Matthew 5:13-16 (KJV) Says, "Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven."
In the above passage of scripture taken from the book of Matthew, Jesus tells us we are the salt of the earth, and the light of the world. Here He is talking about those who have accepted God's precious gift of salvation. Salt acts to add flavor, it is a preservative, it melts ice, and it heals wounds, therefore it is a perfect description of what the believer is to be to the world. When we add salt to a pot of soup, for instance, while it is cooking, it spreads throughout the pot and seasons the soup. This is how we as believers are to be as we go about our daily lives as Christians. We are to go out into the world as disciples for Christ, spreading his word by mouth, and by example. As salt flavors food, we are to influence people as disciples.
The above scripture also tells us that if salt loses it savor, it is good for nothing. There are a couple of ways we can lose our savor as disciples, and one is to go out into the world, and behave no differently than non-believers. Another way we lose our savor is to live a Godly life, but keep it to ourselves. In other words if we go out into the world never mentioning God or His Word, then we are flavoring nothing. On the other hand, just as salt makes us thirsty, when we live our lives in a Godly manner, people recognize the Holy Spirit in us and become thirsty for God and His Word.
As I mentioned above salt also acts as a preservative, and if we are able, by our words and actions, to lead someone to Christ and they are saved then God will preserve them eternally. Going out into the world as disciples for Christ we are bound to meet people who are cold and distant toward Him. If they are willing to listen we must witness in spite of this knowing salt can melt ice. Remember, because the Holy Spirit is in us as believers, we are the salt of the earth. We are bound to meet people who are hurting physically, mentally, and emotionally in our everyday lives, and when we do we must remember that as salt heals, we too must witness, share God's word, and encourage them knowing God is the Master Physician.
Jesus also tells us in the above passage of scripture that we are the light of the world. When we are born again and the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us, the Holy Spirit gives us a light to shine brightly before all men. We allow our light to shine by behaving in a manner that allows others to recognize the difference between us, and non-believers. Just as with the salt, however, there are ways in which we can render our light useless. If we go about our lives living in a manner that does not indicate there is any difference in us and a non-believer, then rest assured we have allowed our light to grow dim. If we go about mentioning God only on rare occasions, and failing to be the disciples He has called us to be then we are hiding His light within us. Jesus tells us that we are to let our light shine before people so that they can see our good works, and glorify God in Heaven.
What a wonderful blessing God gives us in His precious gift of salvation. Having the Holy Spirit dwelling within us is a gift to great for words to describe, and going out into the world as the salt and the light of Christ is an amazing privilege. If you have lost your savor and allowed your light to grow dim, I urge you to remember all that Christ has done for you, and all that He has freely given you. I encourage you to regain your flavor, turn up your light, go out into the world, and be the disciple He called you to be.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Listen the First Time
The book of Jonah (KJV) consists of four chapters. It tells of Jonah's commission from God which was to go into Nineveh and warn the people to turn from their sins, and what the results would be if they failed to do so. These chapters tell us of Jonah's initial disobedience, the consequences he faced for being disobedient, his eventual repentance, and his subsequent obedience, as he finally opts to follow God's instructions.
When the word of the Lord came to Jonah and he was instructed to go to Nineveh, the Bible tells us in Jonah 1:3 (KJV) that instead of going to Nineveh he flees from the presence of the Lord, and heads to Joppa. From Joppa he boards a ship to Tarshish. After he boards the ship we are told in Jonah 1:4 (KJV) that "the Lord sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken." The other men in the ship then began crying out to their gods and throwing things overboard in an attempt to lighten the ships load. Jonah had gone down into the sides of the ship, and had fallen asleep. The ship master went down and woke him up. He told Jonah to call upon his God for help so that they would not perish. Jonah confesses to the men that he is running from God, and that he is the reason this great wind and mighty tempest in the sea is upon them. He tells the men to cast him overboard in order to calm the sea, but the men not wanting to throw him overboard attempt to row to shore. Their efforts to reach land were fruitless, and having no other choice they threw Jonah over the side of the ship. The moment they threw him overboard the sea ceased raging. After the sea had calmed Jonah 1:16 (KJV) says "Then the men feared the Lord exceedingly, and offered a sacrifice unto the Lord, and made vows." So we see that after witnessing what they witnessed the other men on the ship accepted Christ. We are then told in Jonah 1:17 (KJV) that "the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights." Jonah prayed, and cried out to God from the belly of the fish, and then in Jonah 2:10 (KJV) it says that "the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land."
When Jonah was vomited out of the mouth of the great fish, the Lord came unto him a second time instructing him to go to Nineveh and preach to them. This time Jonah obeyed God, went to Nineveh, and the result was as we are told in Jonah 3:5 (KJV) that "the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them." So we see they ceased their evil ways, and believing God turned back to him.
If Jonah had heeded God's call the first time he could have avoided the great wind and tempest on the sea, and being thrown overboard. He could have spared the other men on the ship the horror and fear they faced, he could have avoided being swallowed by a great fish, spending three days and nights in its belly, and being vomited out onto land.
How many times as a parent have you said to your children "I wish you had listened to me the first time," "If you had listened to me we wouldn't be here right now," and "If you had listened to me the first time you wouldn't be in this mess?" As children, how many times did we think to ourselves "I wish I had listened to my parents?" We are God's children and He has instructions for each of us. It is not difficult to recognize a nudge from the Holy Spirit, and understand that it is God instructing us to do something or to avoid something. We will live a much happier life, if we heed the warnings from the Holy Spirit within us, and behave in a way that is pleasing to God. With that said, why is it that often times we behave like Jonah, and disobey God the first time he instructs us to do, or not do something? Why do we insist on following our own path of instruction instead of God's, as if we are somehow brighter than He is? Why do we avoid obeying God, and instead opt for the train wreck that comes along with disobedience to Him? We can avoid so much chaos and heartache if we will simply obey God, follow the plan He has for our lives, and allow him to lead, guide, and direct our paths.
The next time you feel a nudge from the Holy Spirit to do something, I urge you to do it the first time. The next time you are given the opportunity to do the right thing, but are hesitant to do it because it may put you out, I urge you not to hesitate, but to do it. If you know God is instructing you to do something and he has opened a door for you to walk through, then walk through it. If you know a behavior or an act of some sort will be displeasing to God, then listen to the Holy Spirit within you, and don't do it. I encourage you not to behave as Jonah did, but rather to obey God the first time you hear from Him, and avoid the train wreck that comes along with disobedience. Remember you are a child of God, He loves you so much that He sent his only Son to die on the cross for your sins, He wants only the best for you, and He rewards obedience.
If you have a pray request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
.
When the word of the Lord came to Jonah and he was instructed to go to Nineveh, the Bible tells us in Jonah 1:3 (KJV) that instead of going to Nineveh he flees from the presence of the Lord, and heads to Joppa. From Joppa he boards a ship to Tarshish. After he boards the ship we are told in Jonah 1:4 (KJV) that "the Lord sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken." The other men in the ship then began crying out to their gods and throwing things overboard in an attempt to lighten the ships load. Jonah had gone down into the sides of the ship, and had fallen asleep. The ship master went down and woke him up. He told Jonah to call upon his God for help so that they would not perish. Jonah confesses to the men that he is running from God, and that he is the reason this great wind and mighty tempest in the sea is upon them. He tells the men to cast him overboard in order to calm the sea, but the men not wanting to throw him overboard attempt to row to shore. Their efforts to reach land were fruitless, and having no other choice they threw Jonah over the side of the ship. The moment they threw him overboard the sea ceased raging. After the sea had calmed Jonah 1:16 (KJV) says "Then the men feared the Lord exceedingly, and offered a sacrifice unto the Lord, and made vows." So we see that after witnessing what they witnessed the other men on the ship accepted Christ. We are then told in Jonah 1:17 (KJV) that "the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights." Jonah prayed, and cried out to God from the belly of the fish, and then in Jonah 2:10 (KJV) it says that "the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land."
When Jonah was vomited out of the mouth of the great fish, the Lord came unto him a second time instructing him to go to Nineveh and preach to them. This time Jonah obeyed God, went to Nineveh, and the result was as we are told in Jonah 3:5 (KJV) that "the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them." So we see they ceased their evil ways, and believing God turned back to him.
If Jonah had heeded God's call the first time he could have avoided the great wind and tempest on the sea, and being thrown overboard. He could have spared the other men on the ship the horror and fear they faced, he could have avoided being swallowed by a great fish, spending three days and nights in its belly, and being vomited out onto land.
How many times as a parent have you said to your children "I wish you had listened to me the first time," "If you had listened to me we wouldn't be here right now," and "If you had listened to me the first time you wouldn't be in this mess?" As children, how many times did we think to ourselves "I wish I had listened to my parents?" We are God's children and He has instructions for each of us. It is not difficult to recognize a nudge from the Holy Spirit, and understand that it is God instructing us to do something or to avoid something. We will live a much happier life, if we heed the warnings from the Holy Spirit within us, and behave in a way that is pleasing to God. With that said, why is it that often times we behave like Jonah, and disobey God the first time he instructs us to do, or not do something? Why do we insist on following our own path of instruction instead of God's, as if we are somehow brighter than He is? Why do we avoid obeying God, and instead opt for the train wreck that comes along with disobedience to Him? We can avoid so much chaos and heartache if we will simply obey God, follow the plan He has for our lives, and allow him to lead, guide, and direct our paths.
The next time you feel a nudge from the Holy Spirit to do something, I urge you to do it the first time. The next time you are given the opportunity to do the right thing, but are hesitant to do it because it may put you out, I urge you not to hesitate, but to do it. If you know God is instructing you to do something and he has opened a door for you to walk through, then walk through it. If you know a behavior or an act of some sort will be displeasing to God, then listen to the Holy Spirit within you, and don't do it. I encourage you not to behave as Jonah did, but rather to obey God the first time you hear from Him, and avoid the train wreck that comes along with disobedience. Remember you are a child of God, He loves you so much that He sent his only Son to die on the cross for your sins, He wants only the best for you, and He rewards obedience.
If you have a pray request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Book Recommendation
Emotions Confront the Lies, Conquer with Truth the latest book by Dr. Charles Stanley is a must read. This wonderful book offers so much in the way of guidance and teaching on how to deal with rejection, bitterness, guilt, and discouragement. It offers guidance, and teaching based on scripture, and I found it to be highly enlightening. It will assist you in overcoming your negative emotions, and moving on to live the life of joy, peace, and contentment God desires for each of us. Dr. Stanley shares personal experiences in this book, and poses questions throughout its pages making it an excellent Bible study. This book is one you do not want to miss, and be certain to keep it in mind as you shop for the holidays. It will make a wonderful Christmas gift for both men and women!!
Abundant Blessings
Luke 12:16-21 (KJV) Says, " And He spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God."
In the above parable Jesus speaks of a rich man who planted seed, and reaped a great harvest year after year. He had been so blessed that he lacked enough room to store the fruit he had harvested. He pondered over what to do to resolve this problem, and opted to pull down the barns he had, and build larger ones that would hold his entire harvest. Note that he had been storing goods for many years, and that he was doing so in order that he could eventually take it easy, eat, drink, and be merry. Then God says to him that he is going to die that very night, and he asked him who will have all the things that he has laid up as treasure for himself after he is gone? God tells him he is a fool because he has laid up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
The rich man in this parable wasn't thinking about laying up treasures in heaven. He was so wrapped up in himself that he ignored God, and those who were poor and needy. Notice that he speaks only of his wants, ideas, and plans never considering God's. The parable says he thought within himself, what shall I do, I have no room, this will I do, I will pull down my barns, build a large one, and I will store up all my fruits. Over and over again he uses the words I and my demonstrating just how self-centered he was. Note also that the more some people gain through blessings, the more they worry about how to hold on to it, and how to get more of it.
The rich man didn't consider the fact that it was God who had rained abundant blessings down on him. In fact, he didn't mention God anywhere in all his planning, and God should be first in our lives. When this rich man was thinking about what to do in regards to the problem of lack of store space for his fruit, he should have consulted God asking what he should do with the abundance of fruit he had been blessed with. Instead, however, he reasoned about it within himself. He knew his plan was to hold on to every bit of his harvest, stop working, and live the remainder of his life eating, drinking, and being merry. He never considered that he could die that very night, and leave all of his material possessions behind, and yet that is exactly what happened
The more some people gain the more they desire, and the more they worry about holding on to it. Whatever they're holding onto becomes an obsession. There comes a point when greed takes over, and they're never satisfied that they have enough. What is enough?
Failing to recognize that it was God who had blessed him so abundantly, the rich man also failed to give Him the praise and glory He deserved for doing so. He held tightly to all that God had blessed him with demonstrating exactly how greedy he was. He didn't consult God as to what he should do with the excess harvest that his barns would not hold. If he had, God probably would have suggested he give it to the poor, the hungry, and the needy. He didn't give any of it away which demonstrates not only greed, but a failure to trust God to continue to bless him.
In the end because the rich man didn't put God first in his life, because he consulted himself instead of God, because he was selfish, self-centered, and greedy, he lost everything including his life. This man spent his time focused on himself, and his worldly possessions. He ignored God and the needs of his fellow man, and placed all of his attention on worldly gain, which in the end he left behind. Jesus makes it clear in the above parable that when we live the life of a fool, we are going to lose. He gives us an example of this using the rich man, and his abundant blessings.
Is there anything in your life that you love so much you place it before God on your list of priorities? Or, Is God first in your life? Do you trust God? Do you go to him in prayer for guidance regarding the decisions you must make in your life? Do you share the blessings God rains down on you with others, or do you behave like the rich man in the parable?
I urge you to keep God first in your life, to recognize the blessings He gives you, and to give Him the glory, thanks, and praise he deserves for those blessings. Share your blessings of overflow with others, trust God, and live the life of divine peace, joy, and contentment He desires for you to live.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above parable Jesus speaks of a rich man who planted seed, and reaped a great harvest year after year. He had been so blessed that he lacked enough room to store the fruit he had harvested. He pondered over what to do to resolve this problem, and opted to pull down the barns he had, and build larger ones that would hold his entire harvest. Note that he had been storing goods for many years, and that he was doing so in order that he could eventually take it easy, eat, drink, and be merry. Then God says to him that he is going to die that very night, and he asked him who will have all the things that he has laid up as treasure for himself after he is gone? God tells him he is a fool because he has laid up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
The rich man in this parable wasn't thinking about laying up treasures in heaven. He was so wrapped up in himself that he ignored God, and those who were poor and needy. Notice that he speaks only of his wants, ideas, and plans never considering God's. The parable says he thought within himself, what shall I do, I have no room, this will I do, I will pull down my barns, build a large one, and I will store up all my fruits. Over and over again he uses the words I and my demonstrating just how self-centered he was. Note also that the more some people gain through blessings, the more they worry about how to hold on to it, and how to get more of it.
The rich man didn't consider the fact that it was God who had rained abundant blessings down on him. In fact, he didn't mention God anywhere in all his planning, and God should be first in our lives. When this rich man was thinking about what to do in regards to the problem of lack of store space for his fruit, he should have consulted God asking what he should do with the abundance of fruit he had been blessed with. Instead, however, he reasoned about it within himself. He knew his plan was to hold on to every bit of his harvest, stop working, and live the remainder of his life eating, drinking, and being merry. He never considered that he could die that very night, and leave all of his material possessions behind, and yet that is exactly what happened
The more some people gain the more they desire, and the more they worry about holding on to it. Whatever they're holding onto becomes an obsession. There comes a point when greed takes over, and they're never satisfied that they have enough. What is enough?
Failing to recognize that it was God who had blessed him so abundantly, the rich man also failed to give Him the praise and glory He deserved for doing so. He held tightly to all that God had blessed him with demonstrating exactly how greedy he was. He didn't consult God as to what he should do with the excess harvest that his barns would not hold. If he had, God probably would have suggested he give it to the poor, the hungry, and the needy. He didn't give any of it away which demonstrates not only greed, but a failure to trust God to continue to bless him.
In the end because the rich man didn't put God first in his life, because he consulted himself instead of God, because he was selfish, self-centered, and greedy, he lost everything including his life. This man spent his time focused on himself, and his worldly possessions. He ignored God and the needs of his fellow man, and placed all of his attention on worldly gain, which in the end he left behind. Jesus makes it clear in the above parable that when we live the life of a fool, we are going to lose. He gives us an example of this using the rich man, and his abundant blessings.
Is there anything in your life that you love so much you place it before God on your list of priorities? Or, Is God first in your life? Do you trust God? Do you go to him in prayer for guidance regarding the decisions you must make in your life? Do you share the blessings God rains down on you with others, or do you behave like the rich man in the parable?
I urge you to keep God first in your life, to recognize the blessings He gives you, and to give Him the glory, thanks, and praise he deserves for those blessings. Share your blessings of overflow with others, trust God, and live the life of divine peace, joy, and contentment He desires for you to live.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
A Difference
Ezra 9:1-2 (KJV) Says, "Now when these things were done, the princes came to me, saying, The people of Israel, and the priests, and the Levites, have not separated themselves from the people of the lands, doing according to their abominations, even of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Jebusites, the Ammonites, the Moabites, the Egyptians, and the Amorites. For they have taken of their daughters for themselves, and for their sons: so that the holy seed have mingled themselves with the people of those lands: yea, the hand of the princes and rulers hath been chief in this trespass." Ezra 9:10-12 (KJV) Says, "And now, O our God, what shall we say after this? for we have forsaken thy commandments, Which thou hast commanded by thy servants the prophets, saying The land unto which ye go to possess it, is an unclean land with the filthiness of the people of the lands, with their abominations, which have filled it from one end to another with their uncleanness. Now therefore give not your daughters unto their sons, neither take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek their peace or their wealth for ever: that ye may be strong, and eat the good of the land, and leave it for an inheritance to your children for ever."
In the above passages of scripture taken from the book of Ezra the Israelites are commanded by God, through the mouth of the prophets, not to allow their sons and daughters to marry the sons and daughters of the people of the lands that they are going in to possess. The reason for this is because the people of the lands are committing abominations, and the lands are filled with sin from one end to another. The Israelites did not heed the commandment of God given them by the prophets. They chose instead to mingle with, and marry the sons and daughters taken from among the people of these lands. As stated above the holy seed, including the princes and rulers, mingled themselves with the people of those lands.
God knew that if the Israelites began to marry and mingle among the people of the lands they would give in to their fleshly desires, and begin committing the abominations and sins that were so common among those people. He knew that their wealth and material possessions along with their activities would be tempting to the Israelites, and therefore He warned them in advance not to fall prey to these things. The Israelites were told not to seek the peace or the wealth of those people for ever, and that if they did not marry and mingle among them they would be strong, eat the good of the land, and leave it for an inheritance to their children forever, but knowing all this they still failed to resist the temptations that came before them.
Unfortunately, we as Christians don't seem to have learned very much from what the Israelites did, when they fell in among the people of the lands they were to possess, and began behaving as one of them. I don't think that many of us would disagree with the fact that we are living in a world where abominations and sin are abundant, but as followers of Jesus Christ, it is imperative that we guard ourselves against the temptations set before us. We are to go out into the world as witnesses for Christ, giving our testimony, and leading as many people as possible to the Lord. We are commanded to show love and kindness toward one another, and we are told that it is by this that we will be recognized as disciples of Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us these things in John 13:34-35 (KJV). As Christians we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, and the light God gave us should shine bright for the whole world to see. Far too many Christians have allowed the light within them to grow dim, and it's past time for us to turn up our lights allowing them to shine in what has become a very dark world.
If we could look back at this group of Israelites and watch them mingle among the people of the lands they were to possess, do you think we would be able to identify the believers from the non-believers? Do you go out into the world, dim your light, and join others in activities you know would be displeasing to God? Do you listen to music with filthy lyrics, watch television shows and movies that you know are nothing a Christian should be watching? Do you listen to dirty jokes, and laugh with everyone around you? Do you curse, and say things you know are not Godly? Do you go wherever your friends ask you to go simply to fit in? Have you convinced yourself that somehow these things are small infractions, and not a very big deal? If so, let me remind you that no sin is greater than another, and that it is impossible to represent Christ, when we are knowingly living in disobedience to Him.
If someone were placing believers and non-believers into two different categories according to the way they lived their lives, in which category would they place you? Does your light shine brightly in this dark world? Do you live your life in a manner that is pleasing to God? Do you attempt to be the best representative for Christ that you can be on a daily basis? Do you witness to others with words, and actions? Or do you go out into the world and behave in the same manner that those around you are behaving in whether it is Christ-like or not? I urge you to be honest with yourself, and to consider how serious these things are. What are we doing as disciples of Jesus Christ, if people cannot tell the difference between us, and a non-believer? Turn you light up, and stand strong in your beliefs. Be the disciple that you know God wants you to be. Don't go out and join others in conversation, or activity that you know is not Godly. Instead of being swayed by individuals to participate in something you know full well you shouldn't participate in, be an example for them in hope that they too will find the Lord, or have the desire to get back on track if they have derailed. Stay strong in Christ, witness in word and action, love one another, be the disciple you know you can be. Turn that light up!!
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above passages of scripture taken from the book of Ezra the Israelites are commanded by God, through the mouth of the prophets, not to allow their sons and daughters to marry the sons and daughters of the people of the lands that they are going in to possess. The reason for this is because the people of the lands are committing abominations, and the lands are filled with sin from one end to another. The Israelites did not heed the commandment of God given them by the prophets. They chose instead to mingle with, and marry the sons and daughters taken from among the people of these lands. As stated above the holy seed, including the princes and rulers, mingled themselves with the people of those lands.
God knew that if the Israelites began to marry and mingle among the people of the lands they would give in to their fleshly desires, and begin committing the abominations and sins that were so common among those people. He knew that their wealth and material possessions along with their activities would be tempting to the Israelites, and therefore He warned them in advance not to fall prey to these things. The Israelites were told not to seek the peace or the wealth of those people for ever, and that if they did not marry and mingle among them they would be strong, eat the good of the land, and leave it for an inheritance to their children forever, but knowing all this they still failed to resist the temptations that came before them.
Unfortunately, we as Christians don't seem to have learned very much from what the Israelites did, when they fell in among the people of the lands they were to possess, and began behaving as one of them. I don't think that many of us would disagree with the fact that we are living in a world where abominations and sin are abundant, but as followers of Jesus Christ, it is imperative that we guard ourselves against the temptations set before us. We are to go out into the world as witnesses for Christ, giving our testimony, and leading as many people as possible to the Lord. We are commanded to show love and kindness toward one another, and we are told that it is by this that we will be recognized as disciples of Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us these things in John 13:34-35 (KJV). As Christians we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, and the light God gave us should shine bright for the whole world to see. Far too many Christians have allowed the light within them to grow dim, and it's past time for us to turn up our lights allowing them to shine in what has become a very dark world.
If we could look back at this group of Israelites and watch them mingle among the people of the lands they were to possess, do you think we would be able to identify the believers from the non-believers? Do you go out into the world, dim your light, and join others in activities you know would be displeasing to God? Do you listen to music with filthy lyrics, watch television shows and movies that you know are nothing a Christian should be watching? Do you listen to dirty jokes, and laugh with everyone around you? Do you curse, and say things you know are not Godly? Do you go wherever your friends ask you to go simply to fit in? Have you convinced yourself that somehow these things are small infractions, and not a very big deal? If so, let me remind you that no sin is greater than another, and that it is impossible to represent Christ, when we are knowingly living in disobedience to Him.
If someone were placing believers and non-believers into two different categories according to the way they lived their lives, in which category would they place you? Does your light shine brightly in this dark world? Do you live your life in a manner that is pleasing to God? Do you attempt to be the best representative for Christ that you can be on a daily basis? Do you witness to others with words, and actions? Or do you go out into the world and behave in the same manner that those around you are behaving in whether it is Christ-like or not? I urge you to be honest with yourself, and to consider how serious these things are. What are we doing as disciples of Jesus Christ, if people cannot tell the difference between us, and a non-believer? Turn you light up, and stand strong in your beliefs. Be the disciple that you know God wants you to be. Don't go out and join others in conversation, or activity that you know is not Godly. Instead of being swayed by individuals to participate in something you know full well you shouldn't participate in, be an example for them in hope that they too will find the Lord, or have the desire to get back on track if they have derailed. Stay strong in Christ, witness in word and action, love one another, be the disciple you know you can be. Turn that light up!!
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Sacrificial Love
In John 15:9-17 (KJV) Jesus says, "As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. 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. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another."
In the above passage of scripture Jesus is speaking, He calls us his friends, and commands us to love one another as He has loved us. We are told to keep His commandments, and abide in His love. He tells us that if we obey Him we will be full of joy, and that our prayers will be answered. Jesus says there is no greater love than that of a man who will lay down his life for his friends. This type love is sacrificial, and there is no greater example of this than Jesus, He Himself being sinless, dying on the cross for our sins.
To demonstrate sacrificial love does not always mean literally dying for one another. Sacrificial love can be to sacrifice one's time, money, material possessions, or anything else that requires selflessness on our part for another individual. It means going out of one's way for a family member, friend, or stranger. As Christians who have the desire in our hearts to obey God we should be more than willing to love one another, and to act in ways that demonstrate sacrificial love. The truth is, however, when someone calls needing even the smallest of favors that would require minimal sacrifice of only our time, there are those who simply don't render the help needed. There are also those who will render the help, and sacrifice the time, but who complain about doing so, and talk about how put out they were for years to come. Friends, if you help someone, and do so begrudgingly then you may as well not have helped them because God knows your heart. When we do a favor for a friend with the wrong spirit in our heart then we are missing an opportunity to be a true blessing to them, and to receive blessings and rewards from our Heavenly Father. As Christians we should be eager to help one another regardless of whether or not we will be blessed or rewarded for it. If we aren't willing to sacrifice for others, we need to pray about that, and ask God to help us have a more loving spirit.
These days many people are so wrapped up in self that there is no way they would put themselves out to help another individual. It seems that helping others has become a rare activity, in fact it's become so rare that when you do offer to help someone, especially at no charge, they are suspicious of you. They begin wondering what it is you want from them as they are convinced you have an ulterior motive. How sad is that?
As a Christian are you obeying God in the area of sacrificial love? Do you demonstrate through actions your love for other individuals even if it means putting yourself out? Or Are you self-centered, and unwilling to sacrifice your time, money, material possessions or anything else when someone is in need? Have you needed someone in the past, and had people who love you step up and help without hesitation, and in the right spirit? If so, would you do the same thing for them? Or are you a person that if the phone rings on a Saturday morning with a friend who needs a ride because of a flat tire you cringe? Do you start with it's my day off, I'm still in my pajamas, I'm warm and comfortable in my recliner, I'm in the middle of watching this movie, and then come near collapse as you agree to help them? Do you then get dressed, get them in your vehicle, and let them know how put out you are, and what trouble they've caused you all the way to the tire shop? If so, is that how you would want them to behave toward you should the shoe be on the other foot?
If someone needs you, be willing to sacrifice a little self to help them. Remember that Jesus commanded us to love one another. Remind yourself that you too need help on occasion and think about how you want to be treated on those occasions. Remember you are a Christian which means to be Christ-like, and that God is love. If you find yourself still hesitant to sacrifice for others with the right heart, then I urge you to remember, and to thank God that Jesus Himself demonstrated the ultimate sacrificial love, when He died on the cross for our sins. If He can do something of such great magnitude and great value out of His love for us, then can't we make small sacrifices for one another, and do so with a right heart?
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above passage of scripture Jesus is speaking, He calls us his friends, and commands us to love one another as He has loved us. We are told to keep His commandments, and abide in His love. He tells us that if we obey Him we will be full of joy, and that our prayers will be answered. Jesus says there is no greater love than that of a man who will lay down his life for his friends. This type love is sacrificial, and there is no greater example of this than Jesus, He Himself being sinless, dying on the cross for our sins.
To demonstrate sacrificial love does not always mean literally dying for one another. Sacrificial love can be to sacrifice one's time, money, material possessions, or anything else that requires selflessness on our part for another individual. It means going out of one's way for a family member, friend, or stranger. As Christians who have the desire in our hearts to obey God we should be more than willing to love one another, and to act in ways that demonstrate sacrificial love. The truth is, however, when someone calls needing even the smallest of favors that would require minimal sacrifice of only our time, there are those who simply don't render the help needed. There are also those who will render the help, and sacrifice the time, but who complain about doing so, and talk about how put out they were for years to come. Friends, if you help someone, and do so begrudgingly then you may as well not have helped them because God knows your heart. When we do a favor for a friend with the wrong spirit in our heart then we are missing an opportunity to be a true blessing to them, and to receive blessings and rewards from our Heavenly Father. As Christians we should be eager to help one another regardless of whether or not we will be blessed or rewarded for it. If we aren't willing to sacrifice for others, we need to pray about that, and ask God to help us have a more loving spirit.
These days many people are so wrapped up in self that there is no way they would put themselves out to help another individual. It seems that helping others has become a rare activity, in fact it's become so rare that when you do offer to help someone, especially at no charge, they are suspicious of you. They begin wondering what it is you want from them as they are convinced you have an ulterior motive. How sad is that?
As a Christian are you obeying God in the area of sacrificial love? Do you demonstrate through actions your love for other individuals even if it means putting yourself out? Or Are you self-centered, and unwilling to sacrifice your time, money, material possessions or anything else when someone is in need? Have you needed someone in the past, and had people who love you step up and help without hesitation, and in the right spirit? If so, would you do the same thing for them? Or are you a person that if the phone rings on a Saturday morning with a friend who needs a ride because of a flat tire you cringe? Do you start with it's my day off, I'm still in my pajamas, I'm warm and comfortable in my recliner, I'm in the middle of watching this movie, and then come near collapse as you agree to help them? Do you then get dressed, get them in your vehicle, and let them know how put out you are, and what trouble they've caused you all the way to the tire shop? If so, is that how you would want them to behave toward you should the shoe be on the other foot?
If someone needs you, be willing to sacrifice a little self to help them. Remember that Jesus commanded us to love one another. Remind yourself that you too need help on occasion and think about how you want to be treated on those occasions. Remember you are a Christian which means to be Christ-like, and that God is love. If you find yourself still hesitant to sacrifice for others with the right heart, then I urge you to remember, and to thank God that Jesus Himself demonstrated the ultimate sacrificial love, when He died on the cross for our sins. If He can do something of such great magnitude and great value out of His love for us, then can't we make small sacrifices for one another, and do so with a right heart?
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Gifts, Blessings, and Rewards
James 1:17 (KJV) Says, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." Deuteronomy 28:2 (KJV) Says, "And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God." Revelation 22:12 (KJV) Says, "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Mark 9::41 (KJV) Says, "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward."
The above passage of scripture taken from James tells us that every good gift and every perfect gift we receive is from our Heavenly Father. It also advises us that God remains the same always. The above verse taken from Deuteronomy advises us that, if we obey God we will be blessed abundantly. Chapter 28 of Deuteronomy gives us in detail the blessings that will be received for obedience, and the consequences that we will face for disobedience. I encourage you to read the entire chapter. The above verse taken from Revelation tells us that upon Jesus' return He will bring rewards for our work along with Him. Finally, the verse of scripture taken from Mark makes it clear to us that God pays attention to all we do, and that we are rewarded for even our smallest acts of kindness.
When we are living in obedience to God, He sends us gifts and blessings in abundance. Being human, however, it seems we have a tendency to take many of these for granted, and to be completely oblivious to others. If we paused to seriously consider all that God does for us and blesses us with each and every day we would be overflowing with gratitude. Maybe you didn't get the new house you wanted, the new vehicle, the shopping spree, or maybe you didn't get to go on a vacation this year, or whatever else you desired and felt you deserved. Did you stop to consider all you do receive from God, and tell Him how very grateful you are for those things? Or have you noticed all He's done and does do for you? Do you thank Him for each day, for your eyesight, your hearing, your ability to walk, your health, your families health, your children, your job, your home, your vehicle, the food you eat, His mercy, His understanding, His forgiveness, His kindness, His protection, for being there for you twenty four hours a day seven days a week, for His Word, which is filled with wisdom and instruction, for His compassion, and all the other wonderful things He provides? Have you taken the time to thank Him for sending His only Son to die on the cross for your sins? For the majority of us the most important things in life are not material, and yet somehow when all is well with us we tend to take those things for granted instead of recognizing them for the riches they truly are.
We are God's children, and He wants to give us gifts and rain blessings down upon us, when we are living in obedience to Him. He wants to reward us for our good works. He is aware of all the good we do from the smallest act of kindness to the largest. As we see in the above verse taken from Revelation, He will reward us, when we do something as small as give someone a drink of water.
Remember, God knows what is best for us, and that doesn't always coincide with what we desire for ourselves. Remember that God's timing is perfect, and that includes in giving us the things He wants us to have, and feels we deserve. Recognize the gifts, blessings, and rewards that God has given you, and know for certain that there are future rewards awaiting you in heaven if you live in obedience to Him. God has done, and does do so much for all of His children; because His love for us is enormous. In fact, His love for us is so great, that He sent his only Son to die on the cross for our sins; that we might spend eternity with Him in Heaven. I urge you not to take the gifts, blessings, and rewards God has given you for granted. I believe if you'll begin a thorough inventory of them you will recognize that there are far to many to number, and the value they hold is priceless. I believe you will find you have many reasons to be extremely grateful to God, and you'll realize He has given each of us far more than we deserve.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
The above passage of scripture taken from James tells us that every good gift and every perfect gift we receive is from our Heavenly Father. It also advises us that God remains the same always. The above verse taken from Deuteronomy advises us that, if we obey God we will be blessed abundantly. Chapter 28 of Deuteronomy gives us in detail the blessings that will be received for obedience, and the consequences that we will face for disobedience. I encourage you to read the entire chapter. The above verse taken from Revelation tells us that upon Jesus' return He will bring rewards for our work along with Him. Finally, the verse of scripture taken from Mark makes it clear to us that God pays attention to all we do, and that we are rewarded for even our smallest acts of kindness.
When we are living in obedience to God, He sends us gifts and blessings in abundance. Being human, however, it seems we have a tendency to take many of these for granted, and to be completely oblivious to others. If we paused to seriously consider all that God does for us and blesses us with each and every day we would be overflowing with gratitude. Maybe you didn't get the new house you wanted, the new vehicle, the shopping spree, or maybe you didn't get to go on a vacation this year, or whatever else you desired and felt you deserved. Did you stop to consider all you do receive from God, and tell Him how very grateful you are for those things? Or have you noticed all He's done and does do for you? Do you thank Him for each day, for your eyesight, your hearing, your ability to walk, your health, your families health, your children, your job, your home, your vehicle, the food you eat, His mercy, His understanding, His forgiveness, His kindness, His protection, for being there for you twenty four hours a day seven days a week, for His Word, which is filled with wisdom and instruction, for His compassion, and all the other wonderful things He provides? Have you taken the time to thank Him for sending His only Son to die on the cross for your sins? For the majority of us the most important things in life are not material, and yet somehow when all is well with us we tend to take those things for granted instead of recognizing them for the riches they truly are.
We are God's children, and He wants to give us gifts and rain blessings down upon us, when we are living in obedience to Him. He wants to reward us for our good works. He is aware of all the good we do from the smallest act of kindness to the largest. As we see in the above verse taken from Revelation, He will reward us, when we do something as small as give someone a drink of water.
Remember, God knows what is best for us, and that doesn't always coincide with what we desire for ourselves. Remember that God's timing is perfect, and that includes in giving us the things He wants us to have, and feels we deserve. Recognize the gifts, blessings, and rewards that God has given you, and know for certain that there are future rewards awaiting you in heaven if you live in obedience to Him. God has done, and does do so much for all of His children; because His love for us is enormous. In fact, His love for us is so great, that He sent his only Son to die on the cross for our sins; that we might spend eternity with Him in Heaven. I urge you not to take the gifts, blessings, and rewards God has given you for granted. I believe if you'll begin a thorough inventory of them you will recognize that there are far to many to number, and the value they hold is priceless. I believe you will find you have many reasons to be extremely grateful to God, and you'll realize He has given each of us far more than we deserve.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Love And Compassion
Philippians 2:4 (KJV) Says, "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." In John 13:34-35 (KJV) Jesus Says, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another, as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." I John 3:17-18 Says, "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?"
In the above passage of scripture taken from Philippians we are instructed to be just as concerned for the needs and problems of others as we are our own. In the passage taken from John, we are instructed to love one another as God has loved us. We are further advised that it is by loving one another as God loves us that others will know we are His disciples. Finally, in the passage of scripture taken from I John, we are asked the question How could the love of God reside within us, if all is going well in our lives, and we ignore the needs of others?
We live in a fast paced, hustle and bustle world where many people pack their schedules full on a daily basis, leaving no time to spend with God; much less be concerned with others. Far too many people are so wrapped up in what they want to do for themselves, that they have little or no time for anyone else. This all about me mentality is growing more and more popular. How can anyone say that they have love and compassion for others, if they are not willing to make time for them, when they are in need? Does this selfish behavior indicate in any way that we are disciples of Jesus Christ? Are we behaving in a manner any different toward others than those that are lost?
We all need someone at one time or another in our lives, and if we deny that fact, then we are allowing pride to stand in the way of the truth. Actually, we are going to need help from others multiple times in our lives for various reasons. We may fall on hard times financially, go through a painful breakup, separation, or divorce, we may need help with a project around the house, we may need a ride because our vehicle broke down, we may need a friend to go with us to a doctor's appointment, or we may need someone to console us because we are feeling down. From small needs to large ones the list goes on and on.
When a family member or friend calls needing you, do you show yourself a disciple of Jesus Christ? Do you show them love and compassion? Do you take the time to listen to them, and actually hear what they are saying? Sometimes all someone needs from us is for us to listen, and show that we sincerely care about them and what they are saying. Do you make time to help someone if they need you for whatever reason? When you see pain or sadness on the face of a family member or friend, do you inquire as to what is troubling them, and offer to help in any way you can? Or, do you go through life so focused on yourself you fail to notice the suffering and needs of those around you? Do you avoid those that are hurting and in need, because you don't want to hear it? Have you ever ignored a phone call from someone knowing they were going through a tough time, and needed you to listen? Are you a loving and compassionate family member, and friend? Do you respond to the needs of others in the same manner that you would like them to respond to you, when you are in need? Do you do so with a sincere desire in your heart to help them?
We should never become so concerned with ourselves and our own needs, that we fail to notice the needs of others, or that we notice, but respond by pretending we didn't. We should never allow ourselves to become so caught up in our own lives and behave so selfishly, that we don't take time to show love and compassion for one another. If you know someone is hungry, feed them. If you know someone needs to talk, listen. If you know someone is sick or injured, call or visit them. If you know someone needs you because they have a problem, be there for them. If you see a need in someone, and you can meet it, do so with a heart full of love and compassion. I urge you to respond to the needs of others in a manner that reflects who you are as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above passage of scripture taken from Philippians we are instructed to be just as concerned for the needs and problems of others as we are our own. In the passage taken from John, we are instructed to love one another as God has loved us. We are further advised that it is by loving one another as God loves us that others will know we are His disciples. Finally, in the passage of scripture taken from I John, we are asked the question How could the love of God reside within us, if all is going well in our lives, and we ignore the needs of others?
We live in a fast paced, hustle and bustle world where many people pack their schedules full on a daily basis, leaving no time to spend with God; much less be concerned with others. Far too many people are so wrapped up in what they want to do for themselves, that they have little or no time for anyone else. This all about me mentality is growing more and more popular. How can anyone say that they have love and compassion for others, if they are not willing to make time for them, when they are in need? Does this selfish behavior indicate in any way that we are disciples of Jesus Christ? Are we behaving in a manner any different toward others than those that are lost?
We all need someone at one time or another in our lives, and if we deny that fact, then we are allowing pride to stand in the way of the truth. Actually, we are going to need help from others multiple times in our lives for various reasons. We may fall on hard times financially, go through a painful breakup, separation, or divorce, we may need help with a project around the house, we may need a ride because our vehicle broke down, we may need a friend to go with us to a doctor's appointment, or we may need someone to console us because we are feeling down. From small needs to large ones the list goes on and on.
When a family member or friend calls needing you, do you show yourself a disciple of Jesus Christ? Do you show them love and compassion? Do you take the time to listen to them, and actually hear what they are saying? Sometimes all someone needs from us is for us to listen, and show that we sincerely care about them and what they are saying. Do you make time to help someone if they need you for whatever reason? When you see pain or sadness on the face of a family member or friend, do you inquire as to what is troubling them, and offer to help in any way you can? Or, do you go through life so focused on yourself you fail to notice the suffering and needs of those around you? Do you avoid those that are hurting and in need, because you don't want to hear it? Have you ever ignored a phone call from someone knowing they were going through a tough time, and needed you to listen? Are you a loving and compassionate family member, and friend? Do you respond to the needs of others in the same manner that you would like them to respond to you, when you are in need? Do you do so with a sincere desire in your heart to help them?
We should never become so concerned with ourselves and our own needs, that we fail to notice the needs of others, or that we notice, but respond by pretending we didn't. We should never allow ourselves to become so caught up in our own lives and behave so selfishly, that we don't take time to show love and compassion for one another. If you know someone is hungry, feed them. If you know someone needs to talk, listen. If you know someone is sick or injured, call or visit them. If you know someone needs you because they have a problem, be there for them. If you see a need in someone, and you can meet it, do so with a heart full of love and compassion. I urge you to respond to the needs of others in a manner that reflects who you are as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
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