phones or as large as cancer! It can be a busyness or anything that takes our attention away from what really matters, and that is Jesus!!!!
Remember the story of Mary and Martha. Martha was "busy" distracted with doing and Mary sat at Jesus feet. Mary was doing the better thing, but Martha "looked" busy doing what may be considered a necessary thing! She was controlling and too "busy" to see the better thing and that was sitting at Jesus feet!  "THE WORK" became her idol!
1Jo 5:21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.
5/13/22

Orthodox!
Orthodox means conforming to set religious doctrine, ordinances and rules. We see and call all state church's such as Greek, Russian and England churches orthodox. The Roman Catholic church is also a orthodox church that is the biggest and most know.
Orthodox churches have a rigid set form of rituals. These rituals are done in an attempt to reach God, but it comes from a false humility mind set. They teach and believe that man is justified by works and that these rituals bring about the works and standards for God to be pleased with them. They take the power and works of the cross out and put in their works of righteousness which are not righteous.
Sadly many protest churches do the same thing. While the difference in orthodoxy and Protestantism is in the justification by faith verses works, but they still hold on to the rituals they believe are still necessary. These rituals are nothing more then the same things that orthodox churches only less of them.
All rituals and ordinances stifle and quench the Spirit and frustrate the grace of God.
1Th 5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
Gal 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Read Col 2 over and over and you will see the difference and hopefully stop the rituals that hinder your faith.
Col 2:20 Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, 21 (Touch not; taste not; handle not; 22 Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?
Remember that all rituals, ordinances and anything else that you can touch, taste or handle are only shadows of Christ but we have a relationship with the living Lord Jesus Christ!
Col 2:17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
5/12/22

Perfect Man!
There are no perfect humans, but the scripture uses this word to describe the mature, complete man in Christ. One who is saved and has the Spirit of God in them.
In Eph 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
The words "...unto a perfect man..." is a reference to the Body of Christ! The Body of Christ is just that Christ. This Body is an organism like man and moves about freely. It is alive without limits and moves about the earth as an ambassador for Christ. It is not limited to laws, rules or boundaries of any kind. It does not look at tradition or stature or race. It shares freely in love and grace while being discipline in righteous behavior.
You see the Body of Christ is a NEW CREATURE on earth compared to Israel's national church and it is a living church. What do I mean by a living church? Well that means that first it has spiritual life within each person and 2nd while the law brings orthodoxy that stifles the ministry and Spirit, this living church does not! There are no limits to the Body as far as it is sharing and spreading the power, love and salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ!
5/11/22

SUFFERING!
We all suffer in some way. Sometimes we do something wrong, and we suffer the consequences for it. At other times we suffer by someone's tongue or accident. We may suffer emotional or physically. While at other times we do something "good" and suffer for it! Peter says this 1Pe 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
In other words, you may have to suffer in some way in some relationship for doing what is necessary and righteous.
The writer of Hebrews says this about our Lord Jesus
Heb 5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
Jesus was always obedient yet the author here is trying to say that Jesus suffered on earth He always was obedient to God the Father. Each time some offence or lash or even the death on the cross He always was discipline in going to His Father in Faith!
One area of faith in walking by the Spirit is self-discipline. Temperance means self control or discipline. When we "choose" to walk by faith we will have self control. When we do not walk by faith and therefore not by the Spirit we will automatically sin and then suffer.
Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Don't run from suffering but run toward God by faith. Let the suffering affect you long enough so that you learn to discipline your thinking by running to God by faith and renewing your mind. Until it becomes 2nd nature to run to God in your suffering you will always suffer in your mind and flesh. Repenting means "a change of mind" so every time you suffer in something "repent" meaning renew and receive from God the comfort you need through that suffering. Don't pray for the suffering "just" to go away but pray that regardless of the suffering you will rest in the Lord Jesus Love!  It is God's Love that brings us comfort in all situations. It is God Love that brings peace, joy and comfort to our hearts and mind.
So as I have said over and over don't try to fix the fix that Christ has already fixed for you, for if you try you will suffer more! Let suffering do its job for it can be of great help to you!
5/10/22

Good Advice!
Paul gives Timothy some great advice and orders. We too can learn and take these orders with us.  
1Ti 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1. he tells him that there are men of corrupt minds and that he should withdraw from them. This is so important yet too many Christians do the opposite and try to "love" these people back which usually ends up that they are drawn away from Christ.
2. He tells him that godliness is good but with contentment is a greater gain. Why? because godliness is doing the right thing and the Godly thing but do it with a heart of peace and rest. Do it from a heart that is not anxious but joyful!
Then he tells him in  
... 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 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.
3. Flee greed and follow, meaning to put on in mind the following...righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness.... Notice he says righteousness first! Righteousness is doing what is "right" unto God! It is Godly in ALL situations. The list then goes onto say "love" but it is after faith and godliness! That means that while true love involves the other we need to put on the other first as it will be what is necessary to love. If you put on righteousness, godliness and faith you will "love" the others with patience and meekness. You will "DO" what is best for the person but more important Honor God in doing so!
4. Then he tells him to "fight the good fight of faith"! We are to walk by faith and at times being faithful is hard because we want to control and fix our circumstances. We fear the outcome and jump in instead of allowing our thoughts to rest we "work" harder!
5. Lay hold of eternal Life! WOW what a great thing to put on by faith! We are to be concerned with eternal life not just the here and now. Faith is about God and what you can NOT see, touch or fix! It is about "THE GREATER LIFE" not the lesser life!
Do these things in mind and you will have a good confession just like Timothy!
5/9/22

MATURE BABIES?
You might ask what is a mature baby? Well, I call those who are adults in years but still act like babies. Their behavior reminds me of a child. Often those who have been incarcerated or abused still act like this because they were never taught, and their minds are still back in time were the abuse or traumatic thing happened.
I often see immature saints too. Paul says it this way in
1Co 3:1 "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. 3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men"?
They may say they are saved and they maybe, but their actions show something different. In fact, in this case the church was thinking they were "loving" a sinner back into the fold you might say when really, they were allowing the sin to go on. You see while we are to love, love never means to allow ungodly behavior to rule.
The way to grow up is the same as a family with Mom and Dad teaching, training and correcting the child until mature decisions are made by the child.
Every saint should be discipled by someone for a while until Christ is formed in the saint! Paul says it this way in
Gal 4:19 "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,"
Pride can set in quick if the young believer is not taught early and this is what I think has happend to many saints. Paul says this to Timothy 1Ti 3:6 "Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil".
I hear it all the time from well meaning saints that "all we need is the Holy Spirit" or "God will teach me" but the problem and just like the Corinthian church is that they don't hear the Spirit nor do they see themselves honestly!
So Get help and show a heart of humbleness and really learn to walk by faith.
5/6/22

SIN, COMING AND GOING!
Sadly, sin gets us coming and going! What I mean is that we can do things or think things not by faith but by our emotions and flesh. The bible says in  
Rom 14:23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
So if we do not think faithfully we sin! Then if we do things willfully meaning on purpose it sin which is what we most think is sin to begin with. So I think lie, then lie! Or think steal then steal,this how we think of sin most of the time.  
Heb 10:26  For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
Then there is the opposite you might say. I know I should do something right but I don't. My conscience thinks this is right but I decide not to do it. As James says in  
Jas 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
So, sin has us coming and going and sadly most Christians ignore all of them. Most saints do not recognize their heart because they don't slow down enough to analyze themselves. They are defensive or incapable of looking at themselves rightfully. They stay busy "doing" things instead of resting at Christ feet! They may think "if I admit to sin and the bible says not to sin then I will be a failure and I don't want to be that"! Or "God won't forgive me or will punish me, after all the bible says God disciplines them who sin, doesn't it somewhere"!
OH MY, want is a saint to do?
Well fist just admit you sin. We all live in a earth suit that sins! Second remember that Jesus Christ died for that sin and as far as God is concerned it is paid for and you are reconciled to Him. So instead of running from the obvious just admit it.
WHY would you want to hold onto that cancer when it is killing you? Just let the surgeon of Life take it out! AND then THANK HIM!
5/5/22

The Promise given by Faith!
     The promise that God gave through Abraham was that gentiles as well as Jews would receive the Holy Spirit. That gentiles would be saved too!
Gal 3:14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Now the Law only condemns man of sin it does not save him. It shows the standard and how we miss it. Now we receive the Spirit of Life through Jesus by believing! The only way to receive is by faith.
... 22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
Now the law condemns us as a schoolmaster would discipline the student to bring us to our knees and to bring us to Christ. After that we understand that we are a sinner which the law points out then by faith we believe in the work of Christ. That He died and rose again and has brought reconciliation between man and God! We no longer need a schoolmaster teaching us and trying to be good to be justified for we are justified by Christ Himself!
... 24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
We are saved, secure and forever sanctified in Him!
Gal 3:26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
5/4/22

The Pastor-Teacher!
  1&2 Timothy and Titus are called the Pastors books. Paul was instructing Timothy a young and more timid pastor as well as Titus a bold more confident pastor. Both are important and both went on to minister in those positions. They were to do certain things like it says in these scriptures.
2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;  
Preach
Preach the word meaning proclaim the Word of God. They were to study and know the word so well that they would always be read to reprove, rebuke and exhort!
Reprove
Now Reprove means to convict and show their faults. It can even mean to punish or hold accountable!
Rebuke
They were to Rebuke which is almost the same as reprove and means to admonish sharply or censure! Scold may be a good word for this too.
Exhort
And then Exhort which means to encourage and teach them to "go to" or repent to God! It means to disciple and help them to "BE FAITHFUL IN CHRIST"! To tell them what their doing wrong and to STOP doing whatever they are doing and to have that relationship with Christ!
WHY!
For the sake of the person and Christ of course but also for SOUND DOCTRINE!
Tit 2:1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:
Bad doctrine leads to bad habits and fleshly behavior. It always has a hint of law involved and It brings about even more sin, because  the sting of sin is in the law! 1 Cor 15:56
To many Christians say, "what difference does it make we all are still saved and don't judge"! "Let this church do what they want, does it really matter"! Well it mattered to Paul because it mattered to Christ!. And if you care for "the church" meaning the individuals then you had better care for the information and doctrine going into their mind!  
5/3/22

SUICIDE!
I recently heard that country singer Naomi Judd had died from suicide. My heart goes out to her family and those who enjoyed her and her music. But sadly, and way to often this happens, as 7 sailors in the Navy have taken their lives and many others that we do not know of have ended their life as well.
While this is tragic it is not new and is not any different than anything else when it comes to the Word of God. Suicide is sin and it is self-focused. Countless people including myself have had suicide thoughts at some point in life and most will tell you it drove them to Christ and salvation through Him. Now it should be said that while it is sin, it is like any other sin for the saint. It is on the cross and forgiven, and the dear child of God is with Him now!
Suicide is not a disease nor is it only a mental issue. It is a Spiritual issue and includes the thoughts of the Soul! Let's read what Paul says in Eph 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
AND
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
AND
James 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. 8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
You see when we allow ourselves to be that deceived, double minded and tossed to and fro than we will have thoughts of suicide. We don't see ourselves as complete in Christ we want more and are never content in Him. We lust for more love and desire approval and acceptance from others.
If you struggle with depression, anxiety or suicide get help from a pastor or Bible believing Counselor or friend and get some victory. Don't try to fix the fix that Christ fixed alone. Let the Body know and help you but even more go to CHRIST!!!!  
5/2/22

Heb 13:6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
We are born in fear! Fear is an emotion that comes from self-centeredness. It comes from self-protection in some way. We are born in sin which is thinking we are a god that needs self-protecting. No one wants to die or be hurt or rejected. We fear man and the rejection of others. We want the love, acceptance and approval of mankind in some way.  
But as we come to realize that we are not God and that we need a Saviour and submit to Him we then are no longer bound to sin and fear. We no longer fear death but even look forward to it. We experience the Love and Acceptance of God and begin to feel secure in Him. We know we are forgiven and therefore we will not be punished so we do not need to fear failure or the wrath of God.
We also no longer need the acceptance of man. We no longer need to fear the rejection of man. Even the fear of failure is fearing what man may say about failing. Man is no longer is BIG and God small but the other way around GOD IS BIG and man is small!
So, remember this verse and don't fear man but Rejoice in the Love of God through Jesus Christ our Lord!!!
4/29/22

MY DEARLY BELOVED BRETHERN!
Phl 4:1 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.
While most of the time Paul seemed to be rebuking or correcting the church, he always did it because he loved them. He was like a father to them who wanted to protect them and teach them the right way.
Like any parent he wanted them to do the right things for their good. The right things are knowing the right doctrine that he was told by his teacher and that was Jesus Christ our Lord!
Jesus told Paul and Paul told us to walk by Faith and grow in Grace! While we are all brethren in Christ it does not mean we all walk by the same doctrine and that is where we make a big mistake.
We are to be ONE in doctrine and that doctrine is grace not  works. When we add, as most churches have in their websites "Next Steps" we are adding works to grace. Don't get caught up in these things for they are only shadows of Christ.
Beloved Brethren Be Bold and Stand Fast in the Grace of our Lord!
4/27/22

"BE"!
2Co 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.
After knowing your identity and "who you are in Christ" first we then have to walk in that identity. Here are 4 things Paul says to "BE"!
BE PERFECT!
Perfect means complete, mature and sober minded. It means we should have the mind set of Christ and therefore walk by faith. Not perfect in the fact that we don't sin, for we are still in this flesh suit but in the fact that we understand the doctrine of grace and to see ourselves as we are and renew our minds. It means we choose to walk by Godliness and righteousness. We rest in Christ yet strive in love!
BE OF GOOD COMFORT!
This means to be comforted in Christ love for us. It allows us to allow His arms to wrap us up and to hold us. It is the security blanket we all want from Christ. It then means we comfort others too. We are to encourage others. It means while being comforted, content and resting in Christ we edify others. We teach, encourage and exhort others to come to Christ in all things. Exhortation is about bringing others to Christ in whatever way is necessary for the person at the time. It is always for their good and for God's glory.
BE OF ONE MIND!
This would seem to be the easiest of all right but sadly it is the worst thing in the church today. What I mean is that most would say we are "one in mind" by saying we are Christians. That we believe in Jesus therefore we are "like minded" BUT we are NOT and that is NOT what it means. It means to be "ONE" in doctrine. ONE in the understanding of GRACE and the Pauline message. It means to understand the finished work of the cross. It means to understand the complete forgiveness that the believer has and to stop striving to be accepted in our performance and works and to rest completely in the blood and love of Christ. It means we don't look to ordinances or things added or "to do" anymore. It means we don't look at the shadow but true body and being of Christ! Christ is the answer not old traditions or false humility in things we can touch, see or handle! All which become works and not faith motivated!
LIVE IN PEACE!
We are to live a peaceful life in Christ. From the internal heart and mind to the external walk we have. It is NOT peace at all costs though. That means it is not giving over to Satan, worldly or fleshly desires just to have "peace" with others. It is NOT accepting or approving of other religions or even having that mind set I mentioned in the one mind above, which is not in grace but in works. It is NOT having different doctrines but saying we are one in Christ OH NO! It is having a contentment in Christ complete works and living in grace and by faith.
AND always remember that the God of Love and Peace is with you always!
4/26/22

Wills don't start until someone dies!
  One of the biggest errors believers make is thinking the New Testament starts in Matthew but it does not. The New Testament which was given to Israel Jer 31:31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
AND Heb 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:
Not only was the New Testament given to Israel, but it does not come alive until Jesus dies on the cross. Heb 9:16 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. 17 For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.
You see not until the end of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John is the New Testament even beginning.
Just like the Wills we make for our families, until we die nothing is in force. Your kids do not inherit your house, money or things until you die.
So what that also means is that the Old Covenant was still in force until the cross and ALL the Law and ordinances were too. Even after the cross the Law was still in force and during Jesus earthly ministry He too was under the Law and He worked within the Law.
BUT NOW
You are no longer under the law so don't try to live under the Law for you are under grace today Dear Saint!
Rom 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
4/25/22

"IF" How small words make the difference!
  Small words can make a big difference in the bible. For instance, the word "IF" is a two-letter word but adds a doubt or maybe to the thinking. It means to perform or do and if you don't, you do not get what was promised.
David proclaims this in 1Ch 28:7 Moreover I will establish his kingdom for ever, if he be constant to do my commandments and my judgments, as at this day.
AND Christ says this in Mat 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Two BIG "IF'S" are there. One is for the Kingdom and the other for forgiveness! Both are used to say "DO OR LOSE"! Both are performance oriented and in order to receive you have to do something. This is how we tend to think regardless. We are born with this mind set and then it is drilled in us by our parents, schools and work in life. You don't get to go play until you clean your room, or get your grades up and you don't get a raise unless you perform. Even in marriage it can be that way. I will love you if you do this and when you don't I will punish you with words or withholding my love. The thinking is that you don't get ahead unless you strive in life. The thinking is "do" this and you will be rewarded, jump through the hoops you might say.
Now I am not saying we should be lazy and not work but I am saying that as far eternal salvation and peace we have that by Jesus Christ apart from our works and only by receiving. IN FACT let me be more clear, the doctrine and salvation message for today is only by faith apart from our works and when we "work", "do" or "perform" in any way we are out of God's will!
Today the church is the exact opposite of Israel's performance-oriented lifestyle. So, when it comes to the Kingdom we are in Christ in the heaven and when it comes to forgiveness we are already forgiven by the cross work of Christ. When comes to being cleansed, we already have been by the Holy Spirit within. AND I could go on and on.... So stop performing and trying to please God for the only thing that pleases God today is resting by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ works!
Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Col 2:13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
Col 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

 

4/22/22

Christianity 101!
  This devotion is Christianity 101, meaning the very basics to the faith. Most pew sitters do not understand this, and I find that many believers don't know this really well either. The fact that from the beginning sin began in Adam. That we want to be our own god and be independent of God. We "play God" of own lives and try to control life and others. We set standards that are not God's standards. Let's read
Gen 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
When Adam sinned, it was the past down to ALL man. All men are born in sin. The Lust and Pride of man comes out in our flesh.  
1Jo 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
We lust for power, money and physical desire of all sorts. We believe that we know more others and especially God. Again, the bible tells us in
Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
BUT Praise God Jesus went to the cross and just as one man that being Adam was disobedient and we all were born disobedient sinners we also are made righteous by ONE man and that man being Jesus
Rom 5:19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous
Rom 5:21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Let's be Thankful and give God the Glory!!!
4/21/22

Your Reasonable Service!
Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Present our bodies a living sacrifice!!! That means "How" we live, and our behavior is to match our belief. We are to be transformed and not be the same as the world, this is our "reasonable service"!
I often see believers who have a great deal of knowledge and doctrine but act the same as the world. This goes for pastor's, teachers and pew sitters. They have collected a lot of information but lack transformation. They are angry, bitter and defensive! Instead of talking with words of seasoned salt that flavors the speech they talk with malice and hate. They don't listen but talk before they truly hear the heart of others because they are always defensive. You don't have to be a drug dealer or a thief to be out of line, this pertains to how we speak and live daily.
The idea of reading and renewing our minds is NOT to gather more info just for knowledge's sake but that it changes us. That we see God's grace and love while seeing our sinful attitudes also.
Don't just collect doctrine and knowledge but rather take a hard honest appraisal of your life! Are you truly a "living sacrifice" or a "dead one"?
4/20/22

BALANCE!
Balance is so important in life. Doing too much in one area of life will throw us off balance. We need to eat moderate, sleep moderate and exercise moderate.
Those that put too much attention in one area lose in other areas. Many a sports or successful business or actors often get divorced from over doing things in their field.
So, we believers need to be when it comes to knowing who we are in Christ verses listening to others' opinions. We need to know that we are Saints that are saved, secure and sanctified and that we are deeply loved, totally accepted and completely forgiven children of God in Christ! We need not to listen to the opinion of the world or family who may tell us different.
Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
Eph 5:21  Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Yet at the same time w can learn from others. The Body of Christ can teach us alot of things about ourselves. We need to be willing to listen to those who want to help us see our weakness and sins. We need to be willing and honest with our selves and receive correction or exhortation from others too.
While knowing who we are in Christ gives us the security and confidence to receive from others because what they may say does not change "who" we are in Christ, it just may help us to grow in His love!

 

4/19/22

Facing the reality of family or friends!
So many saints do not want to be honest with themselves or others when it comes to their family or friends being saved. They want to believe they are saved or sadly even try to change the word of God so that "their sin" is not sin, and therefore it is ok to be as they are.
The bible is clear Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Rom 1:22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
... 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
... 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,....
We do them no good thing when we try to white wash their salvation. Call it what it is, because they will not come to the Lord by putting a veil over their hearts. If they are lost share the gospel. If they are saved but living by the flesh and world tell them.
By not be honest with yourself or not telling them you become a "fool", and either way they are going to hell!

 

4/17/22

HAPPY EASTER!
Act 12:4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.
I WANTED TO SEND THIS OUT TO YOU ALL!
While many Christians will celebrate Easter by going to church and or spending time together, many Christians will not. Some say the word Easter is a Pagan Holiday and should not be associated with Christ resurrection at all. But the word Easter as in Acts 12:4 means passover and is in the King James version. Let's not throw the baby out with the bath water yet!
Now in
1Co 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:
And since Christ has become our passover we could say and use the word, Easter. BUT we should not use bunnies or eggs or anything else to describe what Easter means. Once we do it takes away from the power of the cross.
Teach your kids to honor the real reason for Easter! and HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY!!

 

4/15/22

JESUS TASTED DEATH FOR EVERY MAN!
Heb 2:9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.
There are some who say Jesus did not die for all men but only for those who were chosen by God before time began. But as this verse clearly says that He tasted death for every man!
Tasted means He did not stay dead. He had to die for all sins so that all men can have the opportunity to be saved. He has taken out the barrier between God and man and now NO man has an excuse.
We all are on an even playing field you might say to come by faith and be saved.
Now some may say if He died for all than "all" are saved. No that's universal salvation and there is no faith at all on man's part.
The reformed, Calvinist says he did not die for all but only for the elect meaning that God chose some before time began, but that is not faith as God did the choosing and man had no say in that either!
Neither of these are correct because faith must be involved and that is by our free will to choose.
Jesus tasted death for all so that all have a choice by faith to come to Him.

 

4/13/22

WALK!
Gal 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. ... 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
We have a Spirit, Soul and Body! Our Spirit is God centered, our Soul which is our mind, will and emotions and our Body and that is the physical part that we can see.
Now for the believer the Spirit area is a done deal as far as being saved and sanctified. Everything is full and complete in the Spirit. You can not get more of God in your spirit. It contains the Father, Son and Holy Spirit with in it.
But the Soul is different and needs to be renewed everyday of that which is already in the spirit. The soul is our thinker, chooser and feeler you might say. Our mind thinks and our will chooses what we want to believe and focus on.
The word WALK in the bible is that SOUL part. It is the thinking part and directs our Work which is our Body. Our walk is what we do everyday and what most people see as the struggle in life.
I often hear folks say that the Christian life is hard to live, but it isn't. Jesus said for Mat 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
What is hard is trying to walk the Christian life without Christ!
When you struggle emotionally with fear, anxiety or depression it is you who is trying to walk alone and without Christ. Put on Christ and His love and "NEVER WALK ALONE" again!
4/12/22

Prayer, Opportunity and the Mystery of Christ!
Col 4:2 Continue in prayer and watch in the same with thanksgiving; 3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: 4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
This is what I ask of you Dear Saints in Christ! I ask that you pray for me to have more and more opportunities to speak the mystery of Jesus Christ our Lord.
That I would see that door open in whatever circumstance. That I could counsel more and teach more. That I would be bold, confident and clear in the message of the cross. That I would be strengthen by the spirit of Christ love in sharing the revelation of the mystery. That I would edify both in group bible studies and one on one ministry. That the love, acceptance and forgiveness of Christ be shared with all hope and faith!
Please continue to pray for me because I am praying this for you!!!
4/11/22

CONTENTMENT!
One of the hallmarks and most important thing in the believer's life is to be content. Paul says this in  
Phl 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
No matter what state he was in he was content. I have grown to be more content over the years yet my flesh always struggles. I have the desire to do things my body can not do anymore. I have the desire to be well and not hurt any more. I want to be  financially secure so that we do not fear for our income, and I could go on and on.
But these are nothing new or any different than any one of you may face at some point in life.
Now some well intention spiritual person will say that the bible commands us Not to fear and to be content so if you admit that you are not content than you are sinning and to that I would say YES I AM!
And thank goodness I can Stop, renew and put on the love of Christ and rest and be content again!
Rom 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
 

4/8/22

God's "just" love!
It is very important to know that God is Love! 1 John 4:8 says this, but that Love is God and God is Just! God is a just, righteous and Holy God and just because He is Love does not lower the perfect standard that His righteousness demands.
Rom 2:5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
1Ti 1:9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
2Ti 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
God still judges man based on His perfect Love for His righteousness! He is Righteous and will judge accordingly. Now can we live up to that righteousness on our own, NO!!!!!
BUT Christ can and has and will!!!!! By faith you are saved and By Christ you are made "JUST RIGHT" for God!
Now don't think that just because God is Love, that it is Love like we love a puppy. Don't think this love is some sort of emotional swaying of our soul OH NO!
This Love is Just!!!!
4/7/22

UNSAVED, OR FLESHLY!
There is a difference but at times look the same. One is saved the other is not but sometimes you can't tell the difference.
I often get asked "can a saved person do this or that, and still be saved"? And sometimes when I answer them, they get upset because when I answer them, they don't like the answer.  I often will say yes, a saved person can do that BUT I might question their salvation to begin with. Paul says it this way,
UNSAVED...
Eph 4:17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: 19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
AND There are people who go to church and claim to be Christians but are not. Just face it not everyone you know or in your family are saved even though they go to church. You are not saved by going to church or being a pastor, usher or even by water baptism.
Tit 1:15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
Notice he says they profess to know God but deny Him by their works. That means there life style is not in accord with Godliness.  
By the way I often hear folks say we are not to judge but the bible and Paul judged all the time. We are to judge "righteously" Jesus said. So if a person that is in your family or a friend does not know Jesus and is not saved do you want them to go to Hell? Don't you want them saved and Heaven bound! Isn't it better that you say something and question their heart then to say nothing and they go to hell!
SAVED!
Now Paul goes on in Ephesians and say this about us, 20 But ye have not so learned Christ; 21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
We are to Put off our fleshly self centered lust and desire and be renewed in the Spirit of our mind! Renew means to put on Christ and His love. It means to think about His love and His forgiveness and more important His great love that needs nothing else and is over the fleshy lust you desire. Being saved does not mean you will not sin but it does mean you see your sin and renew your thoughts.
To continue without renewing may show more than you think!
4/6/22

WALK!
Act 3:6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
Peter tells this lame man to get up and walk. He was leading him to understand that the Messiah has come and the healing power that Jesus gave to the 12 Apostles proved this. Now healing miracles were common back then for the proof of God and to build faith. This was common all the way back into the Old Covenant.
But today the church is under grace and Paul says to "walk" in a different way. We are to walk worthy unto Christ. We are to walk humbly and in love.
Eph 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
No longer a healing and physical walk to bring Israel to accept their Messiah but now a Spiritual, inner man and faith based walk. The walk today is not based on healing but on Christ alone. It is a internal and eternal Living Walk. A cleansing of the Spirit and a walk of the SOUL!
So choose to WALK WORTHY TODAY by knowing CHRIST WORTH in you!
4/5/22

BE BOLD AND CONFIDENT!!!

Eph 3:11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

Paul always begins each book with telling us "Who" we are In Christ. The book of Ephesians emphasizes it more than any other book. The first 3 chapters deals with the issue of what God has accomplished and what Jesus has done by the cross, And We now are in Him. If you don't understand this, then as most Christians you will fall back into the thinking that you are just a sinner saved by grace attitude and still behave as if you are that sinner. You will back off coming to Christ in shame and guilt rather than boldness and confidence.

We have been transformed, regenerated and are a New Creation. We are not just tolerated but rather accepted and approved by God. He wishes to spend time with us. We are after all in Christ God's beloved son!

So, start thinking as Paul tells us to do inPhl 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: and come to God in Boldness and Confidence!

GOOD TO BE BACK!
It has been one month since my last devotional. I have had to recover from some health issues and surgery. I am doing well and thank you for your prayers.
As I think about Paul and what he went through I think of this verse.
Phl 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: 24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
Now I am not Paul but I do think that we ALL need to have this attitude. "To die is gain" is the way we should approach our struggles,... and if I "live is Christ"!
This gave me such peace as I went through my surgery. It was a WIN, WIN situation for me and I hope you too would adopt this thinking and attitude.
Good to be back with you,
and grace to you.
 

2/25/2022

Rejoice the church is One!
Phl 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
The book of Philippians is sandwiched between Ephesians and Colossians. While Ephesians tells us who we are "IN CHRIST", The book of Colossians tells us "WHO CHRIST IS IN US"!
Now the book of Philippians has the word "JOY" in it over and over. Paul often repeats himself to get the message that there is Joy in Christ because Christ is JOY!
Joy has to do with LIFE! Joy is not just happiness but peace, contentment and security. We only find this in Christ Jesus our Lord!
Now another theme we see in Philippians is the word "ONE"! We are ONE in Christ! The church is called the Body of Christ and we are One in Him. We are to think and behave as ONE BODY! We are to understand the ONE doctrine for today. We are to be working as one organism across the world. We are to be ONE in GRACE! There is to be that security, peace and contentment in the Body!  
When the Body acts in unity and as ONE we then see JOY in the Body. Independent thinking and doctrine pull's apart the JOY we have in Him.
You are IN CHRIST and CHRIST IS IN YOU so Phl 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

 

2/24/2022

Learn to be humble and help others!
Two things come to mind when I read Rom 15:1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.
One the fact that we are to help others when they are not walking by faith. The word infirmities means a "weakness of mind". It means being depressed on one hand or having a lack of faith on the other hand. We should "build up" each other in the faith... which is what edify means.
Now the other thing that comes to mind which for this devotional is my main point and that is we should be humble enough to take that help and instructions from another. The biggest difference supposably in Christians verses unbelievers is that they are humble and able to be ministered too. Non-believers are prideful and arrogant and will not listen but believers in Christ should be humble to hear what others have to say. Now that does not make ALL advice good and will need to have some discernment but just the part of sitting down and listening is good.
But I also see so many believers or at least claim to be believers that will not listen to other believers. They are too prideful to receive because they either know it all already, even though their life or attitude is a mess, or they just won't take the help they need. Some see it as a sign of weakness to be helped when really is a sign of maturity.
I have seen countless pastors and saints, even in the "Pauline, grace movement" who will not receive and act prideful. In fact, to many of them are worse than those who do not have sound doctrine. The doctrine itself becomes an idol and therefore they do not see the practical, emotional or mental failure of their thinking.
Be willing to be willing to receive.

 

2/23/2022

No Idols! Not even Leadership!
We humans tend to make idols out of anything and everything. Even Christians do this with leadership. Some churches claim and make Peter an idol. Some call him the first Pope which means in Latin "pappa or father"! They bow and kiss his hand and give glory to him. Now I am pretty sure Christ even said specifically don't call me Father. (Mat 23:9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.) Even Peter would deny this and was humble enough to behave as such. Leadership can be made into an idol as well as other things, and this idol worship leads to bondage.
We are to stand in the freedom that we have in Christ. We are not to be brought under bondage to any man for any reason.
Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
BUT there is authority, and we need to honor that authority with the right heart yet not in bondage to it.
Rom 13:1 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.
Eph 5:23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
Eph 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) 3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. 4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; 6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;
Voluntary submission is not bondage. Submission is the choosing of one's heart to be under yet not worshipping the leadership. There is freedom in submission if done with the "right" heart at the "right" time for the "right" reasons!
Worship God, honor authority but don't idolize man!

 

2/22/2022

Don't Glory in your flesh, but rather in the Cross of Christ!
Gal 6:12 As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. 13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. 14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.
The Jews wanted the gentiles to be circumcised so they could say the gentiles are clean and following God. What they really wanted was to glory in their "religion"! They wanted to say, "see we are God's religion" and "We are the righteous ones"!
That thinking still goes on. Certain denominations want you to follow the law instead of walking in the freedom you have in Christ. Please take note of what I am going to say next.... ANY church that asked you to tithe, water baptize or do certain ordinances or to "do" things to join their church is in Law. They are the modern day "Jews" that want you to be circumcised. They are trying to boast in your flesh. I have heard countless times in my life from pastors that say "we baptized (water) 10 people last week. Instead of saying "10 people were saved last week" they boast in some "work"!!!! That must mean "we are doing something right for God" and "we are doing the "work" of the ministry" they say!
This wrong and not God's way of thinking. This is boasting in the wrong thing....
When it comes to giving GLORY to something, give that GLORY to the Cross of Christ! That cross is the instrument in which you are saved! The meaning of the cross is that Christ died for your sins and rose to give you eternal life! Tithing, water baptism or anything else can NOT save you!
2/21/2022

BITTERNESS!
Heb 12:15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; 16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. 17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
So many people are bitter. Bitter means to first be offended, hurt and rejected and then comes anger. The writer of Hebrews uses the words "root" to describe it. Under the ground are hurts, offences and rejections. These could be a past lifetime issue or a daily thing. Then popping out of the ground is the weed. The weed of anger, malice or revenge. The weed of self-centeredness and self-protection.
Now this weed of bitterness will defile others. Defile means to poison others in some way. That anger and resentment comes out in some way. It comes out in relationships such as toward the spouse, children and even the church. It may come out at work or with friends. This poison is not always anger but can also be neglect and self-centered behavior. It can be choosing bad relationship or making fleshly sinful decisions.
To add many who do miss this grace of God in bitterness also cry and whine for acceptance they want others to love them, while they continue to be the same self-centered person. They demand others to treat them better and right while they themselves continue to defile. They don't see that this very demanding attitude is actually a bitter heart AND defiling others at the same time they are actually trying to get you to accept them.
They don't repent which means to have a "change of mind". They don't understand their sinfulness, nor do they experience God's forgiveness, so they don't walk by faith or forgive the offences they have experienced. They never walk by faith therefore they are not secure but rather are always insecure and seeking acceptance.
Just because someone cries and or says, "you hurt me" and then may tries use it against you does not mean they have "repented" to God. And until that happens, they are the same prideful, arrogant and bitter person who has missed the grace of God. The old saying that says "he who has not changed his WILL, is of the same mind STILL"!!!

 

2/18/2022

PICK YOUR FRIENDS WISELY!
As believers we need to know who we are in Christ! We need to know and be able to distinguish right from wrong or good from bad. To many saints don't know their identity and therefore make friends with the first person that accepts them. The one who shows them attention.
The bible says this in 1Co 15:33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. We often become friends with folks who are not saved and or do not follow the Lord if they are saved. We want friends so bad instead of resting in the Love of God that we make bad decisions and even our own behavior changes and then we have bad manners meaning sinful manners.
We seek the approval from others instead of knowing that God's approval has been given and that we need no other. We become men pleasers and do and say things that get others to like us instead of standing against them. We don't like confrontation, so we go along with them even if we disagree and then our conscience becomes seared by doing it over and over again.
Don't fall into this trap. Know who you are in Christ and be independent of others who do not follow Christ. Follow those who truly follow Christ until you can stand firm against those who are in this world.
2/17/2022

PAUL RECEIVED INSTRUCTIONS BY THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST!
   Paul's understanding and books are written to us by the revelation of Jesus Christ. Paul's words are Jesus words not Paul's. And sadly, to many churches and teachers do not understand Paul's distinct ministry. They say, " I follow Jesus not Paul", yet to say that means you are NOT following Jesus. Jesus said follow Paul as Jesus gave the instructions. They say that, because they think that I am saying that Paul is greater than Jesus but that is not what I am saying.
Gal 1:10 "For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. 11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ".
Now if Jesus came down to anyone else and said to do this or that I would do what that person said as long as I knew for sure it was Christ that is. Now of course the bible is closed and finished and that would all be important but what I am getting at is that Paul is the Apostle to the gentiles and Paul received the revelation and Paul was chosen to "REVEAL GOD'S SON IN HIM"!!!!
... 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:
It was Paul who received the "Revelation of the Mystery"!
Eph 3:3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
It was Paul who Jesus chose to share the dispensation of Grace. Eph 3:2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:
So don't confuse Peter's ministry with Paul's ministry. Don't confuse Jesus earthly ministry to Israel with Jesus "heavenly" ministry to Paul. Don't confuse and mix Law with Grace!
2/16/2022

MY MISSION FOR TODAY!
Throughout my years of ministry, I have sometimes gone on missions. Now these missions are not to a foreign country or state but rather a mission of topics.
While I always preach and teach that we are under grace I am emphasizing the difference between law and grace even more. So, if you read me saying the same thing in different ways you will know why.
Today I want to get across how God's point of view sees this mixing of these two things. Now we must always remember that Jesus speaks through Paul and Paul's word to the Galatian church was this.
Gal 1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
Gal 3:10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
To believe or preach and teach anything different than the gospel of grace which Paul teaches is to pervert the gospel. Now some teachers will say we are saved by grace and then turn around and tell you to walk by law. They want you to jump through their hoops so to speak. I have seen it over and over on church websites the "Next Steps" category. This means what "to do" after you are saved. And just so you know there are "NO NEXT STEPS"!!!!...except to grow in grace, and to understand the freedom, you have in Christ. To understand and grow in "WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE BEEN GIVEN".....BUT there are no more "HOOPS" to jump through.
Paul says you are accursed if you preach law. That means under God's wrath or rejected because you refuse to accept His ways for today. His way today was by His Son's sacrifice on the cross, His blood and His life! To go back to law is to deny Christ works!
Gal 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
2/15/2022

Christian edifying can be both sad and work at times!!
  The building up of the Body can be fun and enjoyable but it can also be hard work and sad. Here in 2Co 12:19 Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. 20For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: 21  And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.
  You see Paul's mission as well as our mission should be to edify meaning build up the Body of Christ. Build up in the knowledge and grace of God. Build up to reject the worlds philosophies and thinking. Build up to say NO to the lust of the world.
  We are also to teach the saints who they are in Christ and Christ in them, so they can walk in righteousness and love. To walk in Godliness and bring others to Christ.
  Yet as Paul says here the church at Corinth was still struggling with divisions and debates. They were not in unity but always trying to one up the other.  They had not had a change of mind and walk by faith, but they were still very carnal and walking by their flesh and emotions.
  So don't get to down when you think you have tried to edify and help others only for them to continue to behave the same way.
Ministry is hard work and sad at times but take comfort in being obedient to Christ and suffering just as He did!
2/14/2022

You have, so do!
Because you are saved and forgiven you can forgive. Because you are loved you can love. God's grace is sufficient for all things and has been given to you.
2Co 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
So, we can do every good work that comes to our heart and mind. We can do all things that we are to do because we just need to rest in Christ and be content "AS WE SERVE"! Good works are a fruit or a biproduct of the Spirit. So, walk by the Spirit and you will do "good works"
May God's Grace Abound in you today!
2/12/2022

ANOTHER!
   Another means someone or something else. It means that it may not be authentic, real or true. That is the case today in our local churches. They preach "another"! Another Jesus, spirit or gospel. Paul says  
  2Co 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.
  You see to add works or law is adding something different and therefore "preaching another"!!!! To add Law to Grace is to preach another Jesus! To add Law is to deny the Spirit within and therefore another spirit. The different churches or denominations teach law to control, or they take for self-centered reason. They say one thing but do another.
  Don't be manipulated into their web of deceit but rather live in the freedom that Christ has given you. Don't get caught in "a shadow" of Christ which is another but live in the authentic Body of Christ!
2/10/22

All scripture is good and should be shared!
  The bible says all scripture is good and should be shared in the right context and for the right reasons.
  Many a pastor/teachers or evangelist share only what they want to share in the light of what they are trying to accomplish. If trying to raise money they share give, give, give! If wanting to get rich, they may share prosperity or the health and wealth message!
  Now we want to share all scripture but sometimes the scripture that is hard to share are this type.
1Thes 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
  The reason they hard are that it comes across as saying "please pat me on the back". It comes across as saying "see how hard I work so love, respect and honor me, the pastor".
  But that should not be the case, if read for edification of the body and not for self-serving reasons. Edifying means the building up of the Body. So just like young people should follow mom and dad so also should the church follow a good pastor-teacher and one who knows and teaches the word SO they too can grow to teach and edify others. Paul says in
Eph 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
  Pride and fear stop's us from sitting under someone and getting help. We all need to have someone help us grow until we are "perfect" which means mature so we can in turn minster to others. You don't want to be tossed around by every form of doctrine, do you?
2/9/2022

THINGS THAT WERE NOT KNOWN AND CHANGED!
Eph 3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, 2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: 3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, 4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) 5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
There are many things that changed after the cross and Israel's rejection of the living Messiah.
And Paul was the author via Jesus Christ to tell the gentiles what those things were. Things changed and were not known before. The "Mystery" itself was not known. Prophecy was always told but the mystery program was not known.
Now the change in dispensation gives change to many things. For instance, there is no Temple building, but we are a temple. There is no need for water washing and baptism to cleanse as we are cleansed inwardly by the Holy Spirit. Things like tithing and many other things that modern day church traditions hang onto are no longer working as the dispensation of grace and the mystery program has changed these things.
To hang onto these things is just as wrong as the Old Covenant saints that did not do them.  They were to do them we are not. Let's read what Paul says in
Rom 16:25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
Notice some things...Paul says "my" gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ. He adds "in according with the revelation of the mystery... for the OBEDIENCE OF FAITH!
If you hold onto traditions or law of the Old Covenant, you are disobedient!  Progressive revelation is all through the bible and things have changed for today!
2/8/2022

TITHING TODAY?

  Nothing gets folks more upset than talking about money. The church has been robbed, manipulated and lied to so much by the prosperity preachers that it does not take much to set the anger rolling. These preachers have huge multimillion-dollar homes and estates and not just one but several jets which cost in the millions for just one.
Is tithing for today?
  As I have said before the key to everything is understanding the dispensations. First and the simplest way to know is to ask are we under law or grace? Well, most Christians will say grace, and that is right and not according to the law given to Israel. Tithing was required under law and so that answers that.
  The other is simply according to 2Co 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
  Nowhere in Paul's books do, we see him telling the believers to tithe. Paul never puts us back under law and never requires the ordinances to be followed.
  Give as you "purposed in your heart" and be a "cheerful giver" when you do!
2/7/2022

Searching for Significance!
  All of us are born in sin and therefore search for significance. We will perform and work hard just to get acceptance or attention. We will seek affection from others just so we can feel good about ourselves. Paul says this in
Eph 2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:
  We were lost, without Christ and without God! We were strangers without hope! So, we are born without knowing things about God. Many parents still do not teach their children about God because they do not know God. They too are performing and working hard just to find significance.
  So many run that rat race that says "performance + others' opinions = my self-worth"! It may even sound like this in our heads..."If I "do" this or that, others will praise me". Or "if I change this about my appearance people or spouse will love me". Women are especially put on the spot for their appearance and often change their bodies just so they can impress their husbands or others!
  Don't fall into the performance trap or seeking others' opinions about you. Know that Christ died for you and loves you regardless of your performance and that His opinion is the only one that counts!
2/4/2022

LET'S BE HONEST AND SHARE WITH ONE ANOTHER!!!!
Col 3:9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
One of the biggest problems today is that everyone keeps to themselves. They don't share openly their thoughts or sins or feelings. The Body of Christ has failed in many ways by preaching the same thing over and over. They preach "don't live by your feelings", which is a true statement BUT it often leads to many thinking I have no feelings or cannot share their feelings because they will be judged AND it is sin!
Now first off let's remember that Jesus death took care of sins not our works. 2nd lets remember that we all sin and that we all have feelings. We need to be able to confess our feelings yet learn to not live in them. Admitting the feelings to God and ourselves is a part of the relationship between God and man as well as man to man. The Body of Christ should be a place or rather I should say people sharing with one another. Sharing their hurts, emotions and lives with one another. It is not a place to brag or to look better by NOT admitting to having feelings.
Be honest with yourself, God and others is a part of the church functioning as the Body of Christ.
2/3/2022

TODAY!!!
The great Indian chief Sitting Bull once said before fighting General Custer "Today is a good day to die"! Well God says TODAY is a GREAT TIME TO LIVE!!!
2Co 6:1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
NOW meaning TODAY is the time to walk by faith! Today is a time for salvation! Paul is using past scripture to encourage the church to walk by faith in the grace that God has shown. To know that God's wrath against man has been paid and reconciliation has taken place. Christ blood has been poured out for us and so we are brought nigh meaning close to God.
So close that He lives in us, and we in Him! So, live TODAY in FAITH! Make a conscience effort to RENEW your MIND and continue to be transformed TODAY!!!
TODAY is a GREAT DAY TO LIVE!!!!
 

 2/2/2022

BIBLE STUDIES!
  When teaching bible studies to a wide and open crowd I often come across those of different denominations. One goes to such and such church and someone else goes to another. They often will have different ordnances and thoughts on things and sometimes say to me "let's not talk about denominations or differences but let's just talk about the bible"!
  BUT the problem is that they don't really want to know what the bible says but rather how the bible makes them feel along with how it backs their denominational church. (PS it does not need to be a denominational church it can also be nondenominational.)
     But Paul's whole ministry was against "denominational church's"! His whole life he fought against the legalism and false humility of churches, who added things to the salvation process. His whole ministry was against man's thinking and "for" God's thinking!!!!
  Let's read in Rom 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. 19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. 20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
  You see if you lead or teach the bible you must teach against those who cause division and offences contrary to "sound doctrine" or "right doctrine"!!!! The doctrine that saves and brings life. The doctrine that is not man made but spiritually driven. The doctrine for today in the mystery and under grace. The doctrine by faith and grace and transforms man's inner man for eternity! The doctrine that has "nothing added"!
  If Satan can get you or your church to stoop to man-made ordinances and false humility by doing some ordnance or thing which are only shadows of Christ than he has won! All he wants to do is to be able to get you off a little and look religious, pious or "do" something with those things just a little and it will take away from the peace and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ!!!!
2/1/2022

If the Law is good?
Paul constantly says that the Law is good.
Rom 7:12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
1Ti 1:8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;
Now if the Law is "good" then wouldn't it be good for us to be under the Law just as Israel was under the Law? Well let's read what Paul says in 2Co 3:8 How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? 9 For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
The Law is the ministration of "condemnation". It only condemns and it told Israel what they were NOT to do or what would happen if they did not do what they were told to do. It had a performance and work aspect to it.  To add Paul says in
1Co 15:56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
Yet let's look back at that verse in 2 Cor 3 again, if the law was Glorious how much more is the Spirit of the Living God within us! Never forget saints that the Living God and Saviour lives within you!!! HOW GLORIOUS IS THAT!!!!!
1/31/2022

New Testament, Law or Grace!
  Now most Christians believe that the New Testament is grace and the Old Testament Law. But as you can clearly see that from Jer 31:31 "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: 32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD: 33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people".  
that is not the case. God says I will put "MY LAW" in their inward parts. To add the New Testament was written to Israel. Notice "the house of Israel and the house of Judah!!! This means that just as God had written on stone and "gave" the Law to Israel, now He will by the Spirit be the Law "KEEPER" within them.
So, if the Law was given to Israel and we gentiles in the Body of Christ are "NOT UNDER THE LAW" then what does this mean in 2 Co 3:1 "Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? 2 Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: 3 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. 4 And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; 6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. 7 But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: 8 How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious"?
Paul is not making us Israel nor is he saying we are to be under the Law but rather we have received what Israel was promised and that is the Spirit. Paul was a Jew and understood the "New" vs. the "Old" but He was the Apostle to the gentiles and understood the distinct difference there also.
We are sealed by the Spirit, but we are not under the "NEW" covenant given to Israel but rather we a NEW CREATURE, under grace and saved by the blood and reconciliation of Jesus Christ Our Lord!!!! The New Testament given to Israel has not been fulfilled yet, so we wait in Hope for the rapture of the Body of Christ and then the fulfilling of this New Covenant to Israel!
1/28/2022

BE STRONG!
The bible uses the word "strong" allot. There are different meanings for the word strong in the bible. There is physical strength as well as spiritual strength.
Paul says that Abraham was "strong in faith".  
Rom 4:20   He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;
We too are to be strong in faith. We are also told to be "strong in the Lord" which also takes faith. Allowing His power and strength to flow through us.
Eph 6:10   Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Then we are told to "be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus".
2Ti 2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
ALL of these things are done by faith and not by flesh. We are not to muster up some fleshly, self-esteem and attitude. We are not to do this on our own, yet we do have a responsible part in be in strong.
We are too be "weak"!
2Co 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
You see when we are weak then "He is strong" in us. We are to receive and rest in Him! His grace is sufficient. His power is adequate! His Love is complete! We become strong by allowing Jesus to be the source and power in us.
FOR Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. 21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Don't frustrate the grace of God, be weak that you may be STRONG!!!
1/27/2022

WATCH, STAND, BE BRAVE AND BE STRONG!!!
1Co 16:13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. 14 Let all your things be done with charity. 15 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)
Paul tells us to watch out for things. To be awake to the sinfulness of the world and each other. To be aware of the climate of men's hearts and actions.
Then he tells us to "stand fast" meaning after we have seen the current climate of the world and hearts around us to take a stand for Christ! Stand for righteousness even when unrighteousness seems to be glaring at us. Stand against the agendas of this world. Now while standing we do not condone violence or hate but stand in a attitude of love, Godliness and righteousness to a lost world. Never are we called to physically harm others in the name of Christ.
Paul says to be "quit you like men" that means "be brave"! We should not back down in fear but stand and be BRAVE no matter what the outcome may be!
And then he says to be strong. Strong in faith and strong in love!
1/26/2022

DEAR BELOVED BRETHREN!!!
1Co 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
Paul encourages the brethren to be steadfast, which means to be firm and immovable! Don't be doubting and wavering but stand firm in faith!
He then says to be unmovable which means the same as steadfast, except adding persistence! We are to be persistent in sharing the gospel. We are to keep the standards of Godliness and righteousness. We are to persist, in working in the spirit and exhorting others to come to Christ!
Paul then says to abound in the work of the Lord. As you grow in the knowledge of His Love and Grace you are to give, share and exhort others to walk by faith. The Christian life is not just about each individual growing to their personal potential but rather growing in faith to give away Christ life to others. If you don't talk to others about Christ or care about others coming to Christ, you are still a babe and only looking out for yourself. You are immature and self-seeking and carnal as Paul would say.
So, stay steadfast, firm and unmovable in faith and all the while be abounding in the precious work of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!
1/25/2022

CHILDREN NEED TO BE SHOWN!
When dealing with children we have to show them what to do or not do! We have to take them by the hand until they learn what is right and wrong.
The same type of thing is worded in the bible. As far as mankind is concerned Israel was considered to be like children and rightfully so because they had not known God either nor did they know right from wrong. They needed signs to prove to them "Who" is this God! The law was given to help them as well as make them distinct. Gentiles never had the law so were more like the younger siblings needing the older children to help them find this God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!
As progressive revelation goes through the bible, we come to Paul's writings to the gentile world. We see that we no longer need to be held by the hand so to speak but rather the bible is complete and perfect and gives us all that we need. We only need to walk by faith now!
Read this from1Co 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
You see the sign gifts are not needed but faith in the Living Word is what is required today!
WALK BY FAITH TODAY DEAR SAINT!
1/24/2022

DISCERNING AND BALANCE IN THE CHURCH AND BIBLE!
I believe the church is so weak today because it hangs everything on these1 Corinthians verses but does not balance them with other scripture.  
1Co 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
You will hear sermon after sermon on "Love", but you will not hear much on separation. This is because 1. it is easy to preach on love everyone wants to be loved. 2. It sounds "like Jesus" who loved everyone! 3. It builds a big church fellowship by being kind! 4.......... on and on!!!
BUT what it really teaches is Ungodliness, Unrighteousness and an Unscriptural church. It teaches the church to mix with darkness instead of being a light and it confuses the Body. It sounds spiritual but it is not! Let's read what Paul's says in just a few verses.
Rom 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
1Co 5:9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:
... 11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
2Th 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.
... 14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
2Ti 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Charity is always Godly, Righteous and Holy therefore be sure and balance scripture rightly. Godly Love may be a rebuke, correction or even separation as well as a hug or gift!
1/21/2022

1Co 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
Paul often said follow "me"! We are to follow Paul's pattern of salvation, doctrine and life as he followed Jesus. We are to understand that Paul was called, chosen and the Apostle for the gentiles. Paul was told the new doctrines for the "Body of Christ" the church today. It is a different doctrine given to him than to Peter. Both are saved by Jesus but under different dispensations given by God.
Now in this same chapter in Corinthians we find the doctrine on hair and coverings. Now you may find this almost ridicules, but you would be surprised at the different stances people take on coverings and hair.
... 14 Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? 15 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.
In some countries they might kill you for not covering your head and, in the U.S., they might shun you. Some churches take it to mean that a women should never cut their hair and or should were a covering of some sort. I have had some women come to me and argue over the color of the covering and say that women must were one.
On the other side of the fence, I see men who were long hair and beards thinking they look more like Jesus so that makes them more spiritual. I believe some men are just too lazy or want to look like a hippie like when they were young. Neither trying to look like Jesus is more spiritual nor being lazy is right. IN fact, we as saints are not to stand out at all. We are not to be seeking attention nor are we to draw attention by pointing out our tattoos, hair, dress or anything else. We are to be drawing attention to Christ by words and deeds of love unto God our Father! We are to dress modest and look normal as men and women of God. No outstanding dress code such as long dresses or head coverings which also draw attention.
If you're a man with long hair and beard cut it off. If your women and were a covering take it off. Then start sharing the word of God by following Paul's pattern of salvation and life in Christ!
1/19/2022

Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
We are God's workmanship! The word workmanship comes from the Greek word "poiema" which in English means poem. Now a poem is something that "expresses" the one who created it. God expresses Himself through Christ as we are created in Christ! It is by Christ that we are made alive and a New Creature!
It is God's pleasure to express Himself through us and the "good" works come by the Spirit as we walk by the Spirit. It is not us being "good" but rather God working through us.
Good works are always by faith and always righteous, Godly and Holy. Good works come as a byproduct of being saved and walking by the Spirit. An unsaved person can never do a "good" work unto the Lord!
Keep walking by the spirit and you will see the fruit and "good" works of God in your life!
1/18/2022

Winning and losing!
The football playoffs are here. The Super Bowl is near, and we will have seen another champion of the NFL! Whether or not into football or sports we all struggle with winning and losing!
We as believers want to not sin and struggle to "win" that battle. Yet the battle has been WON!
1Co 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
While struggling to not sin we continue to sin!
1Co 15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
We have the victory already in Christ and trying to not sin by our own strength just makes a law and then sin manifest itself.
Don't get caught up in thinking the Christian life is about "NOT" sinning for the Christian life is about CHRIST! Focus, receive and rest in Christ and you will not sin!

 

1/17/2022

Facing Life Issues!!!
When we go through issues in life and we all will go through them at some point, so do as Paul say's here...
Col 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
Seek and set you affection on Him! Set your mind and heart on things above which means on Him. Set your will, emotions and being on receiving from Him. It is not about working to get out of the problem but rather walking through the problem in Christ.
Resting in Christ who is our LIFE!!!
3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
You see we can wiggle around and try to get out of our problems but that does not mature or help us it just brings fleshly satisfaction and comfort until the next issue.
Jesus is Life, and Peace and only He brings eternal and internal comfort!

 

1/3/2022

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Happy 2022 to all of you. It is a new year with new challenges and new opportunities. Be sure and take advantage of a new year in life.
While the world celebrates a new year on this earth we must keep in mind that we are a New Creature made by God in Christ!
2Co 5:17   Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
We are made new the old things are gone but more important is that we are ALIVE! Spiritually ALIVE in Christ. The New creature is a NEW MAN! The new creature and New Man are internal and we don't need to look at the celebrations of the world but our home is in Heaven.
Phl 3:20  For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
Conversation means our "citizenship" and place is in heaven with Christ! Enjoy your new year here and now and share the "good news" of Jesus Christ but remember your place, position and purpose is all in Christ!

 

12/31/2021

PRACTICAL MATTERS!
Rom 13:8  Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
In this day and age of high prices and mortgages it is hard to not owe someone. But let me encourage you to do the best job you can in staying out or get out of debt.
1. buy low sell high if possible and pay off early. Pay a little more each month even if it is just $50-100.
2. Don't use credit cards except for emergencies.,in fact throw them away and just keep one for that emergency situations.
3. Keep and live within a budget.
4. Don't buy things you don't need.
5.  Remember to put some away if possible for future and build up a savings of some sort.
These are just "Practical matters" for all of us to know. To add the only law and things to owe is the Law of Love! Honor and love others and God by  financially responsible and stay out of debt.

 

12/30/2021

CAST OFF AND PUT ON!
Rom 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
I have written allot of times on Put-off and Put-on. It usually is about sinful things and here is no different  yet in this verse it says to "cast off" the works of darkness.
The works of darkness is sin but the sin here is more inline with the words religion or a respect of divine and human duties. It has to do with things that "look" like worship and piety but is not! It is the worship of mans thinking and not Godly thinking.
For years man has perverted God's word in such away that we worship the creature instead of the Creator. We think by "doing" more or "performing" rituals we are being more respectful and showing our faith but really it is just a facade.
Now when we "PUT-ON LIGHT" we are being real, genuine and sincere! There are no facades and we are just ourselves with the Lord of lord's. We don't try to fake our feelings yet we are not controlled by them either.
Light in the bible is always the symbol of Godliness, Righteousness and Holiness! It is truth,and honesty and has no subtle self intentions. It is the Holy Spirit and it shines in darkness to make clear what is unclear to the eye and heart. It stands against religion, piety and false humility!!!!
So put on the armour which means the weapon against darkness and sin! The armour is the Word of God as well as the Spirit of God! It means to "PUT-ON" JESUS CHRIST!!!!
Rom 13:14  But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

 

12/29/2021

PRESENT YOUR BODIES A LIVING SACRIFICE UNTO GOD!!!
Rom 12:1  I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
.. 9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
I would like to say that In this day and age people living together is more common then in other ages but it is not. They live together instead of marrying and therefore are sinning. They "present their bodies" in a sinful way, not a Godly way.This can be true of any sin but especially in the area of fornication.
Presenting your body in a Godly way begins in the spirit of man. Because once saved and transformed by the Holy Spirit we then can choose to renew our minds and allow that good, acceptable and perfect life style to be lived out through our body and unto God.
The Spirit, Soul and Body connected in harmony with each other produces a transformed, sanctified and living sacrifice unto God. It is allowing God's love to workout and not following evil but following that which is good meaning righteous in Christ.
So renew your mind with the truth that is in your spirit already. The Holy Spirit is in you and He loves you and you need no one to value you, for you are already of the "GREATEST VALUE" IN CHRIST!
 

12/28/2021

PRAY FOR ALL MEN!!!!
1Tim 2:1  I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
Praying is something that we all can do. We don't need to be a theologian or teacher to pray. We don't have to be some super spiritual  person to pray. We can simply pray simply!
We ought to pray for ALL men every were. Pray for you family and friends. Pray for our neighbors and co-workers. Pray for our government leaders locally as well as nationally. Pray for your pastor and church folks. Please pray for our ministry and for those that come for counseling and our bible studies. Please pray for me to be bold and strong in faith and please always remember that I am praying for you too.
Let me just encourage you to pray for those who are lost and do not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. Pray that first they know Him and then for their issues. Don't just pray for someone to be well and healthy but for their Spirit and Soul! The body will fade away but the spirit lives on.
And as you pray give thanks unto God for who He is and what He has done and for our salvation and in hope for others to come to Him!
So pray for all men and give thanks unto God!

 

12/27/2021

"THEIR SOUND WENT INTO ALL THE EARTH"!!!!
Rom 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. 18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.
The Word of God has been shared for years! The "sound of the Word" was sent out from Israel and around the world!
"Jesus is the Son of God" and the "anointed one is here"! But not all believed for it takes faith. Faith is the key to being saved. Everything has been offered and given and ready to be accepted, but it must be accessed and received by faith.
HEAR THE WORD OF GOD DEAR SAINTS! HEAR AND GROW IN FAITH!
Read the Word of God daily let it soak in and transform your life. Read, Hear and Receive! Hear, Read and PREACH! Preaching is proclaiming we ALL are called to proclaim JESUS CHRIST!!!!!
Dwell on, soak in and Put-On the Word of God DAILY!

 

12/24/2021

CHRISTMAS AND THE PREACHING OF THE CROSS!!!
While the world thinks of Jesus as a baby and born at this time let us keep focused on the main thing. We can make the cross of Christ look like a shadow and be of none effect compared to the birth of Christ as even it can take away from the important thing.
1Co 1:17  For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
Col 2:17  Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
The greatest gift ever actually comes through a most horrific event, the cross of Christ.
1Co 1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
The cross is the POWER OF GOD! The cross represents to us why Christ was born and why He died and Why He rose again. It is the single most important event in history and should not be over shadowed by His birth as great as that is.
This Christmas remember and give thanks and glory to God's power the CROSS OF CHRIST!

 

12/23/2021

The Tender Mercy of God!
Luke 1:76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
God's tender mercy is shown by sending John to point to Jesus. Jesus is that  wonderful mercy of God in flesh. God's mercy has been shown by NOT giving us what we deserve and giving us what we don't deserve also and that is Grace!
Grace is giving us a opportunity to come to Jesus without law and restrictions. It is giving us the opportunity as gentiles to be saved by faith alone in the works of Christ Cross! It is the cross that shows God's love, redemption and reconciliation between man and Himself.
So at this time of year and everyday give thanks for that "TENDER MERCY OF GOD"!

 

12/22/2021

SIMEON HAD IT RIGHT!!!
Luke 2:25  And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. 26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, 28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, 29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: 30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; 32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
Simeon was excited and had the right thinking and attitude. He was a faithful, just and devout man. He was told that he would not die until the Messiah had come. When Mary brought Jesus to the temple he picked Him up and gave glory to God. He had seen the salvation of the World and was holding Him in his arms!
Jesus was the GLORY of God for the people of Israel and therefore the Light for the gentiles to come to know God! He was at peace and he was ready to die.
We that are saved should be like Simeon meaning we should be at peace for we have peace within us, for Christ is our peace. We have salvation and Light and the Glory of God in us through Christ Jesus. We should be excited to die when our time comes for then we will be with and see Him in His complete Glory!
Give Glory to God and remember the PEACE WITHIN YOU!

 

12/21/2021

BORN KING OF THE JEWS!
Matthew 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
The wise men told Herod that Jesus was coming to be "King of the Jews"! Jesus was born to be King of the Jews and to bring the Kingdom back. To make Israel the power that it once was and to be that Kingdom that was promised to them.
Jesus was to be the King, Priest and Prophet in one, as well as the Messiah "the anointed one" to Israel. He was born for such things, Yet let us never forget that He had that power long before His birth and presence on earth for He was with God and was God and is the Living Word!
John 1:1  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. ... 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Jesus the Word, is the King of kings and Lord of lord's!! He is the church the "Body of Christ", so worship Him not as a child but as He is the Power and Glory of GOD!!!!

 

12/20/2021

BORN OF A VIRGIN!
A very fundamental and important thing that is sometimes over looked is that Jesus was born of a virgin. This is and must be of great importance to us. For their was never any sinful place in being conceived. AND There is not one sinful cell within Him.
Mat 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.25  And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.
Now this does not make Mary deity or anyone to be worshiped, No instead we are to look at and focus on the fact that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit! It is God who formed this child. He was HOLY from the beginning and Deity from the start to birth. He is still deity and we are to worship Jesus not Mary. God could have used any other virgin woman. Mary was faithful yet there may have been many faithful young ladies at that time.  
Now Jesus means "Jehovah is salvation" and He was also to be called Emmanuel which means "God with us". Jesus is God and He is Salvation for all mankind. He was and is still Deity and we are to worship Jesus!
At this time of year don't get caught up in family or Santa Clause or presents given, but rather be caught up in the fact that
"GOD IS WITH US" through JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD!

 

12/17/2021

PUT ON THEN...!!!
When I was young and read the bible I would always skip the first few chapters and went to the "TO DO " list that Paul wrote. The parts that say...
1. Wives submit
2. Husbands Love
3. Children obey
4. Servants too!
5.......... ....
....18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. 20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. 21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. 22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
You know that list and more, but as I got older and understood more I began to read and understand that you can't "do"  the "to do " list unless you "do" what was written before that!
Col 3:10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
PUT ON the NEW MAN! That New man is Jesus Christ! That New man is the man who will do the work and the "to do " list if you let Him. By His power and Spirit will we be able to submit and Love and obey! So then we can also
Col 3:17  And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
GIVE THANKS TO GOD!!!
AND DO IT WHOLE HEARTLY!!
23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
We must always remember to PUT OFF AND PUT ON everyday! Everyday we must be aware of this and choose other wise our flesh will do what comes natural to the flesh.
So Put off and PUT ON THE NEW MAN!!!

 

12/16/2021

DO WE THEN MAKE VOID THE LAW BY FAITH?
Rom 3:28  Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. 29  Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: 30  Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. 31  Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.
The law is more than a list of "do's" and "don'ts" It is the way of establishing and setting the bar for the understanding of sin. It is was the way for man to see sin and to know right from wrong. The Law contained rituals and moral things. It was to be followed to the letter and anything added or subtracted from it was unrighteous and condemned..
No one could keep the law to the letter but it did show all of us even those not under that the law that we missed the mark and to condemn us. No one is righteous no not one the word says!
So we all need a Saviour and that Saviour is Jesus Christ. We all need to be saved and Jesus paid the price according to law by a blood sacrifice for all mankind. So when we believe in His cross work and His shed blood and His life risen from the dead we then are saved, AND ALL OF THAT IS BY FAITH!
Faith is trusting in Jesus Christ sacrifice and work on the cross for my sin and eternal life! FAITH ESTABLISHES the LAW and the righteous requirement by the law and by God to be reconciled to Him!
So Walk by Faith today and everyday and give GOD the GLORY!!!

 

12/15/2021

"There is no respect of persons with God"!
Rom 2:7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, 9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; 10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: 11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
God respects, desires and honors those who are saved, faithful and obedient! Now what I mean by obedient are those who have a genuine and sincere heart not those who "do" and "perform" better! Some folks struggle after coming to Christ just as a infant struggles to walk, yet they see there sin and put off and put on Christ! This a faithful person. They may struggle and "not perform perfectly" but their heart is in the right place which is in Christ!
BUT there are those who are not saved and are contentious and do not obey the truth,...BUT OBEY unrighteousness, indignation and wrath!!! It does not matter if you were born Jewish or gentile or were brought up in church or not, or even go to such and such church. It does not matter if you have been sprinkled, dunked or buried in water! It does not matter if you confess, beg or say a particular prayer or even burn a candle!
There is no respect of persons with God!!!
You see they OBEY sin! They want to sin and do unrighteous things. They want to do things that are counter to God. They OBEY because they are there own god and they worship themselves!
Life is full of choices and we can be saved and obey God or we can be contentious and not be saved and obey sin!

 

12/14/2021

NATURAL USE!
Rom 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
Notice the words "natural use" in verse 26 & 27. The meaning here is what they were designed for and that is to reproduce. You can not reproduce male to male or female to female. There must be one of each.
Homosexuality is sin no matter what the world says. And it is the "BIG" lie for todays world and even the church has bought into it. If this can become normal than what about everything else as this is so blatantly clear in scripture.
Now this happens when we start to change God's truths into a lie. This happens when we worship the creature more than God!
This is happening now more than ever in our society. Everything and every one wants equality in some way. Women are no longer content with being wives, mothers and taking care of the home they now must lead and get everything the male might normally have. Now that sounds really fair until you start changing the design, roles and authority of God's word.
Then we begin to see havoc in many different fronts. Racial, sexual and political avenues are being turned upside down for the sake of equality! And we men have done a injustice by NOT leading!
Don't get me wrong I am for equality and fairness if done under God's design but not under mans ways!
Don't buy into the lie but keep reading and dwelling on the truth and that is only found in God's Word!!!

 

12/13/2021

WORKMAN WHO WORKS!
We are God's workmanship. Eph 2:10  For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Workmanship means to be created by God. So in order to be created we must first be saved!  
Tit 3:5  Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
So we are saved and made into a New creature. Our spirit is alive and complete and Holy as Christ. We are New creature and able to do "New Works"! And not our normal old sinful works that does not give God the glory but rather ourselves.
2Co 5:17   Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
GOOD WORKS ARE CALLED FRUIT!!!
Gal 5:22   But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Eph 5:9   (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)
Now the bible calls those works "fruit"! The word fruit means "works"  so why not just call them works, because fruit is a
bi-product of the tree. The works that are good are what comes from the Spirit working through us. For example we could feed the hungry for God's glory or we could feed them for ours. One brings glory and recognition to God the other is self righteousness. Now just because we "say" it for God's glory does not mean it is as we could also try to "look" humble in saying that but then it would again become a self interest and self righteous act.
The bi product of God's work always looks like God and that is LOVE! The fruit of the spirit is love which is singular and produces "joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith", along with "righteousness, goodness and truth"!!!
You are God's creation and workmanship so be His workman and do His works His way by walking by His Spirit!

 

12/10/2021

ANXIETY!
Anxiety is fear and it is normal. Meaning we are born in fear and we all have it. It is apart of the curse and apart of the flesh.  
Gen 3:10  And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.
Adam sinned and therefore sinned was passed down to all of us. That sin carries emotions like shame, guilt and fear. Fear is the most talked about emotion through out the bible. From Genesis to Revelation fear is mentioned. We are born in bondage to fear.
Rom 8:15  For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
"Bondage "again" to fear"...! You see we are born in bondage to sin and fear. And some of us handle fear differently. Some may freeze and become depressed and others become angry and attack. Some are super sensitive to fear while others have fear but just ignore it, although it always manifest in some way. Fear is a root that grows and then fester in some way when it pops out of the ground. The weed can one day be bitter, angry and demanding while the next day it can be a pulling away or a rejected, sad and inattentive way of life. It can stop us from doing our work or creativity as well as leading others. Parenting or spousal roles can be affected.
So don't let fear control you just recognize it for what it is and then repent, (meaning to have a change of mind) or another way of saying it is "PUT-OFF" and renew, "PUT-ON" God's love as Love takes away all fear and torment!!!
1Jo 4:8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. ... 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

 

12/9/2021

HOLY AND WITHOUT BLAME!
Eph 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
To be Holy and without blame is the way God sees us. He sees His son Jesus within us. He sees perfection in our Spirit as we are now Holy by His presence. Holy means to be consecrated and pure and without sin! There is no "missing the mark" in Christ as HE IS THE MARK!!!
Blameless means faultless and unblemished. We are whole and complete in Christ and therefore Holy as He is Holy!
So if God can see us as being perfect, Holy and faultless then why do we have such a problem with others sins!!! The reason is that we don't call there sin, SIN! We see it as them and there personality. We see there sin as "who" they are then we want to punish them. We think we are the judge, jury and executioner! We think we are God!
Let God be God and learn to see others sin as it is just that sin, and that sin was paid for at the cross! Learn to love and edify the believer. Try to help instead of reject. The way to help those that struggle is not by punishment but by exhorting them to repent! Come along side those who need and want your help and be a good ambassador for Christ.

 

12/8/2021

MERCY!
Act 24:10 Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself: 11 Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship. 12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city: 13 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me. 14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:
When Paul was back in Jerusalem he was bound and accused of causing problems by the Jews. They wanted to punish and stop him from sharing this gospel of grace to the gentiles. Paul spoke and told them that he did not do anything they accused him of and that he did believe all things that the law and prophets said.
Paul was a Jew and in so followed the law up to the point that he was supposed too! Yet he always remembered the GRACE that was given to him as well as all gentiles. He remembered that it was the grace of God and the mercy shown to him that saved him.
1Tim1:13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
Mercy means leniency, pity or compassion. Paul as well as all of us have received mercy from God. Mercy may be described as "NOT getting or receiving what we DO deserve"!  We deserve death, hell and punishment instead by the grace and salvation offered we received LIFE, LOVE AND LIBERTY!!!!

 

12/7/2021

OLD AGE DOES NOT MEAN SAVED AGED!
1Ch 29:28 And he died in a good old age, full of days, riches, and honour: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead.
David died at a "good old age" it says but old age does not mean saved aged! Meaning just because you are older does not mean you are wiser, moral or saved in Christ. I know lots of older folks who still act like their 18. Just as lost as they were when they were young. AND THEY ARE just as lost from God if they are not saved.
I live in a adult 55+ community and the things I see sometimes shocks me. You would think that older folks would have their act together when it comes to spiritual issues since they are getting closer to the end but that is not so. You would hope that they know a thing or 2! You would think that the advice they would give their grand or great grand kids would be for them too but it is not.
Being gray does not always compute wisdom. Being older means just that "older"! Sadly to many folks will go hell at a old age as a young age!
Some get more religious as they get older as they fear death but religion does not save you either. Only trusting in the reconciliation and regeneration works of Christ death, burial and resurrection can save you. Christ died for your sins but rose to give you life for eternity! Trust Christ and truly live a "good old age" in Him!

 

12/6/2021

"...OBSERVE NO SUCH THING"!!!
So often we Christians battle life. We fight against life in general and then against doctrines in the church. We hear one thing or have been brought up in church or even their parents teach certain things about what to believe. BUT sadly many times all of them are wrong. The parent, pastor or church wants them to do what is right so bad that they teach law. They teach them to follow the law and sadly most of the time without any heart change at all.
Lets read what the author of Acts says in
Act 21:21 "And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs. 22 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come. 23 Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them; 24 Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law".
Paul was to follow the law when he was with the Jews in order to reach the Jews but in no way was he to disregard what his ministry was to the gentiles.
25 "As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication. 26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them".
We gentiles are told not to follow the law. It is actually sinful to follow the law because we have been told not too. Now I am not talking about the law of the land as some would say to me. I am not saying to run stop signs or to speed when driving Oh No! In fact our Law today is even higher in ways than that of the Jews. Our law is the LAW OF LOVE!
Rom 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
We don't have temple worship or vows to keep but we are to Love as Christ loved! Loving others will mean following the law of the land or even changing the law if it is a unrighteous law. Abortion is unrighteous so we fight to change it "within" the boundaries of the law. Homosexuality and same sex marriage is unrighteous so we fight to change the laws, again "within" the boundaries of the law. In other words we do battle in courts and by the legal system that is in place for the time. We don't break the law to fix the law!
We are no longer under the Levitical Law today but we are under the Law of Love under JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD!!!

 

12/3/2021

The Mind, Will and Emotions!
1Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
The Soul is our mind, will and emotions and there is a battle going on for it. We lust for things and want things and so sinful thinking leads to making a choice, which is by our "will"! Now if we choose to follow this sinful thinking it will lead to sinful emotions and then sinful actions.
While many thoughts come into our heads, the real problem lies in our will! The "will" is our "chooser" and chooses what to believe or not. We can choose to follow sinful thoughts or not.
Or we can choose to say NO to sinful thoughts and make righteous decisions. We can choose righteous thinking which leads to righteous choices which lead to righteous emotions and actions!
The key is our WILL so choose wisely what you will think about for there are high consequences if you don't.

 

12/2/2021

DO YOU WORSHIP GOD CONTRARY TO THE LAW?
Here we see in Acts 18:13 Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.
The Jews were causing problems against Paul wanted to bring him to the judgment seat. They wanted Paul to stop them from teaching that gentiles could be saved by faith alone. They wanted them to follow the Law!
Sadly so many saints still want to follow the law. They want to worship God by their works and being lawful! Many will still say that the Law is still active just as it was with Israel under Moses. That Jesus taught under law and we worship Jesus so we still should follow the law.
BUT obedience today is NOT by following the Levitical Law but trusting in the works of Christ cross! His works reconciled man to God. He paid the price and He is the redeemer for mankind. By His blood man is forgiven and made whole by the spirit. By the Holy Spirit are we made a New Creature.
In Romans 16:25  Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
You see "the obedience of faith" today is found in the revelation of the mystery given to Paul. It is by grace through faith. So don't try to "worship God by following the law" but rather follow Paul and the gospel given to him called the mystery!
Walk by Faith not by sight!
12/1/2021

SEEK THE LORD!!!
Paul is in  Athens and speaking to the people there saying inAct 17:27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
Now some believe that we can not seek God before we are saved but that is not true. He tells these folks to seek, feel and find Him! He is telling them that the Holy Spirit is around them and that means God is there and not far from anyone. God is among them and that we can be saved if we just trust in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ!
The Holy Spirit is near and around all mankind today and He works in and around people daily, if only they would listen and discern His presence.
Paul goes onto say that God is not found in gold or silver or things you can touch, and that He encourages and desires ALL men to repent!!!
Act 17:28  For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
Repent means to have a change of mind so to repent would mean to seek God by faith and trust in Christ resurrection for salvation. It means to stop walking by sight and start walking by faith!
2Co 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

 

11/29/2021

TRESPASSES!!!
Eph 2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
When I was a kid I used to see this sign alot "NO TRESPASSING ON MY LAND"!The rancher or farmer doesn't want someone on his land and messing things up or taking advantage of him. He doesn't know who might be there to steal or to hunt and either way he is saying "STAY OFF MY LAND"!!
The same goes with the bible and God's ways of looking at things. He wants us to NOT be in that land or place of sin!
Now we don't often see the word trespassing and sin together as we often think of them as the same but they are different in ways. Trespassing means to offend in some way and may be intentional or non-intentional by doing something wrong. But it does not mean that it was against the Levictical law. For instance in
Rom 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. 15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
You see there was a offence against God before the Law and death reigned from Adam to Moses! The sting of death is sin it says in 1Cor. 15:56,  But there was no law so God made "THE LAW"  to increase and show the offence. The offence though was before the law and was a transgression or trespass as we say. Adams offence is a trespass which brings death and guilt! ALL sin and trespasses bring guilt and death!
Now all men transgress in some way at sometime as it is a offence against God or man. It may be unintentional but none the less a offence. It maybe intentional but not against the Levitical law, so we can't say "show me the Law that says I can't do that" for it if it is a offence to man or God and it is called a trespass!
Trespasses include all sin were we might say the word "sin" means to "miss the mark" "against the Law". Both are wrong and "miss the mark of righteousness". This is why Paul says in Col 2:13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
"FORGIVEN YOU ALL TRESPASSES"!
If I say something that hurts my wife it may not be in the law but it hurts her. In a way we can say that it is not in the heart of the "Law of Love"! This is why "the law of love" is the only Law we have to abide by today, and it takes into account
ALL TRESPASSES AND SINS!!! Walk in Love and remeber that you have been forgiven so you too can forgive ALL TRESPASSES!

 

11/22/2021

FULFILL  AND FULL PROOF YOUR MINISTRY!!!
Act 12:25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.
2Ti 4:5  But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
It is said that Barnabus and Saul which is Paul later fulfilled their ministry. They set out and accomplished what they were told to do. That does not mean they saved every one but it does mean they preached the cross of Christ and taught the grace of God to those places they were told to go.
Later in Timothy Paul tells Timothy to make full proof of his ministry, which means to fulfill and to bring to fruition. It means to bear fruit by preaching the Word of God!
You too are to fulfill and full proof your ministy. Now your ministry may not be to a nation or city, Or to a group of people or church, but you do have a ministry to your family, friends and co-workers. You do have a ministry to fulfill in some way. Preach the cross and teach the mystery of God's grace to others. Don't just "talk" about it or "think" that your suppose to do it and then never do it, DO IT!!!!

 

11/19/2021

PERMISSIVE BEHAVIOUR!
Gal 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
The world thinks that their way is best above God's ways. They make up laws and standards that go against God's standards and many times in the name of God.
Now sadly there are those who are openly legalistic and Law minded. They believe in eye for eye and tooth for tooth philosophy! Which is wrong, yet there are those on the other side as well who are very permissive. Permissive means to have excessive freedom and behavior. To allow to much freedom and in most cases making to many decisions made for the person which allows the person to not mature. We see this often in parents who are over responsible and don't allow the child to mature. Women tend to be over responsible while men tend to be irresponsible.(Tend but not always of course.)
The thing though is that even in this permissive thinking is LAW! You see the flesh makes up LAW for ALL things in some way. For instance a permissive person thinks that we should be tolerant of ALL things with ALL people at ALL times no matter what. But that is not God's way of handling things. God's is tolerant but He is always righteous and UNrighteous behavior is still UNRIGHTEOUS. God's word says I accept you based on your faith in Christ but that does not mean to continue to think and act in sinful behavior without regret or sorrow. Now we don't need to "live" in that sorrow but we do need to recognize it as sin and call it sin. We don't continue to live carnally just because we are saved.
Don't live a permissive lifestyle for it is just as much Law as a legalist lifestyle!
11/18/2021

HELP ME!
It is not uncommon for me to get a email or call from folks who want help yet without a heart of repentance. I get one or two or more each month or so and they never follow through. Their marriage is in trouble or their life is a mess and they don't know what to do. They want to talk but have not changed their heart. The old saying "if they have not changed their WILL they are of the same mind STILL"!  The book of Hebrews say Esau did this,
Hebrews 12:15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; 16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. 17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
Esau wanted attention and wanted the blessing but he was not willing to have a change of mind or heart. We all want attention at some time but seeking attention is sin. It is saying "I am God now worship me". It is saying "I am so important that you need to give me what I want, and I want it now". Often times folks feel so hurt from seeking attention and love but never getting it (by their standards) that they become bitter.
Bitter means to first "feel" rejected and hurt in some form, then it grows into anger and hate. Think of the roots of a weed under the ground and these are the feelings of disrespect, hurt or rejection in some way. Then they grow up through the ground and come out as weeds that are full of hate, anger and vengeance! They defile which means to poison others. We can poison our spouse, kids and church community. We can defile our co-workers or completely defile by never helping others and living isolated from friends and family. Bitterness can destroy people and it all comes from trying to demand attention and "playing God"!
We can stop those roots from growing by taking responsibility for our heart by Repenting (change of mind) and seeing our sin. Then Renewing our minds with the truth of God's love and then forgiving those who we feel hurt or rejected us. AND then seeking forgiveness from those we have defiled with our bitterness and demanding attitude!
Seek help, and desire a true heart change and you too can be free from the bitterness and then you too can live
A VICTORIOUS CHRISTIAN LIFE!
11/17/2021

TEACHING!
Acts 8:30 "And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? 31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him".
The Ethiopian eunuch needed help and someone to teach him what the scripture said. Philip came along and did so. He led him to salvation and faith in Christ!
We all need someone in our lives to teach and disciple us. In fact that is one reason for the Body of Christ to begin with, to minister to one another. At times that ministry may be feeding the hungry or visiting a sick person but it can and should also be teaching and discipleship. This is what Paul said to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:1 "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also".
Teaching "FAITHFUL" men is very important part of this verse. Often times after leading someone to the Lord we try to teach those who do not want help or think they know it all. These are not faithful men but rather prideful men.
Now teaching and discipleship is never just about the bible doctrine in itself or should I say about facts of the bible, but includes heart attitude and yes sin! Just because a person knows the bible does not mean he is looking at himself and taken a "honest appraisal" of himself.
I know many a good pastors who know much more about the bible than I do but act cocky, arrogant and prideful and are anxious constantly. They won't take criticism or help, correction or advice from the body because they think they know more "bible" therefore they are always right!
The Body is made up of many different parts and all can minister to the body and are important. So Study and grow in faith and grace and then preach, reach and teach others how to live in Christ!
11/16/2021

KINGDOM OF GOD!
Mark 1:15  And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
Jesus came to earth to bring Israel's Kingdom as the long awaiting Messiah! He was what they had been promised and that was to bring all nations to God by following Israel's lead! The Kingdom of God is the earthly and heavenly Kingdoms coming together as one. Ephesians 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
Even though Israel failed to receive Jesus as their Messiah, God proceeds on with bringing the world to himself despite Israel's rebellion of His son! We know this by Paul's mystery message to us! We now have everything we need to know about this "Kingdom of God"! We have been blessed with ALL heavenly Blessings and now we know what the GRACE of God really means. God's grace to us is not just that we have our sins forgiven but that we are still apart of His eternal Plan to bring many to Himself with or without Israel! His Grace is that He still continued to bring salvation without the works of the Law to a lost world!
Praise God for the CROSS OF CHRIST!
11/13/2021

FAITH IS FAITH AND NOT WORKS!!!
Faith is faith and is not works means and counter to Calvinist who believe that faith is a work. The scripture specifically says that it is not yet many teach that it is!
Lets read  Romans 3:28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
AND
Romans 4:4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.  
AND
... 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,
AND
Romans 11:6  And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.
AND
Galatians 2:16  Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Galatians 3:5  He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
The thinking that faith is a work is so crazy to me but this is what Calvinist teachers teach. A gift given must be received but there is no works in the receiving! There is no merit in receiving therefore no debt, it is just receiving the gift.  
Be wise and STOP listening to these men. They will lead you down a path of self centered indulgence and insecurity!  
11/12/2021

OLD AND NEW!
Now most Christians do not understand that both the Old and New covenants are given to Israel. Jeremiah 31:31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
AND do not understand the harshness of the system under the Old or New covenants. The Law is tough and the stakes are high. Take for instance in Acts 5:1  But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. 5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. ... 7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. 8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. 9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.
LIE AND DIE! Now That is rough wouldn't you say!
Now both the Old and New have the Law! God is the Law giver and the Law Keeper! Now we today do not have the Law and are not under the Law. We gentiles do not operate under the same system and thank goodness, right! The Body of Christ operates with the understanding that Christ died for us and we have received as believers His forgiveness and therefore we can forgive. Ephesians 4:32  And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Since we have received we give. He loved us we give love! He accepted and received us we therefore can accept others. This is in the operating system of the GRACE OF GOD! God's grace is about giving and receiving, He gave we receive. We give and others receive.
Be thankful that you are not under the Law of the Old or New Covenants and are under this
GREAT GRACE GIVEN by GOD!
 

11/11/2021

Judging!
I often hear believers say we are not to judge! OR we are to judge sins but not salvation but that is not true! We are called to judge sin and salvation!  While we do not have the power to give salvation we are told to discern and see it in others.
Paul says in
Titus 1:15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
AND IN
1 Corinthians 5:9  I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: 10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. 11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
AND IN
1 Corinthians 6:1  Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? 2 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?
AND IN
2 Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Now we are NOT to judge on matters of preference or sex, race or nationality... so for instance if you like vegetables and I like meat no big deal! Or if you like a Ford and I like a Chevy SO WHAT! OR  say "I can't eat with you because you are from Canada or black or a women or all three....! These are things we are NOT to judge others by!!
The reason why many believers don't judge righteously is that they do not know who they are in Christ and are not secure enough to do so! They are intimidated by the world's thinking which says "do not judge me" which they got from scripture to begin with. If you can't judge others righteously then you don't care about others and are trying to be "spiritual" and "loving" after the flesh! We are called and told to teach, correct, and rebuke as well edify others in sound doctrine and they takes loving discernment and judgement.
Judgement is to encourage others to come to Christ regardless if they are saved or not. Both need to come to Christ either daily or for the first time.The bible is a book about judgement and righteousness and being one or the other! GOD IS LOVE and being apart of God is righteous thinking and behavior! Learn "who" Christ is in you and "who" you are in Him and then get on with living righteously! After all love without righteousness is not love! Learn to love through Christ by calling and judging sin, sin and you will be loving others as we are called to do!
11/10/2021

Godliness in Womanhood!
In todays times we so many women running for political office or what normally are men's roles and positions. Today women are stepping up to these positions as men are not. The same old tale that every women and mother deals with and that is "someone has to do it and if your not, I will"!  But is this best thing to do? Is this a Godly thing and what does the bible say about this? Paul says this in
1 Timothy 2:9  In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

While men maybe slack in doing something it does not mean woman should step up. Paul is saying their are roles and what is best is to understand those roles of authority. No matter what the situation Satan is always trying to reverse or change the authority and when that happens confusion and sin are working.
When the employee undermines the boss at work, or when the citizen disrespects the police officer. When the child disrespects and does not mind the parent. When authority of any kind is NOT HONORED, it goes against God's will and plan!
Godliness is important so whatever role or position you are in honor God by honoring the authority!
11/9/2021

SELF TALK IS SELF FOCUSED!
Have you ever met someone that always talks about themselves. Even if it is about their family it is always focused on their life and their interest. Their work and their hurts and pain. Their hobbies and their accomplishments. Sometimes they control the atmosphere meaning always meeting at their house or their favorite place. They want to stay in their comfort zone instead of anyone else's that way they feel in control of things.
We are called as saints and Christians to serve, love and edify one another.
Galatians 5:13  For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
... 26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
Ephesians 4:2  With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
1 Thessalonians 5:11  Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
We serve by listening and  seeking there best interest unto God. We are to build up each other and help one another grow in grace, faith and love. We are not to "just" listen but help others see how they are "SELF FOCUSED"!
Now this can be hard because most "self focused" people don't want to be confronted on their sin! BUT we are told to do this gently and lovingly. I always say IF the person will not receive instruction then maybe I am wasting my time to begin with. They won't receive, repent and seek forgiveness from others. They are in other words "STILL SELF FOCUSED"!
The old saying that goes something like this, "if they have not changed their WILL, they are of the same mind STILL"!
11/8/2021

POWER UPON POWER!!
GOD IS POWERFULL, few would argue with this! So when we see in scripture in the same verse we often think that this power word is saying the same thing in the case of Ephesians 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,...
BUT in this verse the first power is using the Greek word dynamis, which is pronounce "doo-nam-is", which is the word we get dynamite from.
BANG! POWER! think of it as God's great power to just say something and it creates or destroys! Now this great power can go BANG change a man in a instant! It is like dynamite when a sinner becomes a saint. BANG, LIFE is formed and a SAINT is now transformed!
Now the other power word in the verse in Greek is "Kratos" which means in laymen terms the outcome of the power in a place or dominion!. In other words the "work" of the dynamite in a person!  BANG God's great power changes a sinner to a SAINT and the out come is a NEW CREATURE! God living in the dominion with in us makes us A New creature that is now filled with the Holy Spirit! We have the power of God in us and we are complete, whole and Holy in Christ! We have the very presence of Jesus in us! No longer lost and weak sinners but now Strong Secure Saints in Christ! We have a power and force within us, not like a comic book hero or super man thing that can fly or jump high buildings, but the power of God that gives life, peace and eternal security.  
SO STOP thinking of yourself as dirty rotten sinner and start thinking of how God has changed you into a true DYNAMIC DYNAMO!

 

11/5/2021

Do You desire the Word!
Encouraging saints to read the Word is of my first priorities. The Word Is Jesus Christ, John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. ... 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Jesus is the written word of God and in order to know Jesus we need to know scripture! When I hear those who claim to be believers and don't read nor have a desire to know the word then I question their salvation. Lets read 1 Corinthians 2:10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
The Natural man will not have a desire to read and know Jesus. The natural man will not understand the bible, for it is spiritually revealed by the spirit of God. The natural man will struggle with things that seem simple to the Spiritual man. Only the one who is saved and spiritually alive can relate to the word because It is alive and can show our true heart and intensions.
The book of Hebrews says this Hebrews 4:12  For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
One of the ways you can know if you are saved is by your desire to read the Word! If you are saved and struggle with the  desire to read then pray and then start reading. Don't try to get a "Great" spiritual message every time you read, just read! Start in Romans and read through Philemon, then start over.  Read a chapter a day, which should take about 5 minuets of your day. Our jobs as saints is to read, let the Holy Spirit do His Job by revealing things to you!

 

11/4/2021

CHURCH FELLOWSHIP!!!
Being apart of some kind of Christian fellowship is vital for you. It does not need to be a formal or a big fellowship. It can be a small informal house church or bible study. It can even be one on one or just a few.
Colossians 4:7 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord: 8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts; 9 With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.
Here in Colossians we see Paul letting the church know what he was doing and the work that had been done. He was letting them know about his life, his physical, financial and mental state of mind. His daily struggles and victories in His ministry.  He also is allowing someone else to share about him. Someone who knows him well and shared the same struggles and victories.
He then goes on to say and desire to find out how the Colossian church was doing. How they were struggling or their needs. He wants to know how they are growing in Christ and in faith. These are things that Paul was interested in.
We too should show interest in one another. We should desire to see others grow in grace and know how their daily faith walk is going. We want to be interested in their struggles and if possible help them in those struggles. We may help first by praying for them and with them, and then perhaps a word of encouragement. We may be able to give something tangible like food, clothing or financially. Pay a bill or buy a birthday present  for them. Cards are great way to say I am thinking of you.
Edifying the Body in some way should be the goal. Meaning build them up in Christ. Their hurts, struggles and even victories can be a building block for our faith also. So get involved with others and minister to them as well as allow them  to minister to you!  

 

11/3/2021

ALL SCRIPTURE USED FOR A PURPOSE!
I often hear folks say to me when teaching the different messages between prophecy and mystery They like to quote
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
All scripture is used for a purpose but if misused for the wrong purpose then it is no longer used correctly. Instead of sound doctrine it becomes bad doctrine and keeps the person in bondage! Take 1 Corinthians 10:1  Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. 6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

We use the scripture from the Old Cov. to teach what NOT to do. To tell us NOT to lust for evil things. Now we are to progress in scripture in fact every one that claims to be a believer today has done that, and perhaps without thinking about it. They have chosen to trust in Christ death and resurrection for their eternal life, but if you live in the day of Moses that was not offered. So to living in that time would not give eternal life for today!
ALL the bible is true Yet we are told to "divide" that truth! Paul tells us to take that truth and "rightly divide" the doctrine in the dispensational time period we are in. The bible has progressive revelation all through the bible until it was finished and closed. So follow 2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
AND study, read and understand the fellowship of the mystery for today!
We can now see the difference between Law and Grace! Between Prophecy that was known and Mystery which was NOT known. Between the works at the cross of Christ and the works of the law!
All scripture is important but their is a more "excellent" way today through Jesus Christ!
 

11/2/2021

PRAYING DISPENSATIONALLY!
My devotional yesterday was about praying today! That we are told to pray always and without ceasing. Which is different than Israel's time of prayer meetings. We were told by Paul to always be thankful and not be anxious and to pray for others as well as ask others to pray for us.
We are told to do all that because of the dispensational change! Everything is different today under this new dispensation. Lets look at some examples, Jesus says in Matthew 6:14  For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Under Law, Israel was held to a conditional requirement to forgive or you won't be forgiven.  
Now that's different than we have today under grace and after the cross!
Ephesians 4:32  And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
The blood of Christ has been shed and we are forgiven by faith and sealed by the Holy Spirit!
So you see there is difference in the dispensation. But Now we also see another change in prayer and deals with the healing ministry to Israel. Jesus sent His Apostles out to heal ALL THE SICK... Matthew 10:1  And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. ... 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
You see Israel's earthly ministry was about signs, wonders and earthly things. It had to deal with a King and Kingdom! It was about things you could see and touch. But we have been blessed with ALL the heavenly blessings and the earthly things are to drive us to the need of spiritual life through Christ! Lets read in  2 Corinthians 12:7  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. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Paul says he prayed and sought God's help but God has changed this dispensation to a spiritual and grace ministry. He has made it for our good a ministry that God's grace would allow CHRIST POWER would rest upon us. The ministry for today is not a physical healing but a Spiritual, mental and emotional healing!
There are NO UN answered prayers but all prayers are answered according to God's Word in the dispensational time period for that time. 1 Thessalonians 2:13  For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
 

11/1/2021

PRAYER!
Praying means to talk with God. Prayer should not be formal and should be sharing your heart and thoughts with God!
Prayer is through out the bible but prayer in different dispensations is different. Lets look at 4 categories that Paul emphasizes about our prayer life!
Ephesians 6:18  Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
Pray always! We have the great opportunity to pray anytime. We are not like other religions who need to pray at certain times of the day but we can pray all the time.
Next we should always be thankful and thanking our Lord for all things! Praying with a thankful heart shows and brings contentment as well keeping the focus off of us and on Him! It keeps the worries and anxiety of the world away, and then pray for others.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Philippians 4:4-  Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. 5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.  
Philippians 1:4  Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, ... 9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;
Lastly ask for prayer for yourself. This is a humbling thing and not always easy to do, but needs to be in check. That means  and for example many are always asking for prayer for themselves but not praying or thinking of others. This can end up being self motivated. Paul prayed for others much more than asking for prayer for himself!
2 Thessalonians 3:1  Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:
So pray all the time, with a thankful heart and pray for others as well as seek for your self at times.
 

10/29/2021

Playing Political Favorites!
In this age of  "political favorites" and issues in our elections we have a lot of division. Many right-wing Republicans verses the Left -wing Liberal Democrats. One stands for this and the other for the opposite. Both are fighting for control and power.
It would be unfair of me not to say to you that I am a Republican and believe in their platform on moral issues. But while I do believe that I believe more on what God's word says to us. I think that His word is above all and therefore should tell the believer how to think, act and be in these turbulent times.
Paul says this in Colossians 3:25 KJV  But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.
God says over and over that He as well as we should have "NO RESPECT OF PERSONS"! Now that does not mean we don't respect people for being people in fact the bible says to respect others even if you disagree but what it means is that regardless of "who" you are your sin is still called sin regardless of who you are! And if you are rich, powerful or popular it does not matter if you don't know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior you will die and go to hell!
God does not play favorites with anyone for any reason. He loves His faithful Children in Christ and desires all to come to Him through Jesus, but that is our choice to make.
God is neither Republican or Democrat, HE IS GOD! HE IS RIGHTEOUS AND HOLY and we are not!!! (without Him that is)
So while you may vote or choose someone you like and hopefully for the advancement of Christ, don't be blind to the sin and actions of those you do like either! Don't "Play Political Favorites" when it comes to sin and eternal Life!

 

10/28/2021

Fear of Government!
While our government struggles through things it is not any different in times past. In fact compared to the world wars and other times through out history we are probably better off in some ways.
Yes the moral decline is there and getting worse day by day and due to social media and those who speak so loudly it has become a obsession to feed upon!
Yet hear Paul in 2 Corinthians 11:3  But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.
It is so easy to fall back into fear and be deceived. Paul says in  Romans 8:15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
Notice he says "The bondage of fear AGAIN"! That means we were once in bondage to fear. That means from Adam to today mans flesh fears and can feel like bondage! We still can walk by fear after the flesh! We all can be deceived and live in a paranoid state of mind with obsessive thoughts. We all can live in our fantasies and be obsessed with how the world is going. We all can have a fearful delusion of the future especially knowing what the bible says about the future of the world. We see signs of end times and we jump to being there and how evil this world is to the point we are willing to do anything even kill in order to be free from that bondage of fear!!!
But the answer is always to "REST" in Christ and do not be consumed with future events to the point of being back in bondage mentally and emotionally.  We need to renew our mind, be comforted in Christ love and then we can go on to
Ephesians 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
AND BE
Ephesians 6:5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
Don't walk in fear of this government or authority or future events after all we already know the ending and we WIN,.....
but rather receive from God and submit to one another and care for one another and be obedient to your leadership in singleness of heart unto Christ!
 

10/27/2021

SUBJECT TO!
Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, 2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

Paul encourages to always be "subject" too authority. Wihout submitting to authority you have rebellion.
Israel did not submit to God and they continued to be rebellious. They did not submit to Jesus or the Holy Spirit and to this day are lost.
We are told to submit to Christ and to receive from Him. Receive His love and forgiveness. To receive His strength and allow Him to work through us. We are to Put Him on and Put on His Love, acceptance and forgiveness.
By putting on Him we then are too obey the authority! Now authority can be parents, teachers or pastors. They can be policeman, judges, bosses or our leadership in government.
We can obey up to a point but when we are asked to do something illegal or immoral and sinful then we can say No!
The funny thing though is that in this age we often make up our own standards for what is sinful and therefore we say "NO that is ungodly I won't do that". We say No to things out of a rebellious heart no matter what it is and even use scripture to back up our rebellious thinking. Just as the Pharisees used scripture to keep the law instead of accepting Christ as their Messiah! Just like Satan used scripture to seduce and deceive Eve, we too can use the Word of God for our own selfish reasons!
Now we all can say what is right or wrong up to a point, YET our heart must still be pure and our mind clear without malice! Paul says this in 1 Timothy 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: 6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;

The result of not having a pure heart and good conscience and faith unfeigned is "vain jangling" which means "babbling"!!!  
 

10/26/2021

"I AM"!!                                                                                                                                                                                          Exodus 3:14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
God called Himself the "I AM"! This told Moses and others who He was and Who was in authority and what He wanted done. Who we are gives us our identity, meaning and purpose in life.
I have decided because of all the controversy over my blogs, devotionals and post to tell you "WHO I AM"! Now I m not implying I am God, just explaining what God said about Himself.
I am first and foremost a Christian! A believer and saint In Christ. I am a dispensationalist who believes that the church today is in grace and that we are saved by faith alone in Christ alone. I believe in the revelation of the mystery was given to Paul by Christ and is the doctrine for today and that we are to share that sound doctrine to make all men see the fellowship of the mystery.
As for political views I am a Republican. And always vote in this way not matter who is running because I believe in their stand on abortion and other agendas. I am against the homosexual agenda, as well as LGBT and same sex marriage! And many other issues to many to name.
I also take a stand against ALL sinful behaviors, laws and leadership regardless of the political side. Sin is Sin and should be called out on both sides. Whether it is perverted or rebellion. Whether it is hate, vengeance or physical harm on any side!!!  The left wing liberal side is wrong and against God but the right wing Christian conservative side has no more rights to want to murder, hate or slander others either. We should be a light in darkness not bring darkness! And that means doing things in a Godly way, not a carnal, religious way!
Perhaps Paul's words to the Jews would be appropriate!
Romans 2:21 Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? 22 Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?
 

10/25/2021

PRAY FOR YOUR GOVERNMENT!
Saturday I wrote a blog called "Fighting the government"! It got a lot of comments back on Facebook that were very anti-authority and ant-government and many brought up the covid shot as a example! Now while you may have your opinion of the shot I don't think that the problem is the shot! Oh no the problem is our hearts!
So many believers are angry at the government and how they have handled things in Washington! They have become bitter and unforgiving in heart! Some even compare our time to biblical times. But I would say that it is not even close. Paul was jailed for preaching Christ. Paul was killed for preaching Christ, and so were the others. As far as I know no one in the U.S. has died "just for preaching" Christ!
Now in some countries they do kill Christians but while that issue is sad, it is different than here. That truly is a evil government or society. BUT that is not what we are talking about here in the U.S. We can't compare a shot to the murder of saints in another country!!!
What does the bible teach! This is what we are to do "REGARDLESS" of the times or place. You see Paul and the other apostles taught even in that very harsh environment to do something else rather than being bitter and nasty and unforgiving.
First choose to forgive those who have wronged you including the government-lawmakers! 2. Choose to Pray for them and continue to encourage them to follow the Lord Jesus! 3. Stop being bitter toward them and respectfully love and teach them. Lets look at what Paul told Timothy in much harsher times!!!
1 Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. AND ....8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
One of the great men that we can learn from was a guy from Hungary and was captured by the Soviets and put in prison. He always prayed for the soviet guards who beat and starved them. He prayed and led many guards to the Lord! He served years behind bars and missed his wife and son growing up, and when finally out he said he still loved, prayed and preached to them. His name was Pastor Richard Wurmbrand and his ministry is going on to this day called "The Voice of the Martyrs"!!!
What a GREAT example for us today! Pray for those who persecute you and stop being nasty and bitter toward them!!!!
 

10/22/2021

Covenant means "to cut" and of course when you cut skin blood followes. It is like when we were little we would play cowboys and Indians and we would poke our selves and then mix our blood so we would be blood brothers.
God made a agreement and promises to many in the bible. Some think that there is just 2 covenants but really there are more. For instance to Noah in Genesis 6:18  But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons' wives with thee.
But when we talk about covenants it is always pertaining to Israel. Romans 9:4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;
AND IN
Jeremiah 31:31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
All covenants are to Israel including the Old and New covenants which are written to Israel.
Lets read Ephesians 2:12  That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:Covenants
We did not have covenants and were strangers of this great Hope! We did not have the promise given to us,... YET that promise comes from the seed of that covenant, And that Seed is Jesus! Galatians 3:16   Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
So while the covenant is not given to us we get the benefits from Israel's failure through that seed. Give Jesus the Glory and be thankful to Him for you have LIFE IN CHRIST!!!
 

10/21/2021

1 Thessalonians 4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
I live in a adult community were you must be 55+ to live in. Now there are a lot of folks who live together but are not married. Many say they live together so they don't lose their dead spouses financial help. Or that they have been married before and don't want to go through that again.
But the problem with that regardless of the reason is that it is called fornication. It does not matter if your young and fornicate or old and fornicate it is still called SIN!!!!
Sadly the real problem is either that they are not saved in Christ to begin with or they are saved and living carnally! They are seeking affection and acceptance from some person without Christ. Being their own god and independent of "The God"! Thinking their way is better than God's ways!!!
We are told and called to abstain from fornication and to live a lifestyle of sanctification which means to set our heart and mind apart from sin just like our spirit is set apart in Christ. It is a choice to do so and we need and ought to be willing to be separated from the worlds ways and the worlds ideas.
Regardless of our circumstances and though we might lose income or home or relationships we are to be faithful to God through Christ!!!
 

10/20/2021

LOVE, WISDOM AND REVELATION!!!
Ephesians 1:15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
Paul tells the Ephesians that he has heard of their faith and love! That their faith in Jesus had transformed them into sharing and showing that love.
Paul knows that God has given them as well as us the wisdom and knowledge through Christ and the power of the Spirit within us.
He says to them that he is praying for them and that he hopes God will give them the wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of God.
Now all that is in Christ is in us and all that is in Christ is in God and all that is in both is in the Holy Spirit which we too posses,... so we have that wisdom and revelation within us now. Why was Paul putting this into question form because he is now addressing the SOUL!
The Soul is the mind, will and emotional part of man. It is the part they we use to process things intellectually and emotionally. It is the part that chooses what we will do AND NOT do!
The soul is the battle ground of the believers life. It is the part that must be discipline and controlled. Many saints have a great deal of knowledge of the bible Yet have NO discipline with their tongue, attitudes or body. They seek attention or affection from others. They seek independence in the name of Spiritual things while truly being independent of God and man!
So taking a honest look at our self is important. Judging our attitudes and doctrine as well as our emotions and actions is important. Be sure and check your thoughts, actions and attitudes daily, hour by hour and minute by minute until you have grown and mature and under stand the wisdom and revelation of God in you!
 

10/19/2021

FAR ABOVE!!
Ephesians 1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
Just saying the name of Jesus bothers people. Just by wearing a cross especially in another country will grab attention. Sharing Buddhism or even Islam does not bother folks and I believe mostly because it is about religion, but if you share Christ it is personal.
NO OTHER name gets the attention of Jesus in the same way. Now if you talk denominations or laws or books even the bible you may have not the same reaction but if you say to someone "do you know Jesus Christ as your personal savior" or "are you saved" they squirm a little bit.
The funny thing also is that most folks will fall back into religion when you do ask that. For instance they will say "I was baptized when I was 10 years old"! Or "I went up front in  church in 4th grade" or something like that! They think that by doing these things they are saved but that is not true.
Now the name of Jesus is special and God set that name above ALL names even in HEAVEN!!!! The name of Jesus has power and authority!! The name of Jesus carries weight and is specific, personal and mighty!
The name of Jesus is "FAR ABOVE" all names!!!
 

10/18/2021

SEED, SALVATION AND SEALED!!!
To Abraham was the promise made. And through him God promised to bless him with land and family.
Genesis 12:3  And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. ... 7 And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.
But in Galtians Paul give us the understanding of this by saying Galatians 3:16  Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
Now we know that the seed was Jesus and all would be saved by faith in Christ. Jesus is the seed of Life and only through Him do we receive the promise given by the Spirit. Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
The promised is given and the Spirit seals us in Him. We are sealed for life and the assurance and earnest of that is by the Spirit.
Ephesians 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
You have LIFE  because the Seed, Salvation and Seal are all through Jesus Christ!!!!
 

10/15/2021

TITHEING!!!
Leviticus 27:30 And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S: it is holy unto the LORD.
There are a few topics in the bible that you can bring up and you will hit a nerve real fast and One of them is tithing! This is one that really hits folks because it is a money deal. While for most it is a greed deal it is also a religious deal too.
Now the tithe was implemented for many reasons and one of those was to take care of the Levites. The priest of God were to be taken care of financially or better said materially as the tithe really included food and grain.
Now with that said how do we clear up this thing on titheing? Well the easiest way is to understand that we are not Israel and we are not priest and we have another dispensation that is different from that time. The dispensing of God's will and the house hold economy has changed which is exactly what dispensation means.
When we rightly divide and walk in sound docrine for today we understand that giving today is voluntary. It is by our free will and not mandatory. It has nothing to do with being obedient or being "more blessed" or anything else added to our salvation.
2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
You see we are not under law or obligation to give. We do not need to walk in shame or guilt, yet we do want to remember to look at our motivation for giving or "not" giving. If we see someone starving are we under obligation to give, NO,  BUT can we minister to the poor, hurting and starving YES!
Do we need to give to our church so the pastor can build a empire or pay for an expensive building, NO, but we can give to the single mother who is barely getting by with 3 kids can't we.
Keep your motivation under grace and in love give with a pure heart and mind!
 

10/14/2021

GET WISDOM!
Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Proverbs is full of the saying "get wisdom" and that wisdom is the important thing! The reason wisdom is so important is that wisdom is what you do with the knowledge you have. Many a saints read the word and even know the word and so they have attained the knowledge of the word but do not act in faith nor use what they know "wisely"!!!
Knowledge alone builds pride! Paul says it this way in  1 Corinthians 8:1  Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
Knowledge puffeth up meaning builds pride and we see that when people argue and defend their sin or actions. But charity  or love edifies. Meaning love can encourage and build up a person in Christ even if it is a rebuke or correction.
So wisdom is using the knowledge that is attained from the word. A example for instance can be that someone is sinning and  knowing when and how to approach them is the "wisdom" part! Knowing what say and do in situations is the wisdom part.
Just talking and spitting out verses to someone or in the pulpit is not wisdom but a splattering of knowledge which can only "Puff-Up" others and yourself.
Now we have God's knowledge given to us in word form. We have His master plan and purpose before us in a book called the bible.
Ephesians 1:8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
Now it is up to us to get the knowledge and use it in wisdom! God's purpose is to bring faithful men and women together in unity in Christ. A perfect sinless and righteous Kingdom forever. Everything in Heaven and Earth united in Christ!
So read and get knowledge and then use it by being wise with what you know!
 

10/13/2021

The Love of Christ!
Ephesians 3:17  That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
To understand the security that we all desire we must begin with God's love. And when we say God's love we also are saying the love of Christ! To know Christ is to know God and to know God is to know love!
True unstained and perfect love comes only from God. Now Paul tells us to allow Christ to dwell in our hearts by faith and to be rooted and grounded in love. This means that the very basic thing and the most important thing is to know and experience Christ Love. All other things are secondary and must come after knowing the love of God. The love of Christ is the foundation of the Beleivers life. It has to be put-on daily in mind. It has to be the most important thing you do daily.
When we put on Christ and Christ Love we then experience the fullness of God! Now fullness means to "feel" complete, whole and secure!!! It is the very thing we all search for in life. It is the real desire of every person to "feel" loved and therefore valued. Christ Love takes away all emotional pain and rejection. Christ loves is the answer to all depression and anxiety.  It is what we tend look for in others. We seek love from our parents and or a mate. We give love to our children so they "feel" secure, safe and confident.
So never stop going deeper into Christ love and as the roots of a tree grow deeper by being watered so we should continue to be go deeper in His Love.
Remember this Ephesians 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,...

 

10/12/2021

Depression or Anxiety!
We all have felt depressed, sad or down at one time or another. Depression for some is deeper and can feel devastating at times, but so can anxiety. Some have what are called anxiety attacks, which can resemble a heart attack.
By the way depression is shame or guilt of the past and anxiety is fear of the future. That future can be 1 second or 20 years it does not matter. It can be big or small or just feelings to "do" something but it is still anxiety and fear. Sometimes it feels like a need to "do" something, "anything" so "I can feel good about myself"!
Both of these can be fixed without medication by 1 being saved. Having the Lord Jesus Christ in us gives the life and sprit to know who we are and where we are going and what our purpose is to be. WHO we are gives us meaning and therefore prupose.
AND 2 and it is the hardest thing and that is the constant renewing of our minds to believe what is true in my spirit is also true in my mind and walk through life. This is hard because it takes a constant, consistent check of our mind and feelings. Paul says this in
Romans 12:2  And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
AND IN
Ephesians 4:23  And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
We ALL have to take our thoughts captive as Paul says in
2 Corinthians 10:5 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;
SO THAT we are not tossed around mentally and emotionally....
Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

 

It takes work to rest in Christ
Hebrews 4:11 Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

 

so don't stop renewing your mind and finding rest, peace and contentment in Christ alone!!!

 

10/11/2021

DISPENSATIONS!
Dispensations are different than covenants. Covenant means to cut with allegiance to one another. The idea of a blood oath is involved you might say. God made 2 covenants with Israel, the Old and New, but a dispensation means the dispensing of God's will and the administration or stewardship of the household at a certain time in history of man. The household is the economy of the world for all mankind at that time. A dispensation goes until man fails and then God begins a new one.
Here are 2 dispensations in scripture.
Ephesians 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
Ephesians 3:2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:
The dispensation of the fullness of time meaning in the end times as recorded in Revelations and the dispensation of grace as in today!
Now there are at least 5 dispensations in history and some go as high as 8. I don't always agree with 8 but some will say there are. Now for sure the 5 are Innocence, Government, Law, Grace and Kingdom. Some will add Conscience, Promise and Perfection or Righteousness.
I don't agree but would not make a big deal out of the extra ones. But what we do want to see is when a NEW dispensation has come we want to know the different dispensation because they are God's will for mans salvation for that time!
Today we are in the dispensation of grace, meaning God is dispensation grace through Jesus Christ blood for our sin. He is doing that toward a gentile world with out the nation of Israel, law or temple sacrifices.
So do not get confused and keep living in a different dispensation because the economy is poor and you are "rich in Christ"!
 

10/7/2021

MELCHIZEDEK!
Who is this guy Melchizedek? Well he is a type of Jesus! He is a type of Christ from the old testament that shows us a picture of Jesus. He is the King of Salem which later becomes Jerusalem, (Jeru-Salem)! He was also a priest and King which is what they had in those days.  
Genesis 14:18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. 19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: 20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
He was King of Righteousness and the King of Peace!  
Hebrews 6:20   Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
Hebrews 7:1  For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; 2 To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;
Jesus also becomes the King/Priest of righteousness and peace as He brings in the bride and Kingdom into being in the last days!
Ephesians 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
AND
Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. ... 9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.

The Bride is Jerusalem and Jesus the King and Priest of righteousness and peace reigns forever!!!
 

10/6/2021

UNITY IN CHRIST!
1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
Everyone of Paul's books have a theme. Romans lays down the theme of Justification and the legality between man and God. God the righteous judge and the offering of reconciliation through Jesus Christ.
The book of 1 Corinthians has the theme of unity. There were divisions in the church and we can see from chapter 1 what Paul is trying to get across.
Every chapter has a element of unity verses division. It may be on marriage or hair or food. How we are to think and accept or even not accept in order to have righteous unity within the church. Even if it is about disciplining someone it is still about bringing Godly unity into the church.
While we are to love all, we may need to discipline those who bring disunity by sin and unrighteous living into the church. It is like a cancer in the Body.
But we are not to have disunity over things that maybe personal likes or dislikes. If you like pork then eat it it is ok. No need to separate over these things.
The book of 1 Corinthians is about unity in Christ, righteousness and love!
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
 

 

10/5/2021

CONSCIENCE!!
The Bible talks a lot about our conscience! The conscience is our Soul which is our mind-will and emotions. The conscience is where our heart and mind and spirit and soul come together you might say. Now our spirit has been cleansed by the Holy Spirit and our conscience is now free to choose to walk in that cleansing state. Our conscience can live and be free of the guilt of sin as we know Christ paid for on the cross. As you can see by a few verses that the conscience is important and it shows what happens to a person once they come to trust in Christ.  
1 Peter 3:21   The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
Hebrews 10:2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
We are called to have a "pure" conscience in our day to day walk and toward our devotion to Christ!
1 Timothy 1:5  Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: ... 19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
1 Timothy 3:9   Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
Those that do not know the Lord have a defiled and evil conscience. Nothing is sacred or holy and nothing right and pure. They act in a way that brings more and more defilement on themselves and others.
Titus 1:15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
Keep your heart and mind focused on Christ and walk by the Spirit and you will automatically have a pure conscience but if you sin, simply come back to the love and forgiveness that is yours through JESUS CHRIST!
 

10/4/2021

MINISTRY!
My ministry is one that teaches one on one as well as group settings. The one on one is generally looked at and called counseling but I just see it as Paul told Timothy.  
2 Timothy 2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
It is teaching others to be faithful to Christ and the grace message that Jesus commanded Paul to teach.
We are to teach the riches that are in Christ and the understanding of the mystery. That Christ lives in them and that they are forgiven and loved.
Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: 28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
We want to teach and warn them as well as edify and exhort others to live in Christ and therefore be perfect which means mature in Christ!
I do this one on one and in group and church settings. Please pray for me as I continue to share the revelation and fellowship of the mystery that Jesus is Lord and that through Him alone is salvation unto life!
 

10/1/2021

PRIDEFUL BABIES!!!

   1 Timothy 3:6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
The word novice means new or someone who has just come to the Lord. They are as we often say a "baby Christian"!  Someone who does not really know that much and has not matured mentally in doctrine!
I often see so many "PRIDEFUL BABIES"!!! Someone who is so self centered and prideful that after they learn something new or have a epiphany,  they think they have to correct and tell everyone! Now I understand the excitement of learning "right doctrine" and I can appreciate the freedom that goes along with that but when that is the only thing you can say your not ministering or serving others your just showing off your flesh! Your just seeking attention and miss the mark by being disrespectful. People who do this are "STILL" trying to "FEEL" important and trying to be accepted! I find most of the time that these people are those who before they came to Christ they were the same way BUT now they do the same thing with the "little" knowledge they have gained.
You may have the right doctrine but still be self centered! You may be a Pauline, dispensational, grace saint that acts like a self centered "spiritual superstar" with out any understanding of the Spirit at all! Remember just because you know the Word does not mean you are walking after the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is still Love shown by discipline and Love for others!
Learn to be loving and humble by seeking permission to share things before commenting! Use words like "may I share" or "if I may share my thoughts" and then wait for permission. Be respectful and kind along with growing in doctrine and grace.
 

9/30/2021

GOD CARES!
2 Peter 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 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.
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Sometimes we all may feel as if no one cares. We think no one likes me and everyone seems to be against my beliefs. We may say to our selves "the world is going to hell and no one cars about God anymore"! "No one cares about what is right and righteous anymore"! "T.V., media and the world is so horrible". "The U.S  must be the worst country in the world. and I am moving to another country".
To some extent these things are true, except for the U.S. being the worst country as there is not another country that is as good as ours.
Yet we want to remember that GOD CARES! God cares for you no matter what. You need to remember IF you were the only one on earth Christ still died for you! You can share your heart concerns and fears with Him. You can cry out when you are hurting or lonely or confused. You can receive from Him that love and security that you seem to need at some point. God loves you and Cares for you!
God desires all men to come to Him and repent yet only so many will but that is their decision not yours. You have made the decision to receive eternal life and to be saved from the wrath to come. You have made the decision to walk by faith. You have the life of Christ in you so don't get down or depressed or even hold things against the world, Oh No, rather give your life as Christ did to save them if possible.
God cares and so should we so share Christ to a lost world and hopefully some will receive and not perish!
 

9/29/2021

BARNABAS!
Act 4:36  And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,
Barnabas was called the son of consolation or encouragement. He was one who was able to come along side and minister to others, like a counselor would.
Pastors and teachers often are teaching from the pulpit and speaking about God. They will tell you what the bible says and means but a counselor will do that plus listen to the person and apply the word to their specific need. It is more involved then just teaching and it takes on very personal and hard issues. It involves motives of the heart as well as emotional attitudes. It deals with sin and hard hearts as well as hurts and pains. The counselor must be able to see sin and help them see it and then teach them how to repent (meaning a change of mind and how to put off and put on Christ love) Show them how to renew their minds and rest in God's love, acceptance and forgiveness. Help them to reconcile with others by extending forgiveness and seek it when needed. Their maybe teaching but also correcting and rebuking as well as helping them be discipline in life. Yes counseling is different than pastoring and teaching but both are needed.
Barnabas was needed and there to help support Paul and encouraged the 12 apostles and the little flock to see that Paul was truly saved and had seen and heard from Jesus!
Barnabas proved you don't have to be the lead man nor have the spot light in order to minister and promote the cause of Christ. He was a man we all can learn from as we minister to others.
 

9/27/2021

DISSIMULATION!!!
Galatians 2:13 And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.
Dissimulation means deceitful or hypocrisy! This was how Peter and even Barnabas was behaving. While they wanted the freedom of knowing Christ by grace they still wanted to walk by the law. They were "in fear" of the other Jews and establishment that wanted everyone to follow the law. They wanted the gentiles to "do" the works of the law.
Sadly this is how so many operate today. They want the law so that they have boundaries and know what to do and what not to do. Unfortunately it is just that "do"! "Doing" the Christian life is different than "being" the Christian life. Law begets fear and fear begets more law! Fear of failure, rejection or punishment will make us work even more "by law". It maybe our law and our standard but it is still a law none the less!  
You don't need the "doings" if you walk by the "being"! Allowing Christ to live through you is the point here. By staying connected, resting and allowing Christ to work "through you" it is much easier to "do" the Christian life.
You don't need laws to "be in" Christ you just need Faith and Love! By faith and allowing God to LOVE you allows Him to work through you!
Don't be deceived into doing more in order to "feel" good or to be more pleasing to God, just stop, and meditate on Christ and you will "BE" "doing" the Christian Life!!
 

9/24/2021

DIFFERENT FORMS OF EMOTIONS!
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All sin has death involved in it. There is eternal death and there is mental and emotional death as well. Some mental and emotional death can turn into physical death also. Now just because you sin as a believer does not mean you lose your salvation but death is involved in that sin.
There are different forms of death and different forms of emotions but they will all fall into a category of emotional pain. For instance the different forms of shame can be humiliation · mortification · chagrin · ignominy · loss of face · shamefacedness · embarrassment · indignity · abashment · discomfort · discomfiture · discomposure · guilt · remorse · contrition · compunction.
And guilt can have some of the same feelings as shame and move into depression and hiding from others, and can lead to suicidal thoughts.
The same goes for fear and all the different forms of fear. Fear can look like.... terror · fright · fearfulness · horror · alarm · panic · agitation · trepidation · dread · consternation · dismay · distress · anxiety · worry · angst · unease · uneasiness · apprehension · apprehensiveness · nervousness · nerves · timidity · disquiet · disquietude · discomposure · unrest · perturbation · foreboding · misgiving · doubt · suspicion ·  worriment · inquietude · phobia · aversion · antipathy · nightmare · neurosis · complex · mania · abnormal fear · irrational fear · obsessive fear ·.......... ...
Now ALL sin has "forms" of fear involved for instance when we sin we may have shame or guilt and therefore fear God's punishment or rejection from others. We may fear being found out or getting in trouble by authority. We can fear failure, rejection or punishment, and therefore work even harder which brings even more "fears"!
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Fear has forms of torment the bible says and torment is a good word for all the different words under fear listed above. Torment is like "living death"!
Don't try to qualify your feelings and say " I don't fear I am just a little afraid" or "I am not scared of anything I am just quite or waiting"!! We all have fears and just need to admit to them. Our feelings fall into categories like shame, guilt and fears and may be big or small but they are all the same!
A little death is still death. You can't be just a little dead you either are or not. So goes our emotions and a little fear is still fear! A little torment is still torment so be honest and admit after all, ALL our sins, and emotions are at the cross of Christ and regardless we are still saved, secure and sealed in Christ!!!
 

9/23/2021

DIRTY ROTTEN SINNER!!!
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
This verse is very popular in the church and seems to be the verse that folks use to lead people to Christ. It is a great verse  as are all verses but it needs to be used correctly and at the right time.
For instance if a person tells a lost unsaved person they are a sinner and they need Christ to have eternal life, than great that is what is needed but if you "keep" telling a "saved" person the same thing you have just beaten the wrong message into a saved saints head. The saved person thinks they are a  sinner for the rest of their life.
Now lets define what a biblical sinner really is. A sinner is one who is unsaved and in bondage to sin! A sinner is one who is independent of God and devoted to sin! They have no life in their spirit for it is dead! You are a sinner therefore you sin. It is not that you sin that makes you a sinner for a "saved" saint still sins but rather it is his flesh that sins. But the saved saint can say no but more important is that his spirit is cleansed, holy and purified in Christ! He has LIFE in him.
Romans 6:23  For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
If your saved you are NOT a dirty rotten sinner any more but a SAINT IN CHRIST! So STOP telling your self you are "a sinner saved by grace" but rather a "SAINT IN CHRIST"!!!
 

9/22/2021

SAINT OR SINNER?
Most pastors and churches want us to see our sin and feel bad about it. Now that is not all bad, but it can not be beaten over and over as it usually has been in the minds of church. And it is not completely true that we are still sinners as a identification.
Sinners sin, not the other way around.  JUST because you sin does not make you a sinner. Lets put it this way, we are all born sinners because we are born in Adam.
Rom 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
But when we come to Christ we now are made righteous and our spirit is filled with Christ and the Holy Spirit therefore making us Holy as He is Holy. It makes us a "SAINT". Now we are not saints because we did anything but because Jesus is in us. Therefore we are no longer sinners separated from God but rather we are Saints and united and one with Him.
Rom 5:20  Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Now you might say BUT I still sin well so did Paul! Sin is not the issue so much but rather are you saved and in Christ is the issue. We still sin because of our flesh!
Rom 7:25   I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
You see our identity has changed from sinner to Saint yet we still sin.  yet we are not in bondage to sin anymore as the sinner.
Rom 7:20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. 22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. 24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
OH THANK GOD  and know that you are not the same old dirty rotten sinner OH NO YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD WHO IS ALSO A SEALED, SANCTIFIED, SECURE SAINT IN CHRIST!!!!  
 

9/21/2021

THE SO CALLED "SUPER SPIRITUAL" DOES NOT EDIFY!!
1 Corinthians 14:4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
... 19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
... 26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
... 31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.
We often hear the so called "super spiritual" people who speak in tongues or know it all!!! They have to act like they are spiritual in order to "feel" spiritual. They have to tell everyone how much they know and usually it is under law and Old Covenant things. "Well in Daniel it says" or "I claim the healing and rebuke Satan" type of folks. The ones who have to have all the attention in order to feel good about themselves. Of course this is sin and trying to be worshiped and praised like God!
Not only are tongues NOT of this dispensation any more but even if it was Paul is saying that it only edifies the person! It does not edify or build up the Body which is the intent of coming together in the first place! We are to edify the Body to grow in grace and walk by faith. We are to exhort each other to come to Christ by renewing our minds. We are to be transformed and in turn love others and build them up instead of turning the attention on self.
Check out your heart and don't try to be "super spiritual" because you already are "Spiritual in Christ"! You can't get closer or be more spiritual than being IN CHRIST!!! So just rest in that fact alone and minister to others.

 

9/20/2021

TEACH YOUR KIDS TODAY!
Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. 21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. ... 23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
In this Liberal left society we have today we must be even more diligent in teaching our kids. The schools are teaching anti government, pro Islam and homosexual sex Ed. to children even in elementary school. High school and colleges have LGBTQ classes and groups on campuses. And more and more Christian values are going down the drain and being seen as radical while the Muslim faith is being promoted as good, wise and ONLY!!!!
You had better take note as the Christian Faith's enemies have joined forces to take out Christianity. These two views the Left and Islam don't necessarily agree on things but they have become the allies against conservative, Christian values for as the old saying goes "We will be friends, as they are the enemy of my enemy"!!!
The Liberal left knows that the hurts and radical Islamic world treats society, women and children bad but they won't say much because it goes against the fight against the Right conservative  and Christian values. They won't do much because it serves their purpose and that is to have secular communist society. The Islamic world wants a one world religion in worshipping "ALLAH" and the left wants a communist, ungodly society.
So teach your children to say "NO" to these secular, communist and Islamic ideas verses our Christian, biblical and GODLY  values IN CHRIST!!! Teach them NOW before it is to late and they at indoctrinated in these views and lost forever!
 

9/17/2021

REJECTION CYCLE 101!
Genesis 27:36  And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me? ... 41 And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob.
Esau felt rejected and reacted out of that hurt. He was hurt and wanted to kill his brother. Welcome to the real world right!
Well we all get rejected at some point in life. We can live in a "Rejection Cycle"! Over and over we feel unloved, disrespected and devalued!  We all have been there. We have been rejected by our parents or spouse or even our kids. When we are at work or even church we may feel the sting of rejection by someone. Sometimes we feel different types and forms of rejection. Like a sense of sadness or depression over a situation or just in a general way of life. Some may feel this all the time and it continues everyday and they end up going to a Dr. for meds.
I believe that what the world calls depression is not really physical but spiritual and mental and should be treated with changing the heart and mind. To some degree we even hurt the one who struggles by putting them on drugs. They need to come to the point of total despair in order to turn to God.
Now some may say they may never turn to God and then commit suicide and that is true. And while we don't want folks to get that point it is more often than not that at that point folks turn to God and choose to trust in Him.
Yes some die not knowing Jesus but folks die daily not knowing Jesus as their Lord and Savior! So don't be to quick to help others out of their misery for we learn obedience through suffering just as Christ did!
Hebrews 5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
Pain causes us to seek help and where we go for help will often tell us our true heart. Do we go to the Dr. when we have mental and emotional pain or do we seek God!!!
Seek God first and receive His love which brings healing to the Soul!!!

9/16/2021

YOUR FLESH NEVER GETS BETTER AND DOES NOT ALWWAYS WARN YOU!
2 Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

 

Unfortunately we don't always see ourselves rightly. Our flesh never gets better with age even though we grow by renewing our minds and perhaps do not walk by the flesh as much. Our flesh does not always speak or warn us and tell us what we are doing.
This is why we need to know the Word and listen to the Spirit, but with that being said if we are walking after the flesh and do not see our sin, we also have the Body of Christ to speak into our lives. You see the Body of Christ is the physical representation of Christ on earth and can also teach, direct and even correct us. We all need the Body at times to help us see our selves!
Now I am not talking about just a teaching from the pulpit or bible study and these are good and needed. No I am talking about speaking to someone directly about issues that arise in our lives. This is why we should be humble and receive what others say because if we don't we can become hard and resistant to the help we need. We can become prideful and stubborn and resist what is best for us.
Many times I have found that saints don't realize how they talk or come across for instance. They tend to speak as if they are the authority on subjects that they really don't know about. They want the attention in church and bible studies and to tell people how smart they are when they really don't know and at times speak with authority when they don't have the position of authority even if they know more than the authority.
This is playing God and seeking to be worshiped and praised as if they are God. Really this type of behavior is really a insecure person wanting to be heard, praised and loved indirectly.
This needs to be confronted at some point and hopefully the person can receive but may not always.
So allow the Body as well as the Word and Spirit of God minister to you.
 

9/15/2021

Blind, Bind and Grind!
Judges 16:21  But the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he did grind in the prison house.
Samson was bound and was made to grind! He was in prison and blind. He sinned and was paying a heavy price!  
This is how many of us feel at times and certainly before we come to the Lord. We are in bondage and feel guilt and shame. Before being saved we are guilty before a righteous God, and often guilt is what we feel and hold onto even if we are saved!
We may feel depressed and low with no energy or motivation to do things. Emotionally spent and may often feel incapable of loving, talking or being around others, yet desire to be loved and accepted as well as want the attention and comfort of others.
Redeemed, Released and Reconciled!
Eph 1:7  In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
We need to be released and redeemed from it all. This is what Christ did at the cross. This what His blood has done for us. We have been redeemed, released and reconciled through Christ.
Redeemed means to ransom and pay the price needed to be set free. It means you have been delivered and no longer bound to your sins and guilt.
Stop for a minute and breath and think and dwell on the freedom you now have in Christ. Think about the love that God has for you. His love is so great that He sent His son to die for you and to ransom you from sin. You are now free to love, accept and forgive others just as you have been loved, accepted and forgiven in Christ.
Don't keep walking as if you have shackles on, Tell your self the truth that YOU DO SEE and YOU ARE FREE!!
 

9/14/2021

ROOTED AND GROUNDED!
Colossians 2:7  Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
We are to be so grounded in the word and walking by faith that we know and see the worldly philosophy of the times, but sadly we don't as a nation. There seems to be no common sense, discernment or understanding. Folks seem to be either way Left or way Right! This is why Non- Christians look at the Christians and say you call your self Christians! Your nothing more than right wing religious relics! COME ON MAN!
On the other hand the other side of this coin is the far left which are manipulating at every corner. Schools, books and even churches are bending to the ever relentless pressure to be tolerant even at the expense of righteousness and morality. Schools are teaching our kids about sex and homosexuality teachings and books are now common in schools. And churches and colleges are bending also.
Are you going to bend to the pressure of either one of these groups. Are you going to follow the worlds philosophy or God's Word? Choose it is up to you!
I for one will NEVER EVER BEND AND WILL FOLOW THE WORD OF GOD NO MATTER WHAT!!!! PLEASE JOIN ME!!!
 

9/13/2021

TRUTH OR LIE!
Romans 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
In these days we the worlds propaganda machine working. We the changing of truth for a lie and we see things changed in the name of equality. In the name of equality we see destruction of buildings and defunding the police. In the name of justice we see murder and mayhem in order to change racial divides and make the just suffer for the unjust. We see authority being taken down in the name of rights and freedom.
BUT this is nothing new this world. Many a nations and wars have been started and fought by the propaganda lies put out. Every communist and fascist nation has lied to get their way. Telling a lie in order to get their way is not a new thing.
Sadly in the U.S. we are going through this now but what has happened is that now the public is anti-authority and anti disbelief in everything. Any thing that comes out of the governments mouth is a lie they think! While this is not new, it seems to be fed by the media and growing,... but it can kill just the same.
Many things are being seen as propaganda and therefore NOT taken serious while the true things are being ignored.
Here is a example....while many things coming out may be and I say "may be" untrue and distorted about social security, Afghanistan or even abortion rights on one side or the other. The truth in "SOME FORM" is that there is a disease out there that is killing people. The lie on one side maybe that it is not true and that folks die from regular colds just as much or that the numbers are inflated or, or ,or.... and on the side they may be this or that
BUT regardless of the complete truth on every subject people are dying and getting sick from something that is contagious to some extent.
I have a elderly friend who does not believe it is real YET, she says she has not had covid because she gargles with peroxide and washes with alcohol. Now if you don't believe it why do you gargle and wash!! You see you can't have it both ways or can you?
The truth is sometimes in the middle of mans thoughts and intentions but truth is very clear in GOD'S WORD! Stay faithful and read the "TRUTH" daily!
 

9/10/2021

FAITH AND HOPE IN GOD!

1 Peter 1:19  But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
We are redeemed with the blood of Christ! Not with doing outward works or ordinances of man but by faith in the blood work of Christ!
Peter say hear that Christ was foreordained before the world began to be the propitiation for mans sins.  Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
But then He was born, and seen by man which is to be manifest in these last times. Now He was manifest for us because God cares and loves us. He always wanted mankind to be saved. Sadly man rejected God through out the bible. Israel rejected God's ways. Israel rejected Jesus their Messiah.
Now if your reading this chances are you have not rejected Him. You are most likely saved and have by faith trusted in Christ! Now continue to walk in Him. Continue to renew your mind and know that you are loved. If you struggle in life you know your not receiving or resting in His love! It is His love that brings peace, security and contentment. Not trying to do something or fix something or even just read the bible ,yet don't stop reading the bible. But you must apply what you read and not "just read"!!!
Christ was ordained before time to save you and it is God's eternal loving purpose and will, that you come to Him daily and be fed with His Love!
 

9/9/2021

FREE SPEECH!!
While in the U.S. we have a law that stands for "free-speech" it is becoming less and less all the time. But now it is not the law that is changing this but rather the far liberal left and media. Really Satan is at work here for he knows he can use a good thing to crate a bad thing. But it is the very folks that wanted and fought for free speech so they could burn the flag and speak out against the so called establishment. While they spoke out for civil rights now speak against all others including Christians! If you don't agree with them you are shamed to such a degree that it makes it intolerable to stand up. They will stop at nothing and have no decency in them. They are void of conscience and void of human respect. They are like spoiled children with no idea of boundaries.
Your free rights to speak out against sin is becoming less and less but lets look at what happened in the bible 2000 years ago.
Acts 5:17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, 18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.
... 28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. 29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
The Apostles were told to stop teaching and speaking out. So this is not a new thing we are going through. And when they didn't they were put in prison, but that did not stop them either. We need to be like those Apostles in this sense of speaking out regardless of the shaming and guilt that the left and others would put on us. They say it is for justice and in loving one another but it is really to feed a sinful agenda.
Don't be nasty or vengeful nor hateful but keep speaking out dear saints in Christ! God is greater than any left wing, communist or totalitarian thinking! God is greater than any prison, burning or death!
GOD IS GREATER SO SPEAK OUT SAINTS!!!
 

9/8/2021

JOY!
2Co 1:24  Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.
Joy means to be happy, glad or to be content. You can have peace which is a part of joy, and you don't have to be happy about the issue's in your life to have inner joy.
Now no one is control or dominate by rules or law over another's faith wise but there is authority in all things. We are to listen and follow as the authority follows Christ. We also are to help, counsel and minister to one another. But as I have seen some who would say "don't correct me or tell me what to do because your trying to take my joy"! Well correction is not stealing someone's joy. In fact correction if done right should GIVE JOY! Any correction may seem harsh IF we live in that rejection cycle that so many seem to do. Even pastors and teachers call fall pray to this, but if received it can bring freedom in areas of life and joy can spring up.
Joy also carries a certain satisfaction of being in Christ! That satisfaction of security in knowing who you are and where your going. The idea of knowing who lives within you and the power that you have to overcome all things through Christ brings joy and satisfaction!
So be glad, content and satisfied in Christ alone and you will be filled with the JOY of the LORD!
Neh 8:10 ....for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
 

 

9/7/2021

WORDS!
Understanding the meaning of words makes a big difference! Doctrines have been changed because of the misunderstanding of the words in these verses.
Romans 8:29  For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Now if you study the bible as we are suppose too, you find that these words are not like our English words. They are the same words in Greek but mean different.
For instance the words predestinate means to "decree". God decreed His eternal purpose to be IN and THROUGH JESUS CHRIST! His eternal purpose was to save man and have them worship and glorify Him through Christ!
So for instance the word "called" means to "invite", and the word "justified" means to "make acceptable"! And lastly the word "glorified" means "to know"! Now you may say "to know" does not seem like glorified but God is Spirit and in order to worship Him we too must be of the Spirit. We then are "ONE" and He knows us because as He is glorified as we too are glorified because of His Spirit in us!
So if you understand that we are saved and we are IN CHRIST You can see how this reads...
He "decreed" and said that man would be saved and to "...be conformed to the image of his Son,..." !
He the goes on to say in verse 30 Moreover whom he did "decree", them he also "invited": and whom he "invited", them he also "made acceptable": and whom he "made acceptable", them he also "knows".

This is what the words "mean" and therefore it is not confusing. Now I am not suggesting we change the words and make a new bible as so many have done, but rather study to know the meanings of the words and the context in which they are written.
One last thing that is vital and that is never just take one scripture out as I did without looking back to see "to whom" it is addressed too and grasping the idea and context. For instance chapters 5-8 are ALL talking to the believer and in verse 8:1,14-16 and 28 we see it is written to ALL the saints IN CHRIST who are sons, heirs and invited by God's eternal Purpose!
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. ... 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: ... 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.
9/6/2021

LABOR DAY!
In the U.S we celebrate this day as a national holiday and to recognize the work that has made this nation the greatest nation on earth. While not perfect and " a work in progress" the U.S. is still a great country and the country people want to come too. The freedoms you may take for granted are not always in place elsewhere.
Jesus was asked by the apostles in  John 6:28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.
Now at that time there was no cross, blood or Holy Spirit working as He is today. They were still under law and looking for the Messiah and desiring to bring Israel back to its Kingdom status you might say.
Jesus was saying the work needed really is just believe. You see the Jew was so use to working that they stopped believing. They were going through the motions so to speak. They even stopped doing the work that was given to them because it had been so long since they had heard from God and were so down they struggled mentally and emotionally. They were no longer a political influence and now they were not much of a spiritual influence either. They needed Hope and Christ is that hope!
They were still under law so they were to do the things that the law demanded but Jesus wanted them to believe in Him. He wanted them to have that hope and inner peace. He wanted them to have that Kingdom and to be their King but the nation rejected Him and crucified Him.
Now today after the cross and blood shed and the dispensation of grace has come to the gentiles we must do the same thing and that is believe.
I believe the problem today is not that we think we must do the works of the law as much as we just want to work! We want to take credit for being faithful! We want to earn our way to heaven! We think working harder is the right way to be good and justified before the Lord!

 

9/3/2021

Be Content!!!
Hebrews 13:5  Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
These Hebrew saints will have it tough compared to us yet the author of Hebrews tells them to be content. These saints will be going through the tribulation and will need to be content and faithful in Christ. They can't be wondering around and coveting things. In fact the whole book of Hebrews is about them not coveting those old laws and ordinances above Christ Jesus! They are to stay focused on Christ and to not fear man. They will need to be bold and courage's and make a stand to serve God through Christ with all their heart and not just symbolically.
We too should not fear man or worldly troubles. We need to be content and not covet! There is a lot of things going on today but we have to keep our mind on the heavenly vision or we too can be consumed in thought and begin to be fearful. We don't need to fear covid, disasters or war!
When you find yourself worrying about things that are going on, don't try to fix or panic. Don't talk about it with your friends and keep it going in your mind. You are anxious and fearful and there is not peace!
STOP and rest in the love of God for it is what brings peace of mind and security in ANY situation!
BE CONTENT IN CHRIST AND DO NOT FEAR!!!
 

9/2/2021

SILENCE!
1 Peter 2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: 16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. 17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
So often today I see one thing started and because of the media, phones and new things and gadgets they take off like wildfire. Something insignificant can become the latest craze.
President Trump used this to his advantage and he was able to say what he wanted and get it out regardless of the networks that limited him.
The so called social and racial marches and crimes that has followed the Floyd incident and has taken off and seemingly changing the educational and legal systems, and of course in my opinion not in a good way.
The same goes for the covid shots and the push to take the shot as well as to withhold. There are those who resist following the government and again in my opinion common sense.
Disease is not a political thing. Covid is not a republican or democrat thing. It is like any other disease that can harm you. People are literally dying as well as harming others over the "idea" and in the "name" of "rights"!
While we do have "rights" the bible says to submit to those who are over us. Submit to those ordinances, laws and statutes!
BUT WHY?
Why should we do this apart from God telling us too? Verse 15 answers this for us"For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:"!
You see when we stand up to authority we actually do harm to the Body of Christ. We actually do not put to silence but rather we make them stand up and do what is necessary to bring those who rebel under control and in doing so we bring a stain upon Christ name. They say "who are these rebellious people" and "who do they do this for" and "get them under control"!
Don't use your freedom and rights just because you can. Think about 1 Peter 3:16 and not misuse something especially when it harms the Word of God!
Making a stand for Christ is one thing but making a stand for "self" interest is another!  
 

 

9/1/2021

God's Will and Purpose!
Eph 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
The word predestined is confusing and in some cases even changed doctrine. As some would change this word to mean that God chose some and not others before time began. They tend to change the "us" and then put "me" and therefore change the meaning and doctrine.  The words should stay as they are and you get the understanding as "us" means all.Rom 9:24  Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?
Now predestinated means "to decree"! God "decreed" from the beginning that man would be saved by Jesus! That man must come through Christ by faith. This is God's Will and Purpose!
Eph 1:9  Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
...11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
Eph 3:11   According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
You see God's purpose is decreed from the beginning and it is in Christ! God's desires all men to come to Him.
1Tim 2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.
(Christ also dies for ALL men)
AND
2Peter 3:9   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.
You see that God's purpose and will is that  ALL men may come to Him but does not make any man come against his will.  Don't get hung up on predestination and remember it means, GOD'S DECREED WORD!
 

8/31/2021

FAITH!
When it comes to faith we first must hear it in someway!
Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
We hear the Word by someone sharing or we just simply read the word. We then choose to believe it or not.
Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
The only way to please God is by faith.
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.
Now we have the ability to not save our selves but to believe in the one who can save us Jesus Christ our Lord! Kind of like someone who is drowning in the ocean off a boat and someone throws him a life jacket. He can not save himself but he can grab the life jacket that will save him. It is his choice and by faith he grabbed the jacket and was saved!
Now some would teach that God some how imputes life in the believer and then gives faith. In other words they think that God saves them and then gives them faith which is totally backwards! Look at these old Covenant saints who did not have the Spirit in them at all!
Hebrews 11:4  By faith Abel  . 5 By faith Enoch... for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. ... 7 By faith Noah,  8 By faith Abraham,....
and on and on it goes in this chapter.
Faith is not a work as some say either. You can ONLY boast in a work that you had done but you can't boast in something you only received! The gift of salvation is a gift given by God, we did nothing to earn it so we can not boast!
Romans 3:27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
Romans 4:4  Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Just like the one drowning simply received the life jacket and he had not contributed to receiving it but simply grabbed onto it and simply could say Thank You!
Walk by Faith and you too can simply say THANK YOU!!!!
 

 

8/30/2021

God desires ALL to come to Him!
While written to the tribulation saints, Peter says
2 Peter 3:3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. 5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:
Yes even today we see those who scoff and say "where is the God you talk about"? "Where is this God that gives life"? And many will die in sin and go to hell!
BUT that is NOT God's desire for them! God loves man so much that He has shown and given a way to come to Him and have eternal Life with Him! Lets read what Peter goes on to say in this same chapter
... 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 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.
You see no matter what dispensation through out eternity God has desired man to come to Him and be with Him. God is a just, righteous and Holy God but He is also a Loving, Patient and Giving God too!
So don't give up on them, even though they scoff, even they may still have a opportunity to come to Christ! The scoffer may come to be a Saved, Sanctified and Sealed Saint of God!
 

8/27/2021

PERFECT, HOLY AND BLAMELESS THROUGH CHRIST!
Ephesians 1:4   According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
We are to be Holy and Blameless before God! But the only way to be Holy and Blameless is to be IN CHRIST! You can not be Holy and blameless by following the law!
Hebrews says this Hebrews 7:19 For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
The Law made NOTHING perfect and perfect in this way means complete, Holy and blameless! Now we need to understand that while Hebrews was written for the Tribulation saints we still get a lot of understanding from this great transitional book!
There was a change of priesthood and covenant and therefor a change from Israel's old ways to a NEW AND BETTER WAY! Just as we have a New, different and better way for us today under the dispensation of grace!  
... 22 By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. ... 24 But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. 25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. 26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; 27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
Notice that in verse 27 the author is comparing the human natural priest to the heavenly Holy perfect priest named Jesus the priest of God! And like the priest of Israel who offered up a sacrifice for all of Israel as a nation regardless of the personal faithfulness of each individual, so has Christ has done for all man kind once and for all.
There are many changes in the bible and we need to know those differences but we are still to be Holy, Blameless and Perfect, And the only way to be
PERFECT IS IN THE PERFECT HOLY PRIEST!
  

8/26/2021

The Law of Love!
Galatians 5:11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased. 12 I would they were even cut off which trouble you. 13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
The only Law we are under today and it is not a Levitical Law is LOVE! The Law of Love is working in us by the spirit all the time. God is love and God is in us so we have the righteous love of God within us, YET we have to renew our minds and think! We have to think and put on that love which is within us already. We have put on love in order to give love!
Paul says that he does NOT preach circumcision which means LAW! Nothing takes away from love more than Law yet Love fulfills the law! That One word fulfills the law yet it is not controlled by law!
In other words when we love others we will do what is in the  best interest of God for them. It may be sharing the gospel for the first time which is in the best interest of God and for them. It maybe a teaching or correcting which is to exhort them to God and again God's interest.
Love is not just being kind or good to someone yet love is good and kind. Non believers can be kind and good but they can not be righteous and have God's best interest in mind. In fact to be kind and good to people without God is to do dead works.
So put on God's Love daily and then give God's love away!
 

 

8/25/2021

The Word of God Today!
Jesus is called the WordJohn 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. ... 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
And what Jesus says goes, as many would say and they would be correct! In other words when Jesus speaks it is Holy and Good and to be obeyed. Now In the Old Testament,  Moses was the spokesman for a lot of it, then the prophets and so on, right! And Jesus was sharing with them then even though we did not really know it until later. Then when the book of Matthew comes up we see the words of Jesus as they were on a earthly plain and given to the Apostles and Luke!
Then in Acts 9 we see the risen Jesus speak to Paul with New revelation for the world to know! Paul was given New instructions and New revelation for the Body of Christ.
Paul then says for us to "obey" these New things and instructs us to not hang out or be around those who will not obey Paul's teachings which are really Jesus teachings!!!
2Th 3:14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
It may sound harsh but notice it says that he, the person noted, may be ashamed and in that shame he may repent! If you love them you will take note of them and not keep company! That is Love!! Keeping company is selfish and self centered for your feelings and comfort. You are feeding your flesh and not walking by the Spirit or the Word! Your afraid of their opinion and rejection.
It is not enough to just say Paul was one of the Apostles and lump him in with them, we must Study and Rightly Divide the WORD OF GOD TODAY!  
2Ti 2:15  Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
New revelation means New Life and New doctrine and New Blessings, New.......! Get to know the NEW things of GOD that He has given you! Read His word daily and study Paul's WORDS!!!
 

8/24/21

God's Good Pleasure, Purposed in Himself!

Ephesians 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: 11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
Everything that God has done through His Son Jesus, is His "Good Pleasure"! He predestined everything before time began to "go through His son"! Everything is made and for Jesus! Everything is restored through Jesus! Everything is made to be glorified and to glorify Jesus!
Now not everyone "will" glorify Christ while on earth, Yet all will know "who" He is after death and will then glorify Him even if they are in Hell! They will say in my words "OH My what a mistake I made, and You are the King of kings and Lord of lords in all things"!!!!
God loves you and accepts you based on His "good pleasure" so stop for a minute each day and just relax and be comforted in that love. He desires to spend time with you and to build you up in Him. He wants you to know Him and He gives Himself to you. He wants to protect you and hold you and comfort you! And it is His pleasure to do that!
His purpose was always predestined meaning before time began He desired to have a relationship with all of us "THROUGH JESUS CHRIST"! That's how much He cares for us!!
 

 

8-23-21

Who YOU follow is WHO you will become!  
2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.
Who do you follow? You see whoever you listen too and then follow their teachings will be WHO YOU BECOME! It can not be helped if you listen to some teacher over a period of time you begin to ingest their thoughts and doctrine. You begin to think and live as they do. You begin down a path that eventually will take you far off the right path, that is if they teach bad doctrine.
I have heard some people say knowing that their pastor or teacher teaches bad doctrine and they will say something like "but they don't push it", meaning it's bad but they don't talk much about it! But that is not how it works folks!!!!
For instance Calvinist thinking. I have seen so many follow Calvinist thinking and end up living Calvinist ways! Understanding the Calvinist theology is just the beginning,... for you will begin to pray and think in away that is not faithful. Calvinists believe that God chose some to be saved before they were born but did not want others saved.
(2 Peter 3:9 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.)
and Jesus died for some but not all.
(1 Timothy 2:3  For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.)
Now if that is true you may NOT be saved! WHY because God did not choose you. But to add,...if You have no free will and did not participate than you are left insecure about your salvation "Did God choose me"??? "Am I chosen"???
AND then you begin to work and work and work!!!! You act irresponsible in your prayers and life. In other words your constantly asking God to "do" this and God to "do" that! And then when whatever you prayed for does not happened you blame God! I have seen countless and so called Calvinist saints that are mad, angry and blame God for their miserable lives.
It affects how you look at life in all areas and it is not just a salvation issue. Now the same goes for those who teach the prosperity message or those who push the Old Covenant, Israel and Law agenda also. All of these are work and performance oriented lifestyles and will leave you even more confused and insecure!!!!
WHO you listen to and WHO you follow is WHO YOU WILL BECOME!
Follow Paul and live in grace and you be free in ALL areas of life!!!
 

8/20/2021

CANCER!
When I hear movie stars and people say "if so and so wins the election I am moving out of the country" I usually think to myself "OK go ahead"! You won't find another country that is even close to the U.S. in the understanding of freedom. In fact the very freedom you have to say "I am moving out" shows the great freedom we have hear compared to other countries.
But what I am getting at is that we tend to take things way to far. We tend to think like a cancer which starts with one bad cell but then leads to more.
Many will see something they disagree with in the government or President but then begin to let that disagreement grow to hate, rebellion and untrustworthiness in EVERYTHING!!!
Now I  am not saying trust everything or what everyone in Washington says but there needs to be a balance.
Take sickness and disease for instance and even cancer growing in your body. If you were having pain or blood coming out or something wrong would you go to the doctor, of course you would. And if they said you had cancer would you say "NO, I don't believe you" and never do anything about it. NO WAY!!! Would you distrust them after all they are a part of the establishment and have authority too!
MOST of us would say "OK what do we do and lets do it NOW"!!! "How can we fix this and what needs to be done"!!!
When your child gets sick do you take him to the doctor if needed to get a shot. Of course you would everything and try almost anything to get your child well again. BUT everything in medicine is not perfect. This is why they call it "practicing medicine"!!! The human body is extremely tough and extremely delicate at the same time!  
So don't let your thoughts and emotions get the best of you and start to distrust everything and everybody in authority or medicine.
Gossip starts out with one word and ends up poisoning and defiling many! So goes our thoughts, they start with a thought and can run.... so STOP!!!  RENEW YOUR MIND and don't be afraid of everything that authority says to you.
After all even the Word of God can be REJECTED or RECEIVED by man!!!!
1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
 

8/19/2021

CANCER!
Cancer is a scary thing to most of us. I have had check ups recently and procedures to see if I have cancer and thankfully so far nothing.
Cancer is abnormal cells that grow and potentially kill other cells and organs.
Now cancer can actually happened in all areas of life. Something good is taken out of context and perverted or grows to be sinful and deceitful.
I always say these things usually start out by taking things out of context, Or not putting into context the right and original understanding.
Take for instance if I was to say to you "please clean the trunk out"! You might go to the tree we are standing by and start cleaning it! Or you might go to the car trunk  or even the trunk in the basement that has cloths in it! Now it is true that all 3 of these are trunks and may even need cleaned. And someone might say "a trunk is a trunk" and a trunk means this and it has to be this trunk every time. In other words they put the trunk into the same category of their mind every time. BUT sadly this can be out of context "every time" too!
Because, the truth is,  we were at the circus standing next to the elephant who had a dirty trunk and I wanted it cleaned out!!!
Without context and boundries we soon can be way off and what may have been good now has become a cancer!!! It can grow to be deadly even and create more and more cancers.
This is what has happened with churches and doctrine. They take something good and turn into a doctrine that becomes law and created more burdens instead of less! There is no freedom and sometimes just flat out perversion.
The word Jehovah is the name for God, But for Jehovah Witness's it is a law and church doctrine to the point that they miss the point and then under law!  7th day Adventist take the Sabbath and make it a idol and that is their main thing and again under Law! Another is Calvinism that takes things from a man like John Calvin and have adopted it into their thinking to the point that it has perverted the gospel entirety. Now most church people would never say that Joseph Smith was a prophet because of his "new" bible, doctrine and church, called the LDS or Mormon but they would accept something from Calvin, Spurgeon or Macarthur!
If you don't know what your church believes or what your favorite teacher teaches than you may very well be dying of cancer. It maybe a slow death and just as Satan deceived Eve with something as minor as a piece of fruit does not mean you won't have devastation or death! Don't go to a church because they have good music or because you think the pastor has a good presence or sermon or voice. Read, know and understand the Word for your self than you can play Doctor and see if you have had cancer!
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
 

8/17/2021

THE HOPE OF HIS CALLING!!!
Ephesians 1:18  The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
Let us open our eyes and mind to the understanding of Christ, that we maybe enlightened, meaning to know Him and to be saved. We are to see His wisdom and revelation that is found only in Him.
God has "called" meaning "invited" all of us to be reconciled with Him. To be invited is "grace" extended to us. He does not ask us to perform or do specific works or to even proselytize ourselves with Israel. He has invited us to be apart of Him without any premeditated works. Just by His great love for us has He invited us to know this great Hope that is in Christ! This Hope of Glory that only can be in Christ.
The unsearchable riches of Christ are ours and we get to participate with Him forever.
Notice though it is only to those who have accepted that invite. Only those who believe will have the inheritance of life in Christ. Only those who have received by faith and are received get to party with Christ for life!
There is hope in life and that Hope is through Jesus Christ our Lord!
 

8/16/2021 

RUBUKE IN THE NAME OF JESUS!
Mark 4:39  And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?
I often hear or see someone say "I Rebuke thee" or "I rebuke the storm, sickness or whatever else" that comes along.
They read in the books written to Israel where Jesus did this so they try to imitate Him in the name of faith! They believe they are being faithful and or faithless if they don't do it. Sadly it is not faithful to the gospel for us today!
The Mystery is different than the prophecy ministry given to Israel. Jesus was trying to show them that He was who He said He was, the Messiah! So He worked miracles and He sent the 12 out to do miracles and at one point even Paul the Apostles to the gentiles did miracles. But as time and continual revelation came to Paul we see that miracles are not needed for the "GREATEST MIRACLE" of all has come and it is shown by the CROSS!!!!
You see Israel needed signs to believe Jesus was who He said He was but after the cross the only sign needed to the Body of Christ today is the cross. Listen to Paul say in 1 Corinthians 1:17  For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. ... 22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
Anything that takes away from the cross and Christ death is no longer of value anymore! So stop rebuking covid and  everything else and looking for the external signs to prove Christ exist and simply look at the main thing which is the cross of Christ and be content in His Works!!!
 

8/13/2021

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

 

There are certain truths that cross dispensational lines! In other words "God is Love" regardless if it is Old or New Covenant or in the Body of Christ church today! While 1 John is written to those end time Tribulation saints we can still gain from reading this book.
While God is Love regardless of the dispensation and administration we are in the bible, the same goes for believing in Jesus Christ and that we will have eternal life through Him. Those that do not believe will have eternal life in Hell and those that do believe will have eternal life in Heaven!  

 

Hell is death and a constant slow death, beyond miserable! I can not describe the torture and pain and hurt that goes on there. Spiritually, mentally and physical death. Like a movie I had seen were a man was put over and hung over a huge fire until he died but in hell the fire will never go out and death never comes. A constant excruciating pain and torture.

 

YET heaven will be a true JOY and PEACE and COMFORT! Heaven in Christ will be the LIFE that everyone has always wanted. It will be the GREAT ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME! It will be so LOVING and WARM, that words really can't explain.

 

You can be assured, confident and secure in the word of God and that you have eternal Life! Eternal Life ONLY comes through believing in the SON of GOD, JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD!!!!
 

8/12/2021

False Glory!
Have you ever heard those who say well we need to follow the law? We need to keep the 10 commandments, and if you don't then you are a lawbreaker!
Perhaps you begin to buy into their thinking and start doubting the word of grace that you have been taught. It is easy to "see" the law and easy to understand the black and white boundaries isn't it!
But we need to hear again and again and then "put our foot down" and say "NO I AM NOT GOING TO BUY INTO THIS LAW STUFF"!!!
You see all these folks want is for you to work hard so they can boast in your flesh. So they can go "see they follow us", and "they keep the Law"!!!
Paul says this in
Galatians 6:13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.
THEY can't keep the law either but they want you to work and try to do so! WOW SOME NERVE! They want you to work and strive so they can say "look they follow us and are in our church and follow our beliefs! Our way is the right way, see how many people we have"!
EXAMPLE:
It is sad and funny at the same time how many folks bought into the communist way in Russia and now in China and Korea!
Now I don't think they all buy into it but then they have no choice if they want to live. BUT many did and do and after awhile they begin to say "this isn't so good after all". "It sounded good at first and we were poor and wanted everyone to be equal but now we are just poor and in more bondage and fear"!!!
You see lots of things may sound good and right but if we step back for a second and say what does God say! Which is better freedom or bondage? LAW IS ALWAYS BONDAGE! GRACE IS ALWAYS LIBERTY!
Paul goes onto to say in Galatians 6:14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. 16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.
You see it is not Law but the cross! It is not more Law but being transformed from the inside out and being a NEW CREATURE! The POWER OF GOD is in the CROSS not in the LAW!
Following the law brings "FALSE GLORY" and gets us no where but the HOPE OF GLORY LIVES IN YOU NOW,
JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD!!!
 

 

8/10/2021

INADEQUACY!!!!
Just like inferiority and insecurity, we all feel inadequate at times! We fail and think we can not do certain things so we feel inadequate compared to others! Now inadequate deals with our performance! We often say "Christians can't save themselves" which is true, because we are inadequate to do so. Only God can save and He has provided the way through Christ! We are not sufficient or adequate to do so but He is and so Paul states in 2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;
Spiritually we can not have life without Christ But He is Life and therefore we have life through Him. Now somethings we are capable of doing on our own. Some even are "BIG" stars on their own without God. Some are athletes or business people and have created wealth for themselves. Some are movie stars or political powers in the world BUT NONE OF THEM CAN SAVE THEMSELVES!!!!
NONE!!!!
You see our performance in life is either by our own strength or through the Spirit. One is flesh and dead works the other is by Christ, Spirit and "good" works! The latter is great no matter what it is because Christ has done it through us and so our performance is based on Christ. Some elderly lady may pray at home alone and as we might say a "prayer warrior" and some may be a Billy Graham speaking to thousands and leading them to Christ but regardless the elderly lady's performance is just as great and valued because of Christ!!!!  
Walk by the spirit and don't get caught up in your performance oriented lifestyle that fails or succeeds on your efforts, but rather let Christ live through you and your performance will be GREAT EVERY TIME!!!
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
 

8/9/2021

INSECURITY!
We all have insecurities about ourselves and in our life. Those that say they don't are either blind or lying which means they have a insecurity! Insecurity means unstable or unsteady and deals in general with relationships.
Most of us have had insecurities with dating relationships even if we were young. Perhaps starting in school and "if" the girl liked us or not", or  "Does he want to go steady".........this type of thinking are small insecurities but still insecurities, and Of course in adult dating, engagements and marriage there are insecurities that we "feel"! Insecurity deal with the rejection issue we think and feel.
The spiritual, eternal and internal insecurity we "feel' are real insecurities because we are born in sin. We are born without God in us, so we often look for outward relationships to help "feel" secure inside yet it never does. We are "looking for love in all the wrong places" as the song goes. We are looking externally for what we need internally! We lust for love and acceptance.
Without  Christ we will always "feel" insecure because that relationship is not reconciled to God by Jesus Christ! We can only be reconciled by faith in the death burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ! We can only have eternal and internal security through Jesus!
When we come to faith in Christ we then are Preserved in Him! Paul says this in
1 Thes. 5:23  And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We are preserved blameless in Spirit. Just like a jar that is cleansed with hot water and then filled with fruit or vegetables and then sealed tightly, we too are cleansed and sealed and preserved in Christ! No longer do we need to "feel" insecure for we are preserved in Christ and totally accepted in Him!
When you "feel" insecure then renew your mind that you are loved and You are reconciled, accepted and preserved for eternity in Christ!  
 

8/6/2021

Inferiority!
Do you ever "feel" inferior when you are around other people? Do you ever compare your self to others accomplishments? Some people are just better looking, stronger, smarter or more accomplished than others. No matter how much I want to be Michael Jordan I just won't be Him.
In general Inferiority deals with appearance. How we look as a person but also how our "things" look too! Our yard, house or cars! Our spouse, kids or friends! These can all be things we may "feel" inferior too when measured up to other people. Even pastors can feel inferior to other ministries or church's if compared and based on attendance or buildings or financial support. Some may even feel inferior when it come to evangelism and how many they water baptized this week.....
Lets face it we all in some way at some time have felt inferior! BUT when we think and feel inferior as believers we are walking by sight not faith! Because what is true in my Spirit is that I have the KING OF kings and LORD of lords living in me! I have the creator and savior of the universe living in me,... how inferior could my spirit be???
The bible says in Colossians 2:10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
If we are complete in Him how much more do we need! NOTHING!! We are as WHOLE and HOLY as any man can get! We need to keep our eyes on the Spiritual thinking and not on what we can see and comparing ourselves to others. It is not what you look like that is important but WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST!
IF you want to compare something, compare the world to the GOD IN YOU and then you will see the real inferior person!!!
 

8/5/2021

THE 4"TION" WORDS EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD KNOW!!!
I have shared in the last 3 devotionals about 3 "tion" words. First I told you about Justification and that it deals with the Judicial and legal aspects of a righteous God! A just God that deals with the sin of man in judging man. Man is guilty of sin and therefore we "feel" guilty. We are justified by faith in Christ, and therefore do not need to fear God or failure any longer.
Then I told about Reconciliation which deals with God's acceptance of man. God has reconciled man to Himself and therefore we do not need to fear God's rejection nor seek acceptance any longer for He has accepted us through Christ. If God has accepted us we do not need to fear mans rejection either.
Then Regeneration which gives us eternal life as well as dealing with our past. We are made NEW and therefore we do not need to walk in shame! We are alive in Him and can walk in confidence of that great power which lives and works in us.
The last "tion" word is Propitiation and means that God has accepted Christ cross work and blood as the atoning sacrifice for ALL of mans sins. Past, present and future, once and for all. Propitiation means to expiate and appease God's anger because of Christ sacrifice and no loner holds any wrath against us.
Romans 3:24  Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
Once and for ALL sin has been dealt with...
Hebrews 10:10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
... 14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
... 18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
We often think and say " well someone needs to take the responsibility for this, and it ain't going to be me"!!! BUT Because God's wrath is appeased He no longer will punish us and we no longer need to fear punishment. So there is no longer the need to punish others OR ourselves for sin. There is no longer a need to blame or a need to blame others. We can be honest and transparent with who we are and what we have done. We can allow others to be who they are with what they have done. The BLAME GAME IS OVER!!
I hope you will remember these 4 "tion" words and really think about what they mean and how they affect you!!!

 

8/4/2021

THE 4 TION WORDS EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD KNOW!
We have already shared 2 "tion" words, justification and reconciliation, so now lets look at the 3rd one.

 

REGENERATION!
Tit 3:4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, 5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

 

Regeneration means to "start anew" or to be "created". It is like being "born again" in a since but for a gentile we were never born to begin with like Israel. They were God's children already and thus that is why John says to them " be born again"!  Spiritually both are alive!!

 

Now regeneration makes us different SPRITIUALLY! It changes us and makes us alive! It makes us A NEW CREATURE!
2Co 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
THE OLD IS GONE THE NEW HAS COME! So if you are NEW that means the past is past it is gone! Whatever you did in the past is not what defines you! You do not need to walk in SHAME! THE REGRETS OF THE PAST ARE GONE!

 

Paul says forget those things which are behind and move forward!
Phl 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

 

Don't let shame and your past failures, sins or decisions control or define you!  
  

8/3/2021

The 4 "TION" WORDS EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD KNOW!!!
Yesterday we started this little series on these "tion" words. Yesterday we began with Justification and today lets look at Reconciliation!!
Reconciliation- means to be one with another. It means to exchange such as in a financial deal and to be even per say. Well God has exchanged the works of Christ for the price we should have paid and in doing so He has brought us back to a place of favor with Him. So we are now one in Christ and we are in the favor of God!
Now the great thing about being reconciled and in the favor of God is that we no longer need to fear Him rejecting us. We no longer need to fear His wrath or punishment for sin. We no longer need to work harder to be accepted or approved. We are reconciled to Him based on Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:17  Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
We must be saved in order to be reconciled to Him, and we are saved by His Life!
Romans 5:10  For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
You are no longer His enemy but now His child and He loves you and accepts! If He accepts you based on Christ Life then no matter what you do in life you are still accepted in Christ by Christ.
Now if the God of the universe accepts us do we need to fear what man thinks of us. OH NO!!! We no longer need to fear the rejection of man. We no longer need to seek mans approval. We are complete in Christ and therefore need no mans attention, approval or affection! So STOP seeking mans approval and walk in the ACCEPTANCE that GOD has given you!!! YOU are RECONCILED and ONE IN CHRIST!
 

8/2/2021

THE 4-TION WORDS EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT!!!!
There are 4 -tion words that are very important to know. Now these are not 'shun" words but words that end with "tion" and are at the very heart of our doctrine today!!!

 

Lets start with  
Justification- it is a legal word and deals with the idea of judgment! It deals with the guilt and innocence of mankind. God is the judge and He is a just and righteous God! We are all declared guilty from birth by having the same sin passed down by Adam.
Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
We are born guilty before we have ever done anything in this world! We are born with a spirit but it is dead.
Romans 5:
14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
15  ....For if through the offence of one many be dead,  
... 17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one;
... 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners,....

 

Now when we come to faith in Christ we then have Christ in us and therefore our Spirit is now alive and righteous!
Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
... 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.
17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offense of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 1
9 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
20 Moreover the law entered, that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:
21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

The exchanged life has taken place and now we who are saved are no longer dead but alive! The just for the unjust and the righteousness of God living in us through Christ and the Holy Spirit!
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

 

Justification says you are declared not guilty before God and therefore made righteous before Him!  So we do not need to fear Failure, nor the wrath of God when we sin. We do not need to walk in fear or the guilt that comes from that, but we can live in the freedom and Liberty that is given too us!!!
 

7/30/2021

PERVERTING THE GOSPEL!
Galatians 1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Pervert means to "turn around"! It means to make something it isn't! To make something pure and good into something gross and bad!
In todays lingo we sometimes hear people say "your really bad man" meaning your really good at something! They have  exchanged words to mean different things.
This is how the gospel has been perverted. Grace no longer means "something offered"  to ALL it now means God only gives to who He wants! And if He doesn't want you, you are damned to hell! The perversion is it is no longer a option by our free will but now coerced and forced upon the believer, yet he may never know regardless of how faithful or unfaithful he is.
Another way the gospel is perverted is by law.  This is were the majority of churches stand regardless of their denominational place, or even orthodox and/or protestant falls. Most churches use rules to control others and to create works and financial help for their own use and power. They may teach grace but demonstrate law in their everyday language or They may say grace but always teach under law.
In the banks and places that make money they teach the inspectors what the real thing looks like so that when they see a counterfeit bill they know it is perverted. So it goes for us in the spiritual way! We should know the gospel so well that when we hear or see something perverted we just know it quickly.
The gospel is always by grace through faith  and through Christ cross and NOTHING ADDED! No works, ordinances like water baptism or communion service! It is NOT a religious ceremony or confessing sins or anything else!!!  
IT IS BY FAITH AND BY GRACE ALONE!!!!
 

7/29/2021

HOPELESSNESS!
Do you ever feel hopeless? I think all of us have times of hopelessness in some ways. Even if it is just for a second. "AM I"... ever going to get over this disease and feel good" or "AM I" ever going to get through this heart ache". What ever it is it seems so hard that there seems to be no cure at the time.
Some go through the 3 "D's" Divorce, Disease or Death in some way. A spouse leaves or dies and you think "this is the end I don't want to live anymore".
IF we take everything in life to the very end and to the complete finish we see that everything deals with death in some form. A divorce is a death to the marriage. A disease may end our lives, so we need to see the extreme to fully see the picture.
The picture is that we CAN have HOPE! We don't have to live in despair for JESUS is our HOPE!
1 Timothy 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;
The only thing we know for sure, is that everything we do in life will end. And so if we take everything to the extreme we see that we have eternal life through Christ forever. We have HOPE for eternity and eternity is NOW! We are in Christ NOW TOO!  Since we are IN CHRIST we have A eternal future and PAST! We are in HIM! He has been forever and so our past is wiped out and we have a whole NEW ETERNAL LIFE!
There is always HOPE for we are ALWAYS IN CHRIST!
 

 

7/28/2021SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD!
1 John 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. 13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

 

While ALL the bible is "for" us not ALL the bible is "TO" us. 1 John is written for those going through the tribulation. Now with that said there is some great things for the Body of Christ too! We can still learn from these books.

 

No one has seen God! In other words No one can pick God up with his hand and say "here's God"! No one has seen God and no one knows what He looks like although we do know that Jesus is the exact image of God! Hebrews 1:3

 

But we read that the manifestation of God is shown in Love. Manifestation means seen or shown. Manifestation always comes after some thing has taken place and then is expressed or seen. Like a seed in the ground is planted but then the manifestation is then seen later. When it rains we don't immediately see grass grow or turn green it takes a few days or weeks. When crops are planted they don't just pop up and are ready to harvest it takes some time. So is the manifestation of the Spirit of God. First it is in us then as we grow in knowledge and grace we begin to see the love of God being shown.

 

Now I want to point out that salvation is immediate. It is that seed planted in us and it is real and alive but the fruit may take some time to manifest.

 

I would like to point out one other important thing in these verses. Notice that verse 14 points out that God the Father sent Jesus to be the Savior of the WORLD!!! Not some but ALL. Now not all receive that salvation but that is their choice not God's desire.

 

Keep reading, renewing and receiving from God's Word and you will manifest His Love, and the Harvest of Love will come!
 

7/27/2021

REVELATION and REJECTION!!!
Paul received the gospel message by Jesus Christ Himself. He did not walk with Christ as Peter and the 12 did. In fact while they were walking "with" Jesus Paul was walking "against" Jesus. Although we don't here about Paul until Acts, He was alive and can't help but think he was listening to this news about this Messiah.

 

But when Paul was saved Christ had already rose to heaven and now came and spoke to Paul. He was given New instructions and a New mission that was different then the 12. Paul says in  
Galatians 1:11  But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

 

Paul's gospel "IS" Christ gospel. As Jesus gave him the doctrine for today. Now Paul says he was not taught by man but it came directly from Jesus. No one else can say that for we all get our instructions from God's Word.

 

Because Paul received these instructions from Christ that means these teachings are our instructions too. And it means we received as Paul received from Jesus Himself. No I don't mean Jesus speaks to us audibly but by His word in the bible. It is Jesus words. The Inspired revelation of Christ Himself to us!

 

Because of that we do not need the appreciation or acceptance of man. Paul says in verse 10
Galatians 1:10  For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

 

The fear of man stops us from sharing "IN" Love! Fear of rejection can build to a point of never sharing or sharing with a bitter and nasty heart. I see many Grace and "right dividers"  like this. The rejection cycle is so much apart of their lives that they can not see it nor even deal with it. And it is hard to even talk to many, without them becoming defensive. They only see "the" doctrine without seeing their own emotional flesh which is being seen on full display! I have seen many a good pastors and teachers in the "right dividers" camp that are like this. Most of them should keep teaching truth, but get counseling. Just because you teach right doctrine does not mean you live it!

 

Receive the "revelation" and don't seek approval from man but don't live in the rejection cycle either!
 

7/26/2021

KINGDOM THINKING!
In the book of Acts the disciples ask  
Acts 1:6  When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
Kingdom thinking was always on their minds. They were once a great nation and were looking forward to being it again. It had been prophesied that they would have this Kingdom.
So when Jesus came to earth it was for this reason. To set up His earthly and heavenly Kingdom. Lets read in
Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
The book of Matthew is all about the Kingdom at hand!
AND John 6:15  When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.
They wanted that King!
In Matthew we also see Jesus say...Matthew 10:5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.
AND
Matthew 15:24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
You see Jesus was sent ONLY to Israel at this time. And if sent only to Israel then these books are to Israel and not to you and I for today. They are under Law, temple and priest! There has been no cross, blood or Spirit given. Now they are important but they do not contain the MYSTERY message and doctrine for today!
Romans 16:25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,
Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
As gentiles we were to follow Israel's lead they were the agents of God's message. But after they rejected Him God chose to continue the salvation message to the gentile world through the MYSTERY! Now by God extending Grace without works to us and the standard being by faith, He now reaches the rest of the world based on a true faithful heart and devotion to Him.
Now this Mystery message was never known and never prophesied. It was known before the world began but never released to the prophets, So it was a MYSTERY! This MYSTERY message contains the doctrine for today.
This affects you because your salvation is different, being by grace through faith and your everyday thinking is affected. How you believe affects how you think and how you think affects how you respond and how you respond affects your life FOREVER! Learn the DOCTRINE for today and think, respond and Live a VICTORUOUS LIFE IN CHRIST!!!! STOP living and thinking under Israel's program and receiving what God has given you today!
1 Corinthians 15:48  As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.
It is not longer earthly Kingdom thinking but rather HEAVENLY THINKING!
 

7/22/2021

REACH!
I teach and counsel the 5 R's and the last "R" is the word Reach! The first 4 "R's" are Repent, Renew, Rest and Reconcile! The first 3 are what we do for ourselves you might say while the 4th one is toward others. Now we are already reconciled to God as believers but we do need to reconcile with one another. Extending forgiveness as well as seeking forgiveness helps us as well as one another.
Now this 5th "R" is what we do toward one another. Reach is what a lot of the bible is all about. Paul says in  
2Co 10:13 But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you. 14 For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: 15 Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, 16 To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.
Paul was reaching out to others all the time. This is how the gospel spreads around the world. This is why the Body of Christ was formed instead of only a nation. This is why it CAN'T BE STOPPED!!!!
Now Reaching out comes in many forms and we are called to be ambassadors of Christ and Reach others. All the "ONE ANOTHERS" and there are a lot of them are called "Reaching" out. We can Reach our spouse, our kids and our neighbors. We do that in many ways by Loving and honoring them.
Rom 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
Rom 13:8  Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
We can Reach out by
RECEIVING AND ADMONISH ONE ANOTHER!
Rom 15:7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. ... 14 And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.
SERVE ONE ANOTHER!
Gal 5:13  For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
TEACH!
Col 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
COMFORT AND EDIFY ONE ANOTHER!
1Th 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
1Th 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

 

So remember to reach out to one another in whatever way you are led so that the Body of Christ may be built up in faith and give Glory to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!!!
 

 

7/21/2021

CONTINUE IN THE GRACE OF GOD!
Act 13:43 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.
Many of the Jews and religious proselytes meaning gentiles who had become Jewish encouraged Paul and Barnabas to keep preaching the Grace of God!
They knew that this was truly the work of God and a NEW dispensation had come upon the world. A NEW work of God! A NEW time and NEW church and doctrine was being formed! They knew so why do so many saints today still battle with understanding!
They are either still blind and lost with that veil over their eyes or they refuse to receive this NEW life in Christ. They may refuse this NEW church and NEW doctrine. But in order to be obedient to God we must grasp this NEW THING called GRACE!
Keep Growing in the Grace of God!!!
 

7/20/2021

SLOW DOWN YOU MOVE TO FAST!
'Slow down you move to fast, You need to make the morning last, now"! That saying comes from a Paul Simon song but it has meaning when it comes to our everyday life.
Every one has some anxiety and some have great anxiety. Anxiety is fear of the future (great or small) and has to do with "doing". It can be over making the bed or saving the world of hunger! It can be the smallest of things or the greatest of things. It has to deal with the thinking of getting things done before there is peace of mind. We are ALL born with fear and therefore we have what is called anxiety. The law feeds this by our performing to be right, good or accepted. We don't like to have guilt nor fail!
This is why we must constantly renew our minds and tell ourselves we are accepted and loved without "doing" by our Lord Jesus Christ. We need to tell ourselves that "IF" I don't accomplish whatever the task we have anxiety about that it is ok and that I am still loved By Christ and that my position in Him is fixed. Lets read what Paul told a young Timothy who had anxiety over his ministry!
2Ti 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Paul tells us in Philippians to "be careful for nothing" which means to not have anxiety, worry or fear.
Phl 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
John gives us the key to anxiety by addressing the fear issue.
1Jo 4:8 ....for God is love. ... 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
You see it is by putting on God's love and therefore putting on Him that brings security and with security comes peace of mind. Don't wake up running "slow down you move to fast" and put on God's love and you will be free of anxiety!!!
 

7/19/2021

NEW CREATURE, NOT LAW WORKER!!
Gal 6:12  As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. 13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. 14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.
So many saints, church goers or who ever still want that law. They want to "DO" something to justify themselves. They want boundaries, without heart! They want to look at some line and not cross it even though they have already crossed it in their minds.
Paul always addresses this in scripture. Then, as well as today the law vs grace is still a problem for so many. They don't get it, we might say. No one can keep the law because the law was made to condemn. But it was also something Israel needed then as well as the world to set those boundaries up and show them they needed a God! They as well as the world needed a Savior!
Paul says that the cross is central to everything. They didn't want to be persecuted for the cross of Christ, they just wanted to boast in their flesh. Paul says that he would boast in the cross of Christ for it saved him and it saved you if you are saved.
Works of the Law are mans fleshly ways of saving self, so Preach the cross for through it you are for ever a NEW CREATURE!
 

PAUL'S ORDINANCES ARE DIFFERENT!!!!
1Co 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.
Paul's tells the church in Corinth to follow Him. He says to follow him as He follows Christ. This means the instructions that Paul gives us are from Christ. Now some might say "I follow Jesus not Paul, but then that would mean you are not following Jesus as Jesus says that Paul is His "chosen vessel" in  Act 9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
Jesus tells Paul and Paul tells us, the ordinances for the Body of Christ! Ordinances under grace means instructions and we know that the gentiles never had the Law therefore they could never "do" the ordinances that went through the law. We also know that we are under grace which is different also, even if we had the law.
The book of Colossians is a great book that clearly says we are Complete, and no longer need the external, fleshly ordinances of the law.
Col 2:10  And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: ... 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; ... 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
(please read all of chapter 2)
These ordinances are different than Israel's ordinances. The ordinances or instructions by Jesus to Paul and then to us are the instructions on salvation and righteous living. Our Worth, Walk and Work in Christ! How we are to behave, with the right attitude!  How to Pray and know our position, purpose and plan for our lives.
So don't confuse nor try "to do" the ordinances under the Law but rest in the "instructions" under grace given Paul by receiving God's love!

 
PAUL'S 6 ENCOURAGMENTS!
Col 1:8 Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. 9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
Paul was encouraging the saints in Colossae to have these 6 things. These 6 things are fruits that come from walking by the spirit and being in the spirit. These things are a byproduct of the love they had by the spirit.
Now these things are to encourage the mind set in the SOUL! These things are all ready there in the Spirit because Christ is already there. This is a appeal to the SOUL which is comprised of the mind, will and emotions. So it could be read be filled as you are already filled. Walk worthy as you are already worthy. Be fruitful as the fruit of the spirit is in you. You see this is not a salvation issue but a Soul issue, a thinking issue!
So be....
1.Filled
2.Walk Worthy
3. fruitful
4.Increase
5.Strengthened
6.Give thanks
Put your mind on and walk by the Spirit and will you know God's wisdom and understanding. You will walk worthy and be fruitful and increase in all of these things. And while you are strengthen in might and power and you can give Thanks to God our Father!
Give Glory to God  for those who Come to Him!!!!
Col 1:3 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, 5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:
When we share the gospel and see others come to Christ we should give God the Glory and be thankful. We should pray  for ourselves as well as others to be bold and confident to share this wonderful news of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Pray for others and love the saints, for their hope is in heaven just like our hope is in Christ Jesus. God's grace brings fruit and that fruit is salvation and Life. That fruit is Liberty and Love! That fruit is power, security and joy! That fruit is ours because we too know this grace and love.
Share the Word of truth with others and pray for them to come to Christ and then have joyful fruit of sharing the word of truth the gospel of salvation today!
We never want to be so caught up in the greater truths that we miss sharing the simple truth of God's salvation through Jesus Christ with the lost person!  

 

WOMEN! 

1Co 14:34 Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. 35 And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
There is a reason Paul says this in Corinthians. It is not to degrade or put down but rather for understanding of the roles in church as well as family.
The roles in family are important and they are important in church as well. The understanding of authority is vital to harmony and peace as well as discipline, responsibility and maturity.
Now there is a reason Peter says that women are the weaker vessel....1Pe 3:7  Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
They tend to be more emotional and often times seek approval to the point of coddling or even controlling things for their own needs. This by no means they are not as intelligent or important in fact quite the opposite they are as a precious stone that needs to be protected and affirmed, just like a mother will do toward her own children.
Now I have seen on more than one occasion when women of the church controlled and manipulated the leadership in order to get what they want. They demand things to be a certain way without following. They need to first learn to follow before they begin to "APPEAL" to authority, but they usually do not do that. They don't follow first but rather they use scare tactics and say we will leave "IF" you don't change this or that.  What a great marriage and message that sends to the husband, pastor or family! Just like teens who want their own way they too want the independence and the say so and that can create a atmosphere of debate and undisciplined in the church as well as the family.  
The male, husbands, pastors and leaders in the church are to be faithful, lead and teach. They will need to teach, correct and rebuke at times and even put their "foot down" in order to bring discipline and control to the church as well as family. They may even need to risk the loss of folks in order to keep control and the understanding of the ministry on track!
Learn to follow first, then appeal to the authority, BUT NEVER DEMAND YOUR WAY!!! Submit to the authority in charge or leave,... don't play on the fence and cause more harm to God's church!  

 

SICKNESS!
Phl 2:26 For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. 27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
We all get sick and unlike the prosperity teachers that say we should never get sick, which is a lie. As you can see that even Epaphroditus was sick! To say or think that it is wrong to be sick or that we are being cursed for some sin is ridiculous. In fact if you read and analyze verse 27 above you see that Paul says "...God had mercy on him"!!!! The natural elements attacked his body but God was there to relieve and comfort him through out. If he had sin or had been cursed God would have just let him suffer or even die.
Sickness has nothing to do with your performance. It has nothing to do with sin except that sin brought sickness into this world through Adams fall. But ALL men will now go through the natural elements of this world.
The righteous in Christ will get sick as well as the unrighteous. The saint will get sick as well as the lost sinner.
My mom who was a believer never smoked or drank and was married for 40-50 years to my dad and had cancer and died before her twin sister who was married multiple times and drank and smoked. The normal sickness of this world will attack all of us in one way or another.
I was recently sick and still suffering through the issues but I hope I will always and continue to PRAISE THE LORD REGARDLESS!!!! It is not whether we will get sick or die but it is "HOW" we choose to go through the sickness!!!
Faithfully or not!!!

 

Praying for the Saints!
Eph 6:18  Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
We should pray for each other. We that are saved are in Christ and called saints. A saints is one who is spiritually set apart in God's holiness. A saint is one who's spirit is made righteous, pure and alive! We are spiritually alive in Christ! Now that is important because our soul and body may sin but our spirit is separated from our soul and body.
We are no longer sinners spiritually but saints that sin, See the difference?
So let us pray for each other that we would continue to persevere daily by "renewing" our mind! Renewing is more than reading the bible yet that is were we get the info to know God's will.
If we are feeling sad or fearful we renew our minds with what the bibles says about us and what is "ALREADY TRUE" IN MY SPIRIT!!!!!
I am "deeply, deeply, deeply loved by God and therefore I do not need to fear or be sad! I don't need to worry or doubt! I don't need to be anxious for I know to whom I belong and where I am going!!! GOD'S LOVE CHANGES EVERYTHING!!! SO PUT IT ON!!
Now lastly Paul says to pray for him so that he can share this gospel called the mystery! The gospel of grace is also called the mystery gospel! He says pray that he would be bold in sharing it. I ask that you pray for me too. I ask that you pray for me as well as others that share this GREAT MYSTERY! Their are so many of us that teach the grace message but there are also many that still teach law, prophecy and works! They teach a performance oriented gospel that says do this and you will be blessed. Or "GIVE" so much and you will be blessed. "DO GOOD" and you will be saved! That is NOT the Gospel that Paul is talking about and it is NOT the gospel that we are to preach.
Pray for pastors, teachers and each one of us to be BOLD IN THIS GOSPEL OF THE MYSTERY!!!

 

SWEETSMELLING!
Eph 5:1  Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
Christ himself is a sweetsmelling savour unto God but His sacrifice for us is a also a sweetsmelling savour. His love for us is so great that God adores Him and the offering He made for us.
Paul tells us to walk in love as Christ has loved us. That we should receive and rest in that love! As we rest and maturein that love we then give to others. Now when we understand God's love we understand "WHO WE ARE" in Him and that too is a sweetsmelling savour unto God. We belong to Him so let us "Walk" in that Love!
We are to separate ourselves from the lust of the flesh and the lust of the world. Notice what Paul says next.
3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.
8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
We are to WALK AS CHILDREN OF LIGHT! Not in the evil, dark and sinful world! We are God's children so know it and receive it and then act like it. Separate yourself mentally, emotionally and physically from these acts and people. Separate from their talk and silliness.  Don't be drawn in because you are seeking love and acceptance from them but rather receive that LOVE that Christ has offered and sacrificed for you!
Smell SWEET Dear Child of God by receiving God's Love and staying away from that polluted air of the world!
Ambassadors of Reconciliation!
2Co 5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
We are called ambassadors meaning we are to represent Christ. We are to minister and share the "good news" of the gospel so that man may be "Reconciled" to God!
That is reconciling man to God but  there is another side to reconciling and that is man to man. Meaning we need to be reconciled to our fellow man as much as in our power and not against God's righteous standards.
It is the understanding of "extending" forgiveness to one another as well as "seeking" forgiveness with one another. When both are done then we call that reconciled.
Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Now we are always called to extend forgiveness regardless of the offense. We forgive but we may not be reconciled. We forgive but there may need to be discipline depending on the offense. Don't confuse that with reconciling or even forgiveness.
Just because we forgive does not mean we accept or approve of the offense or person who did the offense, it means we forgive. I have forgiven lots of people for many things but I still turned them over to the police authorities or distanced myself because of their rebellious hearts and evil minds.
Forgiveness is ALWAYS a choice and is ALWAYS by faith through Christ to God. We forgive because He did forgive us and ask us to do the same. Forgiveness is for God but also for us. It frees us up to NOT play like we are God in holding someone guilty and to not walk in bitterness. Extend and Seek forgiveness is were the rubber meets the road as the saying goes. It shows if you are truly walking by the spirit or flesh.
So Repent, Renew, Rest and Reconcile!!!!  
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

 

CELEBRATE RECOVERY!!!
The popular thing that pastors and churches are going to these days is the program called Celebrate Recovery. Once again it is the pastors way to help but will not do one on one discipleship as well as teach others to disciple in a biblical way. This 12 step program is just like the 12 step program the world uses, but instead of saying a "higher power" they say Jesus Christ is that power! Now on the surface it sounds good and to a degree it it gets results I'm sure but is it GOD'S WAY?
You see the church has adopted the worlds way of doing things or accepting things without really looking at them from God's point of view. They have adopted the "if it works do it" mentality. I am sure some stop using drugs or alcohol but the world does that too. This can look good but the flesh can lok pretty and still be sinful flesh.
People may get off drugs, alcoholic or other addictions but that does not mean that they are faithful in Christ. Just saying God is their higher power just means that they are Christians doing a worldly "philosophy"!
For instance they gather in groups and confess that they are a alcoholic... and tell other people their problems UN interrupted but have they repented by faith to God! NO!! AND if you keep telling yourself your "powerless" over their problems than they are still the victim and still walking by the flesh!
Their identity becomes the problem! "Hi I am a alcoholic" and then they do the serenity prayer which is actually a worldly prayer, asking God to do the work, when God has already done the work through Christ!!!
Don't buy into the 12 step Celebrating recovery game that so many churches are pushing these days!  
Col 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

 

YOU ARE COMPLETE IN HIM!!!
THE HOLY TRINITY IN YOU!!
First let me address the word trinity. It means that God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit are three distinct persons yet one!
So John writes in  John 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
God is Spirit and in order to worship Him you must have the spirit upon you. Now this was written to those that believed from the Nation of Israel. But the Spirit had not been released upon earth yet and was given to each man individually as needed by faith. As time went on that little flock or remnant that followed Christ and the 12 Apostles would receive the Spirit by faith. But Up to that point It was not given to gentiles without them becoming a proselyte of Israel.
BUT when the nation killed and rejected the risen Christ, God then opened the door to the gentiles. It was without Israel, works or laws but by His grace He offered salvation to them. By grace through faith we are saved and by that act of faith we then regenerated by the HOLY SPIRIT!
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
We then receive the Holy Spirit, God the Son and God the Father in us!!!! WOW!!! The HOLY TRINITY IN YOU!!!

 

SHOUT HALLELUJAH TO THAT SAINTS!!!
Rom 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
You are ALIVE and have the POWER of the TRINITY IN YOU!!! STAND TALL and know WHO LIVES IN YOU!!!  AMEN!!!
Planting God's Crop!!!
If you are a saint in Christ then you are reconciled to God!  God has reconciled us to Himself by His Son.  
2Co 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
Now since we are reconciled to God, we also have a ministry of reconciliation. EVERYONE has a ministry!!! EVERYONE of us has the ministry of reconciliation, in other words to share the goodnews so that others may be saved and reconciled to God. It is not "just" the pastors job but everyones job per say. We all can water or plant in some way.
1Co 3:6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. 9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.
So Plant seeds by talking to folks about God, church or faith.  Share the gospel of grace with them. You might be surprised how interested they really are. After all spiritual life has to do with life after death and death scares people. So plant even if it is just inviting some one to church or bible study. Water those seeds by teaching or listening to their hearts. Do your part on the farm of LIFE, for it is God's farm and we are His workers.

 

WE ARE...!!!
I like to watch the movie called "We are Marshall". It is about a college that lost the entire football team by a plane wreck, and how they coped and recovered. I know other schools that had plane wrecks and never recovered and never had a football team again.
Their chant was always "WE ARE....MARSHALL"! "WE ARE....MARSHALL"!!!!
That "WE ARE" is a way of saying "WHO WE ARE"!!! It is a identity thing! Identity gives meaning and meaning gives purpose!
As Believers we too can say "WE ARE...." "WE ARE", saved, sealed and sanctified SAINTS IN CHRIST"!
Eph 2:19  Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
2Co 13:13 All the saints salute you.
Now A Saint is a Holy being of God! You are HOLY because you are in Christ and Christ is in you! The "HOLY" Spirit lives in You, therefore YOU are HOLY in SPIRIT!!!! Your Spirit is seperate from your Soul and Body! The Spirit is sanctified meaning set-apart in Christ and from sin. It is set-apart from the rest of you in Holiness. Your Spirit does not sin but your soul and body will.
"WE ARE", also sons and daughters as well as children of God that are redeemed, reconciled and righteous in CHRIST"! "WE ARE", deeply LOVED, totally ACCEPTED and completely FORGIVEN in CHRIST"!!!
"YOU ARE GOD'S"! You have been bought with a price and you are His possession and HE LOVES that possession!!!"WE ARE" complete, sufficient and HOLY IN CHRIST"!!
So don't forget "WHO YOU ARE" and "WHO YOU BELONG TOO" because "WE ARE" "SAINTS, IN CHRIST"!
Pastors and Teachers are STUDENTS TOO!!!!
Any one that teaches or preachers the Word at some point will get called a name. There will always be those that disagree or want to hold onto their idea of God. But we are to continue teaching the best we can. Pastors and teachers are students also. They are on a ever learning quest too grow in Christ. They are trying to help others the best they can, right were they are at. Paul tells Timothy in 2Ti 3:14  But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
"Remember when you were young Timothy and what you learned. That you received from the scriptures and your mother and grandmother and rememeber what I, "Paul" taught you".
Timothy was always learning and growing in grace also. Just like a parent that teaches their child without any real experience except to watch their own mom and dad. None of us have the answers to every problem and telling us "what" to do in "everything" while teaching our kids. BUT we do have a book that teaches "How" we are to act with our kids at all times.
Paul tells Timothy to keep reading and meditate on the Word. Keep learning doctrine and that is the "GRACE" doctrine by the way. Keep teaching the revelation of the mystery as well as inviting people to join the "fellowship of the mystery"! To Exhort folks to walk by faith and to depend on Christ in all things.
1Ti 4:11 These things command and teach. 12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. 15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
We are no different than Timothy or Paul who was taught by Christ Himself and who had to "learn" this deep and wonderful life in Christ! So keep growing, learning and teach what you can,  when you can. Give pastors and teachers a break and stop calling them false teachers over small petty things. Get to know their over all doctrine before you start dismissing them as some anti-Christ demon possessed  nut job who knows nothing.

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Coming in and going out!
Coming in and going out!
As I think about the benefits, we have today in the Body of Christ it blows me away. We have as Paul had the freedom to "come in or go out!
Act 9:28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.
In other words, we are not bound by any law. We are not tied up but can go as we please. We can go to meet with people or not. We can witness or not. We can share Christ or not and we will not lose our salvation!
Paul could have chosen to not go out and share. He could have sat and did nothing and still been saved, but he wanted to go. He wanted folks to know this "Christ"! This "Jewish Messiah" who died for them and who gives life.
We have the freedom to share the gospel or not and we do not lose one iota of salvation! But as Paul said after being beaten 5 times at 39 lashes at a time and being stoned and beaten with rods and in the ocean shipwrecked and being hated and despised by Jews and gentiles. And being robbed and being accused by false brethren of false doctrine and not eating and cold and without things and cloths and many other things we take for granted!
He says this,
2Co 11:28 Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.
Paul chose to go through all that for you and me and all the churches worldwide. He chose to do this even when he received nothing from it except a good conscience and obedience to faith. He received no monetary things, and he did not prosper as many do today. He was in prison and then eventually killed and for what?
All because he knew JESUS CHRIST!
Posted By: Howard King8/6/2022 10:14:34 AM
H
Is your marriage hard?
Marriage can be hard at times. No couple can say they have never argued and if thay have said it they are either lying or don't understand the meaning of arguing!
When two people live and sleep together there are going to be tension and fighting. You will not and cannot agree on everything. In the book of James which is written to the 12 tribes and therefore is a very legal type of book says this,
James 4:1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? 2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. 4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. 5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? 6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
The problem in every argument is LUST AND PRIDE!! The same thing that was in Gen. 3 when Eve ate of the fruit and is described in 1 John 2:16! The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life!!!
Learn to be humble, admit your wrong and extend and seek forgiveness often!!!
Posted By: Howard King7/30/2022 12:21:41 PM
Giving and Receiving!
Giving and Receiving!
Phl 4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.
When we hear the word give, we automatically think of financial giving, but there are all kinds of giving. Food, clothing or housing even. We can give by working and mission work of some sort, but the giving I am talking about today is our hearts.
Our tendency in life when thinking about giving is material but we can give our hearts to one another. The giving and receiving of faith and love! The desire to fellowship in some way with one another.
Now we can fellowship in person and in today's time by emails and texting. In person is best but not always available. My mom used to write letters and cards to folks but that seems to be out of touch today with computers and phones today.
God's economy has always been giving and receiving, while the worlds way is buying and selling. I want to encourage you to give first from a faithful heart by receiving first with a faithful heart from God! God gives, we receive, then we give, and others receive.  
Have a Great weekend and Grace to you all in our Lord Jesus Christ!
Posted By: 7/23/2022 9:43:42 AM
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OH BOY TIME TO VOTE AGAIN!
OH BOY TIME TO VOTE AGAIN!
It's time to vote again in our state as well as a lot of others. I can't say I am excited about it though. It seems we have to vote every 6 months or so.
Lately I have heard of groups that are crossing lines because they don't like the person who is running in their party. I personally do not like this. They are Republican's voting for a Democrat.
You see it is not always the person who decides as much as the party. Yes, the person votes for this or that but 99% of the time all of them vote along party lines. So, then the party beliefs are more important than the person.
I may not like the person running but I stand for certain values that the party stands for. So, if you take a look at the values the parties hold too you will see that the Republican party stands against abortion, homosexuality and same sex marriage. The liberal and I do mean "liberal" as in excessive left Democratic point of views support these sins!
Not every person is Godly in either party, but the party is not one person. I don't tell people who to vote for, but I do want to encourage you to vote for the only party that has Godly values! Godliness is passed into law by the values and convictions of men who are in unity of heart. Don't give the ungodly left a chance to pass more ungodly laws regardless of the Republican person running.
Posted By: Howard King7/16/2022 10:17:10 AM
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Christian Counseling!
Christian Counseling!
I love doing Christian Counseling. It is the best way to minister to someone if you're going to truly help them grow in their person walk of faith. While preaching from the pulpit gives general information and doctrine, one on one ministry gives personal and specific help.
If you go to your Dr. which is a general practitioner, you will get help for general and usually mild symptoms of things. BUT if you have a heart problem or cancer you will go to a surgeon or someone who knows more and can-do surgery if needed.
A Biblical Christian Counselor should be like the surgeon who is specific and able to cut you open in order to save your life. It is more difficult and sometimes harsh, but it is needed to live. Just like there are less surgeons than General practitioners there are less counselors than pastors none the less both are needed!
But too often I have seen the attitude of lead pastors that look down on the counseling ministry. I have even heard one say that his counseling is every Sunday and Wednesday night. In other words, he doesn't do counseling he preaches.
Most of these pastors will meet with someone for 1-3 times then ship them off to a secular counseling agency of some sort. They don't realize that 1, they are to do the work and ministry and 2 they are putting that person in more harm by someone who is not even a believer.
Biblical Christian counseling is just like any other ministry in the church and should be valued as such. I believe everyone should be discipled/counseled and then trained how to counsel others including the lead pastor. This would also cut down on the pastors who get into trouble at some point in their church.
To add if I counsel 2 people and they counsel 2 each (4) and then they counsel 2 (8) and so on, you can see that before long there would be thousands of people receiving help and 100s of counselors!
The bible says we are more than able to minister to the Body of Christ.
Rom 15:14 And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.
If you know someone who wants help, or you do just contact me here at www.howardking.org and I would be glad to help.
Posted By: Howard King7/9/2022 12:00:46 PM
Happy 4th!
America!
The 4th of July is upon us, and it is a celebration of finally being independent of England and the King. It is a freedom from being under the state church of England known also as the Anglican church, which is still the church of England by the way.
Now they escaped to find a place they can be free to worship God without a government telling them what to believe, and to a certain extent we still have that. But as all good things in life when taken to extremes they become bad. We have taken that freedom given to licentiousness and all kinds of sin. The government in trying to be and keep equality has allowed everyone to live by law in a way that is ungodly and unrighteous before God. This is NOT what those pilgrims that left England were saying nor wanting.
Now for us who are here today and celebrating the freedom that the 4th represents must always remember that true liberty comes only through our Lord Jesus Christ!!!
2Co 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
Never forget that and keep standing in that...Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Grace to you all and have a Happy 4th of July!!!
Posted By: 7/2/2022 10:34:35 AM
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Praise the Lord!!!
A day that will live in infamy!!!
as President Roosevelt said years back on Pearl Harbor....
Yesterday the Supreme Court of the United States changed the law, and it shall be a day of infamy! Yes, I know it may sound a little dramatic, but it has changed a wrong of 50 years or so to finally a "Right"! That law that was changed was the abortion laws. A law that said it was ok to abort a baby.  That change finally has come to the land of the free, but it will be at a cost. That cost will be that for many years the law of the land was sinful!
Psa 139:13 For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
The law was made up to give freedom to women to make up their own minds and what they please with their bodies. Sadly, though their bodies are not theirs. In other words, God has created man. God created women and they are His. Even though many do not know Him as Lord and Saviour, God says He has formed ALL things. He created ALL things. He is the one who makes up the rules. And if we don't follow those rules there will be problems. It comes at a cost.
That cost also was millions and millions of babies lost due to SIN!!!!! BUT also, millions of women lost in SIN!!! Millions of women rebelling against God and even now protesting for their "rights" to do as they please! Rebellion comes from lust for self and Pride that demands its way! Lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life, sound familiar! (1 John 2:16)
BUT what about the "RIGHTS" of the BABY! Well, those rights were taken away by a lost Supreme court and government. It also maybe good to state that in the name of rights and choice the government has overstepped in many more areas. My hope is that will change also.
While this change of law is GREAT it will be an uphill battle as we have tantalized so many with a Sin filled law for so long. Always remember "the sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the LAW"!!!!! (1 Cor 15:55-56)
Isa 43:7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
Isa 44:2 Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen.
... 24 Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself;
Isa 49:5  And now, saith the LORD that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, Though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my God shall be my strength.
Jer 1:5   Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.
Posted By: Howard King6/25/2022 10:24:49 AM
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Happy Father's Day, God!
Happy Father's Day, God!
  Tomorrow is Father's Day. And we celebrate our dad's. Now some have lost their dad's, and some never knew their dad's. Yet though the bible says we are to call no one father.  
Mat 23:9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
Now when Jesus said this, He was addressing Israel and they worshipped their earthy faithers more than their Heavenly Father. Traditions and genealogy were more important to them than having a relationship with their Heavenly Father.
God is our Father too! He is our Lord Jesus Christ Father! Jesus humbled Himself and called God Father and He was not ashamed to be called His Son. We are to have that same attitude as Jesus and humble ourselves also.
1Co 8:6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
Phil 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Now honor and enjoy your Father's Day with your dad, but never forget who is "THE" FATHER, and the only Father who deserves or worship, praise and honor in our lives!  
Posted By: Howard King6/18/2022 10:09:58 AM
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What is Lacking!
Pastor, teachers and biblical counselors as well as the Body in general are to help one another grow in faith. There may be something lacking in your faith. Each one of us can grow in faith in some way. Paul says this in 1Th 3:10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?
Notice he says praying for them BUT then he says see you face to face. That means he wants to look them in the eye and help them. He wants to disciple them. He wants to teach, train and correct them. He may have to rebuke some and scold others.
This what I think is lacking in 99% of pastors today. They think their job is to "teach" from the pulpit and that is all. They study at home or office for 40 hours or so and put some great sermon together and then deliver it on Sunday and that is all! Now the church congregation will grow in size IF the pastor has charisma and delivers a good message, but that does not mean that they are saved or maturing or seeing what is lacking in their faith.
Most church goers actually do not take a good honest appraisal of themselves. In fact, many a pastors don't either. The body of Christ always needs someone who will look past the fluff and tell it like it is.
By the way the thing I find often missing in folks is character, true godly living. The character that says I desire God above all things with being fake or trying to be Super Spiritual. Without the "hallelujah's" and " Amens" which sound great but lack depth!
So this blog today is to the pastors AND church. Pastors do your job and start caring about the folks real life and heart. Stop being so self-centered in delivering your "sermon" and start desiring true transformation in your people. To all others stop being surfacy and start being honest with your selves. Take a good hard look at your intentions, motivations and attitude! You may know "right" doctrine but miss the mark when it comes to loving others. You may know "right" doctrine but lack integrity and compassion. You may know and have allot of bible knowledge but be LACKING in FAITH. Remember the bible also says that Gal 5:6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
Posted By: Howard King6/11/2022 11:14:43 AM
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OBEDIENCE!
Obedience to the gospel, but which gospel?
The interesting thing about church life today is that 90% believe the same gospel. They teach the same things and actually even have the same doctrine on their websites. I almost think they just copy and paste it in. The only difference sometimes is the personality of the pastor.
Now there were different gospels in the bible. Heb 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.
This gospel is the one given to Israel through Moses.
Or the gospel of the Kingdom, was preached,
Mark 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
And so then we see churches would teach the gospel given during Christ earthly ministry. They would teach law, temple (mind you there church as a temple). They would say to be obedient you need to tithe and be water baptized and do this and do that. And that would all be true IF we were still under THAT gospel BUT we are not!
The things that are different in the different gospels are different for a reason. There are differences that are to be addressed. Jesus earthly ministry was to Israel BUT His heavenly ministry is to us the gentiles world. The difference in law and grace, Faith and works and nation vs Body of Christ!
In Romans we see that Paul say "for the obedience of the faith!
Rom 16:25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
Paul says according to "my gospel" and the preaching of Christ, (now), and according to the revelation of the mystery"...for the obedience of faith!!!
If you are still doing the earthy ministry then you are not obedient to the faith and Paul goes on to say in Galatians that you are perverting the gospel and are accursed!
Gal 1:6  I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
So you see when folks say "I am being obedient to what the bible says to do and therefore I am going to be water baptized or tithe or follow the law or anything else from that gospel,....then they are being DISOBEDIENT!
So the question for you today, which gospel are you being obedient too?
Posted By: Howard King6/4/2022 12:41:01 PM
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Sad news but Reality!
A blog is something that I share each week. It is supposed to be more like my opinion verses a devotional type thing.
So my opinion on the shootings in Texas this last week, that killed 21 people.
While being sad it is reality. It is reality that we live in a sin filled world. It is reality that have neglected prayer and bible reading in schools. It is reality that we have folks who are so self centered and lonely and rejected in life that they will do anything even kill anther human being. It is reality.
Now we can take guns off the streets and we can make new laws and I am not saying we shouldn't do this but it will not stop the evil and killings because the problem is not the weaponed used but the hearts of man!
The problem and reality is that we live in a time that is getting close to a even more wicked time. We are getting closer to the "end" time. With each passing day and year we are getting closer to being "caught up" in the clouds and being with Christ! We should grateful and comforted by this but always remember the closer we get to that time,means the closer we get to a very evil time.
1Th 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
Pray with me for the families in Texas. Pray that they would be saved and find comfort in Christ. You too should be comforted in Christ, and let that be reality! Yet we need to know that evil is among us now and in the future of the world.
Posted By: Howard King5/28/2022 11:28:13 AM
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ALONE!
Robin and I were talking recently about friends and family. How they can be so unfaithful if they are n the faith and many not being in the faith at all. Of course those that are not can be very to deal with but those that are saved sometimes are not easy either.
Friends and family will let us down. They will be self-centered and talk about themselves without regard for our thoughts or ideas. They will want us to hear them but not want to hear from us. The world revolves around them they think.
At times separating from these folks ae necessary and biblical, but also the thinking that we need to STAND for Christ regardless. No matter what he circumstances bring or how they act standing firm in Christ is the key!
We maybe totally alone without friends or family but Moses was alone. Christ was alone at times. Paul was alone because he did not compromise when it comes to the Word of God or  life in Christ!
Gal 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 5 For every man shall bear his own burden.
You too may have to be alone more than with friends and family who do not follow the Lord! You may be alone when it comes to standing up and in righteousness, but that is Ok, do it anyway.
Don't compromise your conscience or heart for friendship or family!  
1Ti 1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
Posted By: Howard King5/21/2022 10:12:16 AM
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Rights, Fights and Abortion!
Rights, Fights and Abortion!
  We all have certain rights in the United States. We have a great democracy compared to so many other countries. All you have to do is watch T.V. and see the war in Ukraine to know that so many around the world do not have rights. And of course, there are wars all over the world that do not get the publicity that this Russian war has caused. The middle East, China, N. Korea and in Africa as well as Afghanistan have wars and crimes against humanity constantly.
So, in comparison to many others, we have it made you might say, but it came at a price. It takes work to have a truly democratic nation. And in order to have that freedom we often flip to the licentiousness side! That means the outrageous lust filled and shamelessness side of things!  When that happens in a society it invades the mind and thinking of so many that gets out of control.
This is what we have today in so many areas in the U.S. This what splits the "right from left" you might say. The left always wants what sounds like the "freedom" to do whatever we want, and the right comes across and wants boundaries. And for the most part Godly boundaries.
So, we see the fight on T.V. and in our legal courts today. That fight for "Rights" are always the "big" thing. Fighting by protesting and arguing for same sex marriage, transsexual rights and as of late, abortion. The right to do whatever I want with "my" body!
The problem is that our bodies were not made to do certain things according to the ONE who created them. We were born male or female so what right do we have to change that? We were born to populate the earth as male and female who has the right to change that? We are not to murder, yet we do that to the most innocent and vulnerable of all, unborn babies and again who has the right to do that?
Sadly, we don't worship the creator, so who do we worship? Once again as the bible says in Genisis 3:5 we want to be our own God and WE worship ourselves!
Rom 1:25 "Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen".
Posted By: Howard King5/14/2022 10:52:02 AM
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Perception and Purpose!
Robin and I recently went to a breakfast in our adult community area. We enjoy meeting new people and of course the food is always good.
We sat with a couple we did not know began to talk and get to know them. They told us where they from and what they did for a living and so on as we did the same. Eventually as "old" folks do we begin to talk about health or someone we know that has passed away. I shared I had recently had kidney cancer and that they removed my kidney. They said much to their surprise, " boy I would never have known you look great"! Of course, that was so good to hear but what I thought was that their perception of me was good. I did not look sick but rather healthy.
I hope I never get to the point of feeling so bad that folks know that I have cancer and on chemo or dying but if I do, then I do!!! But my point is that perception of things can be important. I may think one thing about a person by just looking at them, but I can be way off! Or I can project a certain attitude or face that leaves a perception of me too.
Perception can be motivated by "Purpose". What is your purpose in life?
As a believer in Christ our purpose is to glorify God and share Jesus Christ with others. Now we can do that if our faith is strong, and we are willing to be vulnerable. We can love others even when we hurt ourselves especially if we don't try to control life. If we don't try to control every circumstance we are in, and at times we just have to trust people even secular people.  
People's perception of Christ is shown at times by our actions and attitudes and those come from our purpose in life.  Make your purpose to glorify God and share Christ and see what perception others have of you!
Posted By: Howard King5/7/2022 12:04:19 PM
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Just so you know!
Just so you know...
In the spirit of openness and transparency we need to share with each other how we are doing from time to time. The Body of Christ should be a place of honest as well as helpful ministry to each other.
Paul said this in Eph 6:21 "But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:"...
He wanted the other churches to know how he was doing. He wanted them to pray for him and to "know my affairs", like his struggles and his victories.
He wanted them to know that whatever he was going through and that they were not alone and that others were going through the same thing. He desired to know their affairs so he could pray for them too.
Just so you know I am recovering steadily from surgery, and it looks like they got the cancer after taking my kidney out. We are now doing a type of chemo that is to build my immune system and keep the cancer away. This is once every 3 weeks for one year. Not as drastic as normal chemo, but I have been sick as of late so not sure what is involved with that yet.
The radiate pain that comes from surgery is what hurts now. It is that pain that goes throughout the body, but it stems from the surgery. Not where the surgery was and not sharp but dull pain in other places and anyone that has had a major surgery probably can relate.
Please keep praying for me as I continue to teach in bible studies and counseling. Please pray that I continue to share the mystery of Christ and the grace gospel to as many as I can.
Praying for you all and please tell me how you're doing as well as your prayer request.
With prayer, love and in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ!
Posted By: Howard King4/30/2022 12:07:48 PM
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Alone even in Death!
We all often seek attention and acceptance. We lust for love and desire approval. We want to be loved and remembered especially in death! Many of us crave a big funeral so people will say "oh he was such a great guy"!
The news often reports how great this person was and look at how many showed up for his funeral. He or she was great at whatever they did and loved for whatever person they were.
I often think about some of the more famous but were not nice people in life. Thousands showed up for Lucky Luciano's funeral, yet he was a mafia mobster who had folks killed. Presidents and Movie stars like Marilyn Monro and others have big elaborate funerals and guest, while many die and you never even heard of them, and many buried in mass graves.
For instance, this war in Ukraine has now many mass graves and people are killed and buried without a funeral or marker. Some will not even know where their loved ones are buried. In World War 2 many were killed and forgotten without any hoopla at all. No ceremony or goodbyes done. Buried in mass graves without a marker of any sort. Before and in the 1800's pioneers who went west died on the trail and buried wherever they were, and no one ever knew where they were.
Even Jesus did not have a funeral or many there. A few that took His body and put it in a sepulchral which is a rock type tomb with nothing fancy to speak of.
Mar 15:46 And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre. 47 And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid.
It seems that the more insecure and wicked as well as the rich and famous are those who seek the attention, power or fame have a lot people at their funerals, but the ones who serve God and others are alone.
I say this don't seek the attention, power or wealth of man but rather receive the Love of God. You may be alone even in death but you will reap eternal life with the only one that really matters!
Posted By: Howard King4/23/2022 11:32:57 AM
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HOPE!
Rom 8:24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
In this day and age we often see no hope. We watch T.V. and the news is one bad thing after another. We see our loved ones die from covid or cancer and our government and politics going in such a bad direction it leaves us sad and without hope.
But we must under stand that our Hope is not of this world. That our hope is in Jesus Christ. That our hope is in the heavenlies.
Hope is the first stage of Faith. Hope is the non-action, while faith is the action. When you look at a chair you have never sat in you "hope" it will hold you up, but not until you sit in it do you put faith into it.
The bible says we are saved by Hope! Now most of us would say, "I thought we are saved by faith" which is true but Hope is a element in all faith.
Don't stair at the problems of the world or even your own problems or self. Set your HOPE ON CHRIST and then you will WALK BY FAITH and you will have confidence and security!!!
Posted By: Howard King4/16/2022 10:48:04 AM
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DISMISSING!
Eph 4:18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: 19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
It is easy to dismiss things. Everyone through history as dismissed things that have happened! Some have dismissed the Holocaust as something that never happened. No matter what evidence you show them they deny it and say it is a conspiracy!
Then again others deny Jesus Christ as being the Son of God. They deny what He did on the cross and reconciling the world to God.
It is easy to dismiss things in the name of Love such as homosexuality or in the name of "rights" to kill babies before they are born. It is easy to dismiss roles and authority in the name of equality. Today we see that everything must be equal.
Equal rights for all is the banner for today. Transgender deserve equal rights in sports and in all things. Women "must" have equal rights so make them authority figures over men.
Dismissing is easy to do as we all tend to dismiss even our own sins at times but sins, equality, and denying things won't change God's order of things nor fix death that comes from sin and dismissing. All dismissing will do is make us more callous to the will of God.
Posted By: Howard King4/9/2022 1:03:09 PM
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April Fool's Day!!!
April Fool's Day!
April Fool's Day was yesterday, and many had fun tricking their family or friends into believing something that did not happen. Or making fool's out of them in some way.
Now we can all be fools in some area of life from time to time. We can believe something is important when it really isn't. Or by putting importance on things or people above God and our own mental stability. We must first learn to recognize that i we are insecure and unstable emotionally how can we possible help others. We will be projecting onto to them our own insecurities and our own hurts, rejections and self-protection. This why the world says you need to think of yourself first. Now there is truth in that, BUT the problem is that we tend to try to fix the fix that Jesus fixed. We tend to work it out by our own accomplishments or strive in some other way rather than resting in the love of Christ.
Don't be a fool and try to self-medicate yourself in some way. BUT rather be a fool for Christ!
1Co 4:10 We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.
Posted By: Howard King4/2/2022 11:24:53 AM
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The weak and beggarly elements bring bondage!
The weak and beggarly elements bring bondage!
  Paul says in Gal 4:9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?
When we put ourselves back under law after being made free in Christ, we actually are back in bondage! We begin to walk by "sight" instead of faith. We begin to observe things we can see and touch and "feel" like they are more spiritual. These things are just shadows of Christ, but they are not Christ.
Some churches many sacraments and ordinances to do in order to "feel" or be obedient too but all of them take away from the cross of Christ. This is why Paul says in 1Co 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
Now some people might say "but what if I want to be baptized or do these sacraments just to feel closer to Christ, is there anything wrong with that"?
YES!
You won't lose your salvation over this but what you are doing is being 1. disobedient to the word of God which says it is not a part of the program under grace today and 2. because you also training your mind and heart to walk by sight and feelings instead of by faith!
By the way in Rom 14:23.... for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
Don't get caught up in and fall back into Law but walk in faith and be obedient to the Word of God by the Grace of God!
Posted By: Howard King2/19/2022 11:24:44 AM
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MEDIA ATTENTION!
Act 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
Olympics!
  As I watch the Olympic games, I see again the medias focus on certain athletes. The media overexposes certain athletes because they know who the public seems to want to see. Like everything else the media/news folks do to grab numbers. It is to get as many people as possible watching their programs so more advertising and financial support comes in.
At one time the newsman did not make a great deal of money but today they make millions. There are millions if not billions of dollars that are stake and they want to profit no matter what.
Some athletes are over exposed and then fail. The pressure is too high, and they fear the failure. They fear losing, failure and rejection. The mental state of most athletes is already that way and just heighten even more. Sadly, many take meds for the depression and anxiety for the rest of their life.
When Sports or anything else for that matter becomes the idol, the answer is always Jesus Christ. It is not more or less training. It is not a therapist! It is not more money or attention. It is JESUS CHRIST!!!
Jesus is the answer for the world today!
Posted By: Howard King2/12/2022 10:38:11 AM
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IN THE NAME OF JUSTICE!
Psa 82:3 Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.
While watching an old T.V movie called the "Ghost of Mississippi" and with the recent MLK day I felt I would say a few words. Now the movie is about the civil rights leader Medger Evers who was gunned down in Mississippi in the 60's. Medger Evers was the outspoken leader before MLK at least in Mississippi. But both these men were killed for speaking out against hatred and for civil rights.
Now they were right for speaking out. They had the right heart and mind and words. They were outstanding citizens in the sense of morals and decency. They were not into drugs or thieves or rebellion against authority except for change in the correct way. They did not walk in indecency but lived a seemingly moral upright life.
Yet today we seem to have the immoral, street and gang like who battle against authority at every angle while being praised. Civil rights are to be just that, CIVIL!!! Meaning they should be within the boundaries of law and under control NOT out of control.
Regardless of the situation, if you pull a gun out on the police, they are going to protect themselves and have the right to do so. If you argue fight and disobey their orders you should and will need to be brought under control.
Let's not tarnish the good name and fight of the older civil rights leaders by praising the rebellious law breakers when the police use force in certain circumstances.
Now just so you understand I am not saying that the authority's don't mess up occasionally yet let's not throw the baby out with the bath water. Most Police are honorable and doing their jobs correctly while in many cases even having their hands tied while going after the bad guys who even then abuse the right for self-centered reasons and to get away!!!
Posted By: Howard King2/5/2022 11:26:23 AM
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Choose!
Everything we do in life has a choice or a decision we have to make. Sadly, we rely more on our emotional instinct than we do on our minds. We make decisions based on our "feelings" rather than "thinking about what we are thinking about"! And what we are thinking about is whatever we fear or the hurts, rejection or loss we have been through or will be coming.
I like what Paul says in 2Co 2:1 But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness.
He says, "I determined....", in other words he made up his mind to not live by his feelings of heaviness. He changed his mind and made a different choice! He desired not to come to rebuke again especially since he knew the situation had changed in the church.
We may be scared, fearful or worried about something initially but we can always "STOP" and make a different decision and choice based on God's word and by faith!
Don't live by your feelings and walk in fear or anger or rejection, OH NO, rather "CHOOSE" to walk by the Spirit and by Faith and have confidence, peace and victory through Jesus Christ our Lord!!!!
Posted By: Howard King1/29/2022 11:51:06 AM
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WOW!!!
I recently spent some time in the E.R. I had seen some of the same nurses as before because they stood out to me. They stood out because I could not tell if they were men or women. They were in some sort of crossing over period.
Now not only do I see this as sin because God says it sin but just in normal conversation it is hard to know what to say. "Thank you, sir," or "thank you maam"? Which is it? I never call someone that I know was once a man, like a Bruce Jenner by their female name that they may go by now. He will always be Bruce Jenner to me and to God!!!
BUT when you don't know who they were before and can't distinguish especially with mask on, it causes even more confusion and offence! There is no need to offend someone on purpose, yet they may be offended by the gospel regardless!
In the day and age, we are in there are a lot of "professing to be wise" but they are not and they "worship the creature " instead of God!
Rom 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections:
DON'T WORSHIP THE CREATURE BUT THE CREATOR AND STAND FIRM SAINTS!
Posted By: Howard King1/22/2022 12:00:30 PM
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THANK YOU!
2Co 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
I want to wish you a Happy New Year as well as THANK all of you who prayed and financially supported this ministry.
I hope you have a great New Year and continue to be faithful, thankful and joyful in Christ!!!
with Love,
Howard and Robin
Posted By: Howard King1/1/2022 11:01:29 AM
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Nothing is impossible with God!
NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD!
Luke 1:26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 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. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 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: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 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. 36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.
This Christmas remember that nothing is impossible with God. While God is dispensing certain things at different times His POWER has never changed for, He is God!  God Loves you Dear Saints and desires to spend time with you so allow yourself at this busy time of the year to sit and ponder on Him and His Love for you.
Merry Christmas,
Howard and Robin
Posted By: Howard King12/25/2021 8:36:04 AM
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Have a CHRIST-FILLED CHRISTMAS!
CHRISTMAS!
This is the time of year that we celebrate Christ birth. Even though we know that Christ was not born in December! OOPS! Sorry you did not know that! I did not mean to spoil your Christmas experience but to bring true biblical meaning only.
Well lets see how I can make this teaching as short as possible and still get the point across.
In the book of Luke we see that John the baptist Father, Zechariah was a priest that served in the course of Abijah. He served in the 8th course which would hae been between our months of May-June. His wife then became pregnant at that time with John and 6 months later Mary was pregnant. Which would have been in December our time. So Christ was NOT born in December but conceived in December!
Luke 1:5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.
Luke 1:13  But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
Luke 1:26  And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
Luke 1:31  And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
Now remember it is not Christ birth that was different but His conception was by the Holy Spirit and unto a virgin. His birth was like any other human, and in September. Now that does not sound very snowy or festive but it is biblical. To add and speaking of festive at the time He was born would have been the time for the  feast of Tabernacles for Israel!!!
Lev 23:34 Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of tabernacles for seven days unto the LORD.
That festive time is the time that God freed them and brought them out of Egypt and that lived in booths. A booth is a covering and protection and a TABERNACLE! Jesus was born to be our covering, protector and TABERNACLE!  
So this Christmas remember that the greatest gift is that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit and was born to be our LIFE GIVEING TABERNACLE IN HIM!!!!
Posted By: Howard King12/18/2021 12:14:28 PM
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Giving and Receiving!
Giving and Receiving!
Phil 4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. 16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
Paul thanks the Philippian church for their giving and supplying his needs as he ministered to those through out his ministry. The need is great as it allows for more teaching to be done. It allows Paul to focus on the gospel and what is most important to his heart and that is sharing Jesus Christ crucified and risen to a lost world. This reconciling work that God has done through His Son, Jesus is of the most importance to Paul!
Our ministry is that same thinking and it takes time to teach and reach folks with the fellowship of the mystery. The revelation of the grace of God is still foreign to so many saints while being saved still live in bondage to tradition and law!
Givng and receiving is the way God operates today. Buying and selling is the worlds way but God gives and we receive, Then we give and others receive. I ask that you pray and consider giving a year end donation to help minister to those who come for individual or marriage counseling as well as group bible studies. We need your prayer and financial support to continue to minister this GREAT GRACE AND LOVE OF GOD!
You can go to www.howardking.org and donate or paypal.me/howardkingministries  
Posted By: Howard King12/11/2021 12:55:01 PM
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Giving and Receiving!
Giving and Receiving!
Phil 4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. 16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
Paul thanks the Philippian church for their giving and supplying his needs as he ministered to those through out his ministry. The need is great as it allows for more teaching to be done. It allows Paul to focus on the gospel and what is most important to his heart and that is sharing Jesus Christ crucified and risen to a lost world. This reconciling work that God has done through His Son, Jesus is of the most importance to Paul!
Our ministry is that same thinking and it takes time to teach and reach folks with the fellowship of the mystery. The revelation of the grace of God is still foreign to so many saints while being saved still live in bondage to tradition and law!
Givng and receiving is the way God operates today. Buying and selling is the worlds way but God gives and we receive, Then we give and others receive. I ask that you pray and consider giving a year end donation to help minister to those who come for individual or marriage counseling as well as group bible studies. We need your prayer and financial support to continue to minister this GREAT GRACE AND LOVE OF GOD!
You can go to www.howardking.org and donate or paypal.me/howardkingministries  
Posted By: Howard King12/11/2021 12:55:01 PM
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Not the external things but internal things that count!!!
It's not the external things but the internal things that count!!
Rom 14:16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. 19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
Our tendency as humans is to look at the external things in life. The things we can see and touch. Things that we can do and perform and control. The things that we think are important Paul says are not!
What is important is the internal things. The things you can not see like the Spirit of God IN YOU! Now you can see the manifestation of the Spirit working from the inside out but you can not see or touch the Spirit within man. You can see the fruit of the Spirit but you can not see the Spirit.
We see preachers preaching and making a big deal out of how many they water baptized and came up front in the church and saying these things are important but they are not. We see those who teach prosperity and healing as signs of the spirit or obedience but they are not! We see those who say you must speak in other tongues or you are not saved, but that is not true either.
What is important is the internal things like righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit! These things are the important things. These things are what makes a person know they are accepted and approved by God and men.
STOP looking at your external performance and start looking at your internal Spirit. STOP looking for signs to edify you and start walking by faith.
If you can see and touch it then it takes no faith. Faith is believing in what you can not see, touch or control. So put faith in Christ works and what He has done and accomplished. Put your faith in Christ and you will be worshiping God. God has reconciled the believer and made Him a New creature in Christ that is saved, secure and sanctified. A New creature that is loved, accepted and forgiven in Christ. A New thing that has been transformed from the inside out!
Posted By: Howard King12/4/2021 10:56:35 AM