For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword,
it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the
thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Heb.4:12)
The Words of God are Life. It feeds us, teaches us, corrects us, and helps us to discern
where He is leading us...as we study and apply His Words in our daily lives.
Read 1Timothy 3:16-17
When we become a Christian we are thirsty and hungry for the words of God to fill us
with His presence and His blessings.
When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight,
for I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty. (Jer.15:16)
Choosing God is Life. When Jesus talks to a Samaritan women he says in John 4:14
Whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed the water I give him
will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.
As we continue to seek God, He will reveal himself to us.
There is no problem that God cannot solve in our life!
He delights to see his children come to Him and to trust Him.
"There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides in the heavens to help you
and on the clouds in His majesty. The eternal God is your refuge and underneath
are the everlasting arms." (Deut.33:26-27, Heb.4:16)
We can trust in His Words and His Promises!
The words of the Lord are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified
seven times. (Psalms12:6)
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalms 37:4)
Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass,
like abundant rain on tender plants. (Deut.32:2)
For it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on
your lips. So that your trust may be in the Lord, I teach you today, even you.
(Proverbs 22:18-19)
Creating an atmosphere where we can all learn together as we continue growing in God's knowledge so that we can live a victorious life as we abide in Him...finding new treasure each day. Follow me on my Instagram account helen_schasteen eternity_no_othersavior_Jesus
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Sunday, May 27, 2012
What Is Life?
Is the whole point of life just to pursue a career? Is it only about focusing on your
self, or even your family?
Did you know that God created us for a much bigger purpose than ourselves,
or even our families. He created us to know Him and to serve Him?
Scriptures says,
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power
and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth." (Exodus 9:16, Rom.9:17)
Those who are redeemed by God are called by Him to proclaim the good news
of salvation to mankind by the way that they live their lives.
(2Timothy 2:20)
In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay;
some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble.
What is it that God requires of you as a servant of God?
If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes,
made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. (v.21)
Can more money, a bigger house, a nicer car, or being part of the hip social
scene give you true satisfaction in life? Though these sound like great things,
they will not make you truly happy and content.
Look at the example of Solomon's life. All of his wealth, fame, honor, wisdom
and all that he accomplished did not make his life happy and content.
Though he enjoyed it for a season, he became sorrowfully distressed.
(Eccl.2:10-11)
I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure.
My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor.
Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve,
everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under
the sun.
I hated all the things I had toiled for under the sun, because I must leave them
to the one who comes after me. And who knows whether he will be a wise man
or a fool? Yet he will have control over all the work into which I have poured
my effort and skill under the sun. This too is meaningless.
So my heart began to despair over all my toilsome labor under the sun.
For a man may do his work with wisdom, knowledge and skill, and then he must leave
all he owns to someone who has not worked for it.
This too is meaningless and a great misfortune. (v17-21)
What more can the king's successor do than what has already been done? (v.12)
The Scripture says, God granted us happiness and enjoyment in life as a gift
and a duty of man..
What does a man get for all the toil and anxious striving with which he labors under
the sun? All his days his work is pain and grief; even at night his mind does not rest.
This too is meaningless.
A man can do nothing than better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction
in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without Him,
who can eat or find enjoyment? Let's pause...what is that says again?...
(v.21-25,3:9-13,22,) read also 5:18,8:15
But what is this saying in this last verse? "FOR WITHOUT HIM WHO CAN EAT
OR FIND ENJOYMENT."
So we see that God has granted us enjoyment in life but we must also heed
his warnings:
Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart,
for God has already approved what you do. Always be clothed in white, and always
anoint your head with oil.
Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that
God has given you under the sun--all your meaningless days.
For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead,
where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
(9:7-10,7:14)
Be happy young men, while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days
of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that
for all these God will bring you to judgment. (Eccl.11:9-10)
We must never forget that God is the source of all things.
(Eccl.12:1,6-7, 1Thes.5:16, Deut.6:12,8:10-14)
Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come
and the years approach.
Remember Him--before the silver cord is severed, or the golden is broken;
before the pitcher is shattered at the spring, or the wheel broken at the well, and the
dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.
Our whole purpose of being on this planet is to honor, love, and serve God.
This is our duty and our meaning in life.
*Pray and ask God to reveal His will for your life. The greatest achievement
of all is to serve God!
self, or even your family?
Did you know that God created us for a much bigger purpose than ourselves,
or even our families. He created us to know Him and to serve Him?
Scriptures says,
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power
and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth." (Exodus 9:16, Rom.9:17)
Those who are redeemed by God are called by Him to proclaim the good news
of salvation to mankind by the way that they live their lives.
(2Timothy 2:20)
In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay;
some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble.
What is it that God requires of you as a servant of God?
If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes,
made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. (v.21)
Can more money, a bigger house, a nicer car, or being part of the hip social
scene give you true satisfaction in life? Though these sound like great things,
they will not make you truly happy and content.
Look at the example of Solomon's life. All of his wealth, fame, honor, wisdom
and all that he accomplished did not make his life happy and content.
Though he enjoyed it for a season, he became sorrowfully distressed.
(Eccl.2:10-11)
I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure.
My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor.
Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve,
everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under
the sun.
I hated all the things I had toiled for under the sun, because I must leave them
to the one who comes after me. And who knows whether he will be a wise man
or a fool? Yet he will have control over all the work into which I have poured
my effort and skill under the sun. This too is meaningless.
So my heart began to despair over all my toilsome labor under the sun.
For a man may do his work with wisdom, knowledge and skill, and then he must leave
all he owns to someone who has not worked for it.
This too is meaningless and a great misfortune. (v17-21)
What more can the king's successor do than what has already been done? (v.12)
The Scripture says, God granted us happiness and enjoyment in life as a gift
and a duty of man..
What does a man get for all the toil and anxious striving with which he labors under
the sun? All his days his work is pain and grief; even at night his mind does not rest.
This too is meaningless.
A man can do nothing than better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction
in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without Him,
who can eat or find enjoyment? Let's pause...what is that says again?...
(v.21-25,3:9-13,22,) read also 5:18,8:15
But what is this saying in this last verse? "FOR WITHOUT HIM WHO CAN EAT
OR FIND ENJOYMENT."
So we see that God has granted us enjoyment in life but we must also heed
his warnings:
Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart,
for God has already approved what you do. Always be clothed in white, and always
anoint your head with oil.
Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that
God has given you under the sun--all your meaningless days.
For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead,
where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
(9:7-10,7:14)
Be happy young men, while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days
of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that
for all these God will bring you to judgment. (Eccl.11:9-10)
We must never forget that God is the source of all things.
(Eccl.12:1,6-7, 1Thes.5:16, Deut.6:12,8:10-14)
Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come
and the years approach.
Remember Him--before the silver cord is severed, or the golden is broken;
before the pitcher is shattered at the spring, or the wheel broken at the well, and the
dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.
Our whole purpose of being on this planet is to honor, love, and serve God.
This is our duty and our meaning in life.
*Pray and ask God to reveal His will for your life. The greatest achievement
of all is to serve God!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
The Hearts of the Father
Do you sometimes wonder why God is taking so long to return?
Perhaps the reason is that He is still seeking the lost, patiently waiting for people
to come to repentance.
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness.
He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
(2Pet.3:9)
But each of us is responsible for our own soul.
God has given us two options: to accept the saving power of His grace and His
forgiveness, or to go our own way.
(read Deut.24:16)
God declared, "Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your
downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart
and a new spirit. (Ezekiel 18:30-31)
For I take no pleasure on the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord.
Repent and live. (v.32)
Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign Lord.
Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live? (v.23)
God is merciful, faithful, and long suffering
This is what the heart of the Father is:
Who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1Tim.2:4)
Your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost. (Mat.18:14)
If only all men would come to him for his salvation!
The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer
now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here.
(Rom.13:11-12)
Give glory to the Lord your God before He brings the darkness, before your feet stumble
on the darkening hills. (Jer.13:16)
* Continue to pray for your love ones who needs God's salvation.
You tube video: Great Is Thy Faithfulness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGDuNLZZ2ow
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
One Sacrificed To Save The World
The condition of our soul before we received Christ into our hearts.
Like the blind we grope along the wall, feeling our way like men without eyes.
At midday we stumble as if it were twilight; among the strong we are like the dead.
We all growl like bears; we mourn mournfully like doves.
We look for justice, but find none; for deliverance, but it is far away.
(Isaiah 59:10-11)
We need not lose hope! God has rescued us from darkness by bringing us
into the light of His Son Jesus Christ.
What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders
away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one
that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that
one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off.
In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones
should be lost. (Mathew 18:12-14)
God is looking out for you. He paid the price for you at Calvary. Jesus stepped down from
heaven to give you eternal life. He was thinking about you when he suffered and died
at the hands of His persecutors.
Jesus fulfilled His mission on earth to give you life and a future.
Jesus said, "It is finished." (John 19:30)
All you have to do is look at the Cross!!!
Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,
that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life.
(John 3:14-15, Numbers 21:8-9)
BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD
Those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord.
(Psalms 118:26,89:15)
(I do not own this picture)
Charles Spurgeon first found Christ during the preaching of this Scripture,
"Look to me and be saved." (Isaiah 45:22)
Like the blind we grope along the wall, feeling our way like men without eyes.
At midday we stumble as if it were twilight; among the strong we are like the dead.
We all growl like bears; we mourn mournfully like doves.
We look for justice, but find none; for deliverance, but it is far away.
(Isaiah 59:10-11)
We need not lose hope! God has rescued us from darkness by bringing us
into the light of His Son Jesus Christ.
What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders
away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one
that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that
one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off.
In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones
should be lost. (Mathew 18:12-14)
God is looking out for you. He paid the price for you at Calvary. Jesus stepped down from
heaven to give you eternal life. He was thinking about you when he suffered and died
at the hands of His persecutors.
Jesus fulfilled His mission on earth to give you life and a future.
Jesus said, "It is finished." (John 19:30)
All you have to do is look at the Cross!!!
Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,
that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life.
(John 3:14-15, Numbers 21:8-9)
BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD
Those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord.
(Psalms 118:26,89:15)
(I do not own this picture)
Charles Spurgeon first found Christ during the preaching of this Scripture,
"Look to me and be saved." (Isaiah 45:22)
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Inexpressible Joy!
Remember the first time we found and received our Lord Jesus Christ into
our hearts? We felt great peace and joy from the comfort He brings.
The Scripture says in (1Peter 1:8-9)
Though you have not seen Him, you love Him: and even though you do not see Him,
you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,
for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
And what is this salvation He brings?
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven
given to men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
And that at the name of Jesus Christ every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that
Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
(Phil.2:10-11, Rom.10:8-13)
When we were in our darkest hour, living a life of sin, we searched for the truth.
When we finally found it through Jesus Christ...we were like the man who found great
treasure. Jesus told this parable in Mathew 13:44-46.
"The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl"
"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man
found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and
bought that field."
"Again the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had
and bought it."
Just like the man in this parable, we were filled with excitement as we realized that
He is of much more value than anything else that the world could ever offer.
We clung to Him and would not let Him out of our sight, because in Him we have
hope and a future!
* Heavenly Father, I pray for the people who are still seeking the truth of the knowledge
of your salvation...that they will also become like this man who found treasure in a
hidden field. Direct their hearts O God into the Words of your Eternal Life.
And to those who have already received you, may they continue to walk in your
comforting love and security as they trust in you. Amen!
our hearts? We felt great peace and joy from the comfort He brings.
The Scripture says in (1Peter 1:8-9)
Though you have not seen Him, you love Him: and even though you do not see Him,
you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,
for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
And what is this salvation He brings?
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven
given to men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
And that at the name of Jesus Christ every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that
Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
(Phil.2:10-11, Rom.10:8-13)
When we were in our darkest hour, living a life of sin, we searched for the truth.
When we finally found it through Jesus Christ...we were like the man who found great
treasure. Jesus told this parable in Mathew 13:44-46.
"The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl"
"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man
found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and
bought that field."
"Again the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had
and bought it."
Just like the man in this parable, we were filled with excitement as we realized that
He is of much more value than anything else that the world could ever offer.
We clung to Him and would not let Him out of our sight, because in Him we have
hope and a future!
* Heavenly Father, I pray for the people who are still seeking the truth of the knowledge
of your salvation...that they will also become like this man who found treasure in a
hidden field. Direct their hearts O God into the Words of your Eternal Life.
And to those who have already received you, may they continue to walk in your
comforting love and security as they trust in you. Amen!
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Knowing God of Your Life
Often times when we experience the power of God in our lives, we acknowledge Him
with names that describe how He revealed himself in our circumstances.
We praise him in the midst of our trials, when he answers our prayers, or when we
are marveling at his wonderful creation!
Let's look at the example of David (1Samuel 17:26,37,45)
"Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?"
"The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will
deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. You come against me with sword and
spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty,
the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. (v.37,45)
Notice that David described God as "The Living God."
David built his relationship with God as a young boy tending sheep. God delivered him
from the ferocious beasts. God's deliverance helped David to trust him more.
What about you? How has He given you a meaningful moment and what name did you
use to describe his work in your life?
For me, one of my meaningful descriptions of God is that He is the "All knowing God"
(1John3:20)
with names that describe how He revealed himself in our circumstances.
We praise him in the midst of our trials, when he answers our prayers, or when we
are marveling at his wonderful creation!
Let's look at the example of David (1Samuel 17:26,37,45)
"Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?"
"The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will
deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. You come against me with sword and
spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty,
the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. (v.37,45)
Notice that David described God as "The Living God."
David built his relationship with God as a young boy tending sheep. God delivered him
from the ferocious beasts. God's deliverance helped David to trust him more.
What about you? How has He given you a meaningful moment and what name did you
use to describe his work in your life?
For me, one of my meaningful descriptions of God is that He is the "All knowing God"
(1John3:20)
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Life To The Fullest
This is what our life needs to be focused on...setting our eyes on Him.
Example of Paul (Phil.3:8-10)
But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing
greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost
all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found
in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law,
but that which is through FAITH.
I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship
of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so somehow,
to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
Reach For the Goal
I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it.
But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward
what is ahead.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me
heavenward in Christ Jesus. (v.12-14)
HIGHEST PLACE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhdsxDupu8Y
Example of Paul (Phil.3:8-10)
But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing
greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost
all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found
in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law,
but that which is through FAITH.
I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship
of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so somehow,
to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
Reach For the Goal
I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it.
But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward
what is ahead.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me
heavenward in Christ Jesus. (v.12-14)
HIGHEST PLACE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhdsxDupu8Y
Friday, May 4, 2012
"We must go through many hardships for the Gospel"
We must always remember that when we serve God it will not be an easy
journey. Some of us will face trials, persecutions, and even rejection from our
own family because of the Gospel.
Jesus warned us in (Luke 21:12-13)
read also Mat.24:9, Mark 13:9-13, 1Pet.4:12-16, Acts 14:22
* Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated
by all nations because of me.
* They will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues
and prisons, and you be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of
my Name. This will result in your being witnesses to them.
You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives and friends, and they will
put some of you to death. All men will hate you because of Me. (Luk.21:16)
* In fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service
to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.
(John 16:2-3, 15:18-25)
* "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you
will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (v.33)
We need to persevere and stand firm in our faith for all the trials that will come
upon us to those who follow Christ. But God has promised us:
* He who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Mathew 24:13, Mark 13:13)
* Not a hair of your head will perish. By standing firm you will gain life. (Luke 21:18-19)
* He will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.
(James 1:12, 1Pet.4:4, Rev.2:10)
* Great is your reward in heaven. (Mathew 5:10-12, Luke 6:22-23,1Pet.1:4-7,1Tim.1:12)
* You will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.
(2Thes.1:5)
* Every good and perfect gift is from above. (James 1:16)
* Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though
something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in
the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit
of glory and of God rests on you.
If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal,
or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed,
but praise God that you bear that name. (1Pet.4:12-16, Acts 5:41-42)
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to
their faithful Creator and continue to do good. (v.19)
* For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because
he is conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing
wrong and you endure it?
But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.
To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example,
that you should follow in His steps. (1Pet.2:19-21,15,4:1)
"He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth."
When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate;
when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted
Himself to Him who judges justly. (v.22-23)
* Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this
you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. (3:9)
* But even if you suffer should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.
"Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened."
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an
answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
But do this with gentleness and with respect, keeping a clear conscience,
so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may
be ashamed of their slander. (1Pet.3:14-16)
* It is better, if it is God's will to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
(v.17)
* You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God,
you will receive what He has promised. (Heb.10:36)
* The man who does the will of God lives forever. (1John 2:17, John 8:51)
* Here a trustworthy saying:
If we died with Him, we will also live with Him;
If we endure, we will also reign with Him. (2Tim.2:11-12)
A Call To Persevere:
* Remain true to the faith. "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom
of God." (Acts 14:22)
* Do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner.
But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.
(2Tim.1:8, Phil.1:14)
* Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2Tim.2:1)
* Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. (v.3)
* Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. (Phil.127)
* That you will stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel
without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.
This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved--
and that by God.
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on Him,
but also to suffer for Him. (v.28-29,1Tim.1:18)
* Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion
looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know
that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
(1Pet.5:8-9)
* Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord,
because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1Cor.15:58)
* So dot throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. (Heb.10:35)
* Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
(v.23)
* And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you
have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and
steadfast. This is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.
(1Pet.5:10,12, 2Tim.2:9, 2Thes.1:6-10)
* Rejoice in the Lord! It is a safeguard for you. (Phil.3:1)
You tube: I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lmm6EQWHS0o&feature=related
The Good News
"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!" (Isaiah 52:7, Rom.10:15))
In (Romans 10:14-15)
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in?
And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?
And how can they preach unless they are sent?
And in Acts 8:30-31
"Do you understand what you are reading?" Philip asked.
"How can I," he said, "unless someone explains it to me?"
You are also sent by God to proclaim the good news of salvation through His Son Jesus Christ.
* THAT EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM RECEIVES FORGIVENESS OF SINS
THROUGH HIS NAME. (Acts 10:43, 13:38)
* THAT THEY MUST TURN TO GOD IN REPENTANCE AND HAVE FAITH IN
OUR LORD JESUS. (Acts 20:21)
When you received Christ and were forgiven of your sins you became an instrument
for God to use. You have been given an assignment to share the gospel of salvation with
those whom God has placed into your path. You are called to be a witness to your own
family, neighbors, friends, community, and even to your own enemies.
This Scripture also speaks to us. (Acts 13:47, Isa.49:6)
" 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation
to the ends of the earth.' "
who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!" (Isaiah 52:7, Rom.10:15))
In (Romans 10:14-15)
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in?
And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?
And how can they preach unless they are sent?
And in Acts 8:30-31
"Do you understand what you are reading?" Philip asked.
"How can I," he said, "unless someone explains it to me?"
You are also sent by God to proclaim the good news of salvation through His Son Jesus Christ.
* THAT EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM RECEIVES FORGIVENESS OF SINS
THROUGH HIS NAME. (Acts 10:43, 13:38)
* THAT THEY MUST TURN TO GOD IN REPENTANCE AND HAVE FAITH IN
OUR LORD JESUS. (Acts 20:21)
When you received Christ and were forgiven of your sins you became an instrument
for God to use. You have been given an assignment to share the gospel of salvation with
those whom God has placed into your path. You are called to be a witness to your own
family, neighbors, friends, community, and even to your own enemies.
This Scripture also speaks to us. (Acts 13:47, Isa.49:6)
" 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation
to the ends of the earth.' "
Thursday, May 3, 2012
You Have Been Predestined By God
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.
(Jeremiah 1:5, 1Pet.1:2)
Those who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, are called by God to
accomplish His purposes. YOU are called by God to do a very special assignment!
It is not just pastors and church leaders who are called to serve, but we all have a
part in building His church.
It is important for us to devote ourselves to a local church where we can serve
one another in prayer, encourage one another, engage in bible study, and excel
in the gifts that God has given us for the purpose of building up the church.
(1Pet.2:9, Exod.19:5,60)
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people
belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you
out of darkness into his wonderful light.
Keep seeking, Pray and wait for God.
* Always devote yourself in the public reading of the Scripture (1Tim.4:13)
* And to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (Col.4:2)
* find out what God's will is for your life. (Eph.5:17)
* And find out what pleases the Lord. (Eph.5:8)
You also like LIVING STONES, are being built into a spiritual house to be a
holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
(1Pet.2:5)
Different Gifts of The Holy Spirit:
It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists,
and some to be pastors and teachers.
To prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up,
until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become
mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here
and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their
deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into
him who is the Head, that is Christ. (Eph.4:11-15, 1Cor.12:27-28,7-11,4-6, Rom.12:6-8)
From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament,
grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
(Eph.4:16, Col.2:19,1Pet.4:10)
Another worship song title, "Rejoice For The Steps"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9Lh2HVlxMQ
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Move Beyond The Pain
Move beyond the pain and learn from it!
Surely most of us have done things in the past that we regret. We received
the correction of God, we asked him for forgiveness.
Even if we sin, we are still the children of God. If you were saved, you're saved.
Notice how Jesus addresses the disciples in John 21:5 (NKJV) "Children, have you
any food?"
* Peter failed when He denied the Lord Jesus three times.
see John 13:37-38, 18:15-18, 25-27
* David committed a sin with Bathsheba (read 2 Sam.11:1-27)
Nathan rebukes David (2 Sam.12:1-10)
Cheer up, children of God, and be encouraged. A lesson must to be learned from
these two fallen men of God.
When Peter failed, Jesus extended His grace and reaffirmed Peter's mission to him
by saying, to "feed my sheep." (read John 21:15-17)
Humble yourself and repent. Receive His grace and forgiveness by faith.
When God corrects us it is a blessing indeed, that results in us growing up
in our relationship with Him. We will be stronger the next time we face temptation.
Once we are transformed into an obedient servant, we become excited to learn new things
as we apply His Words in our daily lives.
(2Pet.2:2)
Like new born babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up
in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
If you have not changed your ways, then you are not allowing God to direct your life.
The result of being rededicated to God, is a transformed life. You must go forward.
(2Cor.7:10-11)
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret,
but worldly sorrow brings death.
See what this godly sorrow has produced in you; what earnestness, what
eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing,
what concern, what readiness to see justice done.
God will use your life experiences to reach people for Him, as you minister to others.
God knows your bad circumstances and He will make something good come out
of it if you turn to Him. (Gen.50:20)
I quote this from devotional booklet by Bob Grass; "The Word For You Today"
If our faith was never tested we wouldn't be motivated to pursue God and draw
closer to Him." It is through our darkest hour, and in our trouble when we finally
exclaimed, "It is the Lord." (John 21:7)
Here's a you tube video title, "The Refiners Fire"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Y8zP34AhuU
Surely most of us have done things in the past that we regret. We received
the correction of God, we asked him for forgiveness.
Even if we sin, we are still the children of God. If you were saved, you're saved.
Notice how Jesus addresses the disciples in John 21:5 (NKJV) "Children, have you
any food?"
* Peter failed when He denied the Lord Jesus three times.
see John 13:37-38, 18:15-18, 25-27
* David committed a sin with Bathsheba (read 2 Sam.11:1-27)
Nathan rebukes David (2 Sam.12:1-10)
Cheer up, children of God, and be encouraged. A lesson must to be learned from
these two fallen men of God.
When Peter failed, Jesus extended His grace and reaffirmed Peter's mission to him
by saying, to "feed my sheep." (read John 21:15-17)
Humble yourself and repent. Receive His grace and forgiveness by faith.
When God corrects us it is a blessing indeed, that results in us growing up
in our relationship with Him. We will be stronger the next time we face temptation.
Once we are transformed into an obedient servant, we become excited to learn new things
as we apply His Words in our daily lives.
(2Pet.2:2)
Like new born babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up
in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
If you have not changed your ways, then you are not allowing God to direct your life.
The result of being rededicated to God, is a transformed life. You must go forward.
(2Cor.7:10-11)
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret,
but worldly sorrow brings death.
See what this godly sorrow has produced in you; what earnestness, what
eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing,
what concern, what readiness to see justice done.
God will use your life experiences to reach people for Him, as you minister to others.
God knows your bad circumstances and He will make something good come out
of it if you turn to Him. (Gen.50:20)
I quote this from devotional booklet by Bob Grass; "The Word For You Today"
If our faith was never tested we wouldn't be motivated to pursue God and draw
closer to Him." It is through our darkest hour, and in our trouble when we finally
exclaimed, "It is the Lord." (John 21:7)
Here's a you tube video title, "The Refiners Fire"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Y8zP34AhuU
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