Facing Challenges

Today's Psalm: 40:10 "I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation. "

We are faced with challenges in order to develop our godly character and teach us to put our complete faith in God to see us through them. When Saul was a young man, his character seemed to reveal that he was truly humble. After he won his first battle, he humbly professed that salvation came from the Lord, but that humbleness quickly changed to pride as he gained more power. Often many Christians fall into that same pattern, they begin their walk with Christ humbled and eager to please God only to exalt themselves the more successful they become. Saul became a jealous and proud man, wanting all the glory for himself, he was challenged once again when David was anointed to eventually take his place as king. During Saul's reign, the giant warrior Goliath had challenged the Israelite army to send a man to fight him and let the outcome of that fight decide who will serve the other. "And the Philistines stood on a mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them. And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span........ ...And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and said unto them, Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me. If he be able to fight with me, and to kill me, then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us." (I Samuel 17:3-4,8-9). Not one of these men stood up to the challenge, fearing for their lives. Often, we too stand at the sidelines looking at the challenges we face with fear instead of trusting in God to help us through them. Then David came into the Israelite camp, we he saw that they were afraid he offered to fight Goliath. "And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine.. ......... ...And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.. ......... ..Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel." (17:32,40,45- 46). David put his complete trust in God, knowing that as long as He was with him that he would be able to defeat this giant. David defeated Goliath with a little stone, "And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled." (17:49-51). Following this spectacular victory over Goliath and the Philistines, David was welcomed into the palace of King Saul and was made his trusted captain of the guard. David's rising popularity was too much for Saul. When Saul heard women singing praises about him, he became exceedingly jealous and attempted to kill David by throwing a javelin at him as he was playing his harp. "And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom? And Saul eyed David from that day and forward. And it came to pass on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied in the midst of the house: and David played with his hand, as at other times: and there was a javelin in Saul's hand. And Saul cast the javelin; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall with it. And David avoided out of his presence twice.And Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with him, and was departed from Saul." (18:8-12). Saul's pride and jealousy controlled him and eventually he became determined to either murder David or cause him to be killed. Like David, we are put through these challenges to see if we will remain faithful and prove worthy of our high calling. The difficulties, handicaps, and suffering in life we face are permitted by God to develop our godly character and allow us to accomplish His will in our lives. We are each accountable for our disposition when handling the challenges that come our way. We can choose to become bitter and resentful, blaming God and others for our troubles or we can choose to put our complete trust in God to lead us to victory. "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." (Romans 5:1-5).

AMEN

Our Fool Wisdom

Scripture Reading: I Corinthians 3:18-20

The source of all life, all knowledge and all wisdom, is God. When we reason by exercising our own intellect apart from His leading, we make a mockery of true wisdom. 'There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 14:12). When we take it upon ourselves to set our own standards of right and wrong, we err greatly. We then often compound the error by seeking justification for our mistakes and attempting to gloss them over by further demonstrations of human logic. Strangely enough, our search seems always to be one for freedom. In the flesh, we always seek material means to attain freedom. But God tells us, "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). And how shall we know the truth? Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). Our search for freedom ends when we are in Christ-and not before! "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty ... Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free (II Corinthians 3:17) (Galatians 5:1). In this age of grace, we as members of the body of Christ have an even greater freedom than did His disciples at the time of His earthly ministry. For we are free' from not only the bondage of sin, but also from the letter of the law and all the ceremonies and rituals and sacrifices contained therein. The basic principle, however, is unchanged. "Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God." Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world. It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Eph 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ Truth can't be judged on the basis of popularity.

By Pastor R. Hanna
AMEN

Devil is the Father of Lies!

His mouth is full of curses and lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue. Psalm 10:7

Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Psalm 34:13

'Do not steal. " 'Do not lie. " 'Do not deceive one another. Leviticus 19:11

There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood a heart that devises wicked schemes,

feet that are quick to rush into evil. Proverbs 6:16-19

No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence. Psalm 101:7

If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials become wicked. Proverbs 29:12

And among the prophets of Jerusalem I have seen something horrible: They commit adultery and live a lie. They strengthen the hands of evildoers,

so that no one turns from his wickedness. They are all like Sodom to me; the people of Jerusalem are like Gomorrah . Jeremiah 23:14

A truthful witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies. Proverbs 14:5

Even from birth the wicked go astray; from the womb they are wayward and speak lies. Psalm 58:3

They take delight in lies. With their mouths they bless, but in their hearts they curse. Psalm 62:4

They make ready their tongue like a bow, to shoot lies; it is not by truth. that they triumph in the land. They go from one sin to another; they do not acknowledge me,"
declares the LORD. Jeremiah 9:3

A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin. Proverbs 26:28

You destroy those who tell lies; bloodthirsty and deceitful men the LORD abhors. Psalm 5:6

Death and Destruction lie open before the LORD. Proverbs 15:11

You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. John 8:44

AMEN

What satan wants us to do?

Satan wants you to worry about things & therefore neglect Kingdom things. Matt 6:32-34

Satan wants you to doubt God. Matt 6:33

Satan wants you to think he has already ruined earth beyond restoration. Matt 6:9-10

Satan does not want you to turn away from your sins & turn to God. Matt 4:17

Satan does not want you to go fishing for men. Matt 4:18-20

Satan wants you to believe that Heaven is EQUAL for everyone. Matt 5:19

Satan does NOT want you to go public with your faith. Matt 10:32-33

Satan does NOT want you to pray so that temptation will overcome you. Matt 14:38

Satan wants you to think you will be a ghost without a body for eternity. Matt 18:3

Satan promotes PRIDE because God wants you to be humble. Matt 18:4

Satan does NOT want us to gather with others to pray something. Matt 18:20

Satan wants you to deceive you until you can deceive yourself without his help. Matt 27:3-7

Satan wants you to overlook baptism as part of the salvation experience. Matt 28:19

Satan wants you to overlook the fact that many were resurrected when Jesus was. Matt 27:52-53

Satan wants us to doubt God. Mark 9:24

Satan wants you to focus on appearance, affluence, & achievement. Mark 9:33-35

Satan wants the Good News about Jesus to be buried & forgotten. Mark 16:15

Satan wants you to doubt that scripture is literal. Mark 10:6

Satan PROMOTES wine & hard liquor, but God recommends against it. Luke 1:13-15

Satan discourages baptism because is shows that we acknowledge God. Luke 7:28-30

Satan wants you give up if the burden begins to get heavy. Luke 9:23

Satan wants you think there might be millions of years between the murder of Abe & creation. Luke 11:49-51

Satan wants you believe you can extend your own life. Luke 12:16-20

Satan wants you to focus on EARTHLY treasure rather than HEAVENLY treasure. Luke 12:34

Satan uses ridicule & peer pressure to try to get you to make the wrong choices. Luke 16:14

Satan wants you to invest your assets in earthly treasure, or just store them. Luke 19:11-27

Satan promotes confusion about the eternity & your heavenly body. Luke 24:37-43

Satan promotes confusion about the Bible & Bible prophecy. Luke 24:44-46

Satan wants you to leave God & prayer OUT of your daily schedule. Luke 22:40

Satan wants you to be UNPREPARED when Jesus returns. Luke 21:27-28

Satan wants you to be discouraged. John 14:27

Satan holds you captive if you are full of bitterness. Repent & Pray. Acts 8:22-23

Satan does NOT want you to witness to others about Jesus. Acts 4:29

Satan wants you to pray lame, ineffective, nonspecific prayers. Acts 28:8-9

Satan fights his battles in your MIND. He wants to make you a slave to sin. Rom 7:21-23

Satan wants you to feel hopeless. Rom 15:13

Satan wants us to only agree with things that seem wise to US. 1Cor 1:19-27

Satan works to prevent people from understanding the truth. 1Cor 2:10-16

Satan does NOT want you to use your gifts for the Kingdom. 1Cor 12:18-20, 27

Satan wants you to change, twist the meaning, or DENY the word of God. Rev 22:18-19

Satan wants you to let your friends die without knowing Jesus. Rev 14:13

Satan wants you to believe that truth changes with the times. Jude 3

Satan send spirits of deception to keep you from knowing truth. 1Joh 4:5-6

Satan does not want you to go to battle in prayer for nations, cities, or individuals. 2Pet 2:7

Satan wants you to gamble with you future by ignoring God. Jam 5:1-3

Satan wants you to think you have trouble because God does not care about you. Jam 1:2

Satan wants you to believe that the virgin birth of our Savior is an impossible myth. 2Tim 4:3-4
Satan wants you to STRETCH the truth or CHANGE truth to fit your needs. 2Tim 2:25-26

Satan traps & holds captive all who oppose the Bible; but the TRUTH sets us free! 2Tim 2:25-26

Satan does not want you to LOVE God or SEEK God. Prov 8:17

Satan wants to blind you to the plan God has for your life. Psa 138:7

The Glory of Grace

If you find it difficult to live the Christian life you are not alone. Many Christians live second-rate lives with feelings of insecurity, discontent, anxiety and impotency. For them, the joy and victory that the gospel of grace promises seem little more than a theoretical illusion, a fleeting ghost in the face of disappointments that trap them in a syndrome of stress, self-pity and depression. Sadly missing are the confidence, assurance and consistency that come from the life of freedom that faith in Jesus Christ brings for every believer. Grace is the answer. Legalism is the enemy. Victory in the Christian life is obtained in the same manner as salvation: by appropriating, receiving, believing-not by works. Rom. 6:11-13 is a key passage every believer needs to master: "Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. "Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God." This is the process: Reckon yourself dead unto sin, but alive unto God. How is it possible? Just before the above passage, Paul had explained: "Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?" (Rom. 6:3). The moment we trust the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, we die-with Him. Our baptism into Christ's death sets us free from sin, "For he that is dead is freed from sin" (vs. 7). But grace does not stop there; the wonderful thing is that we can die and yet still "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life" (Rom. 6:4). It is only after we die-with Christ- that we are able to really start living-again, with Him. Thus Paul goes on to state: "But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. "Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness." "But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life" (Rom. 6:17,18,22). All of this is succinctly summed up in a verse every sincere believer should know by heart: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I but Christ liveth in me and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me" (Gal. 2:20). How can I be dead and alive at the same time? The explanation is clear: it is not I anymore but it is Christ who lives in me and it is His life-His power, energy and wisdom-that is to be on display in my action and attitudes. The wonderful truth is that Jesus Christ gave His life for me at Calvary, so that He might give His life to me when I trusted Him, so that He might live His life through me day by day. This is the glory of grace: not simply that it saves us from eternal damnation in "the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death" (Rev. 21:8), there is more, "much more." The glory of God's grace to us in Christ is that His life is available to us right now. Speaking about the saints, Col. 1:27 says: "To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." The "riches of the glory of this mystery" is defined as "Christ in you, the hope of glory." This wealth is what God wants His saints to appreciate and rejoice in. If all you understand about grace is that we are not Israel and they are not us, you are missing the real wealth, because the "riches of His grace" are found in God's saving godless sinners and then coming and living His life in them. Being set free from sin and having the life that spoke the universe unto existence living in us is "the riches of the glory of this mystery," indeed! It is this truth of "Christ in you, the hope of glory" that empowers the believer's walk. To be "dead in sin" provides needed freedom from sin's dominion; to be "alive unto God" provides the capacity to use this freedom to bring forth "the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God" (Phil. 1:11).Gal. 4:1,2 demonstrates that a basic difference between a child and an adult is the issue of freedom. What a child is required and forced to do, an adult does voluntarily. What a child does in fear, an adult does in freedom. Freedom is an awesome thing. Although it can be and too often is abused, when it is used for its intended purpose, our freedom in Christ is our most valuable spiritual asset. There are two aspects to freedom: freedom from and freedom for. By God's grace we have been freed from sin-from both its condemnation and its control. Free from guilt and shame. Free from the downward impulses and urges we couldn't stop when in bondage to sin. Free from the tyranny of other's expectations, opinions and demands. But this is not all-not by far. God's grace has also made us free for service. We are free to obey, free to love, free to forgive others as well as ourselves, free to live beyond the limitations of human effort, free to serve and glorify Christ, free to live as adult members of the family of God. When we come to appreciate the freedom of our Sonship, we recognize that we are free to voluntarily do that which formerly we did in fear. As adults we can voluntarily apply the wisdom of God to the details of our lives by making decisions based on the Word of God. God is surely glorified when believers bear the fruits of their righteous standing in Christ. These "fruits of righteousness are by Jesus Christ" - that is, they are mediated through Christ in us. There is literally an outbreak of the righteous character of God on the stage of human history through the lives of believers who bear these fruits. This is of course the result of "the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe" (I Thess. 2:13). We could never accomplish this by our own doings, no matter how intended, just as an apple tree bears apples because of the life that is in it, so the believer bears fruits of the righteousness because of the life of Christ living through us. When Paul says, "It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure" (Phil. 2:13), he is referring to the Spirit of God working in the believer's inner man through the Word of God. Our service is not born out of an outward constraint or necessity, but rather is the result of the life of Christ in us working itself out through the members of our body as we voluntarily apply God's wisdom to the details of our lives. Thus it is that "the life is also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body" (II Cor. 4:10,11). The glory of God's grace to us in Christ goes far beyond simply what He has and is doing for us. It goes on into the manifestation of what He is doing for Himself through us, for we are simply "His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them" (Eph. 2:10).

Pastor Richard Jordon

AMEN

Just Believe!

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 Everything is possible for him who believes." Mark 9:23 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. Mark 16:16 And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues. Mark 16:17 Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed." Luke 8:50 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. John 1:7 That everyone who believes in him may have eternal life. John 3:15 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes. Romans 10:4 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. 1 John 5:1 On the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among all those who have believed. This includes you, because you believed our testimony to you. 2 Thessalonians 1:10 But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. James 1:6 Abram believed the LORD, and he credited it to him as righteousness. Genesis 15:6 I believed; therefore I said, "I am greatly afflicted. Psalm 116:10. You are my witnesses," declares the LORD, "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me. Isaiah 43:10 My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message. John 17:20 Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." John 20:29 Through him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses. Acts 13:39 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6

AMEN

Why do you need to read bible?

Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. Matthew 4:4 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Hebrews 5:12 I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one. 1 John 2:14 Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him Proverbs 30:5 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth 2 Timothy 2:15 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 2 Timothy 3:12 Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free John 8:31-32 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart Psalm 37:4 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14 I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress1 Timothy 4:15 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. Psalm 1:1 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. Proverbs 3:8 And his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength. Ephesians 1:19 So that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power. 1 Corinthians 2:5 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. but the word of the Lord stands forever 1 Peter 1:23,25. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16 Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it Luke 11:28 For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 And how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15 Look in the scroll of the LORD and read: None of these will be missing, not one will lack her mate. For it is his mouth that has given the order, and his Spirit will gather them together. Isaiah 34:16 He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law. Nehemiah 8:3 The gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures. Romans 1:2 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. John 15:3 Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. Acts 17:11 Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up Deuteronomy 11:19

AMEN

Faith Without Works

Today's Psalm: 136:23-26"Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever: And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever."

It's great to have faith in God, but it is not enough to just say you have faith in Him, you must be willing to work to receive His blessings.The conquest of Canaan was completed and the land was divided, not by majority vote, but by the Lord's decree. Although they had received some of the best territory in the promised land, the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim complained that they should have more territory given to them because of their great numbers and what they perceived as their prominent position among the tribes. "And the children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying, Why hast thou given me but one lot and one portion to inherit, seeing I am a great people, forasmuch as the LORD hath blessed me hitherto? And Joshua answered them, If thou be a great people, then get thee up to the wood country, and cut down for thyself there in the land of the Perizzites and of the giants, if mount Ephraim be too narrow for thee. And the children of Joseph said, The hill is not enough for us: and all the Canaanites that dwell in the land of the valley have chariots of iron, both they who are of Bethshean and her towns, and they who are of the valley of Jezreel. And Joshua spake unto the house of Joseph, even to Ephraim and to Manasseh, saying, Thou art a great people, and hast great power: thou shalt not have one lot only: But the mountain shall be thine; for it is a wood, and thou shalt cut it down: and the outgoings of it shall be thine: for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots, and though they be strong." (Joshua 18:14-18). Sadly, these two tribes chose the easy way of compromise and let the Canaanites reside within their borders rather than fight for their God-given territory.Often, the blessings of God depend upon our faith in Him, if we are not willing to put a little effort into making things happen what good would it do. "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." (James 2:19-26). It is not enough to have faith in God, we must keep working with that faith knowing that God will lead us to victory.Many people are just plain lazy, they want so many things in life and often wonder why they do not have them. Yet, they never make one effort in obtaining them, constantly seeking someone to help them. We may be Christians, but we are not doormats and although we try to help those in need whether they are saved or not it is sometimes wise to refuse to help those who express no concern for the will of God nor make any effort to help themselves. When we have our priorities centered upon the Lord, we need not fear losing our share of anything. Now, do not mistake "Works by Faith" with "Works of Salvation". No one can work for their salvation, only Jesus is our salvation. "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Galatians 2:16).Think of Jesus as food, food is essential in providing us with the nutrients we need to stay alive, but if we just look at it and not eat it then we will die. Jesus is essential in providing us with the nutrients we need to stay alive spiritually, but if we just think about Him and not accept Him than we will die spiritually. Making that effort to get to know Him increases our faith even more giving us the encouragement to do more, which in turn blesses us far beyond what we ever imagine.

AMEN

Do You Know how the APOSTLES died?

Matthew, Suffered martyrdom in Ethiopia , killed by a sword wound.
Mark, Died in Alexandria , Egypt , after being dragged by horses through the streets until he was dead.
Luke was hanged in Greece as a result of his tremendous preaching to the lost.
John, Faced martyrdom when he was boiled in huge basin of boiling oil during a wave of persecution in Rome . However, he was miraculously delivered from death. John was then sentenced to the mines on the prison island of Patmos . He wrote his prophetic Book of Revelation on Patmos . The apostle John was later freed and returned to serve as Bishop of Edessa in modern Turkey . He died as an old man, the only apostle to die peacefully.
Peter was crucified upside down on an x-shaped cross. According to church tradition it was because he told his tormentors that he felt unworthy to die in the same way that Jesus Christ had died.
James, Just The leader of the church in Jerusalem , was thrown over a hundred feet down from the southeast pinnacle of the Temple when he refused to deny his faith in Christ. When they discovered that he survived the fall, his enemies beat James to death with a fuller’s club. This was the same pinnacle where Satan had taken Jesus during the Temptation.
James the Great, son of Zebedee, was a fisherman by trade when Jesus called him to a lifetime of ministry. As a strong leader of the church, James was ultimately beheaded at Jerusalem . The Roman officer who guarded James watched amazed as James defended his faith at his trial. Later, the officer walked beside James to the place of execution. Overcome by conviction, he declared his new faith to the judge and knelt beside James to accept beheading as a Christian.
Bartholomew also known as Nathaniel Was a missionary to Asia . He witnessed for our Lord in present day Turkey . Bartholomew was martyred for his preaching in Armenia where he was flayed to death by a whip.
Andrew was crucified on an x-shaped cross in Patras , Greece . After being whipped severely by seven soldiers they tied his body to the cross with cords to prolong his agony. His followers reported that, when he was led toward the cross, Andrew saluted it in these words: “I have long desired and expected this happy hour. The cross has been consecrated by the body of Christ hanging on it.” He continued to preach to his tormentors for two days until he expired.
Thomas Was stabbed with a spear in India during one of his missionary trips to establish the church in the sub-continent.
Jude, Was killed with arrows when he refused to deny his faith in Christ. Matthias the apostle chosen to replace the traitor Judas Iscariot, was stoned and then beheaded.
Barnabas, One of the group of seventy disciples, wrote the Epistle of Barnabas. He preached throughout Italy and Cyprus . Barnabas was stoned to death at Salonica.
Paul, Was tortured and then beheaded by the evil Emperor Nero at Rome in A.D. 67. Paul endured a lengthy imprisonment which allowed him to write his many epistles to the churches he had formed throughout the Roman Empire . These letters, which taught many of the foundational doctrines of Christianity, form a large portion of the New Testament.

"But he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 10:22."

A BOND SLAVE OF JESUS CHRIST

In Paul's epistles he always opens with his name and, in most instances the phrase, "an apostle of Jesus Christ." But in his epistle to Titus, he opens with the declaration: "Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness" (Titus 1:1). Saul, as he was also known, commissioned with authority from the chief priests, was anything but godly in his persecution of Messiah's followers. But suddenly, on the road to Damascus, in Acts 9, the Lord stopped him in his tracks: "And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me? And he said, Who art Thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? ..." (Acts 9:4-6). When the Lord appeared to Paul, at Damascus, he was most acutely aware of how wrong he had been, and of how ungodly his life had been without Christ, and it greatly humbled him. Years later this once proud Pharisee wrote that it was only God's grace that had made him the man of God he had become--"an apostle" and the devoted "servant of Jesus Christ" in ministering "the gospel of God" to the Gentiles (Rom.1:1-5). In Ephesians 3:7 he further tells us that he was "made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God, given unto me by the effectual working of His power. "Unto me, who am LESS than the LEAST of all saints, is this GRACE given, that I should PREACH among the Gentiles THE UNSEARCHABLE RICHES OF CHRIST" (Eph. 3:7,8). In our text the word "servant," doulos in the Greek and rendered "bondman" in Textus Receptus, refers to one who serves. Paul was now the willing "servant" of Jesus Christ. Thus he exhorts believers not to be blinded by the devil's lies, "For we preach not ourselves, but CHRIST JESUS THE LORD; and ourselves your SERVANTS for Jesus' sake" (II Cor. 4:5). And because Paul was a faithful "bond slave" of Jesus Christ, he wrote Timothy: "Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen" (II Tim. 4:17,18).

by Russell S. Miller

Mary or Martha

In Luk 10:38-42, we read, Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. Luk 10:39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. Luk 10:40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. Luk 10:41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: Luk 10:42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
We see two different personality types here. The first is the Martha, Martha, type of personality. Martha was excited that Jesus came to visit. She went about preparing food, straightening up and serving her guests. She was looking carefully at what needed to be done and she went after it.
Then there was the Mary, Mary personality type. Mary, loved the words of Jesus, His glory, His majesty and mostly His divine presence. She spent her time sitting quietly at His feet so that she could learn all that He had to teach and receive anything that He had to give. She just wanted more of Jesus.
After working very hard to cook and serve Martha looked around seeing Mary sitting at His feet, she became angry that she was up working like Mary. She asked Jesus to command her to get up and help. If you will look in the last verse, the Lord did not ask Mary to get up, instead to admonished Martha to check out her priorities. Every day of your life you will likely find laundry to be done, dishes to wash, food to prepare and serve or many other common tasks around the house. However, at this time Jesus had come to share with them. It represents the anointing. When the anointing comes down, we must give reverence to the presence of the Holy Spirit. We must choose to be Mary, Mary’s and not Martha, Martha. We must let the revelation sink in that it is the anointing that we need the most.
He told us in His Word found in (Mat 6:33) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Do it first, when you get up in the morning. Spend time with Him. Set a certain time and be protective of it..
How can we truly seek His Word, when we are meditating more on the natural things around us?

I believe that a primary lesson to be learned from these scriptures is that the Lord would prefer that we are Mary, Mary type personalities and not the Martha, Martha type personalities. We must be careful to “pray through” each day and not just get “through praying.” Seek Him first. Let Him be your priorities. Is all those little projects your priority or is He? You can have projects, but He must remain your priority. I challenge you with this thought. Do you really think that you can be used of God if you don’t have time to listen to Him?

In JESUS' name, AMEN

Mighty Warrior

"When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he led out his trained men…He divided his forces against them by night, he and his servants, and defeated them, and pursued them…north of Damascus."

Genesis 14:14-15 NASB

Even though Abraham didn't seem to have any previous military experience, he proved himself to be a mighty warrior. After settling in Canaan, he became involved in a regional conflict when his nephew Lot was captured.Organizing a fighting force, Abraham set out on a daunting task involving complex terrain and obstacles covering hundreds of miles. Yet he demonstrated an ability to track the enemy marauders, even in a difficult environment.When Abraham found the enemy, he cleverly "divided his forces against them by night." He understood the importance of strategy and realized the need to be persistent until victory was achieved. These efforts resulted in complete success, and Lot and all his possessions were recovered.The Bible continually reminds us that Believers are engaged in spiritual warfare. Like Abraham, we're called to be people of faith, following God and being His witnesses amid the battles of life.You must be constantly on guard and ready for spiritual warfare, for "your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). You must be prepared, armed, alert, strong in the Holy Spirit, protected by the shield of faith, and wielding "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Ephesians 6:10-17).Today, don't take this matter of spiritual warfare lightly. Pray. Seek God's power and authority. Be ready to fight with confidence and boldness, for you may be attacked at any time. Be filled with faith, confident in God. Trust Him to give you complete victory.

AMEN

Purpose of asking

John 14:13 - And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

Yesterday we learnt about the grammar behind 'agree' in Matthew 18:19. Today's message is on the same line, only taking a step forward. In today's message the 'ask' has the same TVM as yesterday's 'agree' which is Aorist, Active, Subjunctive.

Thus our asking should be in the same fashion as our agreeing in yesterday's message. Today's message also talks about why we will receive.

Lord Jesus Christ is drawing all mankind to Himself not to glorify Himself, but to glorify the Father through Him. But when we ask for things and favors, do we reflect on the purpose of our asking and whom it is going to glorify or gratify? Is it glorifying us and our ego, or is it going to gratify our lust, our uncontrollable desires?

The scripture gives the reason why the Lord answers our prayer as - 'the Father be glorified in the Son'. Therefore our purpose also needs to be good, so that we are assured receipt of the same.

So let us be clear before we put our hands up to ask, if what we are asking will bring us closer to God or will take us far from the Lord? Will it also glorify Lord Jesus Christ and the Father through us?

AMEN

Unshakable Faith

Unshakable Faith

All Christian's will be faced with opposition, but those with unshakable faith always prevail.The Anakims had been driven out of Hebron by Joshua, now they were back and in control of the territory. Because of Caleb's faithfulness, God granted his request for the city and suburbs of Hebron, determined to drive them back out of the land. "Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadeshbarnea to espy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart. Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly followed the LORD my God. And Moses sware on that day, saying, Surely the land whereon thy feet have trodden shall be thine inheritance, and thy children's for ever, because thou hast wholly followed the LORD my God. And now, behold, the LORD hath kept me alive, as he said, these forty and five years, even since the LORD spake this word unto Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old......... ... Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said. And Joshua blessed him, and gave unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh Hebron for an inheritance. Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because that he wholly followed the LORD God of Israel." (Joshua 14:7-10,12-14) . Although he had to wait 45 years before he could inherit his promised land, there was no record that he found fault with God.Caleb's unshakable faith can be seen in his report as a spy forty-five years ago when he chose to follow God and not listen to the murmuring Israelites. He spoke his convictions and faced opposition of the other spies and the people. He stood alone with Joshua, but never gave up his faith in God. Most of us will face giant Canaanite difficulties in life as well as friends who attempt to discourage us. Surely our faith ought to exceed Caleb's as we have the Lord Jesus Christ right with us. "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35-39).Sometimes we are afraid to speak about our faith when our convictions are unpopular, but the person blessed of God speaks what is in his heart about Him and does not listen to the opposition they are faced with. God always honors the faith of those who believe in Him and His all-sufficient power.

Psalm: 71:7-9"I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day. Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth."

PEACE - THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

Reading: Galatians 5:22

Some years ago as we stood in a funeral home, the daughter of the woman who had passed away, declared, ''I'm amazed at the peace I have at a time like this." I trust that each one of us have experienced such peace in our lives during those times of heartache and difficulty. There are some who may not understand the peace that we have and may look at us with wonder; not knowing the source from which it comes. Our verse in Galatians 5:22 reveals the very source of this peace as we read, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Though our focus is upon peace we see that it does not stand alone but is part of, and dependent on, love. Without Spirit-produced love we will not enjoy this peace in our lives. Peace is an inward tranquility but nonetheless is manifested in the outward man as well. What is also important is that this is not simply a resignation to the fact that we can't change the circumstances, but rather to know that God is at work in our lives conform- ing us more, and more, to His image. Without this realization we will miss out on the opportunity to grow spiritually. As we face each new testing our faith will enable us to look to God and again enjoy His peace. Only the child of God can have this peace because it is the "Fruit of the Spirit," and cannot be generated in the flesh. It begins with faith in the finished work of Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit as we see in Ephesians I:13, "In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the Word of Truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise."

We have so much to be thankful for every day.God continually provides for all our needs. So let’s make Thanksgiving a year-long celebration. —David C. McCasland

By FLOYD BAKER

CHRISTIAN'S WAY TO REDUCE STRESS

CHRISTIAN'S WAY TO REDUCE STRESS

An Angel says, "Never borrow from the future. If you worry about what may
happen tomorrow and it doesn't happen, you have worried in vain. Even if it
does happen, you have to worry twice."

1. Pray

2. Go to bed on time.

3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed.

4. Say No to projects that won't fit into your time schedule, or that will
compromise your mental health.

5. Delegate tasks to capable others.

6. Simplify and un-clutter your life.

7. Less is more.. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too
many.)

8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.

9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time;
don't lump the hard things all together.

10. Take one day at a time..

11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out
what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do
anything about a situation, forget it.

12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.

13 . Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key
buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc.

14. K.M.S. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an
enormous amount of trouble.

15. Do something for the Kid in You everyday.

16. Carry a Bible with you to read while waiting in line.

17. Get enough rest.

18. Eat right.

19. Get organized so everything has its place.

20. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of
life.

21. Write down thoughts and inspirations.

22. Every day, find time to be alone.

23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot.. Try to nip small problems in
the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray.

24. Make friends with Godly people.

25. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.

26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a
good "Thank you Jesus."

27. Laugh.

28. Laugh some more!

29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.

30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).

31. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).

32. Sit on your ego.

33. Talk less; listen more.

34. Slow down.

35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe.

AMEN

WHEN IT SEEMS THERE IS NO MORE HOPE

WHEN IT SEEMS THERE IS NO MORE HOPE

"While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. ‘Your daughter is dead,’ they said. ‘Why bother the teacher any more?’ Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, ‘Don't be afraid; just believe’" (Mark 5:35-36 NIV).

The daughter of a synagogue ruler was dying. The man came to Jesus Christ and pleaded that Jesus should come and heal her. Jesus responded immediately to the distressed call and followed the man to his home. However, there was an interruption on the way: another woman tapped a healing from Jesus Christ by mere touching His clothes. As Jesus was apparently pointing out the miracle to people that were following Him, some men came from the synagogue ruler’s house to tell him the sad news: his daughter was dead, and there was no need of bothering Jesus to come and heal her. To those men, there was no more hope for the daughter and her father. Nevertheless, Jesus encouraged the ruler, and went with him to his house to do the unexpected: raising the daughter from the dead!

At times, many people have found themselves in similar situations. They might have been praying to God for a particular thing. It seemed that He was about to answer their prayers, and alas, the unexpected happened. It seemed that there was no more hope. In fact, such people might have lost hope in the situation. Such situation might have led such people to be angry with God or even deny His existence. Why would He allow the situation to become hopeless? Why could He not act fast and demonstrate His power to save the situation?

Well, as Jesus did not focus on the seemingly hopeless situation of the synagogue ruler, but rather encouraged him not to be afraid but to believe in God, such people ought not to focus on their seemingly hopeless situation, but on God who is able to do all things. Jesus told Martha (another woman in a similar situation), "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" (John 11:40 NIV).

Are you in similar situation? Does it seem that there is no more hope for you? Have people around you written you off? Jesus is telling you today, "Don’t be afraid; just believe." He can turn that seemingly hopeless situation to a testimony. When it seems there is no more hope, just believe in Him and you will see the glory of God. You will indeed testify to His goodness over that situation in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wait on the Lord

Wait on the Lord

Psalms 27:14 - Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

When we read this scripture which talks about waiting on the Lord, we consider this waiting as lying on back and taking it easy - waiting. The waiting this scripture is talking about is not a patient waiting but an impatient waiting. It is an intensive waiting which the Lord asks us to take.

How are we to take this intensive waiting?

If we read the previous lines of this scripture the psalmist says -

Psalms 27:13 - I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.

The words 'I had fainted' are added to the original text to make it easy to read. So if we read just the original text, it says 'unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living'.

We all know in Heaven it will be a blessed living, but the Psalmist takes an aggressive stance and wants to see it now in this world. That is the kind of waiting we are supposed to take; an eager, relentless and full of expectation waiting.

For this we need to have strength (good courage) and the Lord will help increase our strength further till we receive our deliverance.

AMEN

WELL OF LIFE

WELL OF LIFE

"Therefore encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen and build up) one another, just as you are doing".
1 Thessalonians 5:11

Sometimes, surprisingly, nervous exhaustion is created not so much by the events of the day, but by the words of our mouths. According to God, idle talk is a tremendous energy-drainer. Conserving your words and speaking only good is a well of life. God says, "He who guards his mouth keeps his life, but he who opens wide his lips will come to ruin...The mouth of an (uncompromisingly) righteous man is a well of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence" (Proverbs 13:3, 10:11, AMP).

Review your day or night and do a quick inventory of your words.
Were many of them negative, sarcastic, unforgiving or bitter? Or did you use your words to build up, encourage, appreciate or bless someone?

As you rest and anticipate your day tomorrow, ask the Holy Spirit to make you more aware of the fruit of your mouth. As He empowers more and more of your words, the "dividends" of increased energy will be great.

- Let's Pray Together…
God loves you and wants to answer your prayer.
Say this prayer with me:
Heavenly Father, help me to be more sensitive to my words, guard my mouth, and thus keep the precious Life which You have given me. I thank You for that well of life and look forward to partaking of more of that Life now. Grant me words to edify, encourage and heal others. Let Your words be my words, and may Your Spirit of self-control work diligently within me. I praise You.

In Jesus' Name!

“NEVER ALONE!”

“NEVER ALONE!”


Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”


Sometimes, when life is hectic and demanding, we feel like we would like some “alone” time. Have you ever felt that way? For several years, Public Television has chronicled the story of Dick Proenneke, who lived alone in the wilderness for over thirty years.

I have to confess that I love watching this program over and over again. It is not that I would like to be alone like Dick, but to see the creative manner in which he used the resources around him to survive.

In addition to being impressed by Dick’s resourcefulness, I also became aware of something else—he was not totally isolated. There was a bush pilot who made trips into Dick’s remote cabin to bring supplies and mail. I can only imagine the joy he must have felt in receiving mail from his family in California.

We do not have to be isolated in a wilderness like Dick Proenneke to feel alone. We can feel alone even when we are surrounded by a multitude of people. Just look at a picture of people walking down the street of a large city. One person in that huge crowd may feel more alone than actually being alone in the wilderness.

Regardless of where we might be or who might be around us, according to our Scripture for today, we are never alone. Not only is the Lord with us at all times, but He has promised to give us strength and to uphold us with His righteous right hand. Our part is to trust in Him with all our heart. Praise the Lord!

Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!



By : Pastor Cecil