Barak Obama Wins?
A Look at the Nobel Peace Prize
Obama wins the Nobel Peace Prize! Unbelievable. I think that his response to the
award was noble, though. I think that Obama, himself realizes that he wasn't really supposed
to win that award! People's overall reaction to this has, for the most part, been, 'huh'? Quite a historical hiccup there, if you ask me. Or was it?
I think the revealing of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize speaks to where we are on a global scale. In defense of this I say that it appears that this year’s Candidate, President Obama, is not who the world wanted (at least not who America wanted) as the winner of this award.
And to that I inquire, simply, ‘Why?’ What does this national response infer? What does this international response allude to?
I believe that this response corresponds to the reality that there seem to be few who know how to define peace. And even if we knew in our minds how to fully describe this seeming unattainable reality called peace, would we know how to award others for it? Would we truly be content if someone other than the man Obama, “won” it?
The important thing to focus on though, is the emphasis of the award itself, which is an award that awards peacemakers.
What is peace anyway? Is peace something that can be negotiated, as Obama has sought to do in his infant presidency? Is peace something that is tangible and can be delegated? These are important questions which must be considered in this hour.
Surely the world’s view of peace is something that is distorted: distorted by fear, by hate, through misinformation, by prejudiced people, disorder, world chaos, etc.
Peace is something that we all long for, whether rich or poor, black or white, known or unknown. Peace is something that we all seek in our everyday lives. For without peace, where are we but in a cold and confused mess?
Psalm 37:37 says that we should consider the blameless and observe the upright. It goes on to say that there is a future for that man, a future of peace. What a wonderful promise that is.
We all fall short in many ways. Our words and actions don’t always produce the peace we’re longing for. We’re not perfect.
Having said all this, does Obama deserve this award? Many people are saying, adamantly, and with a confused head, ‘hell no!’ Even so, I believe that it is an urgent call to seek out the heart of peace, and to ask ourselves where we as individuals can make peace in our own lives, and sow peace into others.
It has been well said that it’s not so much what happens to you, but what you do with what happens to you. I believe that Obama’s reaction to this reward was admirable. I believe that he realized that he wasn’t the perfect candidate for the award. But then again, who would be the quintessential candidate for this award? You?
Friday, October 9, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Fulfill Your Destiny
Do you want to fulfill your destiny? There is one word that is going to help
you to do that; and that word is one, and that word is Love. Love is the summation of the law and the prophets. If you know how to love, then you've got everything. If you don't know how to love, you should find it.
The Bible says that 'Because of your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation". Because of His love, we can rejoice in this life. And this rejoicing produces genuine joy in our lives.
Growing in love will help us to grow into all that God has for our lives. And loving is a fruit of abiding in God. If you learn how to love, then you can have anything! Not out of selfishness, but because in love there is fullness. Why? Because God is love. And the more we are walking with God, the more we will be walking in love.
What do we know about love? We know that perfect love casts out all fear. Fear is not of God. Fear is from the devil and is of our fallen nature.
Again, if we know how to love, we are going to walk in every single thing that the Lord has for us in this life.
LOVE covers a multitude of sins, the Word of God says. If we know how to love, we will now how to deal with others, even if they are out of hand, or even if we are sinned against. If we know how to love then we will know how to die for others and even forgive where great transgression has been done to us.
you to do that; and that word is one, and that word is Love. Love is the summation of the law and the prophets. If you know how to love, then you've got everything. If you don't know how to love, you should find it.
The Bible says that 'Because of your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation". Because of His love, we can rejoice in this life. And this rejoicing produces genuine joy in our lives.
Growing in love will help us to grow into all that God has for our lives. And loving is a fruit of abiding in God. If you learn how to love, then you can have anything! Not out of selfishness, but because in love there is fullness. Why? Because God is love. And the more we are walking with God, the more we will be walking in love.
What do we know about love? We know that perfect love casts out all fear. Fear is not of God. Fear is from the devil and is of our fallen nature.
Again, if we know how to love, we are going to walk in every single thing that the Lord has for us in this life.
LOVE covers a multitude of sins, the Word of God says. If we know how to love, we will now how to deal with others, even if they are out of hand, or even if we are sinned against. If we know how to love then we will know how to die for others and even forgive where great transgression has been done to us.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Reaping and Sowing
Recently I was reminded that God is not mocked; what you sow, it is exactly that which you will REAP. The sowing and reaping principle. Very important.
We can sow money, actions, words, etc. Whatever we sow, it is that which we are going to reap.
When I think upon this too much I start to fear; because God is much greater than I. However, I know that through His mighty grace I am given the wisdom and understanding to make the right choices in life.
And if we have made the wrong choices, there is always repentance; turning away from what we have done and crying out to God for His mercy; for He is rich and mercy and longs to show compassion on each and every one of us who has turned from Him.
The principle of reaping and sowing is forever true, and can be seen throughout the world even today. Look at the financial situation in the world today. Why is this happening? There is much financial shaking going on today. It is because we have sowed, and now are reaping the consequence of our action.
Even in the midst of the shaking, we can trust in God and His eternal kingdom, which cannot be shaken. For Jesus said that whoever builds his life upon the Rock will stand, but whoever builds his house on the sand, when the storm comes, that man will utterly fall. It is time to regroup, get our houses in order, and turn to the Lord again, that we may find grace and times of refreshing from His presence.
We can sow money, actions, words, etc. Whatever we sow, it is that which we are going to reap.
When I think upon this too much I start to fear; because God is much greater than I. However, I know that through His mighty grace I am given the wisdom and understanding to make the right choices in life.
And if we have made the wrong choices, there is always repentance; turning away from what we have done and crying out to God for His mercy; for He is rich and mercy and longs to show compassion on each and every one of us who has turned from Him.
The principle of reaping and sowing is forever true, and can be seen throughout the world even today. Look at the financial situation in the world today. Why is this happening? There is much financial shaking going on today. It is because we have sowed, and now are reaping the consequence of our action.
Even in the midst of the shaking, we can trust in God and His eternal kingdom, which cannot be shaken. For Jesus said that whoever builds his life upon the Rock will stand, but whoever builds his house on the sand, when the storm comes, that man will utterly fall. It is time to regroup, get our houses in order, and turn to the Lord again, that we may find grace and times of refreshing from His presence.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Fear
Recently I've been doing a little studying on the subject of fear. There is only One Whom we should fear, and that is God. And this is a tough thing. There are so many things out there to fear; that we can fear if we let them.
I heard something tonight regarding fear that really spoke to me. I heard that those who walk in fear are walking in alternate realities that ARE NOT based in TRUTH. This was powerful to me, and I want to walk in peace and faith ALL of the days of my life, from THIS MOMENT forward; and whenever I'm thrown out of peace and faith, I need to revamp, regroup, and get before God and make sure I'm in His perfect will for my life.
I believe that in this life we're going to make mistakes. We're not always going to make the right choices, but I believe that I can make a lot better choices then ones I've made in the past because of fear. I believe that some of my fear is based in failing God and not trusting Him.
I would love to write on this more later. Amen.
I heard something tonight regarding fear that really spoke to me. I heard that those who walk in fear are walking in alternate realities that ARE NOT based in TRUTH. This was powerful to me, and I want to walk in peace and faith ALL of the days of my life, from THIS MOMENT forward; and whenever I'm thrown out of peace and faith, I need to revamp, regroup, and get before God and make sure I'm in His perfect will for my life.
I believe that in this life we're going to make mistakes. We're not always going to make the right choices, but I believe that I can make a lot better choices then ones I've made in the past because of fear. I believe that some of my fear is based in failing God and not trusting Him.
I would love to write on this more later. Amen.
Change will Come
I pray that wherever you are right now in your life that change would come from heaven. That the Lord would do a mighty work in you and that He would show you all that you have in Him.
I pray that the Lord would break every yoke upon you that is not from Him.
I pray that the Lord would bless you and keep you forever, that He would make
His grace to shine upon you and give you peace!
Whatever is throwing you into confusion and 'unpeace' now, I speak peace over it! And peace unto it! Amen!
I pray that the Lord would break every yoke upon you that is not from Him.
I pray that the Lord would bless you and keep you forever, that He would make
His grace to shine upon you and give you peace!
Whatever is throwing you into confusion and 'unpeace' now, I speak peace over it! And peace unto it! Amen!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Who You Were, Who You'll Be!
The Lord has let me know tonight that He is in the process of making
us all brand new! He says that He makes all things new! And when He
says all things, He means 'all things'. Who you were is very insignificant
compared to who you are now, and who He is preparing You to be. As exciting
as this is, it is important to keep our eyes upon Jesus, the Author and
Finisher of our faith.
We're going from glory to glory now in Him. Out with the old and in with
the new! Every day! Every hour! Amen!
us all brand new! He says that He makes all things new! And when He
says all things, He means 'all things'. Who you were is very insignificant
compared to who you are now, and who He is preparing You to be. As exciting
as this is, it is important to keep our eyes upon Jesus, the Author and
Finisher of our faith.
We're going from glory to glory now in Him. Out with the old and in with
the new! Every day! Every hour! Amen!
Go To Your Happy Place!
We all need a place of refuge, a place of solitude, a place
of rest. And we can find all of these things in the LORD.
However, I also think that it's important to have a place in the
natural that we can go to get quiet before Him.
So go there now! Why wait?
of rest. And we can find all of these things in the LORD.
However, I also think that it's important to have a place in the
natural that we can go to get quiet before Him.
So go there now! Why wait?
Faithful and True!
You would not believe what happened to me today!
At the beginning of the day the Lord was teaching me about the concept of learning to rest in His Spirit. Resting in the Spirit is of the utmost importance in our daily walk with the Lord. If we can rest in the Lord, then we can enjoy the Lord, and if we can enjoy the Lord, we can flow in Him, and He through us.
As I was contemplating the things of the kingdom, it came time for me to pick up my girlfriend from school. However, I WAS LATE! And this did not go over too well with her! She was mad, and upset, and it was BAD!
My mother visited me later in the day (I took time to go to the bookstore), and the Lord spoke through me a word that was welling up inside me. And I believe that this word can apply to each and every person that is reading this right now.
Even though I was late BECAUSE I was praying for my city, and our nation, and our children, and many other things, the Lord still convicted me. You see, the Lord ALWAYS walks and moves and operates in LOVE. For He is love, and if we are to be like Him, and represent Him, we must move as He moves, and walk in LOVE.
Well, the response from my girlfriend hurt me terribly, if only for a moment in time. I was badly hurt. It felt like arrows were coming down in every direction. Battered and bruised, I went to meet with my mother.
As my mom and I were eating lunch, I started to speak to her about how Love covers a multitude of sins. Now I was in the wrong in this situation, for I was not responsible and did not pick my girlfriend up on time. However, her response was not exactly the epitome of godliness. Even so, I could have done better.
Yes, EVEN THOUGH I was praying while not attending to my girlfriend's needs, the Lord still let me know that I was in the wrong in part. He let me know that love covers a multitude of sins.
So while eating at Panera, I bought a loaf of bread, and then went across the street to buy a bar of chocolate. I didn't exactly know how I was to approach my girlfriend about the issue, but I knew I was to show some kingdom love and call her.
I called her, and all was smooth, and she told me to come to the library to pick her up. After I went to the library, I went inside and the first thing she asked me was if I was ready to go. I said 'yes'.
Christine got her stuff and we walked to the car together. And upon entering the car, there she saw the bread and the chocolate. She asked if they were for her and I said 'yes'! Oh, the power of yes! Kidding! The power of LOVE; of God's love in action! Within seconds she started to smile, and then gave me a kiss!
It has been said that love is the most powerful force in the universe; and that assessment is TRUE. If anyone tells you otherwise it is a lie from hell.
Today I was reminded that the flesh has plans for our future, the kingdom of darkness has plans for our future, and so does the King of kings. And I know, and believe wholeheartedly that His plan will prevail in each and every one of our lives, because love covers a multitude of sins, whether our own, or others; and it is He Who works ALL THINGS in accordance with His will. To Him be glory and honor forever! Amen.
At the beginning of the day the Lord was teaching me about the concept of learning to rest in His Spirit. Resting in the Spirit is of the utmost importance in our daily walk with the Lord. If we can rest in the Lord, then we can enjoy the Lord, and if we can enjoy the Lord, we can flow in Him, and He through us.
As I was contemplating the things of the kingdom, it came time for me to pick up my girlfriend from school. However, I WAS LATE! And this did not go over too well with her! She was mad, and upset, and it was BAD!
My mother visited me later in the day (I took time to go to the bookstore), and the Lord spoke through me a word that was welling up inside me. And I believe that this word can apply to each and every person that is reading this right now.
Even though I was late BECAUSE I was praying for my city, and our nation, and our children, and many other things, the Lord still convicted me. You see, the Lord ALWAYS walks and moves and operates in LOVE. For He is love, and if we are to be like Him, and represent Him, we must move as He moves, and walk in LOVE.
Well, the response from my girlfriend hurt me terribly, if only for a moment in time. I was badly hurt. It felt like arrows were coming down in every direction. Battered and bruised, I went to meet with my mother.
As my mom and I were eating lunch, I started to speak to her about how Love covers a multitude of sins. Now I was in the wrong in this situation, for I was not responsible and did not pick my girlfriend up on time. However, her response was not exactly the epitome of godliness. Even so, I could have done better.
Yes, EVEN THOUGH I was praying while not attending to my girlfriend's needs, the Lord still let me know that I was in the wrong in part. He let me know that love covers a multitude of sins.
So while eating at Panera, I bought a loaf of bread, and then went across the street to buy a bar of chocolate. I didn't exactly know how I was to approach my girlfriend about the issue, but I knew I was to show some kingdom love and call her.
I called her, and all was smooth, and she told me to come to the library to pick her up. After I went to the library, I went inside and the first thing she asked me was if I was ready to go. I said 'yes'.
Christine got her stuff and we walked to the car together. And upon entering the car, there she saw the bread and the chocolate. She asked if they were for her and I said 'yes'! Oh, the power of yes! Kidding! The power of LOVE; of God's love in action! Within seconds she started to smile, and then gave me a kiss!
It has been said that love is the most powerful force in the universe; and that assessment is TRUE. If anyone tells you otherwise it is a lie from hell.
Today I was reminded that the flesh has plans for our future, the kingdom of darkness has plans for our future, and so does the King of kings. And I know, and believe wholeheartedly that His plan will prevail in each and every one of our lives, because love covers a multitude of sins, whether our own, or others; and it is He Who works ALL THINGS in accordance with His will. To Him be glory and honor forever! Amen.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Sowing Righteousness, Reaping Reward
Proverbs 11:18
The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.
Proverbs 11:17-19 (in Context) Proverbs 11 (Whole Chapter)
How can we sow righteousness? I believe that there are many ways to sow righteousness. One way to sow righteousness could be through good deeds; sowing time, sowing effort, sowing prayers.
Think of other ways that you could sow righteousness. There are many, many ways to do this. To give, to pray for, to withhold an evil report. I believe that to sow righteousness is to work righteousness.
We know that the fruit of righteousness is always sown in peace by those who make peace as written in James.
James 3:18
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
James 3:17-18 (in Context) James 3 (Whole Chapter)
The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.
Proverbs 11:17-19 (in Context) Proverbs 11 (Whole Chapter)
How can we sow righteousness? I believe that there are many ways to sow righteousness. One way to sow righteousness could be through good deeds; sowing time, sowing effort, sowing prayers.
Think of other ways that you could sow righteousness. There are many, many ways to do this. To give, to pray for, to withhold an evil report. I believe that to sow righteousness is to work righteousness.
We know that the fruit of righteousness is always sown in peace by those who make peace as written in James.
James 3:18
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
James 3:17-18 (in Context) James 3 (Whole Chapter)
The Crucified Life
John 10:16-18 (New International Version)
16I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. 17The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. 18No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father."
As has been stated before, there are 2 sides to the cross. One side is death and termination, and the other is resurrection life and glory! The Lord Jesus is our main example in living a life of service, and a life of sacrifice, a life of death to self.
There is an extraordinary key found in John 10 that the Lord has shown me today. So let's take a look at it. The Lord says in this excerpt that the Father, the Father of glory, the Father of lights, loves Him because He lays down His life. This is amazing if you have the eyes to see it and a heart to understand it. A laid down life, or a life of death to self, is a life of sacrifice and a life of love. So in essence, what the Lord was saying here, was that the Father loves the Lord because of His loving heart! The heart that lays down its own agenda and own plans is the heart that knows the love of the Father.
What's even more amazing in this passage is the authority of the Lord. It is written that the Lord lays down His life...ONLY to pick it back up again. And this is exactly what happened on the cross. He laid down His life, His life was not taken from Him. But He laid down His life, only to take it back up again! If you can see this, rejoice, because you can see how great He is!
16I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. 17The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. 18No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father."
As has been stated before, there are 2 sides to the cross. One side is death and termination, and the other is resurrection life and glory! The Lord Jesus is our main example in living a life of service, and a life of sacrifice, a life of death to self.
There is an extraordinary key found in John 10 that the Lord has shown me today. So let's take a look at it. The Lord says in this excerpt that the Father, the Father of glory, the Father of lights, loves Him because He lays down His life. This is amazing if you have the eyes to see it and a heart to understand it. A laid down life, or a life of death to self, is a life of sacrifice and a life of love. So in essence, what the Lord was saying here, was that the Father loves the Lord because of His loving heart! The heart that lays down its own agenda and own plans is the heart that knows the love of the Father.
What's even more amazing in this passage is the authority of the Lord. It is written that the Lord lays down His life...ONLY to pick it back up again. And this is exactly what happened on the cross. He laid down His life, His life was not taken from Him. But He laid down His life, only to take it back up again! If you can see this, rejoice, because you can see how great He is!
From Romans 5
17For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)
Abundance of grace is ours through Christ! And so is the GIFT of righteousness! How we, as God's kingdom people, should love righteousness, goodness, and every right path! If we embrace these things, we shall 'reign in life through Christ'!
What is righteousness? Righteousness is right standing with God. And righteousness is one of three key elements in the kingdom of God. For the kingdom of God is 1.righteousness, 2. peace, and 3. joy in the Holy Ghost.
First off, even though this is about the effects of grace and righteousness, it is important to point out how one can even enter into the kingdom of God. The Word makes it clear that if we are serious about our relationship with God, we must be born again of water and of the Spirit. In John 3, Jesus tells a religious leader of Israel that you must be born again,
John 3
1There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
2The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
3Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
4Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?
5Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
6That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
7Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
8The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
9Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?
10Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?
11Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.
12If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?
13And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
14And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
15That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
19And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
20For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
The key to enter into the kingdom is repentance. Repentance is not only a turning away, but a turning unto something. In repentance, we abhor, and turn away from all of those things that have separated us from God, confess them, and turn unto God, Who is able to wipe away all of our sin, because of the sacrifice the Lord made at Calvary.
Righteousness is simply a fruit of abiding in the King. The effects of righteousness are wide ranging, but I will list many of my favorite attributes of living a righteous life through Christ.
Isaiah 32:17 says that the fruit of righteousness is both quietness and confidence forever. So in this passage, righteousness is tied to rest and assurance, like most other Scriptures dealing with the fruit of righteousness.
It is also important to point out that there are different types of righteousness; one of the self, the other rooted in God's goodness and nature. Self-righteousness asserts that we are holy apart from God. This take on righteousness is both hypocritical and an affront to the Lord.
The righteousness that is from above is tied into faith, for it is by faith that we can touch the Lord and have His life flow through us. Abraham was called the man of faith and because of his faith, or belief in the Word of God, this belief, because of his faith, he was 'accredited as being righteousness'. So a basic truth is that the righteousness we receive upon salvation is not rooted in ourselves, but in The Truth Himself, Jesus.
Psalm 89 says that righteousness and justice are the foundations of the Throne of God. If these are the foundations of the Throne, then surely they are apart of the King, Who sits upon the Throne's, nature.
Righteousness is something that is able to save us as well. Proverbs tells us that wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. Not only does righteousness deliver, but it also protects. Proverbs 13 says that righteousness guards the man of integrity.
I have searched out the Word and can only find positive and uplifting attributes tied to the man who seeks after righteousness. After all, Jesus states in the NT, seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness'. Proverbs 21 states that those who pursue righteousness and love find life, prosperity, and honor.
So besides all of the up sides of righteousness, pertaining to life and godliness, what are the hindrances of it?
This will be discussed in the next post!
Abundance of grace is ours through Christ! And so is the GIFT of righteousness! How we, as God's kingdom people, should love righteousness, goodness, and every right path! If we embrace these things, we shall 'reign in life through Christ'!
What is righteousness? Righteousness is right standing with God. And righteousness is one of three key elements in the kingdom of God. For the kingdom of God is 1.righteousness, 2. peace, and 3. joy in the Holy Ghost.
First off, even though this is about the effects of grace and righteousness, it is important to point out how one can even enter into the kingdom of God. The Word makes it clear that if we are serious about our relationship with God, we must be born again of water and of the Spirit. In John 3, Jesus tells a religious leader of Israel that you must be born again,
John 3
1There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
2The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
3Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
4Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?
5Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
6That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
7Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
8The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
9Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?
10Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?
11Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.
12If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?
13And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
14And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
15That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
19And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
20For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
The key to enter into the kingdom is repentance. Repentance is not only a turning away, but a turning unto something. In repentance, we abhor, and turn away from all of those things that have separated us from God, confess them, and turn unto God, Who is able to wipe away all of our sin, because of the sacrifice the Lord made at Calvary.
Righteousness is simply a fruit of abiding in the King. The effects of righteousness are wide ranging, but I will list many of my favorite attributes of living a righteous life through Christ.
Isaiah 32:17 says that the fruit of righteousness is both quietness and confidence forever. So in this passage, righteousness is tied to rest and assurance, like most other Scriptures dealing with the fruit of righteousness.
It is also important to point out that there are different types of righteousness; one of the self, the other rooted in God's goodness and nature. Self-righteousness asserts that we are holy apart from God. This take on righteousness is both hypocritical and an affront to the Lord.
The righteousness that is from above is tied into faith, for it is by faith that we can touch the Lord and have His life flow through us. Abraham was called the man of faith and because of his faith, or belief in the Word of God, this belief, because of his faith, he was 'accredited as being righteousness'. So a basic truth is that the righteousness we receive upon salvation is not rooted in ourselves, but in The Truth Himself, Jesus.
Psalm 89 says that righteousness and justice are the foundations of the Throne of God. If these are the foundations of the Throne, then surely they are apart of the King, Who sits upon the Throne's, nature.
Righteousness is something that is able to save us as well. Proverbs tells us that wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. Not only does righteousness deliver, but it also protects. Proverbs 13 says that righteousness guards the man of integrity.
I have searched out the Word and can only find positive and uplifting attributes tied to the man who seeks after righteousness. After all, Jesus states in the NT, seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness'. Proverbs 21 states that those who pursue righteousness and love find life, prosperity, and honor.
So besides all of the up sides of righteousness, pertaining to life and godliness, what are the hindrances of it?
This will be discussed in the next post!
More on Sonship
Galatians 4
1What I am saying is that as long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, although he owns the whole estate. 2He is subject to guardians and trustees until the time set by his father. 3So also, when we were children, we were in slavery under the basic principles of the world. 4But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 6Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba,[a] Father." 7So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.
Galatians 4 also lays out some incredible truth concerning the issues of sonship. paul states that as long as an heir is a child, he is not any different than a slave. But, God decided to send forth His Son so that through that Son, many others would be made righteous through His life and sacrifice.
Romans 5:18-20 (King James Version)
18Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
19For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
And through that Promised Seed falling in the ground and dying, the fruit from that is that many other sons of the kingdom would be brought forth thereafter.
1What I am saying is that as long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, although he owns the whole estate. 2He is subject to guardians and trustees until the time set by his father. 3So also, when we were children, we were in slavery under the basic principles of the world. 4But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 6Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba,[a] Father." 7So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.
Galatians 4 also lays out some incredible truth concerning the issues of sonship. paul states that as long as an heir is a child, he is not any different than a slave. But, God decided to send forth His Son so that through that Son, many others would be made righteous through His life and sacrifice.
Romans 5:18-20 (King James Version)
18Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
19For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
And through that Promised Seed falling in the ground and dying, the fruit from that is that many other sons of the kingdom would be brought forth thereafter.
To be a Son
Sons of God
26You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
In this generation, God is looking to raise up sons and daughters unto Himself
that will worship Him in spirit and in truth. And what a priveledge it is to
be a son.
Sons have benefits whereas slaves have very limited benefits, if any at all.
Jesus shares in John 8 that slaves have no permanent place in the family, but
a son belongs forever. What a blessing! Sons remain forever!
What a priveledge it is to be a son of the Living God. What an honor. We are
no longer slaves unto sin, but sons unto righteousness!
And how do we come into this sonship? We accept the sonship by faith, through grace
which is of the Lord. He longs for us to all come unto Him to be His beloved sons.
This concept of sonship reminds me of when Jesus looked over Jerusalem and lamented, 'O Jerusalem, you who stone the prophets, how I would have wanted to gather You unto Myself as a mother hen gathers her chicks, but you would not.' O to have a willing heart, and a humble heart, that we may get to know the Father, and come to Him, and be His sons and daughters.
The Lord is looking for worshippers. He is looking for sons and daughters as well. You are a son now, already, if you stop and think about it. We are all prodigals until we come to the point that we need really need Him; when we realize that we're eating pig food, and that even the hired servants back home have it better than we do out in the world. And that when we do choose to come home, there will be an understanding Father there to embrace us, and throw a feast for us, and put a ring on our finger, to seal the fact that we are home, and sons forevermore.
26You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
In this generation, God is looking to raise up sons and daughters unto Himself
that will worship Him in spirit and in truth. And what a priveledge it is to
be a son.
Sons have benefits whereas slaves have very limited benefits, if any at all.
Jesus shares in John 8 that slaves have no permanent place in the family, but
a son belongs forever. What a blessing! Sons remain forever!
What a priveledge it is to be a son of the Living God. What an honor. We are
no longer slaves unto sin, but sons unto righteousness!
And how do we come into this sonship? We accept the sonship by faith, through grace
which is of the Lord. He longs for us to all come unto Him to be His beloved sons.
This concept of sonship reminds me of when Jesus looked over Jerusalem and lamented, 'O Jerusalem, you who stone the prophets, how I would have wanted to gather You unto Myself as a mother hen gathers her chicks, but you would not.' O to have a willing heart, and a humble heart, that we may get to know the Father, and come to Him, and be His sons and daughters.
The Lord is looking for worshippers. He is looking for sons and daughters as well. You are a son now, already, if you stop and think about it. We are all prodigals until we come to the point that we need really need Him; when we realize that we're eating pig food, and that even the hired servants back home have it better than we do out in the world. And that when we do choose to come home, there will be an understanding Father there to embrace us, and throw a feast for us, and put a ring on our finger, to seal the fact that we are home, and sons forevermore.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
The Samaritan Woman
Many Samaritans Believe
39Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me everything I ever did." 40So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. 41And because of his words many more became believers.
42They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."
In this story from John 4, the Samaritan woman tells those of her town that the Lord told her everything that ever she did.
There are many things to take from this small excerpt of the Scripture. As we go forward in the Lord, we see that by the Spirit, the Lord tells us everything that we ever did. He shows us where to repent, where to rejoice, where we fell, where we stand, etc.
As we let the Lord guide us in every area of our lives, others begin to take note, and come to Him as well. When we let the Lord uncover all areas of our lives that need to be uncovered (to have light shed on), others begin to follow after that great Light within us. And as you come to the Lord, He will tell you of everything you have ever done, and begin to speak to you about all you will do!
Going back to the previous post, to have life and spirit on our words is to speak what we hear Him speak, and to abide in Him. As we begin to trust Him more and more, and abide in Him, our words and actions will not fall to the ground, or be unfruitful, because it is in Him that our works and words are wrought.
39Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me everything I ever did." 40So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. 41And because of his words many more became believers.
42They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."
In this story from John 4, the Samaritan woman tells those of her town that the Lord told her everything that ever she did.
There are many things to take from this small excerpt of the Scripture. As we go forward in the Lord, we see that by the Spirit, the Lord tells us everything that we ever did. He shows us where to repent, where to rejoice, where we fell, where we stand, etc.
As we let the Lord guide us in every area of our lives, others begin to take note, and come to Him as well. When we let the Lord uncover all areas of our lives that need to be uncovered (to have light shed on), others begin to follow after that great Light within us. And as you come to the Lord, He will tell you of everything you have ever done, and begin to speak to you about all you will do!
Going back to the previous post, to have life and spirit on our words is to speak what we hear Him speak, and to abide in Him. As we begin to trust Him more and more, and abide in Him, our words and actions will not fall to the ground, or be unfruitful, because it is in Him that our works and words are wrought.
Spirit and Life
The Lord said that the words that He spoke were spirit
and they were life. The words that He spoke were not
flesh and death, but spirit, and they were life.
What does it mean for words to have spirit and life on them?
It means that whatever we say should be life giving and
inspiring; never discouraging or empty.
The Lord wants our lives to be spirit and life filled. He
came to give us the abundant life, as promised.
As we continue to worship in spirit and in truth, our words
will be filled with spirit and with life. The more we are led
by our old nature, to that extent will our words and actions
NOT be filled with spirit and with life.
and they were life. The words that He spoke were not
flesh and death, but spirit, and they were life.
What does it mean for words to have spirit and life on them?
It means that whatever we say should be life giving and
inspiring; never discouraging or empty.
The Lord wants our lives to be spirit and life filled. He
came to give us the abundant life, as promised.
As we continue to worship in spirit and in truth, our words
will be filled with spirit and with life. The more we are led
by our old nature, to that extent will our words and actions
NOT be filled with spirit and with life.
I walk the Line by Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash Lyrics
I Walk The Line Lyrics
• Johnny Cash Artist Info @ MFYI.com •
Send "I Walk The Line" Ringtone to your Cell
I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you're mine, I walk the line
I find it very, very easy to be true
I find myself alone when each day is through
Yes, I'll admit that I'm a fool for you
Because you're mine, I walk the line
As sure as night is dark and day is light
I keep you on my mind both day and night
And happiness I've known proves that it's right
Because you're mine, I walk the line
You've got a way to keep me on your side
You give me cause for love that I can't hide
For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide
Because you're mine, I walk the line
I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you're mine, I walk the line
I Walk The Line Lyrics
• Johnny Cash Artist Info @ MFYI.com •
Send "I Walk The Line" Ringtone to your Cell
I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you're mine, I walk the line
I find it very, very easy to be true
I find myself alone when each day is through
Yes, I'll admit that I'm a fool for you
Because you're mine, I walk the line
As sure as night is dark and day is light
I keep you on my mind both day and night
And happiness I've known proves that it's right
Because you're mine, I walk the line
You've got a way to keep me on your side
You give me cause for love that I can't hide
For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide
Because you're mine, I walk the line
I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you're mine, I walk the line
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Paul on Law vs. Faith
17"If, while we seek to be justified in Christ, it becomes evident that we ourselves are sinners, does that mean that Christ promotes sin? Absolutely not! 18If I rebuild what I destroyed, I prove that I am a lawbreaker. 19For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. 20I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!"[d]
In this passage from Galatians 2, Paul is rebuking Peter for congregating with the Jews when the Gentile believers came around. What is interesting to note is the fact that Peter was an apostle to the Jews, and Paul to the Gentiles. What Paul points out in this passage is that we are justified by grace, through faith, and not by the law. 'No one can be justified by the law before God', Paul states. It is only through faith that we can touch the Lord. Only through faith are we able to tap into the life God created for us. For by faith, we touch Christ, and it is no longer we who live, but Christ lives His victorious life through us! 'For if righteousness could be gained by the law (keeping the ordinances written in the law), then Christ's death would have been for nothing!'
In this passage from Galatians 2, Paul is rebuking Peter for congregating with the Jews when the Gentile believers came around. What is interesting to note is the fact that Peter was an apostle to the Jews, and Paul to the Gentiles. What Paul points out in this passage is that we are justified by grace, through faith, and not by the law. 'No one can be justified by the law before God', Paul states. It is only through faith that we can touch the Lord. Only through faith are we able to tap into the life God created for us. For by faith, we touch Christ, and it is no longer we who live, but Christ lives His victorious life through us! 'For if righteousness could be gained by the law (keeping the ordinances written in the law), then Christ's death would have been for nothing!'
Monday, September 28, 2009
Proven Character
Romans 5
Peace and Joy
1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, wea]">[a]have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And web]">[b] rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but wec]">[c] also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.Sometimes things happen to me and I have no idea why. And I stress, and I fear. But I am learning that suffering produces perseverance, which in turn produces character, and proven character brings hope.
I know that the Lord is interested in proven character while many are simply interested in gifts. Gifts will always be important, but God is interested in our characters.
Where there is no way, make a way. Where there is fear,
create peace. Where there is peace, create new beginnings.
Where there are new beginnings, create joy. Where there is
joy, create intimacy. And where there is intimacy, create more
intimacy.
We don't know where we've been. We don't know where we are.
We don't know where we're going without You. We don't know
where we're going without You.
create peace. Where there is peace, create new beginnings.
Where there are new beginnings, create joy. Where there is
joy, create intimacy. And where there is intimacy, create more
intimacy.
We don't know where we've been. We don't know where we are.
We don't know where we're going without You. We don't know
where we're going without You.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Fiery Furnace
The three replied to the king, "We do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the furnace, the God we serve is
able to save us from it, and He will rescue us from your hand. But even if He does not, and He requires us to walk with Him through the fire, we want you to know,
O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
This should be our common response to anything that comes our way in this life. Even if we are thrown into the fiery furnace
of affliction and suffering, God is able to save us from is, and even use it for our good and His glory.
I've recently been experiencing some kind of confusing, fiery furnaces. Even in the midst of it, I understand that the Lord
is in control, He's on the throne, and He's interceding for me! Hope in the Lord and in His great mercy! His ways are above
of, and so His thoughts! Let His kingdom come and will be done on earth as it is up in Heaven!
NOAH
able to save us from it, and He will rescue us from your hand. But even if He does not, and He requires us to walk with Him through the fire, we want you to know,
O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
This should be our common response to anything that comes our way in this life. Even if we are thrown into the fiery furnace
of affliction and suffering, God is able to save us from is, and even use it for our good and His glory.
I've recently been experiencing some kind of confusing, fiery furnaces. Even in the midst of it, I understand that the Lord
is in control, He's on the throne, and He's interceding for me! Hope in the Lord and in His great mercy! His ways are above
of, and so His thoughts! Let His kingdom come and will be done on earth as it is up in Heaven!
NOAH
PM Netanyahu
Yesterday Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu made a moving speech in front
of the UN council, speaking up and against Iran's Ahmadinejad's statements
regarding the Holocaust.
http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=7169
of the UN council, speaking up and against Iran's Ahmadinejad's statements
regarding the Holocaust.
http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=7169
Thursday, September 24, 2009
He Loves You!
We must all understand that this is a race of faith! And what is faith? Faith is the substance of things not seen, and the
evidence of things hoped for. By faith we understand everything that we have in the Lord Jesus! By faith we can clearly see
Him sitting in the heavens above all principalities and powers. By faith we have the victory! It is important to always remember
that the victory has already been won! It just needs to be displayed on the earth now.Runners, as Paul points out, go into 'strict' training to compete in their field. We, too, as believers, are to
go into strict training as we run the race that has been set out for us. This strict training comes only by the work
of the Holy Spirit of God within us. As we obey the prodding, the leading, the guidance of the Holy Spirit within us,
we go from 'glory to glory', and from one place on the race track to another. And each glory gets us closer to our finish line!
God has specifically created a race for each and every unique individual. He knows what we need, what we lack, who we arenow, and who we will become.
Another huge part of our 'crown' upon finishing our race, is the people who will come to know the Lord Jesus because of our
lives devoted to His service. People are so important to the Lord, he loves each and every one of us without measure. The Father's
love for us is one of the greatest treasures that we can ever know in this life. One of the greatest treasures in this life is the
ability to love and cherish others.
Galatians 5:14
The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Galatians 5:13-15 (in Context) Galatians 5 (Whole Chapter)
What a great kingdom mystery! It is so common, yet so overlooked today. The whole entirety of the law of God
can be summed up in this one command: "Love..." Love is everything, for God is love. And when we abide in love,
we are truly abiding in God, for God is love. To love God is to obey His Holy Spirit. And to obey His Holy Spirit,
is to be one with Him, to be united with Him. It may be a hard saying, but in essence, to love is to be one with the
Lord and His nature. To love is to obey. And as I once wrote in a song, 'To love is to die!' And what greater sacrifice
can one make than to lay down his life for the Lord and others.
1 John 4:11-13 (New International Version)
11Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
13We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.
- 1 John 4:8
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
1 John 4:7-9 (in Context) 1 John 4 (Whole Chapter)
These are extremely profound mysteries which are contained within the Word of God, yet many people
miss them because they are so simple. Remember what we are exhorted in 2 Corinthians 11:3:
2 Corinthians 11:3
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:2-4 (in Context) 2 Corinthians 11 (Whole Chapter)
The Christian life is simple. Yet many make it confusing by various means. The simplest way to
not get confused about something is to remember your purpose and direction.
Earlier we talked about loving God and walking according to His Holy Spirit, being united with Him. However,
in order to fully obey the Lord and His calling on our lives, we must understand the cross. Each and every one
of us has a cross specifically designed for each and every one of us. The cross means death; death to self, death
to the world, death to the flesh.
The cross is difficult to explain. It is a mystery. The cross is the means by which God brought the world back
into unity with Him. The cross is the means by which we are reconciled to our God. The Lord Jesus states that
whoever wants to follow Him and do His will must take up their cross and follow Him. In other words, what the Lord
is saying, is, if you want to follow him, you must be willing to die.
- John 12:24
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
John 12:23-25 (in Context) John 12 (Whole Chapter)
The cross can be tied into many things. But one of the things the cross is tied into is our thought life:
2 Corinthians 10:4-6 (King James Version)
4(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
5Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
6And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
The mind is an amazing thing. It is apart of who we are. We are all mind, body, and spirit. Though we are
Spirit filled, and focused on our spiritual side, our mind is of tremendous importance in our walk in the Lord.
Ephesians 4:22-24 (King James Version)
22That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
23And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
24And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Our minds are spiritual. We make decisions with our minds. Though our minds are apart of the soul (mind, will, emotion),
what we think and believe are huge in how we will live our lives. Our minds must be renewed by the Holy Spirit. Anything
that is contrary to the nature of the Lord must be replaced by His loving, life-giving thoughts. Whatever we believe in that
is not in line with His thoughts and ways is what is called deception.
For many years I had a battle within my own mind. I would battle with great anger and frustration. I would battle with
fleshly thoughts. I would battle condemnation. This battle continues to this day, but the Lord slowly is giving me the
mind of Christ, His Son, so that I may be a son of the kingdom, going about the Father's business.
Did you know that each and every one of us are called to do our Father's business? And by business, I mean to
do His will in the earth. But in order to do His will in the earth, we must prove to be faithful. And the only way that
we are going to fulfill our destiny is to be conformed into the image of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. We are living
in the last days according to the book of Joel. The Spirit of the Lord is being poured out 'upon all flesh' as prophecied.
Joel 2:28
And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
Joel 2:27-29 (in Context) Joel 2 (Whole Chapter)
These are the days of miracles and wonders! God has much planned for each and every one of us, but to truly tap into
what He has to offer and share with us, we must be connected to Him through the Holy Spirit.
And so how does one connect with the Holy Spirit? You must be able to trust God and not yourself. Listen to what
the Scripture says about those that trust the Lord with all of their heart:
Psalm 18:30
As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
Psalm 18:29-31 (in Context) Psalm 18 (Whole Chapter)
Psalm 32:10
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.
Psalm 32:9-11 (in Context) Psalm 32 (Whole Chapter)
There are great riches in trusting in the Lord. When we trust in the Lord, we are asserting that we do not have all of
the answers ourselves.
The way that we start to walk in the mind of Christ is to be led by the Holy Spirit and to die to ourselves through His cross. It has
been well said that there are two sides to the cross, in spirit there are. One side of the cross is death and termination. The other
side of the cross is glory and resurrection power. It is the second side of the cross that the Lord Jesus wants us to walk in (the glory
and resurrection side!) However, in order to walk in His power and His resurrection life, we must learn to die to our old man, who still
is within us, even though he is slowly fading from the picture.
It is important to understand who our 'old man' really is. The old man is otherwise known as 'the flesh' or our uncrucified nature. When
we live according to our flesh, we will die. When we walk according to the Spirit of the Lord, we experience freedom, joy, and liberty. The
Scripture says that where the Spirit is Lord, there is liberty. As we listen to the voice of the Lord and obey, we experience more and more
freedom in the Lord. As we listen more and more to our flesh, then we experience more and more bondage and corruption in this world.
The old man does not have to go on living another day. Today can be the day that he dies. Right now. Our part in putting our old men
to death is simply in obeying the Lord's command to take up our crosses. Again, taking up our crosses means giving up everything in order
to pursue the Lord, in all His glory.
What's wonderful about the Christian life is that we get to experience Christ everyday! He is with us always, and He never leaves us as
promised. Wherever you are in your journey with the Lord, just know that He loves you, and that He knows everything about you, and that
He desires intimate fellowship with you today! If you believe that you are out of sync with the Lord and His purposes for your life, just stop
right now and ask Him to come in and take over. Ask Him to come and walk with you, and talk with you, and share His heart with you. It's
why he died, and why he lives now! He loves you!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Where I Was
It's where I was
Not necessarily
Where I'm headed
It's where I am
Not necessarily where I'll be
Tomorrow
Not necessarily
Where I'm headed
It's where I am
Not necessarily where I'll be
Tomorrow
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
TIME
Surely time slips away. Time is short. Everything in this life
tends NOT TO LAST.
We are eternal. We who follow the Lord have the Holy Spirit
living within us. When we abide in the presence of the Lord, a part
of us is outside of the time/space continuum. We have left the
world with all its anxieties and troubles, though we cannot avoid
suffering.
Time was made for man, and not man for time. Time can serve us.
Let me give an example. Whenever I look at the clock I am inspired.
I am inspired because I know that the journey I am on with the Lord
will never end. I know that this is a journey that will last forever.
Allow the clock to inspire you, and not pull you down, as you seek
His presence continually...
tends NOT TO LAST.
We are eternal. We who follow the Lord have the Holy Spirit
living within us. When we abide in the presence of the Lord, a part
of us is outside of the time/space continuum. We have left the
world with all its anxieties and troubles, though we cannot avoid
suffering.
Time was made for man, and not man for time. Time can serve us.
Let me give an example. Whenever I look at the clock I am inspired.
I am inspired because I know that the journey I am on with the Lord
will never end. I know that this is a journey that will last forever.
Allow the clock to inspire you, and not pull you down, as you seek
His presence continually...
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Note to a Friend
The media is a joke for the most part. We should be looking to the Lord for our guidance, to let us know what the real news is. The more we look at the Lord, the clearer we get to the real ruth. And with media, truth is relevant, and they usually come with spin and slant stories. This is because there is a veil that is over the media's face. What they see, which is not always important, is what they try and make others see. But what they 'see' isn't always a reality, or even sometimes worthy of reporting.
However, the media does do some good. We need the news, and we need reporters. They're not all evil. Let's encourage the good ones, and recognize those who we can go without.
Well, hope that helped ease your pain. And yes, there are much more important issues than that of Kanye West and his outbursts. But that's American culture for you.
Good to see you again!
Maybe you can come down again sometime.
http://www.humantrafficking.org/links/83
(Karina, keep praying into this. The Lord is anxious to hear your prayers. There is so much power in just one prayer! Pray in faith that this is going to end. And keep your eyes on Him to guide you as you pray about this issue!)
However, the media does do some good. We need the news, and we need reporters. They're not all evil. Let's encourage the good ones, and recognize those who we can go without.
Well, hope that helped ease your pain. And yes, there are much more important issues than that of Kanye West and his outbursts. But that's American culture for you.
Good to see you again!
Maybe you can come down again sometime.
http://www.humantrafficking.org/links/83
(Karina, keep praying into this. The Lord is anxious to hear your prayers. There is so much power in just one prayer! Pray in faith that this is going to end. And keep your eyes on Him to guide you as you pray about this issue!)
His Great Love
What are you doing right now? Where are you in life? Are you happy?
Sad? Confused? Joyful? Where are you?
NO matter where you are, or what you're up against, just know that
God is FOR YOU. He is for you in this life, and in the one to come. There
is nothing that can separate you from His great love for you, never forget
that.
For in the Lord, you live, and move, and have your being. He died for you,
he rose again for you, and he prays for your situation, even now. There is
nothing that is able to separate you from Him and His great love.
Has something happened to you that you think has ruined everything. Just
know that God is the God of possibility. There is nothing that is too hard for him.
If you don't have the faith for that, it's ok, just take it as a fact. He is able
to work all things for the GOOD to those THAT LOVE HIM, and are Called.
And if you don't know Him, or care to know him, no matter who you are or where
you are right now, just know that He's calling out to you now to get to know Him,
and to ask Him whatever you'd like to ask. There's no question to hard, or too silly
for Him.
He loves you.
Sad? Confused? Joyful? Where are you?
NO matter where you are, or what you're up against, just know that
God is FOR YOU. He is for you in this life, and in the one to come. There
is nothing that can separate you from His great love for you, never forget
that.
For in the Lord, you live, and move, and have your being. He died for you,
he rose again for you, and he prays for your situation, even now. There is
nothing that is able to separate you from Him and His great love.
Has something happened to you that you think has ruined everything. Just
know that God is the God of possibility. There is nothing that is too hard for him.
If you don't have the faith for that, it's ok, just take it as a fact. He is able
to work all things for the GOOD to those THAT LOVE HIM, and are Called.
And if you don't know Him, or care to know him, no matter who you are or where
you are right now, just know that He's calling out to you now to get to know Him,
and to ask Him whatever you'd like to ask. There's no question to hard, or too silly
for Him.
He loves you.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
I've been doing alot of thinking about...FACEBOOK! Yes, Facebook.
This thing is so huge. I don't know, what do you think? For the most part, it's ok.
A time waster, perhaps. A stalker playground, maybe.
But I suppose it's just as good as bad as anything else is out there on the internet.
What I mean to say is, Facebook is extremely popular, even with all the widgets
contained within it. Even though now your parents can access it, as well as high school
students, Facebook is extremely popular. And I suppose it will be for a while now.
Where do you see Facebook headed in the future? Up, down, stagnation nation?
This thing is so huge. I don't know, what do you think? For the most part, it's ok.
A time waster, perhaps. A stalker playground, maybe.
But I suppose it's just as good as bad as anything else is out there on the internet.
What I mean to say is, Facebook is extremely popular, even with all the widgets
contained within it. Even though now your parents can access it, as well as high school
students, Facebook is extremely popular. And I suppose it will be for a while now.
Where do you see Facebook headed in the future? Up, down, stagnation nation?
The Ways of God
Recently I've been seeking out the Lord on some things. I've been asking
Him to allow me to hear His voice clearly. I've been asking Him to help me
to understand Who He really is.
Most of all, He has revealed His grace and His love to me. It's hard to describe
just how much the Lord loves each and every one of us. Each one of us is so
valuable in His sight. He esteems us so highly.
I think right now of those who say that God is cruel because of such atrocities
as the holocaust, or war, or abortion, or other such cruelties. My answer to that
would be that man makes mistakes. People mess up. From the very beginning,
God gave man a choice to obey or disobey Him. This was in the Garden of Eden.
God said to Adam, 'You can eat of any tree in the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge
of Good and Evil you must not eat, lest you die.' And so there was the one 'rule', per se,
that Adam had in the garden. He had a choice to obey or disobey God. And we all
know that he chose to disobey God rather than tend the garden as he was given to do.
Because of Adam's disobedience, death entered into the world. And with that act of
disobedience came man's estrangement from God.
But that is why Jesus came. He came to restore what was lost in the Garden.
He came to 'seek and to save that which was lost', which was man's relationship
with God. Jesus had the choice to obey or disobey in His lifetime on earth, but He
was faithful, faithful even to death upon a cross. And in that act of sacrifice, He reconciled
the world to Himself, through His blood. The Word says that there is life in the blood.
So quite literally, the Life of God, or the blood of God, has the power to utterly save
all those who put their trust in the sacrifice of Christ. It is as simple as believing, believing
with the heart, the whole heart, in sincerity.
God longs to have a wonderful relationship with us. But it is only when we see how much
we need Him, and how far He went to save us, when we see that He truly is a God who
seeks us out, no matter what it takes.
Him to allow me to hear His voice clearly. I've been asking Him to help me
to understand Who He really is.
Most of all, He has revealed His grace and His love to me. It's hard to describe
just how much the Lord loves each and every one of us. Each one of us is so
valuable in His sight. He esteems us so highly.
I think right now of those who say that God is cruel because of such atrocities
as the holocaust, or war, or abortion, or other such cruelties. My answer to that
would be that man makes mistakes. People mess up. From the very beginning,
God gave man a choice to obey or disobey Him. This was in the Garden of Eden.
God said to Adam, 'You can eat of any tree in the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge
of Good and Evil you must not eat, lest you die.' And so there was the one 'rule', per se,
that Adam had in the garden. He had a choice to obey or disobey God. And we all
know that he chose to disobey God rather than tend the garden as he was given to do.
Because of Adam's disobedience, death entered into the world. And with that act of
disobedience came man's estrangement from God.
But that is why Jesus came. He came to restore what was lost in the Garden.
He came to 'seek and to save that which was lost', which was man's relationship
with God. Jesus had the choice to obey or disobey in His lifetime on earth, but He
was faithful, faithful even to death upon a cross. And in that act of sacrifice, He reconciled
the world to Himself, through His blood. The Word says that there is life in the blood.
So quite literally, the Life of God, or the blood of God, has the power to utterly save
all those who put their trust in the sacrifice of Christ. It is as simple as believing, believing
with the heart, the whole heart, in sincerity.
God longs to have a wonderful relationship with us. But it is only when we see how much
we need Him, and how far He went to save us, when we see that He truly is a God who
seeks us out, no matter what it takes.
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