Prepare For The Wedding Day! - Revelation 19:1-8

This passage describes the culmination of the marriage of Christ (the bridegroom) and the Church (the bride). Focus is on the bridegroom.

1. The worship of the bridegroom - Christ is adored and honored
2. The wedding of the bridegroom - marriage supper is the wedding celebration
3. The wife of the bridegroom - the Church is arrayed in wedding apparel

Preparation must be made for any wedding. I must make preparation if I want to be a part of this wedding.

1. Accept proposal - Salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
2. Approve garments - A righteous life of serving Christ will clothe me for the marriage.
3. Announcement to others - Invite all those around me to the wedding.

Walk with the Lord and prepare for the wedding!!!

Revelation 18:9-19

First of all at the end of chapter 17 we have a woman pictured as a city. I feel that city is Rome. Now in this chapter we are told about something called Babylon. The former was a religious city called a harlot but this is called a great economic commercial system, more than likely as the former, not confined to just a city but a region. It probably was the boundaries of the Old Roman Empire. The fall of this great system called Babylon the Great causes devastation to all who have put their great trust in the material things of this world. All of this will eventually be gone. I notice that according to this chapter much of the things connected with this is from demon activity. I want to call attention to Jesus words in verse 15, "I come as a thief." As a thief comes to take items people treasure as valuable so when Jesus comes all will be lost and gone. What people lived for will be gone. This should speak to us today as Christians. What do we value more than Christ's coming. We should trash it and keep our eyes on Christ. The last item here is the great battle, Armageddon. At Christ's coming He will take care of them with a word actually with the brightness of His coming.

Trusting In Troubled Times! - Revelation 17:9-18

During the tribulation period there will be a one world false church. The antichrist will use religion as a means of securing power. False religion is a tool of satan today. Three things in this passage help us to trust the true God in troubled times.

1. God's Wisdom - We are able to have an understanding of the times and a recognition of false religion.
2. God's Warfare - We will face and be able to overcome all opposition to God's plan.
3. God's Word - Every detail of God's Word will be shown true and be fulfilled.

I am living in troubled times. Times of opposition are also times of opportunity! Trust in the Lord and lean not on my own understanding - God will see me through!

Walk with the Lord and trust Him in troubled times!!!

Fear God's Judgment! - Revelation 16:1-12

Revelation 16 describes God's final series of tribulation judgments. The "vial" judgments increasingly show God's wrath.

1. The reason for God's judgment - Man's sin of refusing to worship and accept the true God and His ways.
2. The revelation of God's judgment - Disease and disaster are sent as judgment form God
3. The result of God's judgment - Destruction, death and defiance are the result.

Fear the judgment of God! God is a righteous and just God. I must humble myself before Him and accept Him and His ways for my life!

Walk with the Lord and fear His judgment of sin!!!

Revelation 14:14-20

We must always remember that what John got here was a vision, but the vision represents something as great or worse. In the days when this was given, they got the juice of the grapes by putting them in a large vat and then people would stomp on the grapes with their bare feet. That is why in chapter 19 Jesus has blood on His garments.
The sickle represents a cutting down and reaping. This is the judgment at the end of the seven years. The Kingdom reaping is mentioned in chapter seven. There are always two harvests mentioned in the Bible. There is the kingdom harvest and the destruction in the lake of fire which never ends. A lot of blood is mentioned in the last verse.
Every soul of man that we get to accept Christ now will not be in that great harvest of souls for the lake of fire. Jesus said in John 4:35, "Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are white for harvest." Now is the time for God to use us in the saving of souls. Get busy! If you are not saved it is time to come to Him, and accept Him as your Savior.

Be His Witness! - Revelation 14:1-7

This passage describes the true God and His true witnesses. In this generation I am God's witness!

1. Sell Out! - Give whole-hearted devotion to Christ!
2. Speak Out! - Have boldness to share the Gospel!
3. Spread Out! - Go to all people with the message of salvation!

Walk with the Lord and be His witness!!!

Defeat The Dragon! - Revelation 12:10-17

This passage describes the working of satan during the tribulation and gives the method for overcoming his strategy.

1. Accusation of the dragon - satan accuses the brethren before the throne of God
2. Opposition to the dragon - we are given the means to defeat satan in his attacks
3. Persecution of the dragon - satan will continue to oppose God's people until he is ultimately defeated

We defeat satan in his accusation and persecution by:
1. The blood of the Lamb - make sure all sin is under the blood
2. The word of their testimony - identify as belonging to Christ and being in submission to him
3. They loved not their life unto death - give up all "rights" to this life

Walk with the Lord and defeat the dragon!!!

Revelation 11:13-19

These verses are very difficult in interpretation. There are two different kinds of thought about what is described here. One group feels all is literal, while the other group feels it is symbolic. I can't begin to describe either in this short space. Either will be terrible for man to face. In the sounding of the seventh angel we come down to the end of the seven years or Daniels seventieth week and the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of Christ. We again find the twenty four elders with the grand crescendo of praise to our Lord Jesus Christ. These elders representing the Church had not been mentioned since the heavenly scene of Chapters 4&5. They now are back giving glory and praise to Christ. Since all Heaven and Earth will give glory and honor to Christ at a later day, I would say, "Why not now for me, how about you?"
When we use the phrase as we see it in the Lord's prayer, "Thy kingdom come!" we are looking forward to this very time. When I think of this I ask, "Do we really mean what we pray?" Is the coming kingdom of Christ the most prominent thing in our lives?

Receive The Message! - Revelation 10:1-11

In this passage John was told to "eat" (internalize) the "book" (God's Word). The taste was at first sweet like honey but afterward became sour and bitter. God's message to mankind is both sweet and sour.

1. Sweet - For those who receive Jesus Christ and submit to Him there is forgiveness, blessing and hope.
2. Sour - For those who reject Jesus Christ and rebel against Him there is condemnation, hardship and judgment.

I must receive the message of God about Jesus Christ and receive His Lordship over my life! It is truly "Sweeter As The Years Go By"!

Walk with the Lord and receive the message!!!

Give God Control! - Revelation 8:1-13

This chapter describes the opening of the seventh seal judgment which contains the seven trumpet judgments. The first four trumpet judgments, which have to do with nature, are then given in detail.

Jesus Christ the Creator of nature is the true controller of nature. Man believes in evolution and that he, as god, can control the planet. But God will show that there is only one true God who created the world and controls the world.

God has given man a free will to choose who will control his life. Will we put Jesus Christ in His proper place as Lord of all or try to control our own lives? Jesus Christ is a worthy, wonderful and welcome authority for my life! I yield the controls to Him!

Walk with the Lord and give God control!!!

Revelation 7:1-8

In the previous chapter we will find the beginning of the time of Daniels last seven year period called seventy weeks of Daniel 9:24-27. We are introduced to God's wrath in chapter 6. Now in chapter 7 we find that there is a certain amount of God's grace in the sealing of the 144,000 Israelites. They will become the preachers of what is called the gospel of the final kingdom in which Christ will reign for 1000 years. We will find that their preaching will result in saving a great multitude which no one can number. There are probably mostly Gentile people in this world.
You may ask what I see in all this. One thing God is always in the business of saving people even in this terrible setting of these last seven years. The second thing is that as many as we can get to accept Christ now will not have to endure those final seven years of God's judgement of this world. No matter where we live God's word is true and if the Bible says it will happen we can know that it will come true. So, we work now hoping we may divert precious souls from that terrible time.

Be Ready For Jesus To Come! - Revelation 6:1-8

This passage describes the beginning of the tribulation period. The anti-christ (white horse) will rise to power and wars (red horse) bringing famine (black horse) and death (pale horse) will occur throughout the earth leaving 1/4 the population dead.

The stage is being set for these events. BE READY!!!

1. Salvation - Know that I am born again and will be caught up at the rapture to miss this terrible judgment period.
2. Service - Serve the Lord with total commitment and maximum use of the time!
3. Soulwinning - Share the Gospel faithfully with others so that they can escape judgment.

Walk with the Lord and be ready for Jesus to come!!!

Worship The Creator God! - Revelation 4:1-11

In this chapter we are taken into the heavens and view the throne of heaven. We see:

1. The Person in the throne room - The creator God of distinction, life and destiny.
2. The Picture of the throne room - Purity, beauty, creativity, clarity, authority all in harmony.
3. The Practice of the throne room - Worship from all creation ascribing all glory, honor and authority to the creator.

Live today in order to cast a crown tomorrow! My eternal purpose is to glorify God and my earthly purpose is to do that through carrying out the great commission in such a way that I have crowns with which to cast at His feet in glory!

Walk with the Lord and worship the creator God!

Revelation 3:7-13

I count it a privilege to write about this church called Philadelphia. The name means "brotherly love". Jesus calls himself the One who is holy and true. He also has the key of David and this key opens and shuts all biblical doors. He has many good things to say about this church and because of that He has given them many open doors to serve Him. If your church is described this way there will be open doors. If you personally are this way you will have open doors to serve as well. This church is described as keeping His word meaning living according to the Word of God. This church also has the promise of Christ's quick return and to be kept from the great tribulation that will soon overtake this world. Next is the wonderful promises one already mentioned above. A pillar in the temple of God (the Church) is something on which the structure rests. We also have the promise of a special name which I can't say much here. We also have the thought of having a listening ear to hear the voice of the Spirit as He speaks to the churches. I must ask you whether or not you have that kind of ear and do you act upon what you hear?

Seek The Reward Of Purity! - Revelation 2:18-29

To the church at Thyatira, Jesus Christ presents himself as the righteous judge of uncompromising deity who brings accurate, severe and righteous judgment.

Jesus rebuked this church for compromising their purity:
1. Doctrinally
2. Morally
3. Testimony

The promise of the Lord Jesus to those who overcome is that by refusing the path of pleasure and its reward of death and darkness and instead choosing the path of purity, they will receive the reward of deliverance and dominion.

Walk with the Lord and seek the reward of purity!!!

First Love! - Revelation 2:1-7

Chapter 2 begins a series of letters to seven churches in Asia Minor. Jesus Christ is seen in the letter to the church at Ephesus as:

1. Affectionate - holding in His hand
2. Authoritative - holding in His right hand
3. Active - walking in the midst

This tells me:

1. Jesus loves me
2. Jesus leads me
3. Jesus looks after me

The challenge for Ephesus was to return to first love for Christ.
The opportunity for those who practice first love is fresh fellowship without struggle like Adam.

Walk with the Lord with first love!!!

Revelation 1:9-16

Most feel that John who wrote this was on the rugged island of Patmos because he was exiled for being a Christian. Notice what day it was. I take this to mean Sunday which most Christians call "the Lord's Day." We honor this day above others.
I can't describe this so much as I would like in this little blog, but I want to say that this is a revision, and the description of Christ here are His divine attributes. They speak typically of who He is and His authority. You will find each of these somewhere else in the book.
First He is Alpha and Omega, the first and the last and everything in between.
Lampstands represent the churches, which ultimately represent the whole history of Christianity.
Next we see Him with all the qualifications as a Judge to judge the future of this world. I cannot go into all these here, but I would like to.
John when he sees Him falls down like dead. Jesus tells him not to fear. I would tremble when I read this if I were not walking with Christ. I know when I get in His presence I will be awkward.

Philemon 1-9 - I Expect Greatness from You!

Today we begin a 2 day study of the book of Philemon. Paul writes this letter as a prisoner in Rome to Philemon, a member of the Church in Colossae. Philemon had a slave, Onesimus, who had stolen from him and fled. On his journey to Rome, Onesimus met the Apostle Paul and was gloriously saved. Now, Paul is discipling Onesimus to do the right thing and make restoration, returning to his master. Paul is not condoning slavery in this book, he is rather discipling Christian men to apply the love of Christ within these evil confines. And remember, slavery in ancient times was not the same entirely as slavery in the 19th century.

In the first nine verses of the letter, Paul encourages the love and faith of Philemon and the whole church. He prays for the efficacy of "communication of the faith" (vs. 6). Basically, Paul was saying that he hoped many would be saved by the testimony and sharing of the Gospel in their city. Paul, two verses later refers to being refreshed in his bowels as a result of the love shown by Philemon. Have other's actions ever made you feel sick to your stomach? Now if they did the right thing, would you feel refreshed?

Paul is letting Philemon know that he has seen greatness in him and in his church. This is important because Paul is about to ask Philemon to show greatness in love again in the rest of the letter. We will see how tomorrow.

Listen To Your Teacher! - Titus 2:11-3:3

This passage says that the grace of God appears to all men and teaches us how to live!

I. Live Disciplined Lives
1. Soberly - In relationship to ourselves we are to live disciplined lives.
2. Righteously - In relationship to others we are to live disciplined lives.
3. Godly - In relationship to the Lord we are to live disciplined lives.

II. Live Developed Lives
1. Purified
2. Peculiar

III. Live Different Lives
1. Changed action
2. Changed attitude

Grace is the unmerited favor of God that gives me the desire and power to do His will! Grace should transform my life! It will if I listen to the teacher!

Walk with the Lord and listen to the teacher!!!

Titus 1:10-16

Possibly the chief theme of these verses is what is real and what is a false empty profession. Paul had this problem with the people on the island of Crete. Reality in my inner most being makes me want to do what God wants. They needed not pay attention to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth. To the pure all things are pure. However in this world there is more that is not right than what is right. How can we be guided? It is easy to say we know God and not have the proper idea of how to please Him or serve Him. Their works deny that they really know Him at all. We must ask ourselves where we are in all this. We must always search out what pleases Him and leave the rest alone.

Serve Your Generation! - Joshua 24:25-33

This passage is a challenge to serve your generation!

1. Commitment - Make a commitment to serve your generation.
2. Continuance - Be faithful no matter the cost.
3. Commendation - Live in a way that you will be remembered.

Every generation must choose to serve, set a good example and train the next generation to serve the Lord!

As for me and my house we will serve the Lord!

Walk with the Lord and serve your generation!!!

Joshua 24:14-24 - We Will Serve the LORD!

Joshua continues his final plea today to the Israelites to follow hard after God.
He makes it clear that the people must consciously choose, as he had done, to serve the Lord only. This required more than just a statement. It required removing the other false gods that the nation had been exposed to in order to clear the way for undivided loyalty to their Lord. The nation of Israel vowed to serve only the Lord.

Notice also the "If-Then" statement that Joshua made. Basically, Joshua warns the people that if they go against their vow, serving other gods, the true God would discipline them. Praise the Lord for clear instructions in Scripture. If the people had remembered this promise, perhaps they would have stayed true to Him. When God makes a promise, he keeps a promise.

Have you made a conscious choice today to serve the Lord. Paul told us that he had to die to himself daily (1 Cor. 15:31). Have you chosen today to serve the Lord? Have you removed all of the negative influences out of your life that distract you from complete loyalty and attention to Him?

Choose you this day whom ye will serve!

Avoid The Wounds Of Worldliness! - Joshua 23:9-16

Nearing the end of his life, Joshua shares a charge with the people of Israel.

1. Wisdom - Love the Lord your God!
2. Worldliness - Avoid immorality and idolatry!
3. Warning - God will discipline all disobedience!

The wounds of worldliness will come to those who disobey God!

1. Bondage - "snares" and "traps"
2. Pain - "scourges" and "thorns"
3. Loss - "out of the land"

Walk with the Lord and avoid the wounds of worldliness!!!

Joshua 21:43-22:9

The Israelites now possessed the land that God promised them. They had conquered the people of the land. However, they were somewhat short of what God wanted them to do in conquering the people of the land. Sometimes when God asks us to do something we are a little short of His intended purposes. The next thing that is done is that the people of Reuben, Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh are sent back home on the other side of the Jordan. The other side of Jordan was what they have asked for but we must remember it was what they requested that was outside of what is called the promised land. There are times that a present advantage may keep us from God's eternal best. To them at the time this seemed best. We may find their insecurity in the next verses. The reason they built an altar on the banks of Jordan was that they were not sure of the position they had chosen. Now what does that say to me about what I choose in this world? I must say it will make a difference whether I live for this world or Heaven. It will make all the difference in the world.

Wholly Follow The Lord! - Joshua 14:6-15

The story of Caleb is a great example of faith. His testimony was that he "wholly followed the Lord".

1. Enthusiastic faith - Caleb was one of two who were ready to believe God and take the land the first time.
2. Enduring faith - Even through the wilderness wanderings Caleb's faith never wavered.
3. Endeavoring faith - At 85 years of age Caleb was still ready to take on the enemy with his faith in the Lord

Set my heart to "wholly" believe and obey God knowing He will never fail His promises!

Walk with the Lord and wholly follow Him!!!

Glorify God Through Confession! - Joshua 7:14-26

Joshua challenged Achan to give glory to God by confessing his sin. How does confessing our sin bring glory to God?

Confessing our sin glorifies God by shewing forth His character and attributes. When I confess sin I demonstrate the many qualities of God's nature like:

1. Holiness - God has a standard of right and wrong
2. Truth - God's Word is true that all men are sinners
3. Justice - God will judge all sin
4. Mercy - God is merciful to forgive
5. Immutability - God does not change His standard or promise
6. Living - God hears when we pray
7. Patient - God is patient with my failures
8. Faithful - God is faithful to His Word
9. Providing - God has made provision for forgiveness
10.Omniscient - God knows everything about my life

I must search my heart daily and regularly to confess my sin to God. This brings glory to God, unity and blessing with others and joy to me!

Walk with the Lord and glorify God through confession!!!

Joshua 6:12-27

The first thing I see is that the fall of Jericho was not to be a mere human accomplishment. The Israelites were going to know it was all of God and nothing of themselves. Can you imagine what was going through the minds of the men of Israel as they marched around the city, not only once but six times in six days and not making one move toward the city? Imagine the thoughts of the people inside those walls. There is one word I want to emphasize in all this and that is obedience. Surely this must have looked strange. I am sure the people wondered what was really happening, but they obeyed and eventually the walls did come down and Jericho was conquered. The lesson of obedience has to be learned by us too. I don't always know what God is doing. He doesn't lay it out to me in black and white. It may not always make complete sense to me. However, if I persevere it will eventually be more clear. So I will allow God to drive me on even if I don't always understand what He is doing.

Preparation For Victory! - Joshua 5:2-15

God took Israel through several steps of preparation in order to claim victory in the promised land.

1. Sanctification - The people had neglected circumcision and needed to be obedient and committed to God and His ways.
2. Satisfaction - God provided the fruit of the land instead of manna for His people.
3. Superior - Joshua received instruction from the Lord.

Preparation for victory means that I confess sin and receive the cleansing of the Lord. Preparation means I am dependent on God to meet all my needs.
Preparation means I am teachable and ready to receive instruction from the Lord.

Walk with the Lord and be prepared for victory!!!

Joshua 4:15-5:1 - That You MIght Fear the Lord

The Lord had Joshua command the priests to come up out of the Jordan River and as soon as they stepped foot on the banks of the east side, the waters began to flow again. The Lord also reminded the Israelites that the 12 stones set up on the east side of the Jordan were to be a reminder for their children of the work that the Lord had done for them both at the Red Sea and at the Jordan River "that ye might fear the Lord your God forever." This fear is a good fear that causes obedience and a knowledge of what is to come. The kings in the area had a fear as was evidenced by their reaction to the accounts of what God had done. The writing was on the wall for them. They knew they didn't stand a chance against the Lord and His people.

I am sure if you tried hard enough you could think of a time in your life where you could set up your stones of remembrance for something God has done for you. If nothing comes to mind, remember that Christ was set up as a public example Himself as He bled and died for us all. Do you have a fear of the Lord that constrains you to serve Him? Do you have a thankfulness for what He has done that constrains you to labor for Him? All believers should.

Remember today why you serve the risen Savior!

Seeing Miracles! - Joshua 3:1-17

The people of Israel saw the miracle of passing through the Jordan river on dry ground.

1. Word - v.9 - "come hither and hear the Words of the Lord your God"
2. Work - v.15 - "the feet of the priests... were dipped in the brim of the water"
3. Wonder - v.16,17 - "the waters...stood and rose up upon an heap...and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground"

To see God's miraculous power I must follow this same pattern. Hear and believe God's Word. Obey what God has told me to do and watch for His supernatural power!

Walk with the Lord and see the miracles!!!

Joshua 2:1-11

We are here introduced to Rahab called a prostitute in our modern language. Somehow Rahab's actions turned into faith. She is mentioned in Hebrews 11 the great faith people of the Old Testament. We call Hebrews 11 the faith hall of fame. Her motivation at first might have been fear which later turned into faith, but somehow she must have felt that Israel's God was real and to be feared and respected. Rahab's faith not only saved her life, but a man named Salmon married her and she was named as one of the ancestors of the Lord Jesus Christ. We may conclude from this that faith pays off but not always in this present evil world. God never forgets what we may do for the people of God although the reward is not immediate or even in this world. Are you motivated by stories in the Bible? Stories of bad acts of people may help us to avoid some same pitfalls. Stories of good acts may motivate us in some great act for God.

Spirit Filled Marriage! - Ephesians 5:22-33

This passage shows how a Spirit-filled marriage should operate.

1. Pattern - love and respect
2. Purity - one man and one woman for life
3. Power - the Holy Spirit
4. Picture - Christ and the church

I am to be filled with the Spirit which will produce Christ-like love for my wife!
Proactive love
Purifying love
Protective love

Walk with the Lord in Spirit-filled marriage!!!

Ephesians 5:8-14

Did you notice the phrase, "You were once darkness." It doesn't say in darkness but you were darkness. This was me before I came to Christ. Now it says you are light in the Lord. Now we are to walk as children of light. We are to be characterized by goodness, righteousness and truth. These are God's characteristics and they should be ours, too. We need to know what is acceptable to the Lord. We are to have no fellowship with the evil works of darkness because we are now light. Light and darkness don't mix. We can't run with evil people, but expose them. It is shameful to even lightly speak of those things done in secret. We are coming to a day when evil is not only done in secret, but now out in the open where all can see. God now says to the true believer, "Awake you who are sleeping." Arise from a deadened condition and Christ will give you light. This world is characterized by darkness. The true believer is needed more than ever before. Where do you stand as to darkness and light?

Put On The New Man! - Ephesians 4:25-32

This passage gives specific examples of putting off the old man and putting on the new man.

1. Put off lying Put on truth
2. Put off anger Put on forgiveness
3. Put off stealing Put on giving
4. Put off evil speaking Put on edifying speaking
5. Put off malice Put on kindness

I must daily follow this process. It is not enough to just put off the old - I must also put on the new!

Walk with the Lord and put on the new man!!!

Ephesians 4:17-24 - Off With the Old and On With the New

The greatest danger that a person could be in is only made worse when they don't realize the danger. This is what today's passage describes. A normal man will take solace in his own abilities and intellect (In the vanity of their mind). However, this is a great danger because the Bible calls man ignorant and having their understanding darkened. The reason a lost person has confidence in themselves and their spiritual condition is because they are ignorant and in the dark! As a result, they become numb to God's standards and fulfill all of their own selfish lusts.

BUT, ye have not so learned Christ! When we are saved, we get that Holy Spirit of promise and the darkness and ignorance is removed. We put off the old man, the way we used to be. And, after the old man is gone, we can then put on the new man which is ever increasingly being made to be like Christ (Progressive Sanctification).

Have you received Christ as your Savior? Have you done away with the things that you did when you were in the darkness? Have you begun the process of being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ? If not, today is the day!

Walk Worthy! - Ephesians 4:1-10

This passage begins to apply the teaching of the first three chapters by challenging believers to "walk worthy" of the vocation of a Christian.

1. Walk in humility - lowliness, meekness, longsuffering
2. Walk in unity - One body, Spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism, God and Father
3. Walk in diversity - gifts of the Spirit given for the body

All believers are of equal value and importance in the body of Christ! I must be thankful for all without respect of persons and I must serve all, using my gift, without respect of persons.

Walk with the Lord and walk worthy!!!

Ephesians 3:8-13

Paul calls himself the least of all saints. A humble position for one who was once a proud Pharisee. We are better to downgrade ourselves, than to upgrade ourselves. We have some rich phrases in these verses. The first is "the unsearchable riches of Christ." That means we can't know it all, but it doesn't mean we can't know what is here for us to know. Then we have the "fellowship of the mystery" hidden from the foundation of the world but now revealed. The Old Testament never mentioned the Gentile church in prophecy, but now we can know about it freely. How poor we are if we don't get to know what is ours. The Bible reveals it all to us. Get to know the Bible, especially the New Testament. Next we have the term "the manifold wisdom of God." We can know it. Why not seek this? It's ours.
Next boldness and access with confidence. We have every right to the very presence of God because of Christ's work on the cross. Have you made this yours?

Citizens Of Glory! - Ephesians 2:19-22

This passage describes our new citizenship in Christ! We are citizens of glory!

1. Glory of family - v.19 - precious oneness of all in Christ
2. Glory of foundation - v.20,21 - permanence of all in Christ
3. Glory of fellowship - v.22 - presence of God dwelling in all in Christ

I am a citizen of glory through faith in Jesus Christ! I am an ambassador helping other immigrants to become citizens!

Walk with the Lord as a citizen of glory!!!

Peace in the Middle East! - Ephesians 2:14-18

"For He is our peace." (Ephesians 2:14a)
What an amazingly simple, yet seemingly impossible plan for peace! God has torn down the wall. Now peace is possible! How could a Jew and a Palestinian (or any other Gentile for that matter) be in peace with each other? Through Jesus Christ! He has torn down the walls which once distinguished the Jews from the Gentiles in what today is known as the Church. The Church has a mission to proclaim the good news of the Gospel to a lost, dying and war-torn world. If we will obey, we will be true peace makers!
Remember Romans 10:14, "How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?"

Have you trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior?
First you must Admit that you are a sinner. (Romans 3:10)
Second you must Believe that He died on the cross to pay for your sins, that He was buried and then rose again. (Romans 10:9,10)
Third, you must Call on Him, asking Him to save you. (Romans 10:13)

Blessings Of Grace! - Ephesians 2:1-7

Paul describes the state of a person before and after salvation and shows the blessings of grace.

1. Past - Dead in trespasses and sins
2. Present - Quickened, raised, seated
3. Prospect - Show the riches of His grace

God's grace took me when I was dead in sin and made me alive in Christ. Grace now empowers me to live a victorious Christian life. Grace will preserve me for all of eternity where I will demonstrate God's glory!

Walk with the Lord and in the blessings of His grace!!!

Ephesians 1:7-14

The book of Ephesians is a book about the position of Christians as if we are in the very Heavenly places right now. Can I be so bold as to say, "That's where I live right now." If I say that then everything in this book becomes precious to me and more real than ever before. The verses we are looking at begins with redemption through the precious blood of Christ and all according to the riches of His grace. I never want to take advantage of His grace and live a common and mediocre life as if it is just a matter of fact. He made known to us the mystery of His will. If we know that then what are we doing about it? Are we living like it means something to us. If we read this book and live mediocre lives shame on us. This speaks of our inheritance. We are God's children through faith in Christ. If not think of my inheritance some day. Well what about me being an heir of Heaven? The Holy Spirit living within me guarantees who I am and where I am going. I am a purchased possession of God. All because of Christ. What are you doing about it? Do you belong to yourself or to God who bought you?

Integrity! - Psalm 101:1-8

This Psalm speaks of David's desire to follow after God and walk and rule in integrity.

1. Cause of integrity - God is pure and reigns in perfect integrity.
2. Commitment to integrity - David desired to lead the nation in personal integrity.
3. Call to integrity - David demanded the same standard for those who were in his realm.

Leadership must first be pure - free from the entanglements of sin. Moral and ethical purity in leadership glorifies God, gives respect to authority by setting the right example and is the basis for joy and freedom for those who follow.

Walk with the Lord in integrity!!!

Psalm 100

Let's I.N.S.P.E.C.T. God's Word today. (Psalm 100)

I - Is there any Information about God
Vs. 3 - He is our Creator
Vs. 5 - He is good (Such a simple statement with such a huge implication!)

N - Are there any Needs expressed
Vs. 3 We are His people, the sheep of His pasture. (We need His great shepherding in our lives!)

S - Are there any Sins to confess
There are no sins listed today, but it is good to know that...

P - Are there any Promises to claim
Vs. 5 His mercy is everlasting! He will not have a change of heart! Once you are forgiven/pardoned, you will always be.
His truth endureth to all generations. God is always true, honest and faithful to His Word.

E - Is there an Example to follow
There are no people's examples to follow, but God sets the standard. Verse 5 should encourage us to live righteously (good), to show mercy, and to be honest always.

C - Are there any Commands to obey
Vs. 1 Make a joyful noise
Vs. 2 Serve the Lord with gladness
Come before His presence with singing (Why do we sing at church...?)
Vs. 3 Know that the Lord is God (Have you acknowledged the Lord as your God?)
Vs. 4 Enter His gates with thanksgiving...into His courts with praise
Be thankful unto Him
Bless His Name

T - Is there anything to be Thankful for?
Whatever God commands us to do, He gives us the ability to obey. He gives us the ability to be joyful and to be glad! I am thankful for His protection and authority as my Great Shepherd! I am thankful that He allows us to enter into His gates and courts! And, I am thankful that the mercy He has promised to me will never be rescinded and that I can trust His holy Word!

This meditation tool has proven to be a great way to "Chew the cud" of God's Word. I hope that it is a blessing to you!

Psalm 99:1-9

How can I do this psalm justice? It begins with the term "the Lord's reigns". Have you put Him on the throne? The rightful place of His throne is your heart, and mine. This man devotes verses 2-5 showing His exalted position. Can anyone be compared to Him? When I think of God speaking to Moses, Aaron and Samuel, and the cloud by day and the fire by night, I think of a personal presence through the wilderness and into the promised land. I wonder. Can He be present with me in my daily walk and my need if only I walk with Him? When I think of God as one who forgives, but also one who takes vengeance on evil deeds, I want to exalt Him. I want to worship for this psalm ends up with His holiness. I can't walk with Him unless I have a holy life set apart to Him.

The Greatness Of God - Psalm 97:1-12

This Psalm speaks of the greatness of God.

1. God's great highness - He is great above all gods
2. God's great holiness - He is separate in purity and superiority from all
3. God's great hatred - He hates sin and will always judge it

I must recognize and acknowledge God's greatness in my life and share it with others.

Walk with the Lord in all His greatness!!!

Psalm 96:1-13

In response to the greatness of God, the Psalmist declares we should do three things.
1. Glorify and worship Him.
2. Witness to the lost.
3. Give to the Lord

All of these things must be done with a healthy fear of the Lord and it will show His preeminence in our lives.

Follow hard after Him!

Conscious Of God's Character! - Psalm 94:12-23

God's character demands that He bring righteous judgment upon rebellious sinners and that He have mercy on repentant sinners. If this is true then all trials, temptations and wrongs may be looked at as:

1. Temporary - Jesus is coming!
2. Trustworthy - For my good!
3. Timed - Part of God's sovereign plan!

Walk with the Lord and be conscious of God's character!!!

Psalm 93:1-5

This psalm begins with the words, "The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty." It is a creation psalm, but more than a creation psalm, the psalmist speaks of Him as a personal God, not someone who is way out there in space. I want us to turn our attention to the last two sentences. "Your (God's) testimonies are very sure." It almost seems like God is forgotten in the world today. He is still on the throne. In our hearts let us keep Him there. The last sentence, "Holiness adorns your house." God's house today is the church. We are living stones in that building. Does God's holiness adorn your heart. Adornment is for others to see. Lets think about that.

The Protection Of God! - Psalm 91:1-16

This psalm talks about the wonderful protection of God.

1. The Protection of God's person - v.1-4
2. The Protection of God's principles - v. 4 - "truth"
3. The Protection of God's partners - v.11 - "angels"

As God's child I am protected from:
Disease
Disaster
Destruction
Defeat
Danger
Death
Deception

Walk with the Lord and under His protection!!!

Covenant Promises! - Psalm 89:19-37

This Psalm speaks of several aspects of the covenant made with David.

1. Messiah would be a descendant of David
2. Messiah would be the "first born" of God
3. Messiah would reign over an everlasting kingdom

Jesus Christ has already fulfilled the first two aspects and will fulfill the third.

1. Matthew 1:1 - ". . .Jesus Christ, the Son of David. . ."
2. Colossians 1:18 - ". . .who is the beginning, the first born from the dead. . ."
3. Revelation 22:3-5 - ". . .and they shall reign forever and ever."

God cannot lie! Every promise He has made is true! Rest in the promises of God!

Walk with the Lord believe His Word!!!

Psalm 88:1-18

I find interesting to try to imagine what was happening to a man who would write a psalm like this. His ancestor Korah was one of the chief men who rebelled against Moses and died there in the wilderness. Evidently his ancestral parent was spared who became the chief singers in temple worship. I think the thought; out of heaviness can come praise to God; out of darkness comes light in the Lord.

But what was this man going through to write a song like this. Here are some of his statements: " I am counted with those who go down to the pit." "Why do you hide your face from me." "Lover and friend you have put far from me." This is a man of deep trouble and sorrow.

Was this just for this man? Why is it in the Word of God? This was in the song book of Israel, and surely it is for you when you are going through deep troubles. It is for me when I am going through a dark valley where there seems to be no heavenly light. Romans 8:28 says there is some good out of all our dark valleys.

Appeal To God's Glory! - Psalm 86:1-17

The psalmist makes an appeal to God's character and reputation using the word "for" eight separate times in this chapter.

1. God's mercy - "for I am poor and needy" v.1
2. God's grace - "for I am holy" v.2
3. God's faithfulness - "for I cry unto thee daily" v.3
4. God's power - "for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul" v.4
5. God's goodness - "for thou, Lord, art good" v.5
6. God's promises - "for thou wilt answer me" v.7
7. God's greatness - "for thou art great" v.10
8. God's love - "For great is thy mercy toward me" v. 13

As I pray, I must appeal to God's glory - this is His passion! Seek His reputation to be seen and upheld in answering my prayer.

Walk with the Lord and appeal to God's glory!!!

Pray With Supplication! - Psalm 79:1-13

The psalmist requests God's help based on several reasons:

1. Ownership - "thy" - the obligation of the owner to care for his own
2. Showmanship - "for the glory of thy name" - God's reputation is at stake
3. Worship - "thanks" and "praise" - deliverance will give greater cause to rejoice

My prayer life should include supplication.

1. Rehearse my situation before God - tell God why I need His help.
2. Request God's help - tell God what I need Him to do.
3. Reasons for God's help - appeal using these Scriptural principles.

Walk with the Lord and pray with supplication!!!

Psalm 78:1-16

There is the thought in these verses that the wonders that God has done through the crossing of the Red Sea and the miracles of the players should be handed down to the children. However, even the forty years in the dessert and the ups and downs of the book of Judges really proves that they didn't learn, but made the same mistakes as their fathers did. About fifty years ago there was a song with the phrase, "Oh will thee ever learn", I maybe only heard it about twice on my car radio, but it really spoke to me. There are two ways we can learn. One is by going along with our fathers good judgement and correction. The other is by the fathers mistakes and not take the same road. There is another way to consider too. That is rebellion from the good ways of the father. We can also rebel against the good ways of God. Where do you fit in all of this?

The Pathway of Blessing! - Ruth 2:13-23

The walk of faith that Ruth lived resulted in several blessings.

1. Physical blessing - meal while working, safety while working
2. Material blessing - extra grain to meet financial needs
3. Relational blessing - friendship of Boaz, fellowship of Naomi
4. Spiritual blessing - stronger faith, hope for the future

Live by faith and add to my faith. This pleases God and brings His blessings.

Walk with the Lord and in the pathway of blessing!!!

Ruth 1:15-22

I see two things in these passages. The first is that men do not always make good choices. When a bad choice is made others involved may suffer for the choice. This happened when Abraham left the land in a famine to go to Egypt. His nephew Lot was affected by this choice and he because of Abraham's bad influence made a bad choice too. We must weigh carefully our choices because we do affect others. Naomi made a choice too, to send these two daughter in laws back to their relatives. Orpah was affected by this choice and went back to her people. Ruth by her choice became an ancestor to our Lord Jesus Christ.
We must not discount the foreknowledge and the will and ways of God. He knows the end from the beginning and His way is perfect. We must try to look ahead to the possible choices we make. Will it matter for now only or eternally the special choices we make. If only for now we are short sighted and cannot see a long way off.

Keep Yourself In The Love Of God! - Jude 20-25

Jude shares three principles that help keep us in the love of God.

1. Commitment - grow in faith and stay faithful till the end.
2. Compassion - have compassion on the lost and those who are away from God.
3. Comfort - God is in control and He will be glorified

God's love for me is perfect and allows me to cast out fear and yield my life to Him in commitment, compassion and comfort!

Walk with the Lord and keep yourself in the love of God!!!

Contend For The Faith! - Jude 1:1-7

Jude writes about the importance of contending for the faith.

1. Comfort - Saints are sanctified, preserved and called. The end of their faith is rock solid secure.
2. Challenge - Believers must not be passive but diligently, passionately stand for the faith.
3. Charges - False teachers teach that grace means freedom to sin or that God has a more lenient standard of holiness.
4. Citations - Israel, fallen angels, and Sodom are all cited as examples of God's hatred and judgment of sin.

I must vigorously wrestle the vices and voices of evil and false teaching!

Walk with the Lord and contend for the faith!!!

II Peter 3:7-12

This group of verses state that there is a day of judgment coming for all who do not accept God's way of salvation which is through faith in Christ alone. God is still not willing that any should perish, that all accept in true repentance His way of escape which is in Christ alone. There is a time coming when all that is in this world will be destroyed by fire and even the heavens themselves. Where will the sinner be who refuses Christ now?
So what kind of people should we be, who call ourselves the people of God? We should be the kind of people who would compliment Him so that others may follow-us in the path of salvation so that they might escape this fiery judgement. We must ask ourselves, "Am I following Him?" If you are unsaved, turn to Christ before this terrible day is upon you.

Watch Out For False Teachers! - 2 Peter 2:17-22

Peter shares several characteristics of false teachers.

1. False Principles - Teach evil for good and lies for truth.
2. False Promise - Promise liberty but are in bondage.
3. False Profession - Profess salvation but are not truly born again.

False teachers do not accept the truth but use it for self gain.

Urge people to have a genuine salvation conversion! Guard against false teachers!

Walk with the Lord and watch out for false teachers!

The Sure Word! - 2 Peter 1:15-21

Peter emphasizes that the truth of Scripture is not made up by men.

1. Instruction of Scripture - "the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ"
2. Integrity of Scripture - truth is proven by the experience and eyewitness of men
3. Inspiration of Scripture - origin of Scripture is God breathed from the Holy Spirit this is even greater than first-hand human witness.

1. Assurance - I can have complete confidence in God's Word as unchanging truth.
2. Authority - God's Word is greater than man's word.
3. Available - God has given His Word to man and it is available to me.

Daily listen to and follow the Word of God in my life and share it with confidence with others!

Walk with the Lord and trust His sure Word!!!

2 Peter 1:5-9

I must say something about the former verse. We are partakers of the divine nature (that is God's nature) thereby escaping the corruption that is the world through lust. Notice "ed" meaning past tense.
Then next we add the qualities of virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness brotherly kindness and love for all even unsaved. I will only ask is this true of you? If this is true of you there will be no barren times and you will bear fruit for the Lord. I do want to caution you that the above is not simple addition. It takes study and effort. We don't automatically get it.
Then we have the alternative in the next verse. Spiritual blindness and forgetting that we were once purged from old sins. When I encounter some of these, they having accepted Christ, don't even know whether they are going to Heaven or not. Now in which category do you want to be? As for me I want to walk as if this very day I will be in Heaven. It could very will be so.

Follow Christ Faithfully! - Colossians 4:12-18

Paul mentions several men who were with Him in the ministry. These men illustrate the choice of following Jesus.

Epaphras - Diligence - This man was an example to all of godly determination.
Demas - Distraction - This man quit the ministry because of a love for the world.
Archippus - Decision - This man was called by God and was being encouraged to be faithful.

Each of us must make a choice. The devil continually seeks to defeat, distract, discourage, deceive and bring doubt to the believer. Choose to serve the Lord faithfully! Be an Epaphras who made a difference in a city and a church, lived an exciting and fulfilling life and was commended by the Lord in His Word!

Walk with the Lord and follow Christ faithfully!!!

Society, Self or Scripture? - Colossians 3:18-4:1

The Christian's behaviour at home and at work in their relationships should not be determined by society or self but by the Scriptures.

Scripture points out that "in Christ" we have a entirely new position which should result in an entirely new practice. This practice includes submission, love, patience, forgiveness, honesty, diligence, kindness and generosity.

Look for practical ways to love Susan.
Look for ways to encourage my children.
Look for ways to be a good servant.

Walk with the Lord according to Scripture!!!

Colossians 3:1-7

When I accepted Jesus Christ as Savior I was typically known as "risen with Christ". If this is the case we are to seek that which is above where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God. That is where I am to live, even while walking in this world. Our affection is to be heavenly not earthly. I died with Christ. The next verse says we will one day appear with Christ when He appears in all His splendor and glory to reign for a thousand years.
If the above is true we are to put to death the old self that we once were. Our sin nature should be (in a figure) put in a casket. When tempted we should say to our old nature stay in that casket where you belong.
Sinning and living in sin is for the children of disobedience which is a term to depict unsaved people. There is the putting off and the putting on in these verses. I notice the term "once walked" meaning that old sinful life is over. Shame on us if we go back to it again.

Complete In Christ! - Colossians 2:8-15

Paul shows that completeness is found only in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

1. Accepted before God in Christ - v.10
2. Free from bondage to the old nature in Christ - v.11
3. In fellowship with God in Christ - v.11
4. Power for victorious living in Christ - v. 12a
5. New life in Christ - v.12b
6. Forgiven in Christ - v.13,14
7. Triumphant and secure in Christ - v.15

All that I need for life and godliness is in Christ! I am in Christ by grace through faith!

Walk with the Lord complete in Christ!!!

Rest In Peace! - Colossians 1:20-23

Every person born into this world since Adam is born with a sin nature that is at war with God. Through Jesus Christ, God has made it possible to be reconciled and to rest in peace.

1. The Person of Peace - "by Him" - Jesus Christ, the one of a kind Son of God, 100% God and 100% man - through Him and Him alone we have peace.
2. The Price of Peace - "the blood of His cross" - innocent blood is the only acceptable covering for sin - the blood of Jesus Christ the sinless Son of God.
3. The Proclamation of Peace - "to all" -peace is available to all who will put their trust in Christ alone and His sinless, shed blood.

No God - No Peace
Know God - Know Peace

Walk with the Lord and rest in peace!!!

Colossians 1:9-14

Paul's wish for the Colossian people was as follows. They were to be filled with the knowledge of His will. Their walk was to be worthy of the Lord. They were to be fruitful in good works and increase in the knowledge of God. That is quite a package. Has it been true of me in my 53 years of my Christian life?
He (Christ) delivered us from the power of darkness. I was there for the first 21 years of my life. I am delivered, I don't have to walk there any more. Do you? We are now part of the kingdom of God's dear Son. I am a child of the King. I must carry my life that way.
We have redemption through His blood, complete forgiveness of sins. I pray you have found that to be true. If not you can come to Him right now. Read John 1:12

No Time For Laziness! - 2 Thessalonians 3:6-18

Paul's final exhortation to the believers concerned the importance of being diligent workers.

1. Exhortation - withdraw from disorderly, lazy busybodies.
2. Example - Paul was a responsible, hard worker in every respect
3. Explanation - Men have a responsibility to work. This shows obedience to God, protects them from being tempted to get in other peoples business and is a good testimony to the lost. By withdrawing from fellowship they would show that laziness was not acceptable and hopefully encourage those who were guilty to repent.

As a worker I need to be a target and a testimony. My work ethic should be responsible, diligent, honest and with a good attitude. This sets an example for the saved and shows the difference that Christ can make to the lost.

Walk with the Lord as a good worker!!!

Today Is The Day Of Salvation! - 2 Thessalonians 2:6-12

Three persons are described in this passage:

1. The Detainer - The Holy Spirit, through the church restricts evil until the rapture.
2. The Deceiver - The antichrist will come on the scene with lying wonders that cause people to believe him and reject Christ.
3. The Deliverer - Jesus Christ will return in great power and glory to defeat antichrist and banish him to the lake of fire forever.

I must urge people to salvation now!

1. They may die before the rapture
2. They may believe the lie of antichrist
3. They may die in the tribulation before hearing the gospel
4. They will miss the suffering of the tribulation if saved now
5. Their salvation may influence others

Walk with the Lord and urge others to salvation today!

2 Thessalonians 1:6-12

There is a lot that could be said about these verses but for the sake of space and good reading I will be brief. First of all Paul is comforting a severely persecuted people. We don't have to look for any retribution. God will take are of it. "Vengeance is mine, saith the Lord."
Because of God's judgment though I will quote something from 2 Corinthians 5:11, "Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord we persuade men." Also in Hebrews 10:31, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." That is why we need to seek people to receive Christ, turn from their sins to eternal life.
The next important thought is He is coming to be glorified in all His saints (people) and it says we will admire Him then. My question is: Do we glorify Him now in our life, and how much do we admire Him now?
Paul ends this with "that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you." Is this true in your life?

Look To The Future! - 1 Thessalonianss 5:1-8

After discussing the rapture of the Church, Paul goes on to describe the tribulation period that will follow and to contrast how the believers and unbelievers look at the future.

1. Knowledge - believers know God's plan as described in the Bible for Gentiles, Jews, and the Church.
2. Expectancy - believers know God's power and the certainty that He will fulfill His promises. All world events can be seen in light of God's sovereign plan.
3. Soberness - believers know God's peace and can live their lives in light of God's future promises.

As a believer, I can look to the future with joy and purpose for the present and excitement and hope for the prospect of Christ's return.

Walk with the Lord and look to the future!!!

I Thessalonians 4:9-12

These verses teach us that the way of God is to love one another. This is the true Christian way. This seemed to be the practice of the Christians in Thessalonica but in this there is always room for improvement. So they were to increase more and more. They were to lead a quiet life, and mind their own business and work with their own hands. It seems that according to Chapter 3:11 of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians, there were some that were not working perhaps even pretending to work for the Lord but just getting in trouble as busybodies in the affairs of others. This not only affected people in the church but those who were not Christians as well. We cannot win people to Christ by having a bad example to people who are not saved. To show a good example of a Christ filled life is very good for those who are not yet saved.

I Thessalonians 1:6-10

What was so marvelous about these people of Thessalonica? First of all they believed Paul and those with him. However they were not just followers of Paul but of the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul was nothing in himself. He said that in another place. We don't follow a man but Christ. Now they were examples of all in the surrounding region of what Christ could do. The interesting thing about the next verse is then when Christ is followed, the person or group who brings the word is honored too.
In the next verse we have two words to and from. They turned to God meaning they accepted what Paul said about Christ. Then according to the second word, they turned from idols. They renounced their past evil practices. There are a lot of people who are wanting to turn to God, but they don't turn from past evil works. Are they saved? Perhaps so, but they are missing out on the joy of serving God.
These were serving, but also waiting for Christ to come back and take them home to Heaven. Whoever reads this, what is your position in Christ?

Righteousness Exalts A Nation! - Proverbs 14:24-35

Righteousness exalts a nation:

1. Physically - leads to sound hearts and minds - less stress, longer life.
2. Mentally - leads to wisdom and discernment - clear thinking.
3. Financially - no debt - a nation of givers not takers.
4. Spiritually - influence on others - testimony leads to good name

How can I contribute to a righteous nation?

1. Worship - Honor God's rightful place and acknowledge Him alone as setting the standard for righteousness and being the source for righteousness.
2. Walk - Show through my lifestyle the righteous character and glory of God.
3. Witness - Bring others to trust in Christ so that our nation has a continually growing group of those who exalt and follow the King of Righteousness.

Walk with the Lord in righteousness!!!

Proverbs 14:1-12

I will carry you to the last verse of this section: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof is the way of death". As there is a right and a wrong way we must examine them carefully. It could mean our eternal destiny. In Matthew 7:13-14 Christ spoke of two ways, the narrow way leading to life, and the broad way leading to destruction. Christ also said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the Father (God) except through me". Have you examined the way you are on? Now to examine some of the other principles. There is the wise building the house and the foolish pulling it down. Then there is the walk of the wise verses one perverse in his ways. Next the mouth of the fool and the lips of the wise. There is a verbal expression for the person to go from the presence of a foolish man. There is a statement that a man is known by the company he keeps. I want to use a phrase in verse 9, "fools make a mock of sin". It all boils down to the phrase in verse 12. There is a way, the right way, find it.

A Wise Body! - Proverbs 13:1-13

In this passage God gives a description of the body of the wise.

1. Listening ears - v.1
2. Disciplined lips - v.2,3
3. Guided feet - v.4-6
4. Generous hands - v.7,8,11
5. Pure heart - v. 9,10,12,13

Wisdom is seeing and living life from God's perspective. In order to have a wise body, I must yield all of my members to the Holy Spirit under His control!

Walk with the Lord with a wise body!!!

The Way Of The Wise! - Proverbs 12:1-10

In this section God gives several characteristics of the wise person.

A wise person:
v. 1 - is willing to receive instruction
v. 2 - obtains God's favor
v. 3 - has stability
v. 4 - is an asset to their spouse
v. 5 - shares truth
v. 6 - thinks of ways to benefit others
v. 7 - withstands trials and judgment
v. 8 - is well thought of
v. 9 - is practical with finances
v.10 - shows character even with animals

Walk with the Lord and in the way of wisdom!!!

Proverbs 11:12-21

In each of these verses there is a negative and a positive with the results of each. There are words that make a difference in each verse. These words represent two kinds of people. There are two words represented in all of the Proverbs. They are portrayed as ladies or feminine gender. They are "wisdom" and "folly". Which one could be portrayed as your mother in most of your ways? Each of these verses portray two different ways. On which way are you traveling.
Now let's take a look at some of the key words, and phrases. Verse 12 -Devoid of wisdom , verses a man of understanding. Verse 12 compares a talebearer to a faithful spirit. Verse 14- No counsel verses a multitude of counselors. Thus throughout these we see the presence of these two typical ladies wisdom and folly. We fall under the category of one of them. You stand or fall in these two principle ways. Would I be so presumptuous to ask, "Where do you fit?"

The Marks Of Christ! - Galatians 6:11-18

Paul summarizes the book beginning in verse 11.

1. Critics - Paul faced critics of the Gospel and of his ministry.
2. Cross - Paul's glory was in Christ and His finished work on the cross.
3. Cost - Paul had "marks" of ownership that proved his loyalty to Christ and the Gospel.

I should always consider the fruit and motives of those I follow. Christ must always have the preeminence. Be willing to suffer for Christ's sake!

Walk with the Lord and be willing to bear His mark!!!

Walk In The Spirit! - Galatians 5:22-26

This is the positive side of our walk with the Lord. Walk in the Spirit!

1. Product -Love - Agape -unmerited self-sacrificing, Joy - cheerful,positive spirit regardless of circumstances, Peace - inner rest knowing God is in control, Longsuffering - staying in the heat of difficult mistreatment, Gentleness - kind consideration, Goodness - righteous generosity, Faith - believing and obeying God regardless of the circumstances or consequences, Meekness - yielding our rights to God, Temperance - self-control.
2. Production - No labor - fruit is not a work but the by-product of our walk, No limit - you can't overdose on any of these areas, No law - no restrictions.
3. Process - Death to self, Daily walk

The fruit of the Spirit in my life is the by-product of walking in the Spirit.

Walk with the Lord and walk in the Spirit!!!

Galatians 5:7-15

The Galatian church was having trouble with the truth of the free grace of God and those who would come there and preach the rite of mandatory circumcision and other points of keeping the law of Moses. They were Gentiles not under the old religion of Judaism. They ran well but now were in danger of not obeying the truth. Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life". What else do we need. If I add anything to that I am way out in left field.
There is an interesting phrase in verse 13, "We are called to liberty; only do not use liberty for an occasion to the flesh". Liberty is a much misused word in the USA today. We have liberty for abortion, free sex of all kinds, and on and on. We call pornography freedom of speech. My liberty is for living for, and serving God in my new nature and not in my old sinful nature called here in the verse "the flesh". According to Paul in Romans 6:11 we are to look at that as dead.

Free At Last! - Galatians 4:27-5:1

Paul is continuing to teach the contrast between freedom and bondage. In Christ we are free from:

1. Bondage to paganism(4:8) - being a slave to our fleshly lusts brings bondage of guilt, bitterness and addictions.
2. Bondage to legalism(4:5) - being a slave to religious rituals brings bondage of guilt, pride and self-righteousness.
3. Bondage to syncretism(5:1) - being a slave to mixing law and grace brings bondage of guilt, compromise and doublemindedness.

True freedom is only found in salvation and sanctification that is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone! In Jesus Christ I am free at last!

1. State - Declare my faith in Christ alone
2. Stand - Rest in the finished work of Christ
3. Stay - Resist false influences

Walk with the Lord free at last!!!

Joint Heirs With Christ! - Galatians 4:1-7

Paul shows that through salvation by faith we are more than servants, we are sons and heirs in the household of God because we are in Christ!

1. Purpose of an heir - An heir should learn humility, gratitude and integrity.
2. Position of an heir - An heir is first a servant then a son and heir.
3. Preparation of an heir - An heir is given a schoolmaster who is responsible for his well being and to bring him to the teacher to learn sonship.
4. Provision of an heir - The heir is given symbols of sonship which serve as reminders and demonstrate the genuineness of his inheritance(i.e. - a ring).

I am nothing in and of myself. Every good thing in my life has come from God. All the blessings of salvation are completely by His grace! Christ redeemed me from the slave ship of sin and made me a joint heir with Him! The law written on my heart and in God's Word brought me to see my need of sonship(salvation). I have been given the earnest of my inheritance, the Holy Spirit as my symbol of sonship!

Walk with the Lord as a joint heir!!!

Galations 3:17-22

In these verses Paul is explaining why we cannot be saved by keeping the law of Moses. It was added to prove the sinfulness of the sinner. Romans 3 verses 19 and 20 say two things to us. One is that the purpose of the law was that every mouth may be stopped ; and that all may become guilty before God. It also states that by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified before God. We then need something else, and that is what we call the free grace of God. Christ bore our sins in His own body on the cross. What can I add to that? Placing anything else to it is "another gospel" according to Galations 1:6. It is grace with nothing added.
Does that mean I can now go on sinning? In Romans 6:1 Paul says "God Forbid" to that. I am now a child of God born of the Holy Spirit. Having a new nature I cannot enjoy sin without some feeling of remorse.

Faith Is The Key! - Galatians 3:1-9

Paul continues His defense of the Gospel. Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone!

1. Past - Abraham was justified by faith alone.
2. Present - All the blessings the Galatians were presently experiencing came by faith alone.
3. Future - The promise was made to Abraham that all those who will believe will be blessed by faith alone.

Every blessing from God that I have received in the past, that is now a part of my life or that I will experience in the future is by faith alone.

Faith is believing and obeying God regardless of the circumstances or the consequences!

Walk with the Lord and walk by faith!!!

Galatians 1:10-17

To be a servant of God you cannot always please people. If God has truly called, we go to work at His charges and we carry out His orders. Paul got all his truth from God by a special revelation. He didn't leave to go to Jerusalem to confer with the twelve apostles. He was an apostle of a special king with a special calling to the Gentiles.
In verse 10 we have a fact that Paul said he was separated to be an apostle from the time he came out of his mother's womb to be an apostle to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. God also said that of Jeremiah, and I believe it is also said of Samson, John the Baptist and all the pre-named people of the Bible, even Cyrus the Gentile king.
The above brings me to a question. Was I separated from my mother's womb to preach or to serve in some way or was it just to do nothing at all. Maybe just a sort of blah kind of life. Something to think about.

City Of Refuge! - Numbers 35:9-25

Israel was instructed to establish cities of refuge for those who accidentally, ignorantly or in self defense killed someone. The city would be a place of protection until the case could be judged and the defendant could produce evidence for aquittal.

Jesus Christ is my city of refuge(Hebrews 6:18). I am a condemned sinner worthy of death but I am protected in Christ until one day through Christ I am declared innocent before the Judge of heaven.

How firm a foundation ye saints of the Lord
Is laid for your faith in His excellent Word
What more can He say than to you He has said
To you who for refuge to Jesus have fled

Walk with the Lord secure in the refuge of the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

A Good Shepherd! - Numbers 27:12-23

In this passage Joshua is chosen as the new "under shepherd" for the children of Israel. God has always seen His people as sheep needing a shepherd. In one sense certain people are chosen for the leadership role of a shepherd and in another sense all of us have a responsibility to "shepherd" others as we make disciples for God's glory. As Joshua is selected as the new leader, we see several characteristics of a good shepherd.

1. Chosen by God - A good shepherd must be called by God and enabled by God for the task.
2. Controlled by the Spirit - A good shepherd must be controlled by or yielded to the Spirit of God. The shepherd should demonstrate that he is spiritually oriented not fleshly.
3. Charged by the priest - A good shepherd is recognized by other men of God as having the above two qualities and challenged with the accountability to care for God's people.

Role of the Shepherd:
1. Lead
2. Feed
3. Weed
4. Intercede
5. Bleed

Praise God for the "Good Shepherd" the Lord Jesus Christ who cares for me! Follow His example in caring for others!

Walk with the Lord and be a good shepherd!

Follow God's Direction! - Numbers 20:1-12

The new generation of Israel, after wandering in the wilderness, has come to the same place that the old generation was, looking for water. Poised to go into the promised land, how would they respond?

1. Rebellion - The people of the new generation rebelled against Moses and Aaron just like their forefathers.
2. Reaction - Moses and Aaron reacted to the rebellion by looking to themselves as the solution and not following God's way. In doing so, they taught the people the wrong picture of Christ(the Rock).
3. Retribution - Moses and Aaron were not allowed to lead the children of Israel into the promised land.

What a shame for these men of God after all these years to lose the privilege of going into the land. Many privileges and blessings have been lost because of my failure to follow God's instructions.

1. Specifically - God gives detail to instructions to set Him apart and to test our obedience.
2. Spiritually - Follow God's instruction by faith with dependence on His power not my own.
3. Systematically - Consistent obedience creates proper testimony for others.

Walk with the Lord and follow His directions!!!

True Repentance! - Numbers 14:34-45

The people were confronted with the consequences of their sin. They had regret and resolve but no true repentance.

1. Regret - The people were given a harsh penalty. They were to stay in the wilderness for forty years, one year for each day of the spies' trip. All who were 20 years old and up would die with the exception of Joshua and Caleb.
2. Remorse - The people mourned over missing out on the promised land and tried to go anyway in their own strength but it was too late.
3. Repentance - The right response would have been to grieve at their offence of a holy God and their self will and rebellion. Instead their sorrow was over their loss and not God's.

I must practice true repentance. Confess not only my "sins"(acts of sin toward God and others) but my "sin"(iniquity - putting myself in the place of God, reserving the right to make final decisions in my life)!

Walk with the Lord and practice true repentance!!!

Numbers 14:6-19

In this section we move beyond that fateful time when the ten men decided they couldn't go into the Promised Land. The two, Joshua and Caleb could not persuade them that God would successfully bring them in. Majority rule is not always a good thing. If God is on the side of only a few they become a majority. It is not a question whose side the majority is on but on whose side am I. By this decision it cost the Israelites 38 more years of wandering in the wilderness instead of enjoying the blessings of God in the Promised Land. There is a word I want to emphasize here. That is the word "unbelief". The opposite of this is "faith". Can I trust God while most others mistrust Him. Moses was intercessor for the Israelites and went upon the mountain and begged mercy of God for 40 days. Will I be an intercessor? Will you? For us it will not be Israel, but America, or even the whole world. We should pray for Israel too, and for all people to be saved.

Faithful To The Assignment! - Numbers 13:1-26

The Bible records each spy who was assigned and gives the details of their mission to check out the promised land.

1. Assignment - God has a work for all to do and specifically assigns and records.
2. Acceptance - What a privilege to be a co-laborer with God and have a part in his eternal plan.
3. Accountability - What a responsibility! I am important to God's plan and have influence that can affect generations!

Find out what my assignment is from God. Enthusiastically accept my assignment. Remember that God is aware of my fulfillment of His assignment and I have a responsibility to Him and to others to be faithful!

Walk with the Lord and be faithful to the assignment!!!

Beware Of The Mixed Multitude! - Numbers 11:4-17

Influenced by the "mixed multitude", the children of Israel developed a sensual focus. They became more interested in self desires than in pleasing God.

1. Sensual influence - The "mixed multitude" was a group of non-Israelites who had seen God's power evidenced in Egypt and had fled the country along with the children of Israel. This group did not have the same convictions and worshiped false gods. They influenced the people to desire the things of Egypt and complain about the provision of God.

2. Sensual interests - Israel joined this "mixed multitude" in craving things for the body and ignoring or belittling the things of the spirit.

3. Sensual iniquity - They crossed the line when they complained to God and accused His supply for them as being insufficient. They did not like the discipline of daily dependence on God.

Beware of those around you who have a half-hearted commitment to God. People of "faith" who have no desire for the spiritual. Proverbs 13:20 - "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise but a companion of fools shall be destroyed".

Walk with the Lord and beware of the "mixed multitude"!!!

Numbers 9:1-5-15-23

In the first 5 verses we see the command of God for the keeping of the Passover. This was a memorial of all that happened on that fateful night in Egypt when all the firstborn sons of Egyptians died and all the firstborn sons of the Israelites were safe because of the blood of the passover lamb on their doorposts. In I Corinthians 5:7 we hear these words, "Christ our Passover was sacrificed for us." With these words Paul told them to get rid of that which was sinful just as the Israelites did not eat leaven seven days before the passover in Egypt. The lesson I get for myself is that just as the Passover was typical of the sacrifice of Christ on the cross now because of Christ I am to live as much as I can apart from sin. The second part of this reading is that God was in charge of whether they journeyed or stayed where they were. They didn't just decide that on their own. That cloud represented the presence of God. Am I aware of the presence of God in my life? Do I move under God's direction?

Separated Unto God! - Numbers 8:5-18

The Levites were separated unto God and dedicated to His service.

1. The Washing of the Levites - They were to be washed with water and to wash their clothes.
2. The Work of the Levites - They were to serve the Lord by assisting others in being able to approach God.
3. The Witness of the Levites - The Levites represented to the nation the work of redemption and served as a reminder of the redemption from the bondage to Egypt.

I am made clean(sins atoned) by the offering of the body and blood of Jesus Christ. I am saved to serve. I am cooperating with God in seeing spiritually dead persons become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. I am saved to be a witness and testimony for Christ.

Walk with the Lord and be separated unto Him!!!

Numbers 1:47-2:2

First I want to talk about the Levites. Everything that God represented had something to do with that little tent called the Tabernacle and they were to care for it and keep it. They were to carry it throughout the wilderness journey whenever the Israelites moved from one place to another for the 40 years in the wilderness.
As a comparison all that was in that Tabernacle is typical of Christ in some way. Who is in charge of carrying the testimony of Christ through the journey through this world? It is the individual Christian, not the Pastor nor elder or the deacon. They are church representatives, but it is the individual Christian that bears the responsibility to go out to the world. I am afraid we have given that responsibility to the Pastors, elders and deacons and have shunned ours. Christians, get to work! Carry the testimony of Christ to the workplace, to the sidewalk, to everyone you meet. It will make a difference in this sin cursed world.

A Faithful Witness! - Acts 28:17-31

Paul demonstrates characteristics of a faithful witness:

1. Mandate - Paul had been given an assignment by God. His burning passion or cause was to proclaim the "hope of Israel" - the Messiah!
2. Method - Three words describe Paul's method as a faithful witness. 1.)Explain - teaching truth to the mind 2.)Testify - sharing personal testimony, stirring the emotion 3.)Persuade - urgency to act, challenging the will to decide.
3. Message - Paul continued "preaching the kingdom of God and those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ.

My witness should follow this pattern!

Walk with the Lord and be a faithful witness!!!

Hope In The Storm! - Acts 27:14-29

Paul continues on his trip to Rome and they face a terrible storm.

1. Paul's Forecast - Paul tells the crew that there is hope to survive the storm.
2. Paul's Fellowship - Paul stays in contact with God.
3. Paul's Faith - Paul believed God's Word. This was the basis for his hope.

I must be willing to forecast both the spiritual storms that are coming and the spiritual hope that there is in Christ to this tempest driven world. In order to know and address the world's problems I must walk in fellowship with God not learn their ways or be knowledgeable of evil. I must also demonstrate and proclaim faith in God and obedience to his Word as the solution in the storms of life.

Walk with the Lord and give hope in the storm!!!

Acts 26:19-32

This section begins with Paul who says, "I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision". When I accepted Christ and decided I was called to serve Him on a full time basis, which was over 50 years ago I called it something like that too, and I don't feel I was disobedient to it either." Whoever reads this, did you get any kind of vision at all? And have you been obedient to it?
Paul continues by urging King Agrippa to believe in Christ accepting Him as Savior. Agrippa answers by saying, "You almost persuaded me to be a Christian." Paul comes back by saying that he would like all who heard him that day to become true born again believers in Christ.
That was the end of the conversation and we are never told whether King Agrippa or the other man Festus ever received Christ as Savior. Now I turn to whoever reads this. Have you repented and received Christ as your own personal Savior?

A Reliable Witness! - Acts 25:13-27

Just like I have a favorite tool or golf club because I find them reliable, God uses those instruments that He can trust to be His witnesses. Consider Paul's reliable witness:

1. Consistent - Paul's walk matched his talk. Every ruler had to acknowledge his innocence.
2. Clarity - Paul clearly presented Christ. Festus showed this in his report to Agrippa.
3. Courageous - Paul did not back down or fail to share the Gospel with all in his presence.

If I will commit to have a consistent testimony and a clear message and courageously use the opportunities that God gives me, then I can expect God to give me more opportunities.

Walk with the Lord and be a reliable witness!!!

Getting It Done (The Right Way) - Acts 25:1-12

In today's passage, the Jews were working out a plot with which to kill Paul. Festus, who was classified as a good ruler, wanted to do a favor for the Jews. Paul, knowing God's promise, wanted to get to Rome to preach the Gospel there. The Jews attempted to befriend Festus and kill Paul on the way back to Jerusalem before any trial would occur. Festus attempted to do the Jews a favor to get some favor from their region. Both of these end results (the death of a "criminal" and favor in a constituency) are not always bad when the favor and the criminal are deserved. However, Festus and the Jews went about achieving their desires outside of ways that are honoring to God. Paul, who was a natural born Roman citizen, used his rights and appealed to Caesar. This made Paul's appointed trip to Rome a surety.

God is concerned with what we do in our lives. But He is also just as concerned about how we do things. We can have "perfect" children who never get into any trouble through the vehicle of fear or abuse, but that would be disobedient on our part and only result in children with bitterness and hearts that still seek to do evil. We can grow our church to thousands through all kinds of entertainment and preaching that leaves out any and all conviction. But God wants us to grow our church through soul-winning and preaching the truth of God's Word.

Can you think of anything in your life that you desire to accomplish, whatever the cost? Make sure the cost you are willing to pay is the cost that is glorifying to God.

A Clear Witness! - Acts 24:1-16

Paul gives a witness before Governor Felix. His witness is a good example for us.

1. Courtesy - Paul spoke respectfully and appropriately to Felix.
2. Consistency - Paul's witness was the same everywhere and every time. He declared his belief in the Word of God and the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
3. Conscience - Paul had boldness to witness because he was void of offense before God and men.

In my witness I should show value and respect to others and use discernment so that I am appropriate at all times. My witness should always focus around the Gospel. Be sure all conflict in my life has been Scripturally resolved so that I will have boldness and others spirits will be open to my witness.

Walk with the Lord and give a clear witness!

Acts 23:11-22

Paul is in the middle of telling of his experience as recorded in Acts chapter 9. This was Paul's commission from the Lord Jesus Christ to be one of his apostles. We know him as the apostle to the Gentiles as we see from verse 21. When Paul declares being sent to the Gentiles it raises such an animosity among the Jewish crowds they are about to kill him on the spot. He is rescued by the chief captain, but later Paul gives credit to God for the rescue. What do I see in this? If God calls me to a work He will see me through every step of the way. I have found that true in my more than fifty years of service for Him. I have probably never had an over abundance but always I have had enough. I have always been safe even after a serious car accident eleven years ago.

Showing Deference! - Acts 21:17 -26

The arrival in Jerusalem ends Paul's third missionary journey. In this passage we see:

1. The Reception - Believers in Jerusalem were glad to see Paul and grateful for the relief offering he brought.
2. The Report - Paul told the mighty works God had done on his journey.
3. The Request - There were rumors of Paul not accepting Jewish believers. Paul was asked to participate in a vow of commitment to show these rumors were false.
4. The Response - Paul was willing and agreed to the request in order to show deference to others.

Deference is limiting my freedom so that I will not offend the tastes of others. This usually brings the respect of others. Paul gave up his individual rights and through deference loved the brethren. I must be willing to show deference toward others. Deference glorifies God and blesses others and will give me joy!

Walk with the Lord and show deference!!!

Acts 20:25-38

In this part of the Bible we have a profound statement by the Apostle Paul. "I am innocent of the blood of all men." This didn't mean he was able to preach the world over, but he declared to them the truth to prevent them from eternal punishment we call Hell. Another statement was that Paul declared to them the "whole council of God." Not just tell them how to be saved but to go further to the complete maturity of the believer.
Paul's talk here is to elders or overseers. It is better to have a church with many elders than many babes with years of being saved.
The next call is to watch as Satan has emissaries that want to tear up the flock. Many times these come from the very middle of the flock and not from the outside. Paul coveted no mans silver or gold many times working with his own hands to pay his expenses. This is commendable. Covetousness is a sin that could do a lot of harm to the flock of God. I would rather not be paid at all than to have someone accuse me of being a money grabber. The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.

Practice Christianity! - Acts 20:1-12

In Acts 20, Paul leaves Ephesus and travels back to Macedonia. As we observe Paul's ministry we see certain aspects of Christianity.

1. Discipleship - Paul has a group of men with him that he is discipleing during his travels. He is making disciples as he is making disciples.
2. Worship - During a stop at Troas, Paul and his group attend a worship service. The service is held on the "first day" of the week. Sunday is the day of worship for the Church. It is a weekly celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The service included preaching and communion.
3. Fellowship - After a lengthy service and a healing, Paul stayed to break bread and talk enjoying the things they shared in common.

Jesus has commissioned me to go and make disciples! Am I personally active discipleing someone? I carry out the Great Commission, not in my own power, but in the power of the Holy Spirit. This power is a direct result of my worship experience. Am I faithful and growing in my personal and corporate worship? God has also designed the Great Commission to be carried out by a unified body called the Church. Am I participating in fellowship with other believers?

Walk with the Lord and practice Christianity!!!