We all refer to the Bible as God's Word. But what does that really mean?
During our devotions last evening, Rex read John 12:49 (KJV): For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father, who sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak." The Living Bible expresses it a little differently: "These are not my own ideas, but I have told you what the Father said to tell you."
Suddenly a new thought struck me. You know how the "red letter" Bibles have the words that Jesus actually spoke in red letters. That makes them stand out so that we know those are the words of Jesus. But wait a minute. According to the Scripture we just quoted, those are not words that Jesus just decided to speak on His own say-so. They are words that GOD TOLD HIM to speak. In other words, they are GOD'S WORDS.
John 17:8 (KJV) confirms this when it says, "For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me . . ."
Is that why we refer to the Bible as "The Word of God" instead of the word of Jesus?
Just wondering. but I do get all excited when a new thought like that strikes me! However you look at it, it's something to think about!
Preacher's Kid
Friday, July 30, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
"BUTS" AND EXCUSES
If you remember your grade school grammar, you'll recall that the word "but" is a preposition. I've discovered it's also an excuse!
I was discussing weight loss with a friend today (via email) and said something about I could lose weight BUT . . . I may have used the word "IF" -- another preposition just as bad which also signifies an excuse.
Have you ever considered how large a place these two words -- "BUT' and "IF" -- hold in our conversations?
I'd read my Bible more IF . . . I'd pray more IF . . . I'd be more generous in giving to the church IF . . . I'd go to church more often IF I could, BUT . . . I'd witness to my friends and familes BUT . . .
Remember the story in II Kings 5 about Naaman, the leper. Verse 1 tells us that he was an important and honorable man BUT he was a leper. In this story the word "BUT" is not used as an excuse. It was a matter of fact. It was only after Naaman got past that BUT and stepped into the waters of the Jordan River in obedience to the command of God's prophet Elisha that he was healed. No longer was he a leper.
We need to get past the "BUTS" (the "IFS", too) in our lives so that we can move ahead in our relationship with God. To put it simply, we need to quit making excuses for our spiritual shortcomings! For other things, too!
Or am I the only one who makes excuses???
Preacher's Kid
I was discussing weight loss with a friend today (via email) and said something about I could lose weight BUT . . . I may have used the word "IF" -- another preposition just as bad which also signifies an excuse.
Have you ever considered how large a place these two words -- "BUT' and "IF" -- hold in our conversations?
I'd read my Bible more IF . . . I'd pray more IF . . . I'd be more generous in giving to the church IF . . . I'd go to church more often IF I could, BUT . . . I'd witness to my friends and familes BUT . . .
Remember the story in II Kings 5 about Naaman, the leper. Verse 1 tells us that he was an important and honorable man BUT he was a leper. In this story the word "BUT" is not used as an excuse. It was a matter of fact. It was only after Naaman got past that BUT and stepped into the waters of the Jordan River in obedience to the command of God's prophet Elisha that he was healed. No longer was he a leper.
We need to get past the "BUTS" (the "IFS", too) in our lives so that we can move ahead in our relationship with God. To put it simply, we need to quit making excuses for our spiritual shortcomings! For other things, too!
Or am I the only one who makes excuses???
Preacher's Kid
Friday, July 23, 2010
ACTING ON THE WORD
My husband and I have been reading "The Two Kinds of Faith" by Rev. E. W. Kenyon. (We've read many of his other books and have found him to be a reliable teacher of deep Gospel truths.)
Regarding faith, he says that most Christians have a "head knowledge" faith only. That is, they give mental assent to the Word of God but never act on it. Real true faith, or heart faith is what he calls Revelation Knowledge. This is the kind of faith that ACTS on the Word of God. And that's where I'm "hung up." As we prayed last night, I asked the Lord to show me what it means to ACT on the Word. Well, I think I got the "beginning" of my answer today.
I met with the Seniors of our church for breakfast early this morning. Then we drove out in the country and bought a flat of red raspberries. After that we did our weekly grocery shopping; and of course, all those groceries had to be put away when we got home! By that time it was almost noon and I was too exhausted to even think about making jam with those raspberries. And I was too tired to fix the stew I had planned for our evening meal even though the meat was thawed! I knew that both the raspberries and the meat would keep till tomorrow -- but I have laundry to do tomorrow as well as a casserole to make for our pot luck at church Sunday! Now what?
As I sat in my La-Z-Boy mulling over all this, I thought of God's promise that "(A)s thy day, so shall thy strength be." No, that's not a promise, I told myself; that's a statement of fact. OK, do I believe it? I asked myself. Suddenly I remembered what Rex and I had read and discussed last night: Believing, or true faith, is ACTING on the Word of God.
How could I translate this to my present circumstance? For sure God wasn't going to give me strength if I just continued to sprawl out in my easy chair. If I believed, really believed what God said about strength for the day, I'd act on it -- I'd get up out of that chair and start working, which I did. Guess what? Strength came right away! I made the stew, then made the jam. I even walked across the street and took a basket of raspberries to a neighbor! And I was going to do the laundry until my husband persuaded me to wait until tomorrow.
So now I'm beginning to understand what it means to ACT on the Word.
One question. How do I ACT on the Word when it comes to my healing? If you have any ideas, let me know. And DON'T tell me to stop taking my medicine. While some healing televangelists advocate that practice, I don't accept it. I believe it's televangelist Benny Hinn who says to let your doctor confirm your healing and take you off prescribed medications. Now, that I can subscribe to!
I'm still studying about and praying for physical healing which, by the way, I believe is part of the plan of redemption and available to all God's children.
What say?
Preacher's Kid
Regarding faith, he says that most Christians have a "head knowledge" faith only. That is, they give mental assent to the Word of God but never act on it. Real true faith, or heart faith is what he calls Revelation Knowledge. This is the kind of faith that ACTS on the Word of God. And that's where I'm "hung up." As we prayed last night, I asked the Lord to show me what it means to ACT on the Word. Well, I think I got the "beginning" of my answer today.
I met with the Seniors of our church for breakfast early this morning. Then we drove out in the country and bought a flat of red raspberries. After that we did our weekly grocery shopping; and of course, all those groceries had to be put away when we got home! By that time it was almost noon and I was too exhausted to even think about making jam with those raspberries. And I was too tired to fix the stew I had planned for our evening meal even though the meat was thawed! I knew that both the raspberries and the meat would keep till tomorrow -- but I have laundry to do tomorrow as well as a casserole to make for our pot luck at church Sunday! Now what?
As I sat in my La-Z-Boy mulling over all this, I thought of God's promise that "(A)s thy day, so shall thy strength be." No, that's not a promise, I told myself; that's a statement of fact. OK, do I believe it? I asked myself. Suddenly I remembered what Rex and I had read and discussed last night: Believing, or true faith, is ACTING on the Word of God.
How could I translate this to my present circumstance? For sure God wasn't going to give me strength if I just continued to sprawl out in my easy chair. If I believed, really believed what God said about strength for the day, I'd act on it -- I'd get up out of that chair and start working, which I did. Guess what? Strength came right away! I made the stew, then made the jam. I even walked across the street and took a basket of raspberries to a neighbor! And I was going to do the laundry until my husband persuaded me to wait until tomorrow.
So now I'm beginning to understand what it means to ACT on the Word.
One question. How do I ACT on the Word when it comes to my healing? If you have any ideas, let me know. And DON'T tell me to stop taking my medicine. While some healing televangelists advocate that practice, I don't accept it. I believe it's televangelist Benny Hinn who says to let your doctor confirm your healing and take you off prescribed medications. Now, that I can subscribe to!
I'm still studying about and praying for physical healing which, by the way, I believe is part of the plan of redemption and available to all God's children.
What say?
Preacher's Kid
Thursday, July 22, 2010
PASSPORT TO HEAVEN
If you were to die today and Christ would ask you, "Why should I let you into My Heaven," how would you respond?
Unbelievers would give such answers as:
(1) I've tried to live a good life.
(2) I've done many good deeds.
(3) I've always been generous.
(4) I've helped the poor.
(5) I've always attended church.
While all those are good things, none of them can assure our entrance through the pearly gates.
The only acceptable answer is: BECAUSE OF THE BLOOD THAT JESUS SHED FOR MY SINS.
Christ said in John 14:6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
Luke 9:22 reminds us that "(W)ithout the shedding of blood is no remission" of sins.
As the old hymn questions, "Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing flood? Are you washed in the Blood of the Lamb?"
Never forget -- the Blood is our only passport to Heaven!
Preacher's Kid
Unbelievers would give such answers as:
(1) I've tried to live a good life.
(2) I've done many good deeds.
(3) I've always been generous.
(4) I've helped the poor.
(5) I've always attended church.
While all those are good things, none of them can assure our entrance through the pearly gates.
The only acceptable answer is: BECAUSE OF THE BLOOD THAT JESUS SHED FOR MY SINS.
Christ said in John 14:6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
Luke 9:22 reminds us that "(W)ithout the shedding of blood is no remission" of sins.
As the old hymn questions, "Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing flood? Are you washed in the Blood of the Lamb?"
Never forget -- the Blood is our only passport to Heaven!
Preacher's Kid
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
ARE THE 10 COMMANDMENTS IN FORCE TODAY?
I may get in hot water with some of my viewers with today's blog, but here goes!
How well I remember the first time I heard someone in a conservative church state openly that the Ten Commandments were not for us today. I was shocked beyond words! I've changed my mind since then as I've delved into the Word a little deeper!
As I mentioned in yesterday's blog re tithing, the Ten Comandments, too, were spoken to the Jews, and we're Gentiles. The Ten Commandments, which comprised a major part of the Law, were given to people under the Old Covenant, or the Old Testament. Today we live under the New Covenant, or the New Testament. The Old Covenant and the Law were abolished when Christ died on Calvary and the curtain to the Holy of Holies was rent in twain from top to bottom. That was the end of the Law!
No doubt you recall that the first five commandments governed man's behavior toward God, while the last five were directed towards man's relationship with his fellowmen.
Keeping that in mind, look at Christ's words in John 13:34: "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." If we love others the way Christ loves us, that's going to cover the last five of the commandments and a lot more, too.
Then consider the story in the 10th chapter of Luke where a lawyer asked Christ what he should do to inherit eternal life. When Christ turned the question back to the lawyer and asked him how he read the law, he answered in verse 27 by quoting Deuteronomy 6:5. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself." Now that covers our attitude toward both God and our fellowmen. It incorporates all 10 of the original commandments.
In fact, look at Christ's answer in the next verse: "Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live."
Even though the Law, including the 10 Commandments, has been done away with, Christ's new commandment of love embodies everything those commandments required, and lots more!
So are the 10 Commandments in force today? I believe Christ's new law of love covers all ten and plenty of others things, too!
Preacher's Kid
How well I remember the first time I heard someone in a conservative church state openly that the Ten Commandments were not for us today. I was shocked beyond words! I've changed my mind since then as I've delved into the Word a little deeper!
As I mentioned in yesterday's blog re tithing, the Ten Comandments, too, were spoken to the Jews, and we're Gentiles. The Ten Commandments, which comprised a major part of the Law, were given to people under the Old Covenant, or the Old Testament. Today we live under the New Covenant, or the New Testament. The Old Covenant and the Law were abolished when Christ died on Calvary and the curtain to the Holy of Holies was rent in twain from top to bottom. That was the end of the Law!
No doubt you recall that the first five commandments governed man's behavior toward God, while the last five were directed towards man's relationship with his fellowmen.
Keeping that in mind, look at Christ's words in John 13:34: "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." If we love others the way Christ loves us, that's going to cover the last five of the commandments and a lot more, too.
Then consider the story in the 10th chapter of Luke where a lawyer asked Christ what he should do to inherit eternal life. When Christ turned the question back to the lawyer and asked him how he read the law, he answered in verse 27 by quoting Deuteronomy 6:5. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself." Now that covers our attitude toward both God and our fellowmen. It incorporates all 10 of the original commandments.
In fact, look at Christ's answer in the next verse: "Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live."
Even though the Law, including the 10 Commandments, has been done away with, Christ's new commandment of love embodies everything those commandments required, and lots more!
So are the 10 Commandments in force today? I believe Christ's new law of love covers all ten and plenty of others things, too!
Preacher's Kid
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
WHO DO YOU GIVE TO -- GOD OR THE CHURCH?
A friend and I were discussing tithing the other day. Now don't shut me out just because I mentioned tithing!
In the Old Testament, tithing, or giving God 10% of your income was mandatory. But to whom was this directive given? The Jews. But most of us aren't Jews; we're Gentiles. Tithing was an integral part of the Old Covenant. But we're not living under the Old Covenant. We're living under the New Covenant, or the New Testament.
Frankly, the New Testament doesn't give a required percentage for our giving. I Corinthians 16:2 says (L)et every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him . . ." In other words, giving should be proportionate to the degree that God has blessed a person. How much has He blessed YOU?
New Testament giving should also be given cheerfully and from the heart according to II Corinthians 9:7. ""Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give, not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver."
I would say that New Testament giving may be ten percent or more, OR it may even be less! We should give as the Holy Spirit directs us to give, not as the pastor or church directs us to give. This is the distinct difference between giving to God and giving to the church.
The New Testament never gives a percentage as a required standard for giving.
Preacher's Kid
In the Old Testament, tithing, or giving God 10% of your income was mandatory. But to whom was this directive given? The Jews. But most of us aren't Jews; we're Gentiles. Tithing was an integral part of the Old Covenant. But we're not living under the Old Covenant. We're living under the New Covenant, or the New Testament.
Frankly, the New Testament doesn't give a required percentage for our giving. I Corinthians 16:2 says (L)et every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him . . ." In other words, giving should be proportionate to the degree that God has blessed a person. How much has He blessed YOU?
New Testament giving should also be given cheerfully and from the heart according to II Corinthians 9:7. ""Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give, not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver."
I would say that New Testament giving may be ten percent or more, OR it may even be less! We should give as the Holy Spirit directs us to give, not as the pastor or church directs us to give. This is the distinct difference between giving to God and giving to the church.
The New Testament never gives a percentage as a required standard for giving.
Preacher's Kid
Sunday, July 18, 2010
TENSES
You probably remember from your grade school days about the three primary tenses: Past, Present, Future. Someone has said that perhaps we should add a fourth tense, namely, Pretense!
Remember how in Mark 12:40(b) Christ talked about the scribes who "for a pretense make long prayers?"
Much of many Christian's lives -- or should I say so-called Christian's lives -- is for show, to impress others, to exalt and glorify self. Ego building, in other words. Their lives are just a facade.
Of course, there's the other side of the coin. Many Christians hesitate to participate in public worship such as public testimony or public prayer. They use the excuse that they're afraid of what others will think, that they don't know what to say or how to say it.
We certainly don't want to be guilty of adding a fourth tense, especially pretense, to our worship services. But let's not be guilty of withdrawing to the opposite extreme, either.
A good rule to follow is found in John 3:30 which says, "He must increase, but I must decrease."
As well-balanced Christians, let's not ignore either the "increase" or the "decrease."
Preacher's Kid
Remember how in Mark 12:40(b) Christ talked about the scribes who "for a pretense make long prayers?"
Much of many Christian's lives -- or should I say so-called Christian's lives -- is for show, to impress others, to exalt and glorify self. Ego building, in other words. Their lives are just a facade.
Of course, there's the other side of the coin. Many Christians hesitate to participate in public worship such as public testimony or public prayer. They use the excuse that they're afraid of what others will think, that they don't know what to say or how to say it.
We certainly don't want to be guilty of adding a fourth tense, especially pretense, to our worship services. But let's not be guilty of withdrawing to the opposite extreme, either.
A good rule to follow is found in John 3:30 which says, "He must increase, but I must decrease."
As well-balanced Christians, let's not ignore either the "increase" or the "decrease."
Preacher's Kid
Friday, July 16, 2010
TEMPORARY VS PERMANENT
In my personal devotions today, I was reading the 15th Psalm using the Amplified Bible and got a new insight from that first verse.
The Amplified reads: "Lord, Who shall dwell [temporarily] in Your tabernacle? Who shall dwell [permanently] on Your holy hill?" Suddenly a light bulb went on. Of course! Our bodies are God's tabernacle! And we live in these bodies on a temporary basis! Apparently "Your holy hill" refers to the after life, or heaven, where we will dwell with God permanently.
Simple! Why didn't I see that before? (That's why I said in yesterday's blog that I like to use different versions of God's Word and compare them with the King James version!) And in case you're interested, in the Amplified Bible, words in brackets, like [temporary] and [permanently] are clarifying words or comments not actually expressed in the immediate original text. Parentheses ( ), on the other hand, signify additional phrases of meaning included in the original word. The Amplified version is easier to understand when you keep those two things in mind.
After I contemplated the true meaning of that first verse for a few moments, I read the remainder of the chapter which explains who David is talking about. I can't point out everything in this blog, though; but you can read it for yourself. As you read it, ask yourself if you measure up to the requirements listed for those looking forward to dwelling permanently with the Lord.
I stopped a few moments with that word "blamelessly" in the second verse. "Perfect?" I first thought to myself. Then I realized it didn't say "perfect." Nor did it say "faultless." Nor did it make mention of never being a failure. Just "blameless." "Blameless" has numerous definitions; but the one I like best in connection with this verse is "guilt-free." Thank God for the privilege of living a guilt-free life!
When I came across the word "slander" in verse three, I thought, "Uh, Oh -- isn't that "gossip?" "Gossip," of course, is frowned upon for the Christian, but "slander" takes gossiping a little further: backbiting, backstabbing, mud-slinging, misrepresentation, lying. There's a lot of room for self-inspection right there.
Anyhow, read the Psalm for yourself and see how you measure up to the listed requirements for those desiring to dwell on God's holy hill permanently. God bless you as you do.
Preacher's Kid
The Amplified reads: "Lord, Who shall dwell [temporarily] in Your tabernacle? Who shall dwell [permanently] on Your holy hill?" Suddenly a light bulb went on. Of course! Our bodies are God's tabernacle! And we live in these bodies on a temporary basis! Apparently "Your holy hill" refers to the after life, or heaven, where we will dwell with God permanently.
Simple! Why didn't I see that before? (That's why I said in yesterday's blog that I like to use different versions of God's Word and compare them with the King James version!) And in case you're interested, in the Amplified Bible, words in brackets, like [temporary] and [permanently] are clarifying words or comments not actually expressed in the immediate original text. Parentheses ( ), on the other hand, signify additional phrases of meaning included in the original word. The Amplified version is easier to understand when you keep those two things in mind.
After I contemplated the true meaning of that first verse for a few moments, I read the remainder of the chapter which explains who David is talking about. I can't point out everything in this blog, though; but you can read it for yourself. As you read it, ask yourself if you measure up to the requirements listed for those looking forward to dwelling permanently with the Lord.
I stopped a few moments with that word "blamelessly" in the second verse. "Perfect?" I first thought to myself. Then I realized it didn't say "perfect." Nor did it say "faultless." Nor did it make mention of never being a failure. Just "blameless." "Blameless" has numerous definitions; but the one I like best in connection with this verse is "guilt-free." Thank God for the privilege of living a guilt-free life!
When I came across the word "slander" in verse three, I thought, "Uh, Oh -- isn't that "gossip?" "Gossip," of course, is frowned upon for the Christian, but "slander" takes gossiping a little further: backbiting, backstabbing, mud-slinging, misrepresentation, lying. There's a lot of room for self-inspection right there.
Anyhow, read the Psalm for yourself and see how you measure up to the listed requirements for those desiring to dwell on God's holy hill permanently. God bless you as you do.
Preacher's Kid
Thursday, July 15, 2010
E-T-H
Many people claim the King James version of the Bible is difficult to read because of all the "thee's, thou's, do-est's" etc. Consequently we have many newer translations and versions of the Word of God. Now don't misunderstand me. I'm not one of these people who believe that the King James version is the only version a Christian should use! I like to compare the different translations and often get new insights into the Word by so doing. But the KJV has its good points -- and "e-t-h" is one of them.
Did you know that any Bible word that ends with "eth" means it is an ongoing process? For example, the word "strengtheneth" means that God is empowering you, increasing your strength, making you stronger on a CONTINUAL basis.
Take the familiar and well-loved 23rd Psalm. If I counted right, there are six times that words ending in "e-t-h" appear. What does that say to us? It tells us that it's an ongoing process for God to make us lie down in green pastures. It means that he continuously leads us beside still waters. He's always leading us in paths of righteousness, etc.
When He says He "strengtheneth" us, that doesn't mean just once in a while or now and then, it means it's an ongoing process of His empowering us day after endless day in all situations, in all circumstances.
What about I John 5:1 for another example? "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God; and everyone that loveth him that begot loveth him also that is begotten of him." Believing and loving are continual, ongoing processes!
Start looking for "e-t-h" words as you read the KJV of God's Holy Word, and see what a difference it will make. Even if you have to buy an inexpensive copy of the KJV, it would be worth it. It will enrich your spiritual life tremendously.
Preacher's Kid
Did you know that any Bible word that ends with "eth" means it is an ongoing process? For example, the word "strengtheneth" means that God is empowering you, increasing your strength, making you stronger on a CONTINUAL basis.
Take the familiar and well-loved 23rd Psalm. If I counted right, there are six times that words ending in "e-t-h" appear. What does that say to us? It tells us that it's an ongoing process for God to make us lie down in green pastures. It means that he continuously leads us beside still waters. He's always leading us in paths of righteousness, etc.
When He says He "strengtheneth" us, that doesn't mean just once in a while or now and then, it means it's an ongoing process of His empowering us day after endless day in all situations, in all circumstances.
What about I John 5:1 for another example? "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God; and everyone that loveth him that begot loveth him also that is begotten of him." Believing and loving are continual, ongoing processes!
Start looking for "e-t-h" words as you read the KJV of God's Holy Word, and see what a difference it will make. Even if you have to buy an inexpensive copy of the KJV, it would be worth it. It will enrich your spiritual life tremendously.
Preacher's Kid
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
IF
A life-insurance ad appeared on TV the other night. I don't remember a thing about the ad except for the word "Life" which they showed with the middle letters "IF" in caps. The thought came to mind that truly life is full of "IF's." My second thought was, "I'm thankful there are no "IFs" with God. Then promises started coming to me left and right with "IFs" in them!
Of the thousands of promises appearing in the Good Book, how many of them have conditions attached? In other words, they have "IF's" that we need to fulfill in order for God to keep His Word. (We need to differentiate between facts and promises. For example, Malachi 3:6 is a statement of fact, not a promise: "I am the Lord; I change not.")
On the other hand John 15:10 is a promise: "If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love . . ." There's a condition there for us to meet "IF" we want to abide in God's love, and that is that we keep His commandments.
The word "IF" doesn't always appear per se, but it is implied. Try the well-known verse in Matthew 7:7: "Ask, and it shall be given you . . ." etc. In other words, "IF" we ask it will be given to us; "IF" we seek, we will find; "IF" we knock, the door will be opened unto us.
Try Isaiah 23:6: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee." In other words, "IF" you do your part of keeping your mind fixed on the Lord and trusting Him, He'll do His part in giving you His peace.
"Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matt. 11:28) We're often burdened with the cares of life, but we can enjoy God's rest "IF" we come to Him.
"No good thing will he withhold from them ["IF" they] walk uprightly," declares Ps. 84:11.
There's a condition to God's promises -- there's our part "IF" we want Him to do His part.
I guess this is similar to the last blog about "Sentence Fragments." Don't be guilty of trying to claim God's promises "IF" you don't meet the conditions!
Like life, God's Word is full of "IF's" also!
Preacher's Kid
Of the thousands of promises appearing in the Good Book, how many of them have conditions attached? In other words, they have "IF's" that we need to fulfill in order for God to keep His Word. (We need to differentiate between facts and promises. For example, Malachi 3:6 is a statement of fact, not a promise: "I am the Lord; I change not.")
On the other hand John 15:10 is a promise: "If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love . . ." There's a condition there for us to meet "IF" we want to abide in God's love, and that is that we keep His commandments.
The word "IF" doesn't always appear per se, but it is implied. Try the well-known verse in Matthew 7:7: "Ask, and it shall be given you . . ." etc. In other words, "IF" we ask it will be given to us; "IF" we seek, we will find; "IF" we knock, the door will be opened unto us.
Try Isaiah 23:6: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee." In other words, "IF" you do your part of keeping your mind fixed on the Lord and trusting Him, He'll do His part in giving you His peace.
"Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matt. 11:28) We're often burdened with the cares of life, but we can enjoy God's rest "IF" we come to Him.
"No good thing will he withhold from them ["IF" they] walk uprightly," declares Ps. 84:11.
There's a condition to God's promises -- there's our part "IF" we want Him to do His part.
I guess this is similar to the last blog about "Sentence Fragments." Don't be guilty of trying to claim God's promises "IF" you don't meet the conditions!
Like life, God's Word is full of "IF's" also!
Preacher's Kid
Sunday, July 11, 2010
SENTENCE FRAGMENTS
I once had a professor who stated one could learn any school subject by using just the Bible as a textbook.
I began thinking. Reading? Of course. Writing? Certainly. Arithmetic? Yep. (That takes care of the three R's!) History? Absolutely -- at least ancient history. Ditto for geography. Science? Biology? Some, maybe. But what intrigued me was Grammar--that subject that so many people detested in school! Then a thought struck me years ago. Why not write a devotional book called "Grammar in the Bible?" While I've never followed through on writing such a devotional guide, I've made an impressive list of subjects, including Bible references, to write about. So here goes the first devotional re Grammar in the Bible.
Do you recall the simple definition of a sentence? A sentence is a group of words with a subject and predicate which expresses a complete idea. A sentence fragment, on the other hand, while it begins with a capital letter and ends with a period, or whatever, is NOT a complete thought.
How often Christians are guilty of using just certain parts of Bible verses instead of complete thoughts and ideas when quoting Scripture.
Take James 5:16, for example. Many times we start in the middle of the verse and quote just the last half. We glibly spout, "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." Technically speaking, that is not a sentence fragment, for it has both a subject and predicate and is a complete thought. But while it is a complete thought, that thought depends upon the first part of the verse which says, "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed." I'm wondering if that verse is not saying that in order for our prayers to be effective, they should be preceded by confessions not necessarily of our sins, but just what we consider faults and failures. And we need to pray for one another. Then, and only then, can we expect our prayers to be effective.
Or how about Ephesians 3:20, my favorite Bible verse. We put a period in the middle of a sentence and stop. We often say that God is "able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think -- period. But there is no period there. There's a following condition that affects that quote. God only does exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think "according to the power that worketh in us!" (And frankly, there is no period there, either. The sentence goes on into the next verse giving glory to Christ Jesus.) I like the Living Bible paraphrase which puts the condition first: "Now glory be to God who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of -- infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes."
Romans 8:28 is a prime example of starting in the middle of a verse and then putting a period where there is none. How often have you heard someone quote, "All things work together for good?" Hey, that begins with the assurance that we KNOW that all things work together for good, but to anyone? To everyone? Finish the sentence. Things work for good to the ones who love God, to the ones who are called according to His purpose.
Maybe a more appropriate title for this devotional would be "Verse Fragments" instead of "Sentence Fragments." But you get the idea, I'm sure.
Let's be careful to quote the Word of God accurately, not just the portions we like. In other words, the Truth, the WHOLE Truth, and nothing but the Truth!
Preacher's Kid
I began thinking. Reading? Of course. Writing? Certainly. Arithmetic? Yep. (That takes care of the three R's!) History? Absolutely -- at least ancient history. Ditto for geography. Science? Biology? Some, maybe. But what intrigued me was Grammar--that subject that so many people detested in school! Then a thought struck me years ago. Why not write a devotional book called "Grammar in the Bible?" While I've never followed through on writing such a devotional guide, I've made an impressive list of subjects, including Bible references, to write about. So here goes the first devotional re Grammar in the Bible.
Do you recall the simple definition of a sentence? A sentence is a group of words with a subject and predicate which expresses a complete idea. A sentence fragment, on the other hand, while it begins with a capital letter and ends with a period, or whatever, is NOT a complete thought.
How often Christians are guilty of using just certain parts of Bible verses instead of complete thoughts and ideas when quoting Scripture.
Take James 5:16, for example. Many times we start in the middle of the verse and quote just the last half. We glibly spout, "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." Technically speaking, that is not a sentence fragment, for it has both a subject and predicate and is a complete thought. But while it is a complete thought, that thought depends upon the first part of the verse which says, "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed." I'm wondering if that verse is not saying that in order for our prayers to be effective, they should be preceded by confessions not necessarily of our sins, but just what we consider faults and failures. And we need to pray for one another. Then, and only then, can we expect our prayers to be effective.
Or how about Ephesians 3:20, my favorite Bible verse. We put a period in the middle of a sentence and stop. We often say that God is "able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think -- period. But there is no period there. There's a following condition that affects that quote. God only does exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think "according to the power that worketh in us!" (And frankly, there is no period there, either. The sentence goes on into the next verse giving glory to Christ Jesus.) I like the Living Bible paraphrase which puts the condition first: "Now glory be to God who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of -- infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes."
Romans 8:28 is a prime example of starting in the middle of a verse and then putting a period where there is none. How often have you heard someone quote, "All things work together for good?" Hey, that begins with the assurance that we KNOW that all things work together for good, but to anyone? To everyone? Finish the sentence. Things work for good to the ones who love God, to the ones who are called according to His purpose.
Maybe a more appropriate title for this devotional would be "Verse Fragments" instead of "Sentence Fragments." But you get the idea, I'm sure.
Let's be careful to quote the Word of God accurately, not just the portions we like. In other words, the Truth, the WHOLE Truth, and nothing but the Truth!
Preacher's Kid
Saturday, July 10, 2010
OUR PICTURE OF GOD
How do you envision God?
Many Christians have an incomplete picture of God. Often it's difficult to picture Him as a father, especially if our experience with an earthly father hasn't always been top notch. Or it may be we picture God as every Christian's father, which He is. But can you picture Him as YOUR VERY OWN PERSONAL Father Who loves you unconditionally?
And because we don't understand God's righteousness and our righteousness in Him, we don't see Him in His total love and forgiveness. Therefore we have feelings of guilt and unworthiness which result in condemnation. Romans 8:1 says, "There is, therefore, now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
Although we know that God has forgiven us our wrongdoings, we often fail to forgive ourselves. and therefore have a bruised and blighted sense of self-esteem. Because of these things, we don't enjoy the sense of His presence we'd like to.
How can we develop a Father/God relationship? Meditating daily on the Word and speaking to Him in prayer will help us to know more about His presence, about His love and His forgiveness. Keep in mind that we have a God of acceptance, and focus on that acceptance as well as on His overwhelming forgiveness.
Remember, when God forgives, He forgets. We're human and keep remembering the sins of the past that have been forgiven. But why drag them up again and again when God has not only forgiven them but has also forgotten them?
In other words, we must learn to see ourselves as God sees us -- as children of His who have been forgiven and who are precious in His sight. I like to picture myself walking under a clear, plastic "see through" umbrella of His love. And then I think not of how I see myself, but of how God sees me as He looks at me through that "see through" umbrella with His eyes of love and forgiveness.
As you meditate on Him and His Word, keep telling yourself, "I'm God's child. I'm precious in His sight, and He is my Father. Then watch how your picture of God changes!
Preacher's Kid
Many Christians have an incomplete picture of God. Often it's difficult to picture Him as a father, especially if our experience with an earthly father hasn't always been top notch. Or it may be we picture God as every Christian's father, which He is. But can you picture Him as YOUR VERY OWN PERSONAL Father Who loves you unconditionally?
And because we don't understand God's righteousness and our righteousness in Him, we don't see Him in His total love and forgiveness. Therefore we have feelings of guilt and unworthiness which result in condemnation. Romans 8:1 says, "There is, therefore, now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
Although we know that God has forgiven us our wrongdoings, we often fail to forgive ourselves. and therefore have a bruised and blighted sense of self-esteem. Because of these things, we don't enjoy the sense of His presence we'd like to.
How can we develop a Father/God relationship? Meditating daily on the Word and speaking to Him in prayer will help us to know more about His presence, about His love and His forgiveness. Keep in mind that we have a God of acceptance, and focus on that acceptance as well as on His overwhelming forgiveness.
Remember, when God forgives, He forgets. We're human and keep remembering the sins of the past that have been forgiven. But why drag them up again and again when God has not only forgiven them but has also forgotten them?
In other words, we must learn to see ourselves as God sees us -- as children of His who have been forgiven and who are precious in His sight. I like to picture myself walking under a clear, plastic "see through" umbrella of His love. And then I think not of how I see myself, but of how God sees me as He looks at me through that "see through" umbrella with His eyes of love and forgiveness.
As you meditate on Him and His Word, keep telling yourself, "I'm God's child. I'm precious in His sight, and He is my Father. Then watch how your picture of God changes!
Preacher's Kid
Friday, July 9, 2010
WHEN THE UNEXPECTED HAPPENS
My husband and I were watching the news earlier this evening when we heard a tiny, high-pitched beep, over and over. At first I thought it was one of my hearing aid batteries although it wasn't the usual beep they make. Eventually Rex traced it to our built-in electric oven! After contacting professional help via the web, we learned the control panel needed to be replaced to the tune of just over $200! Rex has said for some time that the stove, the frig, the dishwasher and the oven could "die" because of old age. (Help, we're old, too!!!)
Recently a friend who works in a three-person office was unexpectedly hospitalized and will be on a six-week forced vacation at the same time that a coworker has a six-week leave-of-absence, leaving one individual to "hold down the fort!" Someone made a statement to the effect that God knows what He is doing.
Hey -- who said God sent that sickness? I don't recall of ever reading in the Bible that God sent sickness -- not even Job. He permitted Job's troubles, but didn't send them. Sickness and disease are the result of sin. In fact, such things didn't exist before sin entered the world. I would be more inclined to say that Satan is the author of disease.
Why do some people blame God for all such unexpected happenings, claiming it's His will, His judgment, His punishment? And still other people blame the devil for all unexpected circumstances.
Come on -- let's use the common sense God has endowed us with. Yes, many times the evil one does send unexpected incidents to us. Other times, we bring a lot of our heartaches on ourselves through carelessness. That's what happened toward the end of our vacation when Rex and I both caught colds. Why? From sitting in a draft trying to cool off quickly! Can't blame that on either God or the devil!
Disobedience to God's rules can cause problems. We try to eat 27 hotdogs in ten minutes just to win a hotdog eating contest like the guy we saw on TV last week. We get a stomach ache and blame it on the devil. Hey, how about blaming it on our stupidity of ignoring dietary laws???
As far as our oven goes, that's just the result of ordinary life, of appliances wearing out due to age and use! The unexpected can happen as the result of many things including our own mistakes and failures! Yes, I do believe that God is aware of everything that happens in our lives, including the unexpected, but that doesn't mean He is responsible!
So when the unexpected happens, let's not try to blame it on either God or Satan! Let's accept the good with the bad, regardless of its source, as a part of life and go on our way rejoicing in His love and care.
Preacher's Kid
Recently a friend who works in a three-person office was unexpectedly hospitalized and will be on a six-week forced vacation at the same time that a coworker has a six-week leave-of-absence, leaving one individual to "hold down the fort!" Someone made a statement to the effect that God knows what He is doing.
Hey -- who said God sent that sickness? I don't recall of ever reading in the Bible that God sent sickness -- not even Job. He permitted Job's troubles, but didn't send them. Sickness and disease are the result of sin. In fact, such things didn't exist before sin entered the world. I would be more inclined to say that Satan is the author of disease.
Why do some people blame God for all such unexpected happenings, claiming it's His will, His judgment, His punishment? And still other people blame the devil for all unexpected circumstances.
Come on -- let's use the common sense God has endowed us with. Yes, many times the evil one does send unexpected incidents to us. Other times, we bring a lot of our heartaches on ourselves through carelessness. That's what happened toward the end of our vacation when Rex and I both caught colds. Why? From sitting in a draft trying to cool off quickly! Can't blame that on either God or the devil!
Disobedience to God's rules can cause problems. We try to eat 27 hotdogs in ten minutes just to win a hotdog eating contest like the guy we saw on TV last week. We get a stomach ache and blame it on the devil. Hey, how about blaming it on our stupidity of ignoring dietary laws???
As far as our oven goes, that's just the result of ordinary life, of appliances wearing out due to age and use! The unexpected can happen as the result of many things including our own mistakes and failures! Yes, I do believe that God is aware of everything that happens in our lives, including the unexpected, but that doesn't mean He is responsible!
So when the unexpected happens, let's not try to blame it on either God or Satan! Let's accept the good with the bad, regardless of its source, as a part of life and go on our way rejoicing in His love and care.
Preacher's Kid
Thursday, July 8, 2010
PATRIOTIC PRAYER #2
It's 9 PM and the thermometer still reads almost 100 degrees! I'm sure you're having plenty of heat, too, wherever you live! We're to have cooler weather tomorrow. It's still close enough to our national holiday to print another patriotic prayer which I also wrote for my cousin as I explained yesterday. So here goes!
Our Father, Who art in Heaven, we direct our prayer to Thee, the God of all nations of the earth.
We thank Thee for this, our land of freedom, and for the inalienable rights that are ours, rights that have been purchased by the blood of those who have willingly and bravely given their lives that we might enjoy the blessings of tranquility and liberty.
We ask that our President be given a spirit of wisdom to rule this great nation justly and fairly.
May the leaders of our country seek Divine guidance in all affairs of state, showing partiality to none and justice to all.
For ourselves we would ask for courage to extend a helping hand to those in need regardless of race or creed.
May we uphold the glorious truths and principles upon which this nation was founded, thereby preserving peace and unity for all mankind.
In Thy Name we pray.
Amen.
Preacher's Kid
Our Father, Who art in Heaven, we direct our prayer to Thee, the God of all nations of the earth.
We thank Thee for this, our land of freedom, and for the inalienable rights that are ours, rights that have been purchased by the blood of those who have willingly and bravely given their lives that we might enjoy the blessings of tranquility and liberty.
We ask that our President be given a spirit of wisdom to rule this great nation justly and fairly.
May the leaders of our country seek Divine guidance in all affairs of state, showing partiality to none and justice to all.
For ourselves we would ask for courage to extend a helping hand to those in need regardless of race or creed.
May we uphold the glorious truths and principles upon which this nation was founded, thereby preserving peace and unity for all mankind.
In Thy Name we pray.
Amen.
Preacher's Kid
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
PATRIOTIC PRAYER #1
How do we pray for our country and our leaders? Here's a prayer, somewhat formal, I must admit, but it was for publication in a collection of prayers the VFW was gathering for publication. My cousin was a member of the group and requested I write a couple prayers for her to submit. Don't know if the prayers were ever published or not.
Father God, creator of the universe and all mankind, we offer heartfelt gratitude for Thy many blessings which are new every day.
Thou hast set men in positions of authority; and we, in turn would ask Thee to smile upon such with wisdom, blessing and honor.
Grant to them mercy and knowledge and an inclination to seek Thy favor as they make decisions that will affect the lives of those living under their authority.
Grant to us, O Lord, and to our fellowmen, the strength and courage to support and uphold those who rule over this glorious nation of ours.
May the flag of freedom continue to fly unblemished and unconquered as a symbol of truth, equality and freedom for all peoples.
May the spirit of the God of all ages rest upon mankind everywhere so that we may ascribe honor, glory, and power unto Thee, the Almighty God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Preacher's Kid
Father God, creator of the universe and all mankind, we offer heartfelt gratitude for Thy many blessings which are new every day.
Thou hast set men in positions of authority; and we, in turn would ask Thee to smile upon such with wisdom, blessing and honor.
Grant to them mercy and knowledge and an inclination to seek Thy favor as they make decisions that will affect the lives of those living under their authority.
Grant to us, O Lord, and to our fellowmen, the strength and courage to support and uphold those who rule over this glorious nation of ours.
May the flag of freedom continue to fly unblemished and unconquered as a symbol of truth, equality and freedom for all peoples.
May the spirit of the God of all ages rest upon mankind everywhere so that we may ascribe honor, glory, and power unto Thee, the Almighty God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Preacher's Kid
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
WHAT IF?
Running behind as I need to get our Seniors' newsletter to the church office tomorrow. So here's one of the articles I included this time.
HOW DO YOU TREAT YOUR BIBLE?
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone? What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets? What if we flipped through it several time a day? What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it? What if we used it to receive messages from the text? What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it? What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled? What if we used it in case of emergency? This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible? Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill. Makes you stop and think "where are my priorities?" And no dropped calls!
Preacher's Kid
HOW DO YOU TREAT YOUR BIBLE?
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone? What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets? What if we flipped through it several time a day? What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it? What if we used it to receive messages from the text? What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it? What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled? What if we used it in case of emergency? This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible? Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill. Makes you stop and think "where are my priorities?" And no dropped calls!
Preacher's Kid
Sunday, July 4, 2010
GOD BLESS AMERICA
4th of July, 2010, is almost history. And for some of you, of course, it's already history depending upon your time zone.
We watched (via TV) a resplendent display of fireworks at Seattle -- purported to be one of the top ten best displays in the country. This year, however, Seattle was going to cancel its annual fireworks display for financial reasons. When that news got around, individuals and businesses began donating funds until within two hours $500,000 had been raised. And the display was more spectacular than ever all because individuals rallied and refused to let a long-standing attraction disappear.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if Christians would rally around the cause of Christ and support His ministry in the same way?
Not only did we watch the fireworks on TV, but we also had a spectacular view of individual local displays, all from the comfort of inside our home. My neck has crinks in it from turning right and left, looking out one window and then another!
I watched the brilliant colors exploding in myriad shapes against the night sky and contemplated the money spent on fireworks. Then I thought of the many people without work, some losing their homes, and numerous ones depending upon food pantries and food kitchens for their daily food. I was torn between the beauty of the colorful displays and the plight of the destitute. If only that money could have been spent to alleviate the need and suffering all across this wonderful country. Yet I enjoyed the fireworks which are still going on -- I can hear them as I'm writing.
Our country is far from perfect. We need to experience many changes of all kinds which I believe we will through the intercession of God's children. But it's still, at this point, the land of freedom. So I say, GOD BLESS AMERICA!
Preacher's Kid
We watched (via TV) a resplendent display of fireworks at Seattle -- purported to be one of the top ten best displays in the country. This year, however, Seattle was going to cancel its annual fireworks display for financial reasons. When that news got around, individuals and businesses began donating funds until within two hours $500,000 had been raised. And the display was more spectacular than ever all because individuals rallied and refused to let a long-standing attraction disappear.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if Christians would rally around the cause of Christ and support His ministry in the same way?
Not only did we watch the fireworks on TV, but we also had a spectacular view of individual local displays, all from the comfort of inside our home. My neck has crinks in it from turning right and left, looking out one window and then another!
I watched the brilliant colors exploding in myriad shapes against the night sky and contemplated the money spent on fireworks. Then I thought of the many people without work, some losing their homes, and numerous ones depending upon food pantries and food kitchens for their daily food. I was torn between the beauty of the colorful displays and the plight of the destitute. If only that money could have been spent to alleviate the need and suffering all across this wonderful country. Yet I enjoyed the fireworks which are still going on -- I can hear them as I'm writing.
Our country is far from perfect. We need to experience many changes of all kinds which I believe we will through the intercession of God's children. But it's still, at this point, the land of freedom. So I say, GOD BLESS AMERICA!
Preacher's Kid
Saturday, July 3, 2010
SPIRITUAL FREEDOM
In honor of the Fourth of July tomorrow, my husband and I listened to a two-hour Gaither video this evening -- one that we never tire of hearing regardless of the numerous times we've enjoyed it: Let Freedom Ring. The Gaither Homecoming Friends were giving a concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City in honor of 9/11. Of course the theme of their songs was "Freedom."
I'm afraid the majority of people today take the freedom our country affords for granted. We forget the cost of that freedom bought by sacrifice, heroism, blood and determination. And with the political conditions that exist today, it makes one wonder just how long we will continue to enjoy our hard-earned freedom.
Even greater than freedom from want, freedom from fear, freedom of speech and freedom of religion is spiritual freedom!
It seems to me there is one thing more than any other that keeps people from enjoying spiritual freedom thereby keeping them in spiritual bondage. And that is unforgiveness.
It is so easy to carry a grudge, holding onto it until it becomes more than just a grudge. It becomes deep-seated unforgiveness. And that, my friend, will keep a person in spiritual bondage. Unforgiveness may seem like a small thing until we consider Mark 11:25, 26.
In verse 25 of the Living Bible paraphrase, Jesus commands us to forgive not just sins, but also grudges: "But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive you your sins too." (The King James version uses the phrase "if ye have anything against any" instead of just "grudges". Of course, "anything" would include grudges as well as a lot more!)
Continuing in the KJV, verse 26 takes this subject of unforgiveness one step further. It reads, "But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father, who is in heaven, forgive your trespasses." Wow -- that's scary! In other words, if we won't forgive, God won't forgive!
I've learned that in dealing with someone who has trouble in believing in Christ for salvation, or for anything else, for that matter, to ask them if there is anyone they need to forgive. For forgiveness breaks sin's bondage and brings spiritual freedom.
How about you this Fourth of July? Are you enjoying spiritual freedom? Or is there someone you need to forgive?
Preacher's Kid
I'm afraid the majority of people today take the freedom our country affords for granted. We forget the cost of that freedom bought by sacrifice, heroism, blood and determination. And with the political conditions that exist today, it makes one wonder just how long we will continue to enjoy our hard-earned freedom.
Even greater than freedom from want, freedom from fear, freedom of speech and freedom of religion is spiritual freedom!
It seems to me there is one thing more than any other that keeps people from enjoying spiritual freedom thereby keeping them in spiritual bondage. And that is unforgiveness.
It is so easy to carry a grudge, holding onto it until it becomes more than just a grudge. It becomes deep-seated unforgiveness. And that, my friend, will keep a person in spiritual bondage. Unforgiveness may seem like a small thing until we consider Mark 11:25, 26.
In verse 25 of the Living Bible paraphrase, Jesus commands us to forgive not just sins, but also grudges: "But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive you your sins too." (The King James version uses the phrase "if ye have anything against any" instead of just "grudges". Of course, "anything" would include grudges as well as a lot more!)
Continuing in the KJV, verse 26 takes this subject of unforgiveness one step further. It reads, "But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father, who is in heaven, forgive your trespasses." Wow -- that's scary! In other words, if we won't forgive, God won't forgive!
I've learned that in dealing with someone who has trouble in believing in Christ for salvation, or for anything else, for that matter, to ask them if there is anyone they need to forgive. For forgiveness breaks sin's bondage and brings spiritual freedom.
How about you this Fourth of July? Are you enjoying spiritual freedom? Or is there someone you need to forgive?
Preacher's Kid
Friday, July 2, 2010
TOILING -- BUT NOT ALONE
Remember the incident where Jesus was up in a mountain praying while the disciples were crossing the lake and a storm blew up? The wind was contrary and the uncontrollable waves were tossing their boat around like a child's toy. They were toiling and struggling to keep their small craft upright in the angry sea. They didn't know it, but hidden from sight on that mountainside they had just left, Jesus was watching them as they toiled. His eyes never left them. And when they could no longer make it on their own, He came walking to them on the water.
What a picture of you and me today! How often do we face the storms of daily life and it seems that our problems and troubles are more than we can handle? Discouragement and depression set in as we wonder which way to turn and what to do. In vain we try to straighten out our circum- stances in our own way, wondering if we're going to be able to make it.
But we're not struggling alone -- Christ watches our unsuccessful toiling; and when He sees us almost ready to sink in despair, He comes "walking on the waves," saying, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." (Matt. 14:27b - KJV)
Then we wonder why He didn't step in sooner. Could it be because we were trying to resolve our situation in our own strength instead of turning to Him? We try this; we try that; we try the other. But do we ever think to pray FIRST, thereby putting Him first and giving Him priority?
What a picture of you and me today! How often do we face the storms of daily life and it seems that our problems and troubles are more than we can handle? Discouragement and depression set in as we wonder which way to turn and what to do. In vain we try to straighten out our circum- stances in our own way, wondering if we're going to be able to make it.
But we're not struggling alone -- Christ watches our unsuccessful toiling; and when He sees us almost ready to sink in despair, He comes "walking on the waves," saying, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." (Matt. 14:27b - KJV)
Then we wonder why He didn't step in sooner. Could it be because we were trying to resolve our situation in our own strength instead of turning to Him? We try this; we try that; we try the other. But do we ever think to pray FIRST, thereby putting Him first and giving Him priority?
I like the Living Bible paraphrase of II Chronicles 16:9 that assures us, "The eyes of the Lord search back and forth across the whole earth, looking for people whose hearts are perfect toward him, so that he can show his great power in helping them." In other words, He's looking for you and me on a continual basis so that He can show His great power by helping us.
Remember, we're never toiling alone. His eyes never leave us!
Preacher's Kid
Thursday, July 1, 2010
CHRIST-LIKE EMAILS
I lay awake a long time last night thinking about the plethora of political Emails that are making the rounds these days.
Please understand that I am NOT happy with the political climate of our country. Nor am I in sympathy with our political leaders. I've also done my share of forwarding many of the political Emails in the past.
Lately, however, I've been a little more selective in which political Emails I forward. It bothers me that so many of them make sarcastic and disparaging remarks about our leaders. Some are quite rude even though they have a modicum of truth to them! Some are even hilarious. But I have to stop and ask myself if I am acting Christlike by disseminating such comments.
Maybe the question we should ask ourselves is: What would Jesus do? I know what Paul did in Acts 23:5 "Then said Paul, I knew not, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people." Should we do any less?
I hope and expect to see a drastic political change Nov. 2nd. In the meantime I will continue to pray for the powers that be -- that God will speak to them, will move upon their hearts, will guide them and even move through them in spite of themselves for the sake of His people Who love the Lord and want His continued blessing upon this great land of ours.
And I will also continue to send out political Emails that are educational eye-openers, but not the trashy ones that degrade and lambast our leaders in Washington, DC.
Remember -- God is still in control and knows what is going on. He sees the whole picture where you and I see only the here and now.
Let's spend our time praying for this great country and its leaders.
The word "Christian" means "a little Christ." When people look at us who bear that name, do they see "a little Christ" in all we say and do including our Emails?
Preacher's Kid
Please understand that I am NOT happy with the political climate of our country. Nor am I in sympathy with our political leaders. I've also done my share of forwarding many of the political Emails in the past.
Lately, however, I've been a little more selective in which political Emails I forward. It bothers me that so many of them make sarcastic and disparaging remarks about our leaders. Some are quite rude even though they have a modicum of truth to them! Some are even hilarious. But I have to stop and ask myself if I am acting Christlike by disseminating such comments.
Maybe the question we should ask ourselves is: What would Jesus do? I know what Paul did in Acts 23:5 "Then said Paul, I knew not, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people." Should we do any less?
I hope and expect to see a drastic political change Nov. 2nd. In the meantime I will continue to pray for the powers that be -- that God will speak to them, will move upon their hearts, will guide them and even move through them in spite of themselves for the sake of His people Who love the Lord and want His continued blessing upon this great land of ours.
And I will also continue to send out political Emails that are educational eye-openers, but not the trashy ones that degrade and lambast our leaders in Washington, DC.
Remember -- God is still in control and knows what is going on. He sees the whole picture where you and I see only the here and now.
Let's spend our time praying for this great country and its leaders.
The word "Christian" means "a little Christ." When people look at us who bear that name, do they see "a little Christ" in all we say and do including our Emails?
Preacher's Kid
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
