Proverbs 14:34 Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.
If you happen to be fortunate enough to be one of the 300 million people who live in the United States of America, you are truly a blessed person. God has kept and protected this great nation through many turbulent and trying times, and, accept for Pearl Harbor, and the 9/11 attacks has sheilded the U.S. from outside attacks on her shores. Looking at the history of the United States is a rich and rewarding experience. Probably the most prevalent theme throughout the TRUE history of the U.S. is a reliance on the Power of God to preserve the greatness of the nation. Historically, when the going got tough in America, the people began to turn toward God, and experience great spiritual awakening, this awakening then brought about righteousness from the people, and the U.S. was exalted before the world. The sad truth is, however, that the recent turmoil in the U.S. has yeilded little in the way of spiritual awakening. Americans as a whole have allowed sin in their lives, and have become a reproach and a laughing stock in the eyes of the world. What has been seen as the greatest, strongest nation on earth is now mocked and ridiculed, and seen as weak. Even more of a problem is that the Christians that once made this country great are allowing themselves to become weak and allowing sin and apathy to defeat them. "America is great because of seeking God, when America stops seeking God she will cease to be great."
What a nation needs to remain great.
I. Memory. (where they came from) When Israel forgot where they came from they were put in bondage.
II. True worship. (God only) Israel began to worship other gods, God allowed them to be taken out of the land.
III. Prayer Warriors. When God's people truly prayed in the Bible, God delivered them.
IV. Godly leadership. It doesn't have to be the President or Congress, but the pastors and teachers in the churches, at the very least, MUST be able to lead.
V. A fighting spirit. You can't just let everyone kick you while your down, you have to get up and fight. "Speak softly, and carry a big stick." T. Roosevelt
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
This is the day.
I Samuel 1:1 Now there was a certain man of Ramathaimzophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite:
2 And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.
4 And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions:
5 But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb.
6 And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb.
Peninnah! How often it is that we have a Peninnah in our lives. It seems that this type of person is everywhere. On the job, at the grocery store, in the family, and, yes, even in our churches. It is difficult to deal with these types of people, and extremely difficult to maintain a right attitude toward them. There seems to be no end to who can rub you the wrong way, and they often seem to know that they have this effect on you, and try hard to rub you wrong. It is only through the grace of God that we can overcome these type of adversaries and go on for God.
How Hannah dealt with her adversary and her problem:
I. She wept. Often tears are a great cleansing agent for the soul.
II. She made a vow to God. She promised God that she would do her part if He would help her overcome her problem. We often just expect God to answer prayer without us having to change what we are doing.
III. She prayed ferverently. Hannah sought God in prayer. This was not a "now I lay me down to sleep. Hannah meant business.
2 And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.
4 And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions:
5 But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb.
6 And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb.
Peninnah! How often it is that we have a Peninnah in our lives. It seems that this type of person is everywhere. On the job, at the grocery store, in the family, and, yes, even in our churches. It is difficult to deal with these types of people, and extremely difficult to maintain a right attitude toward them. There seems to be no end to who can rub you the wrong way, and they often seem to know that they have this effect on you, and try hard to rub you wrong. It is only through the grace of God that we can overcome these type of adversaries and go on for God.
How Hannah dealt with her adversary and her problem:
I. She wept. Often tears are a great cleansing agent for the soul.
II. She made a vow to God. She promised God that she would do her part if He would help her overcome her problem. We often just expect God to answer prayer without us having to change what we are doing.
III. She prayed ferverently. Hannah sought God in prayer. This was not a "now I lay me down to sleep. Hannah meant business.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
This is the day.
Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.
Sometimes we think that we should not be 'too pushy.' While it is true that Christians should not try to 'shove Jesus down someone's throat,' I think that more often than not, we suffer from the opposite problem. I find in my own life that I tend to not be bold enough. Sometimes the people I am trying to reach 'stump' me, or 'make me mad,' and I find myself at a loss for words, and wondering how I got there. Peter and John were characterized by three things: I. They were bold. II. They were unlearned and ignorant. III. They had been with Jesus. These three things would be a great lesson for all of us sometimes. First, we all could probably use more boldness, while avoiding talking down to those we witness to. Second, though I don't think we should be proud of our ignorance, we should not try to "wow" sinners with our "vast" knowledge of the Bible, doctrine, etc. Finally, we should all strive to have the testimony that we have "been with Jesus."
The outline presented in the statement above is pretty good.
A good testimony.
I. Boldness
II. Simplicity in what we say. Peter and John were not actually unlearned and ignorant, THEY JUST WEREN'T EDUCATED IN THE RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS OF THE DAY. A true believer cannot spend three years in the sweet presence of Jesus, and not have learned something. Actually that is the problem with the majority of preachers today, THEY DO NOT SPEND NEARLY ENOUGH TIME IN JESUS' PRESENCE, BUT RELY ON THEIR EDUCATION TO GET THEM THROUGH. Peter and John didn't have the flowery speech, but they did have the power of God, and a knowledge of Who Jesus is, and What He wants for mankind.
III. A personal walk with Jesus.
IV. Every once in a while, some fruit is also a requirement. v.14
14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.
Sometimes we think that we should not be 'too pushy.' While it is true that Christians should not try to 'shove Jesus down someone's throat,' I think that more often than not, we suffer from the opposite problem. I find in my own life that I tend to not be bold enough. Sometimes the people I am trying to reach 'stump' me, or 'make me mad,' and I find myself at a loss for words, and wondering how I got there. Peter and John were characterized by three things: I. They were bold. II. They were unlearned and ignorant. III. They had been with Jesus. These three things would be a great lesson for all of us sometimes. First, we all could probably use more boldness, while avoiding talking down to those we witness to. Second, though I don't think we should be proud of our ignorance, we should not try to "wow" sinners with our "vast" knowledge of the Bible, doctrine, etc. Finally, we should all strive to have the testimony that we have "been with Jesus."
The outline presented in the statement above is pretty good.
A good testimony.
I. Boldness
II. Simplicity in what we say. Peter and John were not actually unlearned and ignorant, THEY JUST WEREN'T EDUCATED IN THE RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS OF THE DAY. A true believer cannot spend three years in the sweet presence of Jesus, and not have learned something. Actually that is the problem with the majority of preachers today, THEY DO NOT SPEND NEARLY ENOUGH TIME IN JESUS' PRESENCE, BUT RELY ON THEIR EDUCATION TO GET THEM THROUGH. Peter and John didn't have the flowery speech, but they did have the power of God, and a knowledge of Who Jesus is, and What He wants for mankind.
III. A personal walk with Jesus.
IV. Every once in a while, some fruit is also a requirement. v.14
This is the day. for 5/25
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Amen! Jesus Christ is the only way. God's Free Gift of salvation will only work through the BLOOD of Jesus Christ. God's Perfect Law demanded a sacrifice, and a little over 2000 years ago the Perfect Sacrifice was born of a virgin. Jesus Christ, living a perfect life, was not only the Ultimate Sacrifice, but was also the Ultimate Example to each of us. The name of Jesus will tame the maniac, dry out the drunk, rehabilitate the addict, calm the nervous, terrify the demons, save the sinner, and convict the religious hypocrite. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, sweetest name I know, Fills my every longing, Keeps me singing as I go. What a lovely name the name of Jesus. The grandest name on earth, and the only name "whereby we must be saved."
Acts 4:12 (an outline)
I. Jesus is the only way.
II. Jesus is the only name.
III. Jesus is the only Saviour.
Amen! Jesus Christ is the only way. God's Free Gift of salvation will only work through the BLOOD of Jesus Christ. God's Perfect Law demanded a sacrifice, and a little over 2000 years ago the Perfect Sacrifice was born of a virgin. Jesus Christ, living a perfect life, was not only the Ultimate Sacrifice, but was also the Ultimate Example to each of us. The name of Jesus will tame the maniac, dry out the drunk, rehabilitate the addict, calm the nervous, terrify the demons, save the sinner, and convict the religious hypocrite. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, sweetest name I know, Fills my every longing, Keeps me singing as I go. What a lovely name the name of Jesus. The grandest name on earth, and the only name "whereby we must be saved."
Acts 4:12 (an outline)
I. Jesus is the only way.
II. Jesus is the only name.
III. Jesus is the only Saviour.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
This is the day. for 5/24
Isaiah 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the LORD sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.
This is a very interesting verse. Many people believe that Isaiah had not been able to see the Lord high and lifted up until this time because he had been focusing on king Uzziah. My question to all of us is simply this, "Who are we watching?" The emphasis in the world today is on 'heroes', 'idols', and the 'lifestyles of the rich and famous.' If we are not very careful, we can also, as Christians, begin to focus on people instead of God. When we begin to focus on people, then God loses that position of being high and lifted up in our lives, and our spirtual lives will suffer. As a Christian, God must always be first.
Who are you watching?
(Some people who can take your focus off God)
I. Fantastic sports stars. Such a big draw today.
II. Fashionable actors. The world's "pretty people."
III. The Forbes top 500. "Oh, how i would like to be 'that rich!'"
IV. Famous preachers. Uzziah was actually a good king, but that was not where Isaiah should have had his eyes.
V. Family. Little league sports, athletics, activities, school, church: what a blurr life can be today. God still must be first in all things.
This is a very interesting verse. Many people believe that Isaiah had not been able to see the Lord high and lifted up until this time because he had been focusing on king Uzziah. My question to all of us is simply this, "Who are we watching?" The emphasis in the world today is on 'heroes', 'idols', and the 'lifestyles of the rich and famous.' If we are not very careful, we can also, as Christians, begin to focus on people instead of God. When we begin to focus on people, then God loses that position of being high and lifted up in our lives, and our spirtual lives will suffer. As a Christian, God must always be first.
Who are you watching?
(Some people who can take your focus off God)
I. Fantastic sports stars. Such a big draw today.
II. Fashionable actors. The world's "pretty people."
III. The Forbes top 500. "Oh, how i would like to be 'that rich!'"
IV. Famous preachers. Uzziah was actually a good king, but that was not where Isaiah should have had his eyes.
V. Family. Little league sports, athletics, activities, school, church: what a blurr life can be today. God still must be first in all things.
Friday, May 22, 2009
This is the day.
II Timothy 2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
Monday is Memorial Day. This is a day in which we try to bring honor to our fallen, to our soldiers, and loved ones who have gone on before. The picture today is of a soldier carrying a cross. It is truly wonderful to live in a country where we have religious freedom, and where we have men and women who will fight for that freedom, even if they don't agree with our religious ideas. God has blessed America, and we Christians need to pray that America will wake up one more time, and honor the God who has made America the greates nation on earth.
II Timothy 2: I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Paul's Charge for a good soldier: V. 2
I. Tell others the truths of the Bible.
II. Tell them that they are wrong.
III. Tell them where they are wrong.
IV. Teach them how to get right.
V. Take time to tell them over and over again.
VI. Temper what you say with Bible Doctrine.
Paul's Warnings to a good soldier: Vs. 3-4
I. They won't listen to the Gospel.
II. They will create their own teachers who they want to hear.
III. They will believe lies and not the truth.
Paul's recipe for a good soldier. V.5
I. Be watchful.
II. Be enduring.
III. Be a preacher.
IV. Make sure what you are doing lines up with God's Word.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
This is the day.
Galatians 2:1 Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.
2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.
3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised:
4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:
Paul is here trying to teach the Galatian saints that Gentiles are not under the law. It is interesting to note here that Titus has come up to Jerusalem with Paul, and, being a Gentile, declines to be circumcised. Many people would have Christians today believe that they are still under the law. Several groups claim that worship on Saturday is still a command of God, and others believe in keeping the dietary laws of the Old Testament. I will remind us all that the Bible says if we keep the whole law, yet offend in one point we are guilty of all. Those who would keep the Sabbath, must also hold to the diet, as well as observing all of the sacrifices, while making sure to wear only that which pertains to the sex he/she is, also adding fringes to the borders of their garments, observing each feast day, stoning rebellious children, adulterers, and murderers, and holding to all the rest of the law at the same time (no more shrimp, sausage, or porkchops). It is amazing that all of these LAW KEEPERS only seem to hold to a few of the requirements.
How wonderful it is to be under God's GRACE. Yes, the Christian does have to live a moral life. However, we have been given the ultimate Sacrifice, we have been released from dietary law, we have been freed from our sin by the Blood of Jesus. Some of these Laws still apply to us in our daily lives, and have been reinforced in the New Testament, others were specifically for Israel. Thank God for the Law which stands as a schoolmaster to bring us unto Grace.
Some signs of False brethren:
I. Try to make you follow certain parts of the Bible without considering others.
II. Take the emphasis off the Blood of Jesus, and focus on the Love of Jesus.
III. Tell you there are "many ways" to heaven. (Jesus is the WAY, the truth, and the life)
IV. Try to emphasize the writings of a man/woman as equal to or above the Bible.
V. Tend to live however they want to while focusing on making you live the way they want you to. (do as I say, not as I do)
2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.
3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised:
4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:
Paul is here trying to teach the Galatian saints that Gentiles are not under the law. It is interesting to note here that Titus has come up to Jerusalem with Paul, and, being a Gentile, declines to be circumcised. Many people would have Christians today believe that they are still under the law. Several groups claim that worship on Saturday is still a command of God, and others believe in keeping the dietary laws of the Old Testament. I will remind us all that the Bible says if we keep the whole law, yet offend in one point we are guilty of all. Those who would keep the Sabbath, must also hold to the diet, as well as observing all of the sacrifices, while making sure to wear only that which pertains to the sex he/she is, also adding fringes to the borders of their garments, observing each feast day, stoning rebellious children, adulterers, and murderers, and holding to all the rest of the law at the same time (no more shrimp, sausage, or porkchops). It is amazing that all of these LAW KEEPERS only seem to hold to a few of the requirements.
How wonderful it is to be under God's GRACE. Yes, the Christian does have to live a moral life. However, we have been given the ultimate Sacrifice, we have been released from dietary law, we have been freed from our sin by the Blood of Jesus. Some of these Laws still apply to us in our daily lives, and have been reinforced in the New Testament, others were specifically for Israel. Thank God for the Law which stands as a schoolmaster to bring us unto Grace.
Some signs of False brethren:
I. Try to make you follow certain parts of the Bible without considering others.
II. Take the emphasis off the Blood of Jesus, and focus on the Love of Jesus.
III. Tell you there are "many ways" to heaven. (Jesus is the WAY, the truth, and the life)
IV. Try to emphasize the writings of a man/woman as equal to or above the Bible.
V. Tend to live however they want to while focusing on making you live the way they want you to. (do as I say, not as I do)
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
This is the day.
I Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.
3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God
Praise God, for a MAN of God that you can follow! When we look at the world today, so much is lacking in real leadership. Oh, we have figure-heads that are called leaders, and we have people who stand up and say, "I am a leader.", but the truth is that the world is in a drought for good leaders, and is almost completely without great leaders. The most important mark of a great leader is his relationship to God. (Note I am talking about spiritual leaders, specifically preachers, and therefore have not included women in this post.) Without a proper relationship to God, no man can be a spiritual leader. So many churches today are afflicted with so-called "leaders" who are not even really saved men. God will use men, if they will step up and take the responsibility that He has laid on them, but the first and most important criteria is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We need men who we can follow, as they follow Christ. We need men who will let Christ be the head. We need Godly leaders in the world in which we live. If you have a Godly leader, covet (here it is a good thing) him, pray for him, and support him in his ministry.
Qualifications for Godly leadership:
I. It is a good thing to be a Godly leader.1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
II. A Godly leader must be one whom the community respects, must be a man, must be a go-getter, and must be an able teacher. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
III.A Godly leader must be a sober, peaceful, temperate, honest man.3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
IV.A Godly leaders must have his home in order.4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
V. A Godly leader must know God's Word well.6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
VI.A Godly leader must have a good reputation. 7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.
3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God
Praise God, for a MAN of God that you can follow! When we look at the world today, so much is lacking in real leadership. Oh, we have figure-heads that are called leaders, and we have people who stand up and say, "I am a leader.", but the truth is that the world is in a drought for good leaders, and is almost completely without great leaders. The most important mark of a great leader is his relationship to God. (Note I am talking about spiritual leaders, specifically preachers, and therefore have not included women in this post.) Without a proper relationship to God, no man can be a spiritual leader. So many churches today are afflicted with so-called "leaders" who are not even really saved men. God will use men, if they will step up and take the responsibility that He has laid on them, but the first and most important criteria is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We need men who we can follow, as they follow Christ. We need men who will let Christ be the head. We need Godly leaders in the world in which we live. If you have a Godly leader, covet (here it is a good thing) him, pray for him, and support him in his ministry.
Qualifications for Godly leadership:
I. It is a good thing to be a Godly leader.1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
II. A Godly leader must be one whom the community respects, must be a man, must be a go-getter, and must be an able teacher. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
III.A Godly leader must be a sober, peaceful, temperate, honest man.3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
IV.A Godly leaders must have his home in order.4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
V. A Godly leader must know God's Word well.6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
VI.A Godly leader must have a good reputation. 7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
This is the day.
Psalms 59:16 But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.
17 Unto thee, O my strength, will I sing: for God is my defence, and the God of my mercy.
Singing unto the Lord. What a wonderful priveledge to be able to lift our voices in honor and adoration of the God of heaven. These verses tell of singing of His Attriibutes, and what better description can we have of God than these. I will sing of thy power, "I Sing the Mighty Power of God." I will sing aloud of thy Mercy, "I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord Forever." For thou hast been my defence and refuge, "God is our Refuge and Strength." What a great lift these songs can bring to our spirits. Let us never lose our song!
Christian Singing should:
I. Contain Praise.
II. Prepare for Worship.
III. Have Melody.
IV. Be about something Godly.
Sadly so many of the songs we see today, masked as Christian, contain only some of these elements, and sometimes contain none of these elements. We should not settle for shallow songs when there are so many good songs, old and new, that really praise the Lord.
Monday, May 18, 2009
This is the day.
I Corinthians 15:33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.
Probably one of the most basic, or fundamental, needs of humankind is companionship. The need for a companion dates all the way back to Adam, and is deeply ingrained in every human. The first time that it was stated that mankind needed a companion was by God Himself, after which He made Eve to be with Adam. Still today, people need companions. It is rare that anyone can go through life without feeling the need to be surrounded by other humans, to have a core base of friends, and to have companions with which to react. The few people who have lived the life of hermits, have usually either had an emotional problem, or have been fugitives from the law.
All of this being said, we can assume that the need for friends and companions extends to the Christian as well. Each of us needs someone, and we often look for those who have similar interests, characteristics, desires, and ambitions to our own. However, as a Christian, there are some extra criteria that must be observed. We should always seek to be friends with Christians, and should never allow ourselves to be intimate friends with someone who does not claim, and have a testimony of!!, salvation. The verse from Corinthians is a stern reminder that our friends should be those who are striving to live a Godly life, and should not even be Christians who are out of fellowship with the Lord. One of the things that will draw any Christian, but especially a young Christian or a teenage Christian, away from God the quickest is an association with someone who does not want to serve the Lord. It is sad that we see this pattern all to frequently in our churches today. We must guard ourselves against these unhealthy friendships, and guard our young people by example and through teaching them about separation.
Three examples of bad "friends" in the Bible.
I. Jonadab. II Samuel 13. This is the young man who convinced Amnon to rape Tamar.
II. Ahab. "Friend" of Jehoshaphat in I Kings 22. Almost got Jehoshaphat killed in battle.
III. The old prophet. I Kings 13. Convinced the young prophet to disobey God. The young prophet died because of this move.
Probably one of the most basic, or fundamental, needs of humankind is companionship. The need for a companion dates all the way back to Adam, and is deeply ingrained in every human. The first time that it was stated that mankind needed a companion was by God Himself, after which He made Eve to be with Adam. Still today, people need companions. It is rare that anyone can go through life without feeling the need to be surrounded by other humans, to have a core base of friends, and to have companions with which to react. The few people who have lived the life of hermits, have usually either had an emotional problem, or have been fugitives from the law.
All of this being said, we can assume that the need for friends and companions extends to the Christian as well. Each of us needs someone, and we often look for those who have similar interests, characteristics, desires, and ambitions to our own. However, as a Christian, there are some extra criteria that must be observed. We should always seek to be friends with Christians, and should never allow ourselves to be intimate friends with someone who does not claim, and have a testimony of!!, salvation. The verse from Corinthians is a stern reminder that our friends should be those who are striving to live a Godly life, and should not even be Christians who are out of fellowship with the Lord. One of the things that will draw any Christian, but especially a young Christian or a teenage Christian, away from God the quickest is an association with someone who does not want to serve the Lord. It is sad that we see this pattern all to frequently in our churches today. We must guard ourselves against these unhealthy friendships, and guard our young people by example and through teaching them about separation.
Three examples of bad "friends" in the Bible.
I. Jonadab. II Samuel 13. This is the young man who convinced Amnon to rape Tamar.
II. Ahab. "Friend" of Jehoshaphat in I Kings 22. Almost got Jehoshaphat killed in battle.
III. The old prophet. I Kings 13. Convinced the young prophet to disobey God. The young prophet died because of this move.
Friday, May 15, 2009
This is the day.
Luke 16:16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:
17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.
18 And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,
20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,
21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
22 And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.
23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:
These men troubled the city. How do we affect the place where we live? Many people trouble their cities. Drug dealers and men or women who run prostitution rings cause great trouble to the places where they operate. Thieves and wife beaters trouble those around them. Even politicians and police can cause trouble in their cities. However, Paul and his companions troubled the city in a completely different way. They proclaimed the glorious message of God, and strove to see souls saved. The "trouble" they brought was really only the solution to this city's problems.
When your city won't like you.
I. When you are serving God.
II. When you are seeing souls saved.
III. When you are cutting into the wicked people's profits.
IV. When you are preaching the Word of God.
V. When you begin to step on the Devil's toes.
17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.
18 And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,
20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,
21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
22 And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.
23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:
These men troubled the city. How do we affect the place where we live? Many people trouble their cities. Drug dealers and men or women who run prostitution rings cause great trouble to the places where they operate. Thieves and wife beaters trouble those around them. Even politicians and police can cause trouble in their cities. However, Paul and his companions troubled the city in a completely different way. They proclaimed the glorious message of God, and strove to see souls saved. The "trouble" they brought was really only the solution to this city's problems.
When your city won't like you.
I. When you are serving God.
II. When you are seeing souls saved.
III. When you are cutting into the wicked people's profits.
IV. When you are preaching the Word of God.
V. When you begin to step on the Devil's toes.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
This is the day.
I Samuel 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.
The sin of rebellion is one which must be carefully guarded against. It is easy to get a bad attitude toward authority, and to allow yourself to become a rebel against that authority. In order to fully appreciate the blessings of God, we must submit ourselves to the authority in our lives.
Signs of rebellion:
I. Thinking 'your' worship is good enough. Saul tried to step into the priests office and worship God a different way than prescribed.
II. Avoiding the voice of God. Saul did not destroy Amalek.
III. Becoming unable to deal with the enemy. Saul cowered in fear of Goliath.
IV.Becoming jelous of God's man (especially when he is younger). Saul tried to kill David.
V. Getting a bad spirit. Saul became so bad he had to be comforted. (it is interesting to note that God sent the spirit because of Saul's disobedience)
VI. Accusing others of being rebellious. Saul told Jonathan that he and his mother were rebels.
VII. Becoming ineffective as a leader. Saul was basically replace as the leader by Jonathan.
VIII. Turning to the world for advice. Saul consulted with the witch at Endor.
IX. Finally either destoying yourself, or being destroyed by the enemy. [often losing your family in the process]{Saul lost three sons}
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
song
| Blessed be the name (Clark) All praise to Him Who reigns above |
This is the day.
Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Genesis 2:23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
God created a man and a woman. God put the man and the woman together. Adam realized that this was a wonderful relationship, and decided to cleave to his wife. In today's society, there is a trend to discredit the natural order of marital relationships, with the vile, disgusting, filthy sodomite lifestyle. God did not create the bodies of two men or two women to function in a sexual relationship with each other, and clearly states that this is an abomination (morally disgusting) to Him. America needs to wake up and realize that this type of immorality is against God, and He will not bless it.
God's thoughts on Sodomy:
I. Sodom. Burnt it to the ground. Genesis 19
II. Gibeah. Commanded the Israelites to destroy the city, and almost wipe out the tribe of Benjamin. Judges 20
III. God's Law. Commanded Sodomites to be stoned. Leviticus 20:13
IV. New Testament. Stated that Sodomites were turned over to a reprobate mind. Romans 1
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
This is the day.
John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;
10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
Talking about the Holy Spirit in this passage, Jesus says that the Holy Spirit will reprove the world. So many people don't want preaching to "offend," or to reprove them, but Jesus said that is what the era of the Holy Spirit is supposed to do. People don't want to hear about their sin, they want to continue in unbelief. They don't want to hear about righteous living, they want to want to live any way they want. Finally, they don't want to hear about judgment because they don't want to be reproved for what they have done.
How preaching could be from Jeremiah:
I. Fearful.
II. In the fury of the Lord.
III. Fiery
9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;
10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
Talking about the Holy Spirit in this passage, Jesus says that the Holy Spirit will reprove the world. So many people don't want preaching to "offend," or to reprove them, but Jesus said that is what the era of the Holy Spirit is supposed to do. People don't want to hear about their sin, they want to continue in unbelief. They don't want to hear about righteous living, they want to want to live any way they want. Finally, they don't want to hear about judgment because they don't want to be reproved for what they have done.
How preaching could be from Jeremiah:
I. Fearful.
II. In the fury of the Lord.
III. Fiery
Monday, May 11, 2009
This is the day.
ECCLESIASTES 1: 8 All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.
The eye is not satsified, and the ear is not satisfied. So often we are never satisfied with what God has given us. Sometimes we hold on to memories, and the feelings that have been so special to us, when God is telling us it is time to move on. Only a close relationship with God can really satisfy a person. Most of us want to hang on to things. If we will give up what God has willed that we cannot have, then God will give us something far better for our lifes.
Only Jesus satisfies.
I. Our needs. Many blind, and lame sat for years in Israel, but when Jesus came on the scene, He healed those who needed Him.
II. Our wants. There is a condition. Psalm 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
III. Our future. No matter what, the future of the Christian is as sure as anything that has ever been sure.
The eye is not satsified, and the ear is not satisfied. So often we are never satisfied with what God has given us. Sometimes we hold on to memories, and the feelings that have been so special to us, when God is telling us it is time to move on. Only a close relationship with God can really satisfy a person. Most of us want to hang on to things. If we will give up what God has willed that we cannot have, then God will give us something far better for our lifes.
Only Jesus satisfies.
I. Our needs. Many blind, and lame sat for years in Israel, but when Jesus came on the scene, He healed those who needed Him.
II. Our wants. There is a condition. Psalm 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
III. Our future. No matter what, the future of the Christian is as sure as anything that has ever been sure.
Friday, May 8, 2009
This is the day.
Luke 16:19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:
28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.
You don't need to be a Bible Scholar to recognize Luke 16 as being one of the most real passages in the Bible about Hell. Some people today discount Hell as being real, and others just laugh and act like it will be some great party. Hell is real, friend, and it is definitely NO JOKE!! This pasage is not a parable, but rather a literal story about what happens after death. My friend, there is only one way to escape this awful place, BY THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB OF GOD, JESUS CHRIST!! You have to make a decision on whether or not you are going to hell, but remember, YOU DON'T HAVE TO GO THERE.
Things about hell.
I. Heat. constant burning with no relief
II. Emptiness. though full of people, each person is isolated to him/herself
III. Labrynth. like a maze that you will never get out of (Webster's 1828 Dictionary) 1. Among the ancients, an edifice or place full of intricacies, or formed with winding passages, which rendered it difficult to find the way from the interior to the entrance. The most remarkable of these edifices mentioned, are the Egyptian and the Cretan labyrinths.
IV. Lastingness. Hell lasts for ever. (Webster's 1828 Dictionary) n. Durability; the quality or state of long continuance.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
This is the day.
I Peter 3:9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
What a hard thing for us to do! When someone has a quarrel with us, it is our nature to fight back to undermine them with all we have. We struggle to "get even" or to "let them have it." Peter warns against this, saying not to return evil for evil. Why should we try to humbly accept the evils of others toward us? Well, the Bible says here that if we do not seek revenge, we will be able to love life and see good days. Revenge is a natural reaction in our lives, but with the grace of God, we can overcome this though process, and live "the good life."
People in the Bible who were spiritually hurt by revenge.
I. Cain (driven from God, went to Hell)
II. Saul (God's good spirit departed from Him)
III. Jezebel (thrown out a window, went to Hell)
IV. The New Testament Jews (crucified Jesus, took the blame upon their children)
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
This is the day.
II Samuel 23:9 And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men with David, when they defied the Philistines that were there gathered together to battle, and the men of Israel were gone away:
10 He arose, and smote the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clave unto the sword: and the LORD wrought a great victory that day; and the people returned after him only to spoil.
This is in the list of "David's Mighty Men." What a challenge, though, that we can take from it! Eleazar fought, Eleazar faught hard, Eleazar fought until he was tired, Eleazar fought until he could not drop his weapon, and Eleazar fought until a great victory had been won. We are told to take the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. So often, however, we seem prone to drop the weapon. We must learn to put everything we have into the fight, and to give it all we've got! God will then bring victory to our lives.
Fighting spiritual battles. (I believe we already have a good outline)
I. Fight
II. Fight hard.
III. Fight until you are tired.
IV. Fight until you and your weapon [God's Word] become inseperable.
V. Fight until God brings the victory.
The Fight is On
The fight is on, the trumpet sound is ringing out,
The cry “To arms!” is heard afar and near;
The Lord of hosts is marching on to victory,
The triumph of the Christ will soon appear.
Refrain
The fight is on, O Christian soldier,
And face to face in stern array,
With armor gleaming, and colors streaming,
The right and wrong engage today!
The fight is on, but be not weary;
Be strong, and in His might hold fast;
If God be for us, His banner o’er us,
We’ll sing the victor’s song at last!
The fight is on, arouse, ye soldiers brave and true!
Jehovah leads, and victory will assure;
Go buckle on the armor God has given you,
And in His strength unto the end endure.
Refrain
The Lord is leading on to certain victory;
The bow of promise spans the eastern sky;
His glorious Name in every land shall honored be;
The morn will break, the dawn of peace is nigh.
Refrain
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
This is the day.
Zechariah 4:10 For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
I think most of us would say that it is true, that often it is the "small" things that get us in the most trouble. When we let something slip that seems insignificant, we often allow that to get us into a position to let something else slip, and then something else, and so on until we are far away from where we need to be. We need to realize that there are really not any "small" things with God, He considers sin to be sin, whether or not we think it is just 'small.' We all need to strive in our daily lives to fortify our lives in the area of dealing with the "small" problems, before they overwhelm us.
What small problems can lead to.
I. Discouragement. How often we let "little" things discourage us.
II. Destruction. Song of Solomon 2:15 Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.
III. Death. Amos 5:19 As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; or went into the house, and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him. The big things did not destroy him, but the little one got him.
Monday, May 4, 2009
He Broke the Chains.
Once I was down in sin’s dark prison,
No one around could take my place,
I had no joy, no hope for living,
Then Jesus came, He broke the chains.
chorus
He broke the chains of sin and sorrow,
He broke the chains of fear and shame,
He wrote my name, way up in glory,
Since Jesus came, He broke the chains.
In the tomb he laid what a cold, dark prison,
And to all the world, death seemed to reign,
But Mary cried, “My Lord is risen.”
From Death He came, He broke the chains.
This is the day.
II Chronicles 13:8 And now ye think to withstand the kingdom of the LORD in the hand of the sons of David; and ye be a great multitude, and there are with your golden calves, which Jeroboam made you for gods.
9 Have ye not cast out the priests of the LORD, the sons of Aaron, and the Levites, and have made you priests after the manner of the nations of other lands? so that whosoever cometh to consecrate himself with a young bullock and seven rams, the same may be a priest of them that are no gods.
10 But as for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken him; and the priests, which minister unto the LORD, are the sons of Aaron, and the Levites wait upon their business:
11 And they burn unto the LORD every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense: the shewbread also set they in order upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening: for we keep the charge of the LORD our God; but ye have forsaken him.
12 And, behold, God himself is with us for our captain, and his priests with sounding trumpets to cry alarm against you. O children of Israel, fight ye not against the LORD God of your fathers; for ye shall not prosper
The golden calves in verse eight represent a half-hearted attempt to make Israel think they were serving God. Really, Jeroboam was leading these Israelites away from God and into complete idol worship. Every aspect of his 'worship' had taken away from God's prescribed plan for Israel's true worship. Verse ten gives a great statement, "the LORD is our God," never forsake Him, let the right men of God have the leadership. Give God a wholsome sacrifice (Rom. 12:1-2), and keep your worship pure. God will then be your captain, and the battles will be won, not by your might but by the Power of God. Let us worship God in SPIRIT AND IN TRUTH!!
Worship needs to be:
I. In line with God's Word.
II. Out of a pure heart.
III. In a spirit of sacrifice.
Friday, May 1, 2009
This is the day.
Proverbs 5:21 For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.
Do you think you have gotten by with something? Think again! It is a humbling thought to know that everything you have ever done has been seen by God, and has either been approved or disapproved by Him. Our ways: our thoughts, our actions, everything we do, are before the Lord. Even more HE PONDERS our ways. He takes the time to think about what we are doing, and, being ALL-KNOWING, even considers our motives. What a Great God!! This knowledge of Him should make us want to submit our ways to Him, and let Him lead us in the right direction.
The ways of the wicked are not known.
I. The wicked do not know why they have wicked ways. Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
II. The wicked do not know the way of salvation. Jon 10:7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.
9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. (emphasis added)
III. The wicked don't know the way to heaven. Ecclesiastes 10:15 The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the city. (emphasis added) Psalm 53:1 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good. (emphasis added)
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