I Thessalonians 5:11 (KJV) Says, "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do." Hebrews 10:25 (KJV) Says, "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Proverbs 27:17 (KJV) Says, "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." Romans 15:1-2 (KJV) Says, "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbor for his good to edification." Hebrews 3:13 (KJV) Says, "But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (KJV) Says, "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up."
I have heard many people make remarks like "I don't like people," "I don't need people in my life," I'm better off alone," I can't tolerate people," "people get on my nerves," "I don't want to be around people," and other similar statements. The truth is God knew that we would need one another as we walk through this life, and He made that clear in His Word. One verse of scripture in support of this is found above and is taken from the book of 1 Thessalonians where we are instructed to comfort and encourage each other. If we are being honest with ourselves, we have all needed comfort and encouragement multiple times in our lives, and having experienced that need we should be more than willing to comfort and encourage others that need it.
The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Hebrews further supports the fact that God knew we would need one another. It instructs us to come together exhorting one another. By definition, the word exhort means to strongly encourage or urge someone to do something. We have all needed uplifting more than once in our lives, and God blessed us with people in our lives that are willing to do that, if we will lay pride aside, and accept the help being offered us.
The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Proverbs tells us that iron sharpens iron and that a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. When you rub an iron blade against another iron blade both become sharper. As friends we should stand by one another through the good times and the bad. We should be willing to stand with one another in support helping each other endure whatever storms come our way, and eager to celebrate the victories in one another's lives.
Romans 15:1-2 Makes clear that when we are strong and others are weak we should be there to support them. We have all experienced weakness in our lives, and needed to lean on God, and another person or group of people drawing from their strength.
The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Hebrews instructs us to encourage one another, and help one another to resist sin. We are to hold one another accountable in a loving Christ-like way. As a Christian never underestimate the benefits of fellowship with like-minded individuals. The love and support gleaned from Christ-like support has kept many individuals on track preventing them from straying away from their Lord and Savior.
Finally, the passage of scripture taken from the book of Ecclesiastes makes clear that two are better than one. This passage points out that, if you are alone and you fall, you have no one to help you up. If, however, you are with another person you have someone to lift you up. This not only refers to falling in the literal sense, but includes falling away from God, falling emotionally, taking a fall in life such as job loss, the loss of a loved one, and the list goes on and on. We should be there to lift one another up and encourage one another no matter what type fall occurs.
I urge you to consider how important we are to one another as we walk through this life together. Life can be extremely difficult at times. Some of the storms we face are so difficult that in order to make it through them we need God, and we need one another. We have all been faced with painful situations in our lives, and some so painful we didn't think we'd make it through them, but looking back we recognize that God and the people he blessed us with in our lives saw us through it all.
If you are a person who has a negative attitude toward people and don't think you need them to the degree that you shut people out choosing to spend a great deal of time alone, I urge you to recognize the importance of allowing people into your life. I urge you to recognize that God sends people into our lives to be a blessing. I urge you to open your eyes and recognize which ones He has sent you. I urge you to appreciate them, love them, and respect them, and to count them as the blessings they are. If you are a human being then you need other human beings in your life for love, support, encouragement, strength, and fellowship. Needing help from others in whatever form is not a sign of weakness it is merely being human. I encourage you to open your heart and let others into your life, and to be there for them. In summation, there is no shame in admitting that we need one another because the fact is people need people.
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!
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
Rock Bottom
Luke 15:11-24 (KJV) Says, "And He said, A certain man had two sons: and the younger of them said to his Father, Father give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in the land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly; with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, how many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his Father. But when he was yet a great way off, his Father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the Father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:"
In the above passage of scripture Jesus shares a parable about a young man who ask his Father for his inheritance, and the Father complies. This young man as we see takes his inheritance, gathers his things together, leaves his Father's house, and travels a good distance from home. This young man set out eager and ready to be on his own, and to live it up. Live it up he did, to the degree that he wasted every single bit of his inheritance. He landed at rock bottom, and as the scripture states he was in want. He wound up taking a job feeding swine, and being so hungry that he wanted to eat the husks that he was feeding the swine, and there was not one person who offered to feed him.
It was at rock bottom that this young man began to face and too own the mistakes he had made. As the scripture puts it, he came to himself. He began thinking about all his Father had in provision, and how the bread his Father's servants ate was so plentiful there was enough to spare. He began to think about how blessed he was, when he was at home. He faced and owned at that moment the fact that because of his bad choices he found himself in an extremely low place, and in great need. He realized he had made many mistakes for which he was remorseful.
As we see in the above passage of scripture, this young man was down trodden, and feeling so bad about himself and the choices he had made he felt he didn't even deserve to be called his Father's son. Feeling guilty, ashamed, and remorseful he headed home not knowing how his Father would receive him. The thoughts he was having about himself and his choices more than likely came with thoughts that his Father would be angry with him, disappointed in him, ready to give him a lecture, and possibly reject him altogether. Being a Father who loved his son, however, this man received his child with open arms. In fact, he had so much compassion for him; the first thing he did was throw his arms around his neck and kiss him. He then had his servants bring his son the best clothes and shoes, and gifted him a ring. He then ordered that the biggest calf be killed and prepared in order to serve his son a fine meal. All this Father wanted was to have a huge meal prepared and celebrate the fact that his wayward son had come home. It is worthy to note that his Fathers said nothing at all to his son about the mistakes he had made.
There are many of us who have hit rock bottom at one time or another in our life, and we have had some of the very thoughts and feelings that the young man in this parable experienced. If you are at a place where you've allowed your life to spin out of control, and you're having these thoughts and feelings recognize them as coming from Satan, and rebuke them immediately. Just as the Father in this parable was eager and excited to welcome his son home your family is waiting for you. They're eager and ready to throw there arms around your neck, kiss you, and welcome you home. No one is waiting to condemn you they are waiting with love and compassion to celebrate your return. I urge you not to wait any longer to make the decision to return home to the people who love you. They are waiting for you with love and open arms.
This parable also applies also to the way our Heavenly Father feels towards those who go astray. When a person hits rock bottom they also have negative thoughts about the way God views them and feels about them, and the bad choices they've made. I can tell you for certain that the moment you opt to repent and turn back to God, there is a celebration in heaven. God is not standing ready to condemn you for your mistakes. He is eager to hear your prayers, and welcome you back to the fold with compassion, love, and open arms.
If you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, I urge you to do so immediately. Go to God in prayer and ask Him to forgive you of all your sins, tell Him you believe that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for your sins, and that you believe Jesus rose again. If you believe this in your heart and confess it with your mouth to the Lord in prayer you have been saved, and will spend eternity in Heaven with your Lord and Savior. If you prayed to accept Christ, leave me a message so I can pray for you, and praise God with you. It is without a doubt the greatest decision you have ever made.
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 shares a parable about a young man who ask his Father for his inheritance, and the Father complies. This young man as we see takes his inheritance, gathers his things together, leaves his Father's house, and travels a good distance from home. This young man set out eager and ready to be on his own, and to live it up. Live it up he did, to the degree that he wasted every single bit of his inheritance. He landed at rock bottom, and as the scripture states he was in want. He wound up taking a job feeding swine, and being so hungry that he wanted to eat the husks that he was feeding the swine, and there was not one person who offered to feed him.
It was at rock bottom that this young man began to face and too own the mistakes he had made. As the scripture puts it, he came to himself. He began thinking about all his Father had in provision, and how the bread his Father's servants ate was so plentiful there was enough to spare. He began to think about how blessed he was, when he was at home. He faced and owned at that moment the fact that because of his bad choices he found himself in an extremely low place, and in great need. He realized he had made many mistakes for which he was remorseful.
As we see in the above passage of scripture, this young man was down trodden, and feeling so bad about himself and the choices he had made he felt he didn't even deserve to be called his Father's son. Feeling guilty, ashamed, and remorseful he headed home not knowing how his Father would receive him. The thoughts he was having about himself and his choices more than likely came with thoughts that his Father would be angry with him, disappointed in him, ready to give him a lecture, and possibly reject him altogether. Being a Father who loved his son, however, this man received his child with open arms. In fact, he had so much compassion for him; the first thing he did was throw his arms around his neck and kiss him. He then had his servants bring his son the best clothes and shoes, and gifted him a ring. He then ordered that the biggest calf be killed and prepared in order to serve his son a fine meal. All this Father wanted was to have a huge meal prepared and celebrate the fact that his wayward son had come home. It is worthy to note that his Fathers said nothing at all to his son about the mistakes he had made.
There are many of us who have hit rock bottom at one time or another in our life, and we have had some of the very thoughts and feelings that the young man in this parable experienced. If you are at a place where you've allowed your life to spin out of control, and you're having these thoughts and feelings recognize them as coming from Satan, and rebuke them immediately. Just as the Father in this parable was eager and excited to welcome his son home your family is waiting for you. They're eager and ready to throw there arms around your neck, kiss you, and welcome you home. No one is waiting to condemn you they are waiting with love and compassion to celebrate your return. I urge you not to wait any longer to make the decision to return home to the people who love you. They are waiting for you with love and open arms.
This parable also applies also to the way our Heavenly Father feels towards those who go astray. When a person hits rock bottom they also have negative thoughts about the way God views them and feels about them, and the bad choices they've made. I can tell you for certain that the moment you opt to repent and turn back to God, there is a celebration in heaven. God is not standing ready to condemn you for your mistakes. He is eager to hear your prayers, and welcome you back to the fold with compassion, love, and open arms.
If you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, I urge you to do so immediately. Go to God in prayer and ask Him to forgive you of all your sins, tell Him you believe that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for your sins, and that you believe Jesus rose again. If you believe this in your heart and confess it with your mouth to the Lord in prayer you have been saved, and will spend eternity in Heaven with your Lord and Savior. If you prayed to accept Christ, leave me a message so I can pray for you, and praise God with you. It is without a doubt the greatest decision you have ever made.
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!
Monday, April 22, 2019
God's Strength In Our Storms
Philippians 4:13 (KJV) Says, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Isaiah 41:10 (KJV) Says, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah 41:13 (KJV) Says, "For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee." Psalms 31:24 (KJV) Says, "Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord."
As born again believers in Jesus Christ we can find great hope and strength in the above passages of scripture as we walk through the dark places in our lives. Most, if not all, Christians will tell you they believe in the Word of God, and that His Word is God breathed, and that it is one hundred percent truth in its entirety. Yet, when walking through storms in their lives some fail to stand firm on the promises of His Word, and instead experience a faith failure secondary to their lack of true trust in Him. God's Word is full of promises to us, and He has NEVER nor will He EVER break a single one of them. He is an unchanging trustworthy God who is there for us 24 hours a day, seven days a week. God's Word tells us that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that means He is still a God of miracles. Which further means there is no sickness or wound He can't heal, no disease He can't cure, and no situation He can't restore. There is nothing beyond the power of Almighty God, and as born again believers in Jesus Christ we have the power of God dwelling within us in the form of the Holy Spirit we only need remind ourselves of these things.
When you find yourself walking through a dark valley hold on and trust God. Remind yourself as it says in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Philippians that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. Remind yourself that as Isaiah 41:10 says God instructs you not to be afraid because He is with you, and not to be dismayed for He is your God, and that He will strengthen you and uphold you with His the right hand of His righteousness. Remind yourself that He tells us in Isaiah 41:13 that He will hold our right hand, tell us not to be afraid, and that He will help us. Remind yourself also, that in Psalms 31:4 God tells us to be of good courage and He will strengthen our heart, if we will only put our trust in Him. Read the above verses of scripture slowly, and take in what they truly mean.
Life can be, and often times is very difficult. We all go through struggles, fall prey to temptation, and are hit by storms that we never saw coming. The Word of God tells us that it rains on the just and the unjust. The Word of God also tells us that we will face trials and tribulations in this life, and as Christians we are not exempt from those things. The good news is that no matter what life throws at us as born again believers in Jesus Christ, we can stand firm on the promises found in His Word, we can be certain that God will hold our hand and walk with us as we conquer the mountains we must climb. God promises us strength, comfort, divine peace, love, understanding, forgiveness, compassion and so much more. He provides us with everything we need to battle Satan and His wiles, and come out victorious.
If you are going through a storm in your life, I encourage you to remain steadfast in your faith, and to go to God in prayer crying out to Him in prayer. He is listening and He is more than able. I urge you to remind yourself of His promises, and to truly believe in your heart that you can trust what His Word tells us. It is of a certainty that we can rely on Him. With God by your side you can make it through whatever storm you're facing. He will be with you every step of the way, and He will provide you with the strength you need to make it. You are a child of the most High God, and He loves you tremendously right where you are. Stay strong in Christ and with His help, which He promises over and over in His word, you will make it through.
If you haven't accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, I urge you to do so immediately. Don't put off the greatest decision you will ever make. We are not promised tomorrow. Romans 10:9-10 (KJV) Says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." If you truly believe in your heart that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, and that He rose again, go to God in prayer, ask Him to forgive you of your sins, tell Him you believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sins and that He rose again, and ask Him to come into your heart and be your Lord and Savior. If you prayed to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior please leave me a message so that I can pray for you as you begin life anew.
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!
As born again believers in Jesus Christ we can find great hope and strength in the above passages of scripture as we walk through the dark places in our lives. Most, if not all, Christians will tell you they believe in the Word of God, and that His Word is God breathed, and that it is one hundred percent truth in its entirety. Yet, when walking through storms in their lives some fail to stand firm on the promises of His Word, and instead experience a faith failure secondary to their lack of true trust in Him. God's Word is full of promises to us, and He has NEVER nor will He EVER break a single one of them. He is an unchanging trustworthy God who is there for us 24 hours a day, seven days a week. God's Word tells us that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that means He is still a God of miracles. Which further means there is no sickness or wound He can't heal, no disease He can't cure, and no situation He can't restore. There is nothing beyond the power of Almighty God, and as born again believers in Jesus Christ we have the power of God dwelling within us in the form of the Holy Spirit we only need remind ourselves of these things.
When you find yourself walking through a dark valley hold on and trust God. Remind yourself as it says in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Philippians that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. Remind yourself that as Isaiah 41:10 says God instructs you not to be afraid because He is with you, and not to be dismayed for He is your God, and that He will strengthen you and uphold you with His the right hand of His righteousness. Remind yourself that He tells us in Isaiah 41:13 that He will hold our right hand, tell us not to be afraid, and that He will help us. Remind yourself also, that in Psalms 31:4 God tells us to be of good courage and He will strengthen our heart, if we will only put our trust in Him. Read the above verses of scripture slowly, and take in what they truly mean.
Life can be, and often times is very difficult. We all go through struggles, fall prey to temptation, and are hit by storms that we never saw coming. The Word of God tells us that it rains on the just and the unjust. The Word of God also tells us that we will face trials and tribulations in this life, and as Christians we are not exempt from those things. The good news is that no matter what life throws at us as born again believers in Jesus Christ, we can stand firm on the promises found in His Word, we can be certain that God will hold our hand and walk with us as we conquer the mountains we must climb. God promises us strength, comfort, divine peace, love, understanding, forgiveness, compassion and so much more. He provides us with everything we need to battle Satan and His wiles, and come out victorious.
If you are going through a storm in your life, I encourage you to remain steadfast in your faith, and to go to God in prayer crying out to Him in prayer. He is listening and He is more than able. I urge you to remind yourself of His promises, and to truly believe in your heart that you can trust what His Word tells us. It is of a certainty that we can rely on Him. With God by your side you can make it through whatever storm you're facing. He will be with you every step of the way, and He will provide you with the strength you need to make it. You are a child of the most High God, and He loves you tremendously right where you are. Stay strong in Christ and with His help, which He promises over and over in His word, you will make it through.
If you haven't accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, I urge you to do so immediately. Don't put off the greatest decision you will ever make. We are not promised tomorrow. Romans 10:9-10 (KJV) Says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." If you truly believe in your heart that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, and that He rose again, go to God in prayer, ask Him to forgive you of your sins, tell Him you believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sins and that He rose again, and ask Him to come into your heart and be your Lord and Savior. If you prayed to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior please leave me a message so that I can pray for you as you begin life anew.
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!
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
Begin Again
Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV) Says, "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. Jeremiah 3:22 (KJV) Says, "Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings. Behold, we come unto thee; for thou art the Lord our God." Hebrews 4:16 (KJV) Says, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Micah 7:19 (KJV) Says, "He will turn again, He will have compassion upon us; He will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea."
Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, and after doing so gotten off track finding yourself in a backsliding state? If so, you can turn things around, and you can do so immediately. God is not an unforgiving and condemning God. As the above verses of scripture taken from the book of Lamentations tell us, He does not consume us because He is merciful, and His compassions do not fail. These verses go on to tell us that His mercy and compassions are new every morning.
God is never going to force himself on you. If you are a born again believer in Jesus Christ and you are in a state of backslide having thoughts such as "It's too late for me to turn back to God", "I have been living in sin for so long there's no way God will forgive me", "there's no hope for me", "I had my chance and I wasted it", and/or any other like thoughts recognize them for exactly what they are lies straight from Satan. Satan would love nothing more than for you to believe his lies, and continue living in sin. Don't give him that victory.
The above verse of scripture taken from the Book of Jeremiah tells us that all we have to do is return to God and He will heal our backslidings. God is a loving, kind, forgiving, merciful God. He is not a Condemning God. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Hebrews tells us to go boldly unto the throne of grace, and that God will give us mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Micah makes clear that if we will turn back to God, He will have compassion on us; and will throw all of our sins (not some, but all) into the depths of the sea.
There is no sin scale with God. Sin is sin so don't feel as though your sin is so great there's no hope for you, and that God would never forgive you. He will forgive you, if you will only go to Him in prayer, and ask Him to.
If Satan has led you astray step by step, and you're feeling hopeless, go to God in prayer immediately and ask Him to forgive you of your sins, tell Him you will turn away from them and back to Him. Remember it doesn't matter how terrible you think your sins are with God sin is sin, and He will forgive you. Lay the heavy weight of your sins down at the cross, and be rid of that weighty burden. God will forgive you immediately, and cast your sins into the depths of the sea. You are His child, created in His own image, and He loves you so very much. God will give you the strength you need to resist the temptations of Satan. It is never too late to begin again. Trust in and rely on God, and He will walk through life with you holding your hand every step of the way.
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.
Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, and after doing so gotten off track finding yourself in a backsliding state? If so, you can turn things around, and you can do so immediately. God is not an unforgiving and condemning God. As the above verses of scripture taken from the book of Lamentations tell us, He does not consume us because He is merciful, and His compassions do not fail. These verses go on to tell us that His mercy and compassions are new every morning.
God is never going to force himself on you. If you are a born again believer in Jesus Christ and you are in a state of backslide having thoughts such as "It's too late for me to turn back to God", "I have been living in sin for so long there's no way God will forgive me", "there's no hope for me", "I had my chance and I wasted it", and/or any other like thoughts recognize them for exactly what they are lies straight from Satan. Satan would love nothing more than for you to believe his lies, and continue living in sin. Don't give him that victory.
The above verse of scripture taken from the Book of Jeremiah tells us that all we have to do is return to God and He will heal our backslidings. God is a loving, kind, forgiving, merciful God. He is not a Condemning God. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Hebrews tells us to go boldly unto the throne of grace, and that God will give us mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Micah makes clear that if we will turn back to God, He will have compassion on us; and will throw all of our sins (not some, but all) into the depths of the sea.
There is no sin scale with God. Sin is sin so don't feel as though your sin is so great there's no hope for you, and that God would never forgive you. He will forgive you, if you will only go to Him in prayer, and ask Him to.
If Satan has led you astray step by step, and you're feeling hopeless, go to God in prayer immediately and ask Him to forgive you of your sins, tell Him you will turn away from them and back to Him. Remember it doesn't matter how terrible you think your sins are with God sin is sin, and He will forgive you. Lay the heavy weight of your sins down at the cross, and be rid of that weighty burden. God will forgive you immediately, and cast your sins into the depths of the sea. You are His child, created in His own image, and He loves you so very much. God will give you the strength you need to resist the temptations of Satan. It is never too late to begin again. Trust in and rely on God, and He will walk through life with you holding your hand every step of the way.
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.
Tuesday, October 9, 2018
A Gold Star
Jeremiah 33:3 (KJV) Says, "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."
In order to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ, it is vital that we pray, read and study God's Word, and meditate on it. It is also vital that we ask Him to lead, guide, and direct our path, and that we sit quietly listening and watching for all that He desires to show us, and all that He desires to place on our hearts.
In the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Jeremiah God tells us that if we will call on Him, He will answer us. He also tells us in this verse that He will show us great and mighty things that we know not. With that said, I want to share a personal story that without a doubt demonstrates the power, magnificence, and love of Almighty God.
This story begins with my youngest brother's best friend. He and my brother have been great friends since they were little children. I can remember them laying side by side on our den floor at home, watching movies, and laughing for hours. They remained close friends into adulthood. Not only did my brother love this friend, but our entire family did as well. This young man was always willing to help others. In fact, he helped many people, and groups of people in numerous ways. In short, because there are not enough words to describe all he did to bless others, he was an outstanding example of what a fine Christian man with a loving and compassionate heart looks like.
Without going into details, my brothers friend passed away last week, and his death came unexpectedly. My brother told me that his friend was taken by life flight to a nearby hospital, and that told me that whatever the problem was; it was serious. I began praying right away. I asked God to be with this young man, and his family, and to please heal him. In my prayer I told God that His Word tells us that he is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that this means He is still a God of miracles, and that I was asking for one. This young man had to have emergency surgery, and when I got that update I prayed for God to guide the surgeons hands, and I continued to ask God for a miracle. When I came home from Church Wednesday night, my brother was standing in the driveway, and I told him that I had been praying all day, and asked for another update. With a broken hearted look on his face, he said, "you haven't heard?" I said no what is it? He said "he passed away." I said, I'm so sorry, and we shared a hug, but no more words; as we were both speechless and too choked up for conversation. I entered the house through the garage and went immediately out the back door, and onto the deck. The deck is where I go daily to pray, read God's Word, watch and listen for God to show me anything he wants to show me, and to listen for anything he desires to place on my heart. That night, I needed to be alone, and talk to God.
As I sat in my usual chair I began talking to God, and I have to be honest being only human I was upset. I reminded God of what His Word says, and I asked Him why he took this young man. I told God he was a great Christian man doing wonderful work for His kingdom, that he was a husband, and the father of two children, that he was a brother, and that he had a mother who loves him tremendously. I told God that it hurt me to see my brother so broken, and to witness the sadness that this great loss had brought on my family and so many others. I said God I just don't understand.
Then I sat quietly gazing at the same stars that I gaze at nightly, and listening and watching for God to show me something or place something on my heart that made sense. He answered my prayers. The first thing that he placed on my heart was that His ways are not our ways, and that He knows best. He also reminded me that Heaven is amazing, and that my brother's friend is in a far greater place than we could ever imagine. Then God showed me something in a miraculous, amazing, and a divine way. He did so through one of the whitest and brightest stars in the sky. This is a star that stands alone, and one that I have stared at on clear nights for at least the past five years. I had been sitting with my face in my hands, and the moment I looked up at this star that I had so often studied, it turned as Gold as it could possibly turn. This once bright white star was now golden. Then God placed on my heart that he was aware that my brother's friend was a steadfast Christian soldier, and that he was gold star worthy for all the blessings he bestowed upon others while he was here on earth.
All that God promises in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Jeremiah, he demonstrated for me that night. I called upon Him, He answered me, and He showed me great and mighty things.
I encourage you to cry out to God when you need to, and to watch and listen for him to answer you. He loves us all tremendously and we are all of equal importance to Him. I pray strength and comfort for this young man's mother, his wife, his children, his sister, and his entire family, as well as for his friends. When God calls someone home who impacted so many lives here earth in such a positive way, a huge void is felt immediately. To this young man who meant a great deal to my brother and our entire family, I say with love go rest high, and I have no doubt that God was able to say when they stood face to face, well done my good and faithful servant.
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 order to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ, it is vital that we pray, read and study God's Word, and meditate on it. It is also vital that we ask Him to lead, guide, and direct our path, and that we sit quietly listening and watching for all that He desires to show us, and all that He desires to place on our hearts.
In the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Jeremiah God tells us that if we will call on Him, He will answer us. He also tells us in this verse that He will show us great and mighty things that we know not. With that said, I want to share a personal story that without a doubt demonstrates the power, magnificence, and love of Almighty God.
This story begins with my youngest brother's best friend. He and my brother have been great friends since they were little children. I can remember them laying side by side on our den floor at home, watching movies, and laughing for hours. They remained close friends into adulthood. Not only did my brother love this friend, but our entire family did as well. This young man was always willing to help others. In fact, he helped many people, and groups of people in numerous ways. In short, because there are not enough words to describe all he did to bless others, he was an outstanding example of what a fine Christian man with a loving and compassionate heart looks like.
Without going into details, my brothers friend passed away last week, and his death came unexpectedly. My brother told me that his friend was taken by life flight to a nearby hospital, and that told me that whatever the problem was; it was serious. I began praying right away. I asked God to be with this young man, and his family, and to please heal him. In my prayer I told God that His Word tells us that he is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that this means He is still a God of miracles, and that I was asking for one. This young man had to have emergency surgery, and when I got that update I prayed for God to guide the surgeons hands, and I continued to ask God for a miracle. When I came home from Church Wednesday night, my brother was standing in the driveway, and I told him that I had been praying all day, and asked for another update. With a broken hearted look on his face, he said, "you haven't heard?" I said no what is it? He said "he passed away." I said, I'm so sorry, and we shared a hug, but no more words; as we were both speechless and too choked up for conversation. I entered the house through the garage and went immediately out the back door, and onto the deck. The deck is where I go daily to pray, read God's Word, watch and listen for God to show me anything he wants to show me, and to listen for anything he desires to place on my heart. That night, I needed to be alone, and talk to God.
As I sat in my usual chair I began talking to God, and I have to be honest being only human I was upset. I reminded God of what His Word says, and I asked Him why he took this young man. I told God he was a great Christian man doing wonderful work for His kingdom, that he was a husband, and the father of two children, that he was a brother, and that he had a mother who loves him tremendously. I told God that it hurt me to see my brother so broken, and to witness the sadness that this great loss had brought on my family and so many others. I said God I just don't understand.
Then I sat quietly gazing at the same stars that I gaze at nightly, and listening and watching for God to show me something or place something on my heart that made sense. He answered my prayers. The first thing that he placed on my heart was that His ways are not our ways, and that He knows best. He also reminded me that Heaven is amazing, and that my brother's friend is in a far greater place than we could ever imagine. Then God showed me something in a miraculous, amazing, and a divine way. He did so through one of the whitest and brightest stars in the sky. This is a star that stands alone, and one that I have stared at on clear nights for at least the past five years. I had been sitting with my face in my hands, and the moment I looked up at this star that I had so often studied, it turned as Gold as it could possibly turn. This once bright white star was now golden. Then God placed on my heart that he was aware that my brother's friend was a steadfast Christian soldier, and that he was gold star worthy for all the blessings he bestowed upon others while he was here on earth.
All that God promises in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Jeremiah, he demonstrated for me that night. I called upon Him, He answered me, and He showed me great and mighty things.
I encourage you to cry out to God when you need to, and to watch and listen for him to answer you. He loves us all tremendously and we are all of equal importance to Him. I pray strength and comfort for this young man's mother, his wife, his children, his sister, and his entire family, as well as for his friends. When God calls someone home who impacted so many lives here earth in such a positive way, a huge void is felt immediately. To this young man who meant a great deal to my brother and our entire family, I say with love go rest high, and I have no doubt that God was able to say when they stood face to face, well done my good and faithful servant.
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!
Monday, September 17, 2018
A Right Heart
Philippians 2:4 (KjV) Says, "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." 1 John 3:17 (KJV) 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?" Galatians 6:2 (KJV) Says, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Proverbs 19:17 (KJV) Says, "He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will He pay him again." Proverbs 22:9 (KJV) Says, "He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor." 2 Corinthians 9:7 (KJV) Says, "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." Matthew 6:1-4 (KJV) Says, "Take heed that you do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in Heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have the glory of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: And thy Father which seeth in secret Himself shall reward thee openly."
The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Philippians makes clear that God wants us to look out for one another. The verse taken from 1 John makes clear that if we have plenty, and we know of someone who is in need we should have compassion on them, and help them. This verse also makes clear that, if we know of one in need and we do nothing to help them then the love of God is not in us. As born again believers in, and followers of Jesus Christ who have the Holy Spirit living within us, we should have the desire in our hearts to help those in need when we are able to. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Galatians tells us that bearing one another's burdens is fulfilling the law of Christ. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Proverbs makes clear that those of us who have pity on the poor and lend to them are lending to the Lord. It also tells us that the Lord will repay us. The verse taken from chapter 22 of proverbs states that those who give to the poor will be blessed. The above verse taken from 2 Corinthians makes clear that we are to give with a right heart. We are not to give while begrudging, or because we have to do so, but because we have the love of Christ in our hearts and we desire to help others. Finally, the verses of scripture taken from the book of Matthew makes clear to us that if we give and make it known or do it for show in order to get the praise of men then their praise alone is our reward. If we give with a right heart and do not boast of our giving to others, but do it in private then we well be rewarded by God Himself.
By definition, God is love. When we opt to accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior then the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us, and we become a new creature in Christ. As born again believers in Jesus Christ we should have the desire to help others and to do so with a right heart. The Word of God tells us that Christians are known by their fruit. The fruit of the Spirit is listed for us in Galatians 5:22-23 which says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." If a Christian is aware of someone in need and they do not have the desire in their heart to help them, when they are able to do so then not only is the love of Christ not in them, but they are also failing to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit.
I encourage you to adhere to the Word of God, and to help the poor and needy whenever you are given the opportunity to do so. If you have difficulty helping others without begrudging the help, then go to God in prayer, and ask him to cleanse your heart. Giving to and or helping others and doing so begrudgingly or doing so in order to get the praise of men is in no way pleasing to God. If you have the desire to please God, give without begrudging it, and keep the fact that you helped someone to yourself. The Word of God tells us that we will always have the poor among us, and it warns us about treating them badly. Matthew 25:31-36 (KJV) tells us in the Words of Jesus about God separating the people standing before him on judgment day referring to them as goats and sheep. He places the goats on his left and the sheep on his right. He speaks to those standing on his right hand saying to them come and inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. He says to them that He was hungry and they gave Him meat, that He was thirsty and they gave Him drink, that He was a stranger and they took Him in, that He was naked and they clothed Him, that He was sick and they visited Him, that He was in prison and they came to see Him. The righteous then asked him when they did all of these things, and His reply was "Verily, I say unto you, in as much as ye have done it unto one of the lease of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." He then addresses those standing on His left and says to them "Verily I say unto you, in as much as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away unto everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal."
I encourage to help those in need any time you are given the opportunity to do so. I urge you to remember that it is pleasing to God, and that you are doing it unto Him. God will bless and repay you for being a blessing to others, when you do it with a right heart. I also encourage you to remember to give because you truly desire to help, not begrudgingly, and not for the praise of men. Don't allow the devil to cause you to pass up an opportunity to be a blessing to someone by convincing you that they're being deceptive. If they are asking for help and do not truly need it then God will deal with them, and he will still bless you.
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!
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Abandon Ship
Philippians 2:1-2 (KJV) Says, "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, , if any bowels and mercies, fulfill ye my joy, that ye be like minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind." Matthew 18:20 (KJV) Says, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them."
There is a rapidly growing problem among Churches where the entire truth of God's Word is being preached. The problem is that people are leaving these Churches for Churches that preach only blessings omitting sermons on important topics such as what it looks like and takes to live a true Christian life in obedience to God. There are many reasons people give for leaving their Church. Some leave because they feel their Church isn't offering enough in the way of activities for them, and for their children. Some leave because they have a problem with a Church member, or a group of Church members, and have been offended. Some leave because they feel their Church lacks members that are close to them in age. Some leave because they dislike the music. Some leave because they are following others that have left. Some leave because they say they don't feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in their Church. In short, there are a number of reasons that individuals are giving as to why they chose to leave their Church.
In the above passage of scripture we see that God finds joy in Christians coming together, and being like minded, being of one accord, and of one mind. It is important to note that God's Word tells us in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Matthew that where two or three people are gathered in his name he is present. Therefore, if you attend a Church where the truth of God's Word is preached, where the core of the gospel, which is salvation, what it means, and how to accept Christ is shared then unless God calls you to another Church why abandon ship in lieu of remaining loyal to your Church, Church family, and your Pastor?
I understand that issues arise that need to be addressed, and that is true of all Churches. If you feel that your Church doesn't offer enough in the way of activities then maybe you could suggest something, and be a part in your idea coming to fruition instead of looking elsewhere for what you feel your Church is missing. If you have a problem with a Church member or group of Church members then go to them directly and address the issue in a Christ-like manner remembering that we are all fallible human beings. If your Church lacks members that are close to your age go out and invite some that do fall under your age. Inviting people your age will solve your issue, and it will help grow your Church. If you dislike the music then perhaps you could make a request to the person in charge of song selection asking them to incorporate a few of your favorite hymns/songs. Don't leave your Church following other members, or at the urging of people outside your Church. if you have an inkling to do so remind yourself you are following Christ, not people. If you begin to feel that the Holy Spirit is not present in your Church, remember the verse of scripture from Matthew that clearly states where any two people are gathered in my name, I am present.
I am in no way suggesting that if God called you away from your Church you should stay. If God calls you somewhere other than your Church, you should without a doubt do as He has directed you to do, and leave. If you are attending a Church where the Pastor is preaching sermons that do not line up with the truth of God's Word, you should leave. My point in this blog is to encourage people who are attending a Church where the truth is being preached to remain loyal to their Pastor, their Church, and their Church family, and to make suggestions as well as volunteer to help in areas they feel are their Church's weak points. I further encourage you to work out issues in a Christ-like manner with any individual or group of individuals that you are having problems with. Whatever issue or issues arise for you, first pray about them, and then ask yourself what you can do to assist in resolving them. Addressing with the Pastor what you feel is lacking in your Church may open a door to another area of service made available to you and other Church members. Pray and consider your true reasons for desiring to leave your Church, and if they are valid then leave, but if not don't be so quick to abandon ship.
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!
There is a rapidly growing problem among Churches where the entire truth of God's Word is being preached. The problem is that people are leaving these Churches for Churches that preach only blessings omitting sermons on important topics such as what it looks like and takes to live a true Christian life in obedience to God. There are many reasons people give for leaving their Church. Some leave because they feel their Church isn't offering enough in the way of activities for them, and for their children. Some leave because they have a problem with a Church member, or a group of Church members, and have been offended. Some leave because they feel their Church lacks members that are close to them in age. Some leave because they dislike the music. Some leave because they are following others that have left. Some leave because they say they don't feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in their Church. In short, there are a number of reasons that individuals are giving as to why they chose to leave their Church.
In the above passage of scripture we see that God finds joy in Christians coming together, and being like minded, being of one accord, and of one mind. It is important to note that God's Word tells us in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Matthew that where two or three people are gathered in his name he is present. Therefore, if you attend a Church where the truth of God's Word is preached, where the core of the gospel, which is salvation, what it means, and how to accept Christ is shared then unless God calls you to another Church why abandon ship in lieu of remaining loyal to your Church, Church family, and your Pastor?
I understand that issues arise that need to be addressed, and that is true of all Churches. If you feel that your Church doesn't offer enough in the way of activities then maybe you could suggest something, and be a part in your idea coming to fruition instead of looking elsewhere for what you feel your Church is missing. If you have a problem with a Church member or group of Church members then go to them directly and address the issue in a Christ-like manner remembering that we are all fallible human beings. If your Church lacks members that are close to your age go out and invite some that do fall under your age. Inviting people your age will solve your issue, and it will help grow your Church. If you dislike the music then perhaps you could make a request to the person in charge of song selection asking them to incorporate a few of your favorite hymns/songs. Don't leave your Church following other members, or at the urging of people outside your Church. if you have an inkling to do so remind yourself you are following Christ, not people. If you begin to feel that the Holy Spirit is not present in your Church, remember the verse of scripture from Matthew that clearly states where any two people are gathered in my name, I am present.
I am in no way suggesting that if God called you away from your Church you should stay. If God calls you somewhere other than your Church, you should without a doubt do as He has directed you to do, and leave. If you are attending a Church where the Pastor is preaching sermons that do not line up with the truth of God's Word, you should leave. My point in this blog is to encourage people who are attending a Church where the truth is being preached to remain loyal to their Pastor, their Church, and their Church family, and to make suggestions as well as volunteer to help in areas they feel are their Church's weak points. I further encourage you to work out issues in a Christ-like manner with any individual or group of individuals that you are having problems with. Whatever issue or issues arise for you, first pray about them, and then ask yourself what you can do to assist in resolving them. Addressing with the Pastor what you feel is lacking in your Church may open a door to another area of service made available to you and other Church members. Pray and consider your true reasons for desiring to leave your Church, and if they are valid then leave, but if not don't be so quick to abandon ship.
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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