We can see, according to the Word of God, that God's Word has been in existence from the beginning. The Word of God was with God and the Word of God was God. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us in the person of Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of the Father. We can see that the Word of God is far more than simple words on paper, but rather God himself. His word is Alive and Powerful. So powerful, in fact, that not only did His spoken Word create the world we live in and all of the natural things we enjoy, but still the world is functioning by His powerful Word. The Word of God is to us life and health and a lamp to our feet and a light to our path to show us how we should live each day. Let's continue to study God's Word to find out how God responds to His Word now that we can see how awesome His Word is to us. Remember, I used the Amplified Bible as my resource for this study. Any Bible will work, but the Amplified Bible has more descriptive words.
1. The following verses are extremely important regarding how we approach the Word of God. Read these verses and write them down.
a. John 17:17
b. Psalm 119:160
c. 2 Corinthians 6:7
Clearly, these scriptures have established what powerful truth?
2. We understand that God's Word is Truth. What about God the Father's character? Read the following verses and write them down.
a. Deuteronomy 7:9
b. 1 Corinthians 1:9
c. Hebrews 10:23
d. 1 Peter 4:19
e. Psalm 119:90
Now, what mighty truth have we uncovered concerning the character of our Most High God?
What does that mean to you?
3. What does the Bible say about how our Faithful God responds to His Word of Truth? Read the following verses and write them down.
a. Numbers 23:19
b. Roman's 3:3-4
c. Hebrews 6:18
d. James 1:13
e. Malachi 3:6
What do those verses say about the character of our God?
PRAYER:
Father, I Thank You that your Word is Truth. Every bit of it is absolutely true. It has been true from the very beginning. It has been tested and proven true. Thank you for giving to me such a pure Word. Thank you also for being so faithful (accurate, constant, loyal, reliable) to me. I know you are faithful to keep your covenant and to do as you have promised. You are the Faithful Creator. You are faithful and just. You are called Faithful and True and your Faithfulness is unto ALL generations.
I know that you are not a man that you should lie - You are true - even if every man lies - You still remain true. It is impossible for You to lie. You can't even be tempted with evil. In You is only light, no darkness at all. Thank You, for never changing. As I study and learn more about Your Word, help me never forget that your Word is True -Always. You are Faithful to do Your Word -Always and You cannot lie - not ever. Help my words also to be true, help me to be faithful and help me not to be tempted with evil. You are an Awesome God and worthy to be praised. AMEN
Additional verses for studying and meditation:
2 Samuel 7:28
1 John 1:9
Psalm 119:142
Revelations 19:11
Ephesians 1:13
Titus 1:2
1 Thessalonians 5:24
1 John 1:5
2 Thessalonians 3:3
Psalms 18:30
This Bible Study is taken from:
"Bible Studies On The Path Of Victory". Copyright 2002 by Cindee L. Krieger.
All rights Reserved.
Printed in the United States of America
Library of Congress Control Number: 2003096416
First Edition September 2003
No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher. Request for permission or additional copies of this resource should be addressed in writing to:
Truth Proclaimed Publishing
414 Elmwood Ave S
Fargo, ND 58103
Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
How will you be found?
Ponder this today.....How blessed and greatly favored is the man who trusts in You [believing in You, relying on You, and committing himself to You with confident hope and expectation].
Psalm 84:12 Amp.
God is faithful....He will bless and pour out His favor upon those who are faithful to Him, those who put their trust in Him, those who will do their part.
It is necessary to understand that it is impossible to truly trust God without fully trusting in, believing and relying on God's WORD because God and His Word are One.
John 1:1 In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.
It is necessary to understand that it is impossible to truly trust God without fully trusting in, believing and relying on God's WORD because God and His Word are One.
John 1:1 In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.
God's Word is Truth.
God cannot lie. In fact, it is impossible for Him to lie.
God is faithful. He will do what He says.
God is never where the problem lies. He always proves himself faithful to those who trust in Him.
Luke 18:8
I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?”
Faith = belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness.
The first question to ask is: Am I faithful to God?
I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?”
Faith = belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness.
The first question to ask is: Am I faithful to God?
More Questions:
How faithful am I to God?
How faithful am I to God?
How faithful am I to God's Word?
Do I say that I believe God, but when it comes right down to it, I resist trusting what He says? How can that be? Can I truly trust you if I don't believe what you say is true? If you are faithful, wouldn't I trust your word? If I am faithful to you, wouldn't I stand by you in every way?
How faithful am I to God? Do I stand by my God in every way? If God says it, do I hold tight to what He says? Do I have my trust in God so strong that I will back up what He says, or.......... DO I even back Him up at all? Instead do I back away from what He says, yielding to the report of another??? Do I stand by my God and His Word as a faithful guard? Is my testimony that "My God said it, so it has to be! He cannot lie. His Word is True. He is always Faithful to keep His Word. I stand by what He says. I am faithful to Him. I will not back down from my firm position of absolute confidence in Him. He said it, so it has to be because My God Cannot Lie!"
Do I say that I believe God, but when it comes right down to it, I resist trusting what He says? How can that be? Can I truly trust you if I don't believe what you say is true? If you are faithful, wouldn't I trust your word? If I am faithful to you, wouldn't I stand by you in every way?
How faithful am I to God? Do I stand by my God in every way? If God says it, do I hold tight to what He says? Do I have my trust in God so strong that I will back up what He says, or.......... DO I even back Him up at all? Instead do I back away from what He says, yielding to the report of another??? Do I stand by my God and His Word as a faithful guard? Is my testimony that "My God said it, so it has to be! He cannot lie. His Word is True. He is always Faithful to keep His Word. I stand by what He says. I am faithful to Him. I will not back down from my firm position of absolute confidence in Him. He said it, so it has to be because My God Cannot Lie!"
2 Chronicles 16:9
For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is fully devoted to Him. You have acted foolishly in this matter. From now on, therefore, you will be at war."
For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is fully devoted to Him. You have acted foolishly in this matter. From now on, therefore, you will be at war."
Proverbs 20:6
Most men will proclaim every one his own
Most men will proclaim every one his own
goodness: but a faithful man who can find?
Proverbs 23:23
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding
We cannot say truthfully that we are either trusting in or faithful to God, if we are not holding fast to and guarding His Word.
Remember, Jesus is the Word of God.
If we deny His Word, we are denying Jesus. If we deny Jesus, we deny the Father for in John 10:30 Jesus is speaking saying "I and the Father are one."
We ask, "when have I ever denied God's Word....His own Son?"
We deny God, i.e., refuse the truth, not trusting or being faithful to God every time we read or hear the Word of God and then make a case against it by elevating what our senses tell us over what the Word of God says.
We say, "Yes, I know that is what the Bible says, BUT...." so as to say...." but my senses tell me..." or, "but, I feel.. " or, " but the Medical report says..." and so, you elevate those "natural, sense defined, carnal reasons as more important, more truthful, influential and powerful that God's own Word.
We say, "I know God says He supplies all of my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Then we say, "But, I have no money...." and we value our experience greater that the Word of God. We then have proved our own UN-faithfulness to God. We have neither held fast to His Word nor been a guard to be honored. We have revealed ourselves as carnal, not spiritual.
What we say reveals what we believe. Our words reveal what is in our heart. Whenever we speak in agreement with God = His Word, regardless of our circumstances, our emotions, what we see or feel, we are proving our faithfulness to God. Faith is agreeing with and putting our confidence trust in God and what He says.
.....How blessed and greatly favored is the man who trusts in You [believing in You, relying on You, and committing himself to You with confident hope and expectation].
How well are you holding firmly to what God says regardless of the circumstances?
When He returns.....will He find you faithful?
Read Mark 4:14-20
Monday, April 27, 2020
What is your response?
If you were told that if you did certain things with a proper attitude it would result in Life to you and Health to all your flesh...how would you respond?????
Proverbs 4:20-22
My child, pay attention to what I say.
Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body.
My child, pay attention to what I say.
Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body.
I cannot seem to express the intensity and urgency that is within me to convince Christians to follow the counsel found in the verses above.
Pay attention to God's Word. Mark well, give it regard, give heed. As if to say, "I want to rub this in! Pay Attention!!! What I have to tell you is crucial for your well-being, for your life as a whole! Hear me now!!!
Listen carefully....hear, listen with attention and interest, give heed to what God says. This is important stuff I have to tell you. If you will listen with ears to hear it will be valuable to your life!
Don't lose sight of God's Word! Keep your eyes looking at what God says. Don't be distracted by other things. The purpose of distractions are to get you to change your focus and cause you to be drawn away from God's Word.
Keep God's Word. Protect his Word. Put a Hedge around it. Take charge of His Word. Guard it. You do not want His Word to get away from you! Hold on tightly to what He says.
Let His Word penetrate down into your heart. Keep them in the center of your thoughts, your heart, your mind. Don't let your guard down and allow your thoughts wander away from the Truth.
For God's Words are Life to you......they are your fountain of life. They are your sustenance, maintenance and energy. God's Word is your welfare and happiness in the king's presence as consisting of earthly happiness and joyfulness combined (often) with spiritual blessedness.
To those who find them....You must look to find. Search for it as of something lost that you really need to find. Explore and thoroughly find out what His Word teaches you. This is not a casual walk. You are searching to find something of great value. Unto those that find them; i.e. to those who by effort get possession of and procure (obtain something especially by care or effort); they are life and......
health to all your body.....healing, health, remedy, sound, wholesome, yielding. From rapha'; properly, curative, i.e. Literally of disease (concretely) a medicine, or (abstractly) a cure; figuratively (concretely) deliverance, or (abstractly) placidity (pleasantly calm or peaceful; unruffled; tranquil; serenely quiet or undisturbed: placid waters).
So, what is your response regarding wisdoms counsel today?
How well are you paying attention?
Are you distracted by the things around you or are you really keeping God's Word attentively regarding every issue, every thought and every challenge you face. Keep His Word front and center... asking "what does God's Word instruct me regarding this issue?"
Are you distracted by the things around you or are you really keeping God's Word attentively regarding every issue, every thought and every challenge you face. Keep His Word front and center... asking "what does God's Word instruct me regarding this issue?"
How are your listening to His Word? Casually, inconsistently, or determined to hear and understand with dedication.
Are you protecting God's Word? Are you being a guard that would receive praise for his excellent work at keeping the Word safe from escaping you or being stolen from you?
Are you letting His Word penetrate deep down inside of you? Is His Word such a necessary part of You, that it is God's Word, His counsel, that comes out from you in the midst of a trial?
When you face an issue what is your response? "We'll never make it!" Or "God will make a way!" Do you say, "I sure hope I don't get this virus!" Or do you say, "My God is my refuge and He protects me from every deadly pestilence!" Then do you Guard His Word when the waves get worse?????
Do you realize that how you respond to God's Word directly influences your life and the health of all your flesh?
Please take God's instruction seriously and be a dedicated student of the Word of God and be a Doer of what God teaches us, not a hearer only. If you do, it will be Life to you and Health to all your flesh. God can't lie. It has to be so!
Psalm 119:16
I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget Your Word.
I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget Your Word.
Saturday, April 25, 2020
A Button and a Bump...
In the summer of 2003, Duane and I, along with our Scoutmaster and 2 other adults, took a group of Boy Scouts on a High Adventure camping trip to Colorado Springs.
One of the things we did on that trip was a high adventure caving excursion in the Cave of the Winds. On this adventure, you don't access the cave by walking in, you have to climb down into the cave. This was not an option open to the general public. Of the adults, only our Scoutmaster, Jerry, and I went.
One of the things we experienced while in that cave was to go through a cave tunnel. One of the scouts was too large to go through, so he stayed behind. The rest of us went through by laying on our stomach's completely flat to the ground with one arm stretched out over our heads and the other arm flat alongside our bodies so as to narrow up our shoulder width. We laid one person in front of the other - head to toe, head to toe. We were to keep track of the forward motion of the person in front of us with our outstretched hand. There was no room to move anything but our feet and outstretched hand, we couldn't lift our knees or our butt. We moved forward only by moving our feet and pushing ourselves forward with our toes. It was way tighter than a CT scan and completely dark. We were unable to lift or turn our heads.
About halfway through, Jerry, who was wearing a flannel shirt, got stuck. He could not move forward or backwards. His son was behind him and attempted to give him a push, but it didn't help. I was behind Jerry's son and still there were more boys behind me. The boys in front of Jerry made their way out of the tunnel. One of the guides went in the tunnel toward Jerry, grabbed his hand and pulled while his son gave him a little push from behind and Jerry was freed. We were all then able to get out of the tunnel. Whew!
Jerry was stuck only by a button on his shirt, caught on a bump on the floor of the tunnel. In normal cases, that wouldn't be a big deal, actually, not even hardly noticeable. But, in this case, it caused him to be unable to move without help. He was stuck and the rest of us were unable to move forward, as well...
Why do I tell you this story? Because, sometimes in life it seems like we are stuck, unable to move forward or backwards. It seems like we're pressed in from every side. It is scary. We can't see what is in front if us. We don't know how we are going to get out of the situation we are in. If we allow fear to be uncontrolled, we could have a panic attack, making a difficult situation way worse.
It was impressive that everyone in that cave tunnel stayed calm, controlled and quiet throughout that entire experience. Why?
Our guide was in constant communication with us. We could hear his calm voice instructing us. telling us what he was going to do, what he was doing and reassuring us that all was well and we would be out of the tunnel before very long....and we were, all safe, sound and finally, unsqueezed!
I think about that experience often....I think about how such a small issue, a button and a bump, could cause such a problem. I think of how tight it was in there and how easily we could have come emotionally unglued - what chaos it could have been. I think of how dark it was....we couldn't see a thing. I remember the confident calmness of the guide's voice and the clarity of his instructions. I think of how smoothly the problem was solved, how peaceful we remained throughout our cave tunnel experience.
Hear the voice of our guide.....
Jesus is our guide to guide us into the way of peace. Luke 1:79
I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light before them and rough places into level ground. These things I will do for them, and I will not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble Psalm 46:1
When we find ourselves in a cave tunnel experience, remember Jesus' words to Jairus..."Do not be afraid. Only Believe"
Listen to the calm voice of your guide, "I will never leave you! I will never forsake you. I am with you always. I will watch over you. I will protect you from every evil.
You loyal followers of the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their deliverer and protector. Psalm 115:11
Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which can never be shaken, never be moved. Psalm 125:1
But I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, “You are my God!” Psalm 31:14
If we can remain calm while stuck in a dark, very tight tunnel of rock, and put our trust so completely in the words of a wise, skilled cave guide, believing that what he says is true....Most Certainly we can believe in our Almighty Guide and the Words He speaks!
So, when you find yourself in a tight spot or a dark tunnel....fix your attention on your Guide and his Word. Do not allow yourself to be afraid. Only Believe! Stay at Peace! This is really just a bump on the path! You've got the best Guide there is and His eyes are fixed right on you! Put your confidence in what He says. He is way better than any skilled, wise cave guide. He will definitely guide you through your trouble!!!!
I sought the Lord, and he heard me; and he delivered me from all my troubles. Psalm 34:4
One of the things we did on that trip was a high adventure caving excursion in the Cave of the Winds. On this adventure, you don't access the cave by walking in, you have to climb down into the cave. This was not an option open to the general public. Of the adults, only our Scoutmaster, Jerry, and I went.
One of the things we experienced while in that cave was to go through a cave tunnel. One of the scouts was too large to go through, so he stayed behind. The rest of us went through by laying on our stomach's completely flat to the ground with one arm stretched out over our heads and the other arm flat alongside our bodies so as to narrow up our shoulder width. We laid one person in front of the other - head to toe, head to toe. We were to keep track of the forward motion of the person in front of us with our outstretched hand. There was no room to move anything but our feet and outstretched hand, we couldn't lift our knees or our butt. We moved forward only by moving our feet and pushing ourselves forward with our toes. It was way tighter than a CT scan and completely dark. We were unable to lift or turn our heads.
About halfway through, Jerry, who was wearing a flannel shirt, got stuck. He could not move forward or backwards. His son was behind him and attempted to give him a push, but it didn't help. I was behind Jerry's son and still there were more boys behind me. The boys in front of Jerry made their way out of the tunnel. One of the guides went in the tunnel toward Jerry, grabbed his hand and pulled while his son gave him a little push from behind and Jerry was freed. We were all then able to get out of the tunnel. Whew!
Jerry was stuck only by a button on his shirt, caught on a bump on the floor of the tunnel. In normal cases, that wouldn't be a big deal, actually, not even hardly noticeable. But, in this case, it caused him to be unable to move without help. He was stuck and the rest of us were unable to move forward, as well...
Why do I tell you this story? Because, sometimes in life it seems like we are stuck, unable to move forward or backwards. It seems like we're pressed in from every side. It is scary. We can't see what is in front if us. We don't know how we are going to get out of the situation we are in. If we allow fear to be uncontrolled, we could have a panic attack, making a difficult situation way worse.
It was impressive that everyone in that cave tunnel stayed calm, controlled and quiet throughout that entire experience. Why?
Our guide was in constant communication with us. We could hear his calm voice instructing us. telling us what he was going to do, what he was doing and reassuring us that all was well and we would be out of the tunnel before very long....and we were, all safe, sound and finally, unsqueezed!
I think about that experience often....I think about how such a small issue, a button and a bump, could cause such a problem. I think of how tight it was in there and how easily we could have come emotionally unglued - what chaos it could have been. I think of how dark it was....we couldn't see a thing. I remember the confident calmness of the guide's voice and the clarity of his instructions. I think of how smoothly the problem was solved, how peaceful we remained throughout our cave tunnel experience.
Hear the voice of our guide.....
Jesus is our guide to guide us into the way of peace. Luke 1:79
I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light before them and rough places into level ground. These things I will do for them, and I will not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble Psalm 46:1
When we find ourselves in a cave tunnel experience, remember Jesus' words to Jairus..."Do not be afraid. Only Believe"
Listen to the calm voice of your guide, "I will never leave you! I will never forsake you. I am with you always. I will watch over you. I will protect you from every evil.
You loyal followers of the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their deliverer and protector. Psalm 115:11
Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which can never be shaken, never be moved. Psalm 125:1
But I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, “You are my God!” Psalm 31:14
If we can remain calm while stuck in a dark, very tight tunnel of rock, and put our trust so completely in the words of a wise, skilled cave guide, believing that what he says is true....Most Certainly we can believe in our Almighty Guide and the Words He speaks!
So, when you find yourself in a tight spot or a dark tunnel....fix your attention on your Guide and his Word. Do not allow yourself to be afraid. Only Believe! Stay at Peace! This is really just a bump on the path! You've got the best Guide there is and His eyes are fixed right on you! Put your confidence in what He says. He is way better than any skilled, wise cave guide. He will definitely guide you through your trouble!!!!
I sought the Lord, and he heard me; and he delivered me from all my troubles. Psalm 34:4
Monday, April 20, 2020
Reminder: What Are You Looking at?
What are You Looking At Today???
Are you looking at Jesus or the Waves?
Are you looking at your physical situation or are you focused on touching the hem of His garment, saying confidently, "if I touch the hem of His garment I know I will be healed."
Are you looking at the giants in the land of promise or are you fixing your mind on the Word of God?
Are you thinking about the things that make you fearful or are you following Jesus' instructions to Jairus, "Don't be afraid, Only Believe".
Are you looking at Goliath and running away fearful. Or are you setting your thoughts on who God is in you and what He is able to do in cooperation with you?
Are you looking at the army against you or are you focused on Your God who fights for you with your worship out front?
So, today, evaluate, making necessary adjustment to what you are looking at and set your attention on Jesus, His Word, Your God Who fights for you. Put your confidence in Him. His Word never fails. Worship Him and Him alone. Give the enemy no room. Don't give your focus to what and who destroys. Give your attention to He who is your Help, your Healer, your Fortress, your Deliverer, your God Almighty! Great is the Lord and Greatly to be Praised.
Hebrews 3:1
Therefore, holy brethren, sharers with others in a heavenly invitation, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest whose followers we profess to be.
Therefore, holy brethren, sharers with others in a heavenly invitation, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest whose followers we profess to be.
Colossians 3:2
Give your minds (Set your minds, give your attention to, keep thinking, feed on, keep focused habitually) on the things that are above, not to the things that are on the earth.
Give your minds (Set your minds, give your attention to, keep thinking, feed on, keep focused habitually) on the things that are above, not to the things that are on the earth.
Saturday, April 18, 2020
The Word of God Bible Study
God's Word instructs us to:
2 Timothy 2:15 to:
Work hard (Study, give diligence) so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
Joshua 1:8 tells us:
This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite (speak, talk, study, muse, utter) it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do.
James 1:25
Darby Translation
But he that fixes his view on [the] perfect law, that of liberty, and abides in [it], being not a forgetful hearer but a doer of [the] work, he shall be blessed in his doing.
God's Word Translation
However, the person who continues to study God's perfect teachings that make people free and who remains committed to them will be blessed. People like that don't merely listen and forget; they actually do what God's teachings say.
Weymouth Translation
But he who looks closely into the perfect Law--the Law of freedom--and continues looking, he, being not a hearer who forgets, but an obedient doer, will as the result of his obedience be blessed.
Today, I am presenting you a Bible Study for you to do. This is the first study that God taught me. It was the beginning of many powerful lessons and positive changes in my life. You might say, "I already know all of this". Well, until every Word impacts the way you think and behave, you really Do Not KNOW it.
Please take the time, to be a diligent workman that pleases God and study God's Word.
Many people have differing opinions about what the Word of God is. We want to search the Word of God itself to see what God says his Word is. We will learn how He responds to His Word. We will discover how we should respond to it and how it impacts our life. This Bible Study uses the Amplified Bible as the resource. Let's begin....
1. According to John 1:1
a). How long has the Word of God been in existence?
b). Where was the Word of God?
c). Who is the word of God?
2. Read John 1:14 What does in this verse say happened to the Word of God?
a).
b).
c). According to John 1:14, who is the Word that became human and lived among us?
3. What does Hebrews 4:12 tell us about the Word of God?
a).
b).
c).
4. Read Hebrews 1:3. Answer the following questions:
a). What kind of Word is God's Word?
b). How powerful is His Word?
5. Read Gensis 1:3-24. How was the world and all that God created made?
6. In Isaiah 55:11 What does that verse say about the Word of God?
a). It will not what?
b). Instead, what will it do?
7. Jeremiah 1:12 says that God is:
a). Doing what?
b). How is He watching over His Word to perform it?
8. 2 Timothy 3:16 says that all of God's Word is _______________________________by God and profitable for:
a).
b).
c).
d).
e).
9. For what purpose is God's Word profitable? 2nd Timothy 3:17 says so that the man of God may be:
a).
b).
c).
d).
10. Read Proverbs 4 20-22.
a). Vs. 20. What three things are we to do regarding the Word of God?
1.
2.
3.
b). Vs. 21. What should we do with the Word of God?
c). What should we not do with the Word of God?
d). Vs 22. What is the Word of God to our flesh?
1.
2.
11. According to Psalm 119:105, of what benefit is the Word of God for direction in our life?
a).
b).
Prayer: Father, Thank You for sending Jesus, Your Word, to live among people. I know Your Word is still alive, active and powerful. The same power that created the heavens and the earth and everything in it is still causing it all to function properly. This is the wonderful Word I am learning about. A Powerful Word. I know that your Word will do what it is sent out to do and it will not return void. Thank you that You are watching intently over your Word to perform it and that the written word I see in my Bible is all inspired by You, profitable for every area of my life. I see that your Word is meant to be life to me and health to all my flesh. Thank you for giving me Your Word to show me how to live my life. Please give me wisdom and understanding concerning spiritual things. AMEN.
This Bible Study is taken from:
"Bible Studies On The Path Of Victory". Copyright 2002 by Cindee L. Krieger.
All rights Reserved.
Printed in the United States of America
Library of Congress Control Number: 2003096416
First Edition September 2003
No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher. Request for permission or additional copies of this resource should be addressed in writing to:
Truth Proclaimed Publishing
414 Elmwood Ave S
Fargo, ND 58103
2 Timothy 2:15 to:
Work hard (Study, give diligence) so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
Joshua 1:8 tells us:
This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite (speak, talk, study, muse, utter) it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do.
James 1:25
Darby Translation
But he that fixes his view on [the] perfect law, that of liberty, and abides in [it], being not a forgetful hearer but a doer of [the] work, he shall be blessed in his doing.
God's Word Translation
However, the person who continues to study God's perfect teachings that make people free and who remains committed to them will be blessed. People like that don't merely listen and forget; they actually do what God's teachings say.
Weymouth Translation
But he who looks closely into the perfect Law--the Law of freedom--and continues looking, he, being not a hearer who forgets, but an obedient doer, will as the result of his obedience be blessed.
Today, I am presenting you a Bible Study for you to do. This is the first study that God taught me. It was the beginning of many powerful lessons and positive changes in my life. You might say, "I already know all of this". Well, until every Word impacts the way you think and behave, you really Do Not KNOW it.
Please take the time, to be a diligent workman that pleases God and study God's Word.
Many people have differing opinions about what the Word of God is. We want to search the Word of God itself to see what God says his Word is. We will learn how He responds to His Word. We will discover how we should respond to it and how it impacts our life. This Bible Study uses the Amplified Bible as the resource. Let's begin....
1. According to John 1:1
a). How long has the Word of God been in existence?
b). Where was the Word of God?
c). Who is the word of God?
2. Read John 1:14 What does in this verse say happened to the Word of God?
a).
b).
c). According to John 1:14, who is the Word that became human and lived among us?
3. What does Hebrews 4:12 tell us about the Word of God?
a).
b).
c).
4. Read Hebrews 1:3. Answer the following questions:
a). What kind of Word is God's Word?
b). How powerful is His Word?
5. Read Gensis 1:3-24. How was the world and all that God created made?
6. In Isaiah 55:11 What does that verse say about the Word of God?
a). It will not what?
b). Instead, what will it do?
7. Jeremiah 1:12 says that God is:
a). Doing what?
b). How is He watching over His Word to perform it?
8. 2 Timothy 3:16 says that all of God's Word is _______________________________by God and profitable for:
a).
b).
c).
d).
e).
9. For what purpose is God's Word profitable? 2nd Timothy 3:17 says so that the man of God may be:
a).
b).
c).
d).
10. Read Proverbs 4 20-22.
a). Vs. 20. What three things are we to do regarding the Word of God?
1.
2.
3.
b). Vs. 21. What should we do with the Word of God?
c). What should we not do with the Word of God?
d). Vs 22. What is the Word of God to our flesh?
1.
2.
11. According to Psalm 119:105, of what benefit is the Word of God for direction in our life?
a).
b).
Prayer: Father, Thank You for sending Jesus, Your Word, to live among people. I know Your Word is still alive, active and powerful. The same power that created the heavens and the earth and everything in it is still causing it all to function properly. This is the wonderful Word I am learning about. A Powerful Word. I know that your Word will do what it is sent out to do and it will not return void. Thank you that You are watching intently over your Word to perform it and that the written word I see in my Bible is all inspired by You, profitable for every area of my life. I see that your Word is meant to be life to me and health to all my flesh. Thank you for giving me Your Word to show me how to live my life. Please give me wisdom and understanding concerning spiritual things. AMEN.
This Bible Study is taken from:
"Bible Studies On The Path Of Victory". Copyright 2002 by Cindee L. Krieger.
All rights Reserved.
Printed in the United States of America
Library of Congress Control Number: 2003096416
First Edition September 2003
No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher. Request for permission or additional copies of this resource should be addressed in writing to:
Truth Proclaimed Publishing
414 Elmwood Ave S
Fargo, ND 58103
Friday, April 17, 2020
Never underestimate
I never used to understand the value of God's Word. I thought having "devotions" was my Christian duty. I felt obligated to "spend time with God". Honestly, doing so was a law to me from which I found no value or benefit.
Now, don't sharply inhale - so as to say something judgmental....because in all these years, having listened to many people, I am not the only one who has had that view. Even if their attitude wasn't quite as uninterested and "law-like" as mine was, many people freely admit that they don't spend time with God as they "should"....you know, life is soooooo busy...
I have told you several times when my attitude changed....when you get miserable enough, lots of stuff gets re-evaluated. I don't wish that anyone would be as stubborn and miserable as I was before they realize the extreme value, actually the "necessity" of the Word of God in our lives.
When I finally really wanted God's help and was willing to give up my own ways and humbled myself before God and asked Him to teach me, suddenly His Word made sense to me and spoke to me clearly.... learning from God and following His instructions has made ALL the difference in my life for the better in every aspect of my life.
There is a lie that is prevalent, but so subtle that many haven't realized it. That lie has to do with thinking God will take care of it all for me. We pray and things don't change, many blame God or make up their own doctrines to comfort themselves....when actually the truth is that God isn't the one who is responsible and He should not be blamed. The fault lies with us.
God has given us His Word. His Word is His wisdom, His counsel, His instruction to us regarding how to live life successfully. It is full of principles that, if followed, will turn our lives around for the good. How can God be blamed if He tells us, Isaiah 30:21 "This is the way to walk, walk in it" and we don't go His way.
Read these scriptures and ponder them, all the while asking God to capture your attention and speak to your heart.:
Proverbs 8:6
Brenton Septuagint Translation
Leave folly, that ye may reign for ever; and seek wisdom, and improve understanding by knowledge.
Aramaic Bible in Plain English
“Put off from you the deficiency of your mind, and live, and agree with the way of uprightness.”
New King James Version
Forsake foolishness and live, And go in the way of understanding.
Jeremiah 6:16
Thus says the LORD: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’
Psalm 86:11
Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you.
Psalm 119:1
Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD.
Isaiah 65:2
"I have spread out My hands all day long to a rebellious people, Who walk in the way which is not good, following their own thoughts,
Jeremiah 4:22
“My people are foolish and do not know me,” says the LORD. “They are stupid children who have no understanding. They are clever enough at doing wrong, but they have no idea how to do right!”
Proverbs 8:33
Listen to my instruction and be wise. Don’t ignore it.
Proverbs 3:1-18 Amplified Bible
My son, do not forget my teaching,
But let your heart keep my commandments;
For length of days and years of life [worth living] And tranquility and prosperity [the wholeness of life’s blessings] they will add to you.
Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you]; Bind them [securely] around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart.
So find favor and high esteem
In the sight of God and man.
Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord [with reverent awe and obedience] and turn [entirely] away from evil.
It will be health to your body [your marrow, your nerves, your sinews, your muscles—all your inner parts] And refreshment (physical well-being) to your bones.
Honor the Lord with your wealth
And with the first fruits of all your crops (income);
Then your barns will be abundantly filled
And your vats will overflow with new wine.
My son, do not reject or take lightly the discipline of the Lord [learn from your mistakes and the testing that comes from His correction through discipline];
Nor despise His rebuke,
For those whom the Lord loves He corrects, Even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.
Happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is the man who finds [skillful and godly] wisdom, And the man who gains understanding and insight [learning from God’s word and life’s experiences],
For wisdom’s profit is better than the profit of silver, And her gain is better than fine gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
And nothing you can wish for compares with her [in value].
Long life is in her right hand;
In her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are highways of pleasantness and favor, MAnd all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is everyone who holds her tightly.
Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
I am encouraging you to press into spending time to study, learn and put into practice God's instructions more than ever before.
Never Underestimate the Value of God's Word!
Now, don't sharply inhale - so as to say something judgmental....because in all these years, having listened to many people, I am not the only one who has had that view. Even if their attitude wasn't quite as uninterested and "law-like" as mine was, many people freely admit that they don't spend time with God as they "should"....you know, life is soooooo busy...
I have told you several times when my attitude changed....when you get miserable enough, lots of stuff gets re-evaluated. I don't wish that anyone would be as stubborn and miserable as I was before they realize the extreme value, actually the "necessity" of the Word of God in our lives.
When I finally really wanted God's help and was willing to give up my own ways and humbled myself before God and asked Him to teach me, suddenly His Word made sense to me and spoke to me clearly.... learning from God and following His instructions has made ALL the difference in my life for the better in every aspect of my life.
There is a lie that is prevalent, but so subtle that many haven't realized it. That lie has to do with thinking God will take care of it all for me. We pray and things don't change, many blame God or make up their own doctrines to comfort themselves....when actually the truth is that God isn't the one who is responsible and He should not be blamed. The fault lies with us.
God has given us His Word. His Word is His wisdom, His counsel, His instruction to us regarding how to live life successfully. It is full of principles that, if followed, will turn our lives around for the good. How can God be blamed if He tells us, Isaiah 30:21 "This is the way to walk, walk in it" and we don't go His way.
Read these scriptures and ponder them, all the while asking God to capture your attention and speak to your heart.:
Proverbs 8:6
Brenton Septuagint Translation
Leave folly, that ye may reign for ever; and seek wisdom, and improve understanding by knowledge.
Aramaic Bible in Plain English
“Put off from you the deficiency of your mind, and live, and agree with the way of uprightness.”
New King James Version
Forsake foolishness and live, And go in the way of understanding.
Jeremiah 6:16
Thus says the LORD: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’
Psalm 86:11
Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you.
Psalm 119:1
Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD.
Isaiah 65:2
"I have spread out My hands all day long to a rebellious people, Who walk in the way which is not good, following their own thoughts,
Jeremiah 4:22
“My people are foolish and do not know me,” says the LORD. “They are stupid children who have no understanding. They are clever enough at doing wrong, but they have no idea how to do right!”
Proverbs 8:33
Listen to my instruction and be wise. Don’t ignore it.
Proverbs 3:1-18 Amplified Bible
My son, do not forget my teaching,
But let your heart keep my commandments;
For length of days and years of life [worth living] And tranquility and prosperity [the wholeness of life’s blessings] they will add to you.
Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you]; Bind them [securely] around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart.
So find favor and high esteem
In the sight of God and man.
Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord [with reverent awe and obedience] and turn [entirely] away from evil.
It will be health to your body [your marrow, your nerves, your sinews, your muscles—all your inner parts] And refreshment (physical well-being) to your bones.
Honor the Lord with your wealth
And with the first fruits of all your crops (income);
Then your barns will be abundantly filled
And your vats will overflow with new wine.
My son, do not reject or take lightly the discipline of the Lord [learn from your mistakes and the testing that comes from His correction through discipline];
Nor despise His rebuke,
For those whom the Lord loves He corrects, Even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.
Happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is the man who finds [skillful and godly] wisdom, And the man who gains understanding and insight [learning from God’s word and life’s experiences],
For wisdom’s profit is better than the profit of silver, And her gain is better than fine gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
And nothing you can wish for compares with her [in value].
Long life is in her right hand;
In her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are highways of pleasantness and favor, MAnd all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is everyone who holds her tightly.
Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
I am encouraging you to press into spending time to study, learn and put into practice God's instructions more than ever before.
Never Underestimate the Value of God's Word!
Thursday, April 16, 2020
What ARE you Looking at?
What I have to share today won't be a professors dissertation, by any means, just thoughts that I have had regarding the different focuses people had in the Bible and the effect the different perspectives had on their lives. I ask you to read the portions of scripture that relate to my thoughts and ponder "How is what I am looking at affecting my life?"
When I say "looking", I do not mean glance or simply be aware of....I mean, what is my perspective, my view, what are my thoughts fixed or focused on, what is captivating my attention? What thoughts are consuming me?
Know this: What I am looking at affects my thoughts. What I am thinking about affects my response. How I respond affects my reality.
Matthew 14:24-33.
As long at Peter's attention was fixed on Jesus, Peter walked on the water. As soon as his attention was distracted and he began to look at the natural situation, i.e., wind and waves, he began to sink. Take note: the strong wind and heavy waves were already an issue before Jesus came walking toward them on the water, yet Peter walked on the water in the same weather condition as when he started sinking. What made the difference between walking on the water and sinking???
Mark 5:25-34
There was a woman who had been bleeding for 12 years. She had endured much by the hands of many physicians She had spent all her money to pay them. She had not gotten better, but only grew worse. She heard about Jesus. Her focus turned and she kept saying, if only I can touch the hem of His garment, I shall be cured, healed, made well, be whole.....she did and she was.....healed. What did Jesus say to her? What made the difference between 12 years of misery and being healed? Take note: Jesus knew nothing of this woman until He felt power go out from Him. What things had this woman done? Where is your focus? What are you saying? What is your expectation set on?
Luke 8:12-17
This story is regarding feeding the 5000 with 5 loaves of bread and two fish. The disciples attention was fixed on the fact that they physically only had five loaves and 2 fish, naturally speaking, that in itself would not even come close to feeding 5000 people. What happened after the disciples gave Jesus the bread and fish. What did Jesus do? What was the outcome? What was the difference between the disciples response and Jesus' response? Take note: Jesus was operating as a man while He was on this earth. He had laid down His divinity. Do you look at things only from the natural viewpoint or are you looking at your situation from the supernatural view of God's Word?
Genesis Chapters 17, 18 & 21; Hebrews 11:11-12; Romans 4:15-22
What about Abraham and Sarah? God promised them to have a son. God called Abraham "The Father of Many Nations". Their age and the natural impossibility of the promise God gave them to come true, did not make it impossible. What made the difference? Isaac was born to two elderly people to whom, naturally it was impossible. What was the change of view Abraham had? What looks impossible to you? How can you change your perspective? What do you need to think and consequently say to agree with God, to cooperate with Him and see the impossible made possible?
1 Samuel Chapter 17
Goliath defies Saul's army. Saul's army sees the size of Goliath, they hear his taunting words and they run away in fear.
David comes along, takes sass from his oldest brother. David sees Goliath and hears his sneering and degrading comments that were directed right at David. In spite of all that, David takes Goliath down with a slingshot and a good shot implanting a rock into Goliath's forehead. David finalizes the whole issue by chopping off Goliath's head with Goliath's own sword. 1 Samuel 17:41-50.
What was the perspective that David had compared to that of the entire Israeli army? What did David say? What attitude did David have toward Goliath? In whom was David's confidence established? What was David really looking at?
I could go on and on and on.....I think you have the idea. What we are "looking" at, our perspective, our focus, not the circumstances, not the "crisis", not the voice of the Goliath, nor the voice of our symptoms, but rather WHAT we are "Looking" at, you could say, what it is that has our attention, and consequently what words we are speaking, determines our outcome, our success or our failure, our victory or our defeat, our healing or our misery. The ultimate question is: what is your response to the circumstances that you are experiencing? How you look at your situation is directly affecting your thoughts and your words and finally the end result.
It is not God who is totally responsible for our outcome, contrary to public belief. For God has already provided us all things pertaining to Life and Godliness. He has already defeated the enemy, He has already sent His Word and healed us. He has already made us more than conquerors. Don't be deceived. Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father after declaring "It is Finished" = finish, fulfill, accomplish, I pay, to end, i.e. Complete, execute, conclude, discharge.
Jesus did all that was needed to be done on His part. Believe that what He did completely accomplished all that was needed. Take Him at His Word. Fix your attention on Him...He IS the Word of God.. Take your thoughts captive and make them agree with God. Speak in agreement with Him. Are you really going to argue with God?
Ponder this scripture:
Colossians 2:15
In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.
Since the old testament believers examples so clearly show the effect of what they "looked" upon and consequently, what they spoke....think about this scripture in relation to that thought....
Hebrews 8:6
But now Jesus, our High Priest, has been given a ministry that is far superior to the old priesthood, for he is the one who mediates for us a far better covenant with God, based on better promises.
He has made a way for us. The difference is our response. Think about it... Jesus died so that all men might be saved. Why are all men not saved? Is Jesus preventing them from obtaining what He has provided or is it because, as of yet, their perspective, their view, what they are looking at, is focused elsewhere. Their thoughts and words have not yet come into agreement with God and His Word.
This is the same problem people have had since the beginning. Look at the effect "looking" had on Adam and Eve. Was "Looking" the beginning of their fall? What about Daniel? Shadrach, Meschach and Abendnego? They focused clearly on what was not seen. Be very certain that the firey furnace was a noticeable distraction. What did THEY "Look" at?
What about Joseph and David over and over and over again? What about Paul in jail and all the things that came against him? What about Stephen? What were they focusing on I n n the midst of disagreeable situations?
What about Joshua and Caleb compared to the entirety of the other Israelities at the Promised Land? How did their differences of views or how they looked at the situation pan out? Whose report did Joshua and Caleb respond to? What did the Israelites report? What inspired the report of the Israelites? Who was God's promise to? Just Caleb and Joshua???? Do you think the different outcomes were because 'that's just the way the ball bounces" or a direct result of how they looked at the situation, responded to it and spoke about it?
It is very clear to me that what and how I look at my situation.....what I focus on, what my perspective is regarding my circumstances and how I talk about it, directly determines my outcome.
Colossians 3:1-3
Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds (direct your thoughts to; properly, regulate (moderate) from within, as inner-perspective (insight) shows itself in corresponding, outward behavior)
on things above, not on things on this earth. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.…
Matthew 12:34
GOD'S WORD® Translation
You poisonous snakes! How can you evil people say anything good? Your mouth says what comes from inside you.
New American Standard 1977
“You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good? For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.
Be certain that.....Proverbs 18:21
death and life are in the power of your tongue and they that love it shall eat the fruit of it. Do you want to eat what you are speaking. Take God's Word seriously, please!
What ARE you Looking at????
When I say "looking", I do not mean glance or simply be aware of....I mean, what is my perspective, my view, what are my thoughts fixed or focused on, what is captivating my attention? What thoughts are consuming me?
Know this: What I am looking at affects my thoughts. What I am thinking about affects my response. How I respond affects my reality.
Matthew 14:24-33.
As long at Peter's attention was fixed on Jesus, Peter walked on the water. As soon as his attention was distracted and he began to look at the natural situation, i.e., wind and waves, he began to sink. Take note: the strong wind and heavy waves were already an issue before Jesus came walking toward them on the water, yet Peter walked on the water in the same weather condition as when he started sinking. What made the difference between walking on the water and sinking???
Mark 5:25-34
There was a woman who had been bleeding for 12 years. She had endured much by the hands of many physicians She had spent all her money to pay them. She had not gotten better, but only grew worse. She heard about Jesus. Her focus turned and she kept saying, if only I can touch the hem of His garment, I shall be cured, healed, made well, be whole.....she did and she was.....healed. What did Jesus say to her? What made the difference between 12 years of misery and being healed? Take note: Jesus knew nothing of this woman until He felt power go out from Him. What things had this woman done? Where is your focus? What are you saying? What is your expectation set on?
Luke 8:12-17
This story is regarding feeding the 5000 with 5 loaves of bread and two fish. The disciples attention was fixed on the fact that they physically only had five loaves and 2 fish, naturally speaking, that in itself would not even come close to feeding 5000 people. What happened after the disciples gave Jesus the bread and fish. What did Jesus do? What was the outcome? What was the difference between the disciples response and Jesus' response? Take note: Jesus was operating as a man while He was on this earth. He had laid down His divinity. Do you look at things only from the natural viewpoint or are you looking at your situation from the supernatural view of God's Word?
Genesis Chapters 17, 18 & 21; Hebrews 11:11-12; Romans 4:15-22
What about Abraham and Sarah? God promised them to have a son. God called Abraham "The Father of Many Nations". Their age and the natural impossibility of the promise God gave them to come true, did not make it impossible. What made the difference? Isaac was born to two elderly people to whom, naturally it was impossible. What was the change of view Abraham had? What looks impossible to you? How can you change your perspective? What do you need to think and consequently say to agree with God, to cooperate with Him and see the impossible made possible?
1 Samuel Chapter 17
Goliath defies Saul's army. Saul's army sees the size of Goliath, they hear his taunting words and they run away in fear.
David comes along, takes sass from his oldest brother. David sees Goliath and hears his sneering and degrading comments that were directed right at David. In spite of all that, David takes Goliath down with a slingshot and a good shot implanting a rock into Goliath's forehead. David finalizes the whole issue by chopping off Goliath's head with Goliath's own sword. 1 Samuel 17:41-50.
What was the perspective that David had compared to that of the entire Israeli army? What did David say? What attitude did David have toward Goliath? In whom was David's confidence established? What was David really looking at?
I could go on and on and on.....I think you have the idea. What we are "looking" at, our perspective, our focus, not the circumstances, not the "crisis", not the voice of the Goliath, nor the voice of our symptoms, but rather WHAT we are "Looking" at, you could say, what it is that has our attention, and consequently what words we are speaking, determines our outcome, our success or our failure, our victory or our defeat, our healing or our misery. The ultimate question is: what is your response to the circumstances that you are experiencing? How you look at your situation is directly affecting your thoughts and your words and finally the end result.
It is not God who is totally responsible for our outcome, contrary to public belief. For God has already provided us all things pertaining to Life and Godliness. He has already defeated the enemy, He has already sent His Word and healed us. He has already made us more than conquerors. Don't be deceived. Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father after declaring "It is Finished" = finish, fulfill, accomplish, I pay, to end, i.e. Complete, execute, conclude, discharge.
Jesus did all that was needed to be done on His part. Believe that what He did completely accomplished all that was needed. Take Him at His Word. Fix your attention on Him...He IS the Word of God.. Take your thoughts captive and make them agree with God. Speak in agreement with Him. Are you really going to argue with God?
Ponder this scripture:
Colossians 2:15
In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.
Since the old testament believers examples so clearly show the effect of what they "looked" upon and consequently, what they spoke....think about this scripture in relation to that thought....
Hebrews 8:6
But now Jesus, our High Priest, has been given a ministry that is far superior to the old priesthood, for he is the one who mediates for us a far better covenant with God, based on better promises.
He has made a way for us. The difference is our response. Think about it... Jesus died so that all men might be saved. Why are all men not saved? Is Jesus preventing them from obtaining what He has provided or is it because, as of yet, their perspective, their view, what they are looking at, is focused elsewhere. Their thoughts and words have not yet come into agreement with God and His Word.
This is the same problem people have had since the beginning. Look at the effect "looking" had on Adam and Eve. Was "Looking" the beginning of their fall? What about Daniel? Shadrach, Meschach and Abendnego? They focused clearly on what was not seen. Be very certain that the firey furnace was a noticeable distraction. What did THEY "Look" at?
What about Joseph and David over and over and over again? What about Paul in jail and all the things that came against him? What about Stephen? What were they focusing on I n n the midst of disagreeable situations?
What about Joshua and Caleb compared to the entirety of the other Israelities at the Promised Land? How did their differences of views or how they looked at the situation pan out? Whose report did Joshua and Caleb respond to? What did the Israelites report? What inspired the report of the Israelites? Who was God's promise to? Just Caleb and Joshua???? Do you think the different outcomes were because 'that's just the way the ball bounces" or a direct result of how they looked at the situation, responded to it and spoke about it?
It is very clear to me that what and how I look at my situation.....what I focus on, what my perspective is regarding my circumstances and how I talk about it, directly determines my outcome.
Colossians 3:1-3
Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds (direct your thoughts to; properly, regulate (moderate) from within, as inner-perspective (insight) shows itself in corresponding, outward behavior)
on things above, not on things on this earth. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.…
Matthew 12:34
GOD'S WORD® Translation
You poisonous snakes! How can you evil people say anything good? Your mouth says what comes from inside you.
New American Standard 1977
“You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good? For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.
Be certain that.....Proverbs 18:21
death and life are in the power of your tongue and they that love it shall eat the fruit of it. Do you want to eat what you are speaking. Take God's Word seriously, please!
What ARE you Looking at????
Monday, April 13, 2020
The Lord is my Shepherd
I have been pondering the verses in Psalm chapter 23 most of the day. I know this is a well known portion of scripture, but still, I want to bring our attention to this Psalm and take notice of how complete and loving the care of our Shepherd is toward us.
Please read:
The LORD is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the LORD
forever.
I realize that it can be easy to read something, but not really ponder what is written to let the thoughts soak in and make an impact in our life. So, ponder these words with me....
#1
The Lord is my Shepherd....
He is our Shepherd....a Shepherd's primary responsibilities are knowing, feeding, leading and protecting his flock.
The Lord is my Shepherd....
He is our Shepherd....a Shepherd's primary responsibilities are knowing, feeding, leading and protecting his flock.
#2
God sees to it that we have all we need. Remember the New Testament...
God sees to it that we have all we need. Remember the New Testament...
1 Timothy 6:17 ..... Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.
Philippians 4:19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Matthew 6:33 But make His Kingdom and righteousness your chief aim, and then these things shall all be given you in addition.
Roman's 8:32 Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else?
Matthew 21:22 And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
#3
He lets me rest = recline, to stretch out. One could not do that if they were fearful or anxious. The Shepherd is obviously taking care of his flock completely. We are His flock. No need to worry. Just rest in His care.
He lets me rest = recline, to stretch out. One could not do that if they were fearful or anxious. The Shepherd is obviously taking care of his flock completely. We are His flock. No need to worry. Just rest in His care.
#4
"In green meadows" gives me the image of lush, plenty of food, enjoyable and relaxing. Much different than a desert with a few sparse weeds.
"In green meadows" gives me the image of lush, plenty of food, enjoyable and relaxing. Much different than a desert with a few sparse weeds.
#5
He leads me beside peaceful streams. Peaceful, not rushing waters or flooded rivers. Easy to get a drink with no fear of being washed away.
He leads me beside peaceful streams. Peaceful, not rushing waters or flooded rivers. Easy to get a drink with no fear of being washed away.
#6
He renews my strength/soul=restores me, revival from death, return to a course of life. He revives me and reinvigorates me when I am exhausted and weary.
He renews my strength/soul=restores me, revival from death, return to a course of life. He revives me and reinvigorates me when I am exhausted and weary.
#7
He guides me along right paths. Paths of pleasantness. We have God directing us in the best way to go!
He guides me along right paths. Paths of pleasantness. We have God directing us in the best way to go!
#8
Bringing Honor to His Name--God's providential dealings are recognized in accordance with His character for great graciousness. To magnify His Name as a gracious and merciful God.
Bringing Honor to His Name--God's providential dealings are recognized in accordance with His character for great graciousness. To magnify His Name as a gracious and merciful God.
#9
Even when I walk through the darkest valley....there will be dark and difficult times, but I will walk THROUGH them. I will come out on the other side!!!
Even when I walk through the darkest valley....there will be dark and difficult times, but I will walk THROUGH them. I will come out on the other side!!!
#10
I will not be afraid. Things could be fear instigators. But I WILL not be afraid. Why?
I will not be afraid. Things could be fear instigators. But I WILL not be afraid. Why?
#11
for my Shepherd, (God Himself) is close beside me. He is right there, right where I am, for whatever I need!
for my Shepherd, (God Himself) is close beside me. He is right there, right where I am, for whatever I need!
#12
Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. He protects me and pulls me out of any predicament or trouble. He is my rescuer.
Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. He protects me and pulls me out of any predicament or trouble. He is my rescuer.
#13
You prepare a feast for me. Not just a little dab to tide me over. He prepares a feast!!!
You prepare a feast for me. Not just a little dab to tide me over. He prepares a feast!!!
#14
in the presence of my enemies. Ha! I can sit down and enjoy a feast and the enemy can only stand by and watch. No harm will come near me!
in the presence of my enemies. Ha! I can sit down and enjoy a feast and the enemy can only stand by and watch. No harm will come near me!
#15
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
“You anointed my head with oil” Psalm 23:5b - Hope for Israel
https://hope4israel.org/anointed-head-oil-psalm-235b/
https://hope4israel.org/anointed-head-oil-psalm-235b/
#16
My cup overflows with blessings.
Overflows, not just a drip in the bottom. Overflowing!!! With Blessing, Not Curses! Good Not Bad! Desirable and Pleasant!
My cup overflows with blessings.
Overflows, not just a drip in the bottom. Overflowing!!! With Blessing, Not Curses! Good Not Bad! Desirable and Pleasant!
#17
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life.
Goodness of God.....how much better can that be? Unfailing Love! His Love never fails! It chases me down ALL the days of my life. How about That!!!
#18
I will live in the house of the LORD
forever. What a guarantee!
I will live in the house of the LORD
forever. What a guarantee!
So, meditate on the depths of what is written. Our God IS an Awesome God and we are in His Care!
Friday, April 10, 2020
To Trust or Not to Trust....God
To trust or not to trust God....that is the question. Why should that be a question? Why should there be any question at all to whether we would dare to trust God or not trust God. Isn't it obvious that we are Christians? Don't Christian's Trust God? Well, Do They?
Proverbs 16:20 says, "He who heeds the word finds prosperity, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD."
Jeremiah 17:7 tells us, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him."
It would seem that "Christian" automatically infers Trust. Specifically, Trust in God. Well, of course, to even become a Child of God, you must first Trust that it is true that Jesus Is the Son of God and that God raised Him from the dead and proclaim your belief by declaring "Jesus is my Lord". You receive Him and you believe in who He is. That trust and response makes you a child of God. But, that is only the birthing process. Trust in God must continue and grow from there and impact every area of our lives.
The question remains, "why do we "Christians" truly not continue to grow as we should regarding Trusting God?" Well, I can see that there are 2 main reasons, probably 3, most likely more....let's start.
1. Because I didn't! Learning to trust God was a major issue in my life.
Well, you say, "maybe you didn't, but that doesn't mean I don't!" Ok, maybe that is true, but let's evaluate this issue further. Tell me what percentage of the Israelites in the Wilderness actually trusted God??? Hmmmm...2 out of ....... millions.... I'd say that not trusting God was a major problem. How many disciples left Jesus because they didn't trust what Jesus said? It is obvious that the same "Trust" problem exists today.
2. Because what we DO gives our trust level in God away. Think about that! We refuse to follow God's instructions. Why? Give and it shall be given unto you, pressed down, shaken together and running all over the place. So, why don't people give? Because they don't trust God to do His part of the deal.
What about "cast your cares on God for He cares for us. Why don't we quickly and regularly cast our cares on Him, or why do we cast them and then reel them right back in to us again? Do we really trust His care for us?
What about Jesus bore my sicknesses and carried my diseases and by His stripes we were healed? Why do Christians have such difficulty trusting that Jesus really did bear our sicknesses and carried our diseases and by His stripes we really were healed? Why do people react in fear and respond more to a negative medical report than they do to God's Word? Because we have more confidence in the natural report, previous experiences and current symptoms than we do in God's Word, the power of God's Word and our belief in it to change the situation. We really, honestly, don't trust what God's Word says. Our fear is obvious and our faith is misplaced.
Do you remember why Jesus could do no mighty work in His own hometown? Why? I am glad you asked! The answer is: because They Would Not Believe! In other words - They refused to Trust in Jesus. Their experience told them, "He is just a carpenter's son." So, they allowed their experience and their unbelief to speak louder than the truth. People do it all the time now still, not realizing that they are shutting the door on what God wants to do in their lives. Remember, Jesus went about teaching, preaching and healing every kind of disease and illness. Remember this: Jesus did only what he saw His Father do. Hmmmmmmm.
3. Because what you say really identifies where you stand regarding trusting God. What is in your heart comes out of your mouth. Your words make it very obvious what you really believe.
4. Because your level of knowledge of God's Word reveals your capability to trust God. Faith or Trust in God, in His Word only comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
Yes! I REALLY am being hard on us today. This is for a very good reason...it is so far past time that we stop playing Christianity and saying we believe in God but not truly believing what He says.
If I really believe what God says, I would act on it!!! To question if I dare to Trust God only reveals my level of carnality, spiritual immaturity and lack of true knowledge of God, for if I truly KNEW Him, I would certainly Trust Him!
So, how do I fix my lack of Trust in God?
1. Recognize that I really don't trust God as I should. Perhaps in one area of my life I do, but in other areas of my life, I really do not.
2. Repent! Father, I admit I am not trusting You. Forgive me. I have been believing and responding to experiences, other reports, circumstances, fear... even lies of the enemy more than I have been trusting, relying on and depending on You and what You say. Father, help me to put my trust completely in You. Help me to take You at Your Word. You alone have the Words of Life.
3. Study and meditate on God's Word. Be a workman who won't be ashamed because you really do know what God's Word teaches. Get to really KNOW God. The more you know the Word of God, the more you will know God. They are One.
Psalm 1:2-3 But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
4. Live, behave and speak in accordance with the Word of God. Trusting in God is the 1st and only way a Child of God should behave. Read God's Word. Really, Really Think about what God is saying. Take action to obey the instructions you find as you spend time with God and be a doer of what you hear. When you hear it and do not do what you hear you are reasoning contrary to the truth. God will give you the grace to follow His ways, if you desire to do so.
This is not a message of condemnation! This is a message to capture our attention and jack us up. We are lights in a dark place, but it is obvious by the level of light, life, power and success in the lives of Christian's as a whole, that something is not right in our lives. It is also obvious that what I have spoken about today are some of the issues that need to be addressed and changed. We are the ones that need to respond. Let's BE disciples and make disciples.
What are disciples?
John 8:31-32
“You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Disciple = The "mental effort needed to think something through") – properly, a learner; a disciple, a follower of Christ who learns the doctrines of Scripture and the lifestyle they require; someone catechized with proper instruction from the Bible with its necessary follow-through (life-applications).
Remain faithful = You remain and continue. You last and endure in God's Word.
You are not moved by things that distract from and even oppose the truth. You keep stickin' to the Truth no matter what.
Know = then you will come to know through personal experience, the Truth and the Truth that you know will set you free.
The world will be drawn to the LIFE they see in us. If we look, behave, and speak like them and our lives are not different than theirs, what really do we have that would draw them to Jesus?
Read these scriptures again:
Proverbs 16:20 says, "He who heeds the word finds prosperity, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD."
Jeremiah 17:7 tells us, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him."
Prosperity = success, pleasant, agreeable, good, welfare, bountiful, prosperity
Blessed= happy, happiness
Trusting God most definitely is a choice, it is a decision. We must deny ourselves, humble ourselves and submit to God.
This is not Law or rules that attempt to put us in bondage This is wisdom, instructions from God on how to live life and life more abundantly that He came to give us. By placing our trust truly and firmly in God and remaining faithful to Him (His Word) regardless of the waves around us, we will find our lives are full of benefits beyond what we can imagine. The goodness of God will be evident to all and best of all, we will be living the life of faith in God that brings Him great pleasure.
Proverbs 16:20 says, "He who heeds the word finds prosperity, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD."
Jeremiah 17:7 tells us, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him."
It would seem that "Christian" automatically infers Trust. Specifically, Trust in God. Well, of course, to even become a Child of God, you must first Trust that it is true that Jesus Is the Son of God and that God raised Him from the dead and proclaim your belief by declaring "Jesus is my Lord". You receive Him and you believe in who He is. That trust and response makes you a child of God. But, that is only the birthing process. Trust in God must continue and grow from there and impact every area of our lives.
The question remains, "why do we "Christians" truly not continue to grow as we should regarding Trusting God?" Well, I can see that there are 2 main reasons, probably 3, most likely more....let's start.
1. Because I didn't! Learning to trust God was a major issue in my life.
Well, you say, "maybe you didn't, but that doesn't mean I don't!" Ok, maybe that is true, but let's evaluate this issue further. Tell me what percentage of the Israelites in the Wilderness actually trusted God??? Hmmmm...2 out of ....... millions.... I'd say that not trusting God was a major problem. How many disciples left Jesus because they didn't trust what Jesus said? It is obvious that the same "Trust" problem exists today.
2. Because what we DO gives our trust level in God away. Think about that! We refuse to follow God's instructions. Why? Give and it shall be given unto you, pressed down, shaken together and running all over the place. So, why don't people give? Because they don't trust God to do His part of the deal.
What about "cast your cares on God for He cares for us. Why don't we quickly and regularly cast our cares on Him, or why do we cast them and then reel them right back in to us again? Do we really trust His care for us?
What about Jesus bore my sicknesses and carried my diseases and by His stripes we were healed? Why do Christians have such difficulty trusting that Jesus really did bear our sicknesses and carried our diseases and by His stripes we really were healed? Why do people react in fear and respond more to a negative medical report than they do to God's Word? Because we have more confidence in the natural report, previous experiences and current symptoms than we do in God's Word, the power of God's Word and our belief in it to change the situation. We really, honestly, don't trust what God's Word says. Our fear is obvious and our faith is misplaced.
Do you remember why Jesus could do no mighty work in His own hometown? Why? I am glad you asked! The answer is: because They Would Not Believe! In other words - They refused to Trust in Jesus. Their experience told them, "He is just a carpenter's son." So, they allowed their experience and their unbelief to speak louder than the truth. People do it all the time now still, not realizing that they are shutting the door on what God wants to do in their lives. Remember, Jesus went about teaching, preaching and healing every kind of disease and illness. Remember this: Jesus did only what he saw His Father do. Hmmmmmmm.
3. Because what you say really identifies where you stand regarding trusting God. What is in your heart comes out of your mouth. Your words make it very obvious what you really believe.
4. Because your level of knowledge of God's Word reveals your capability to trust God. Faith or Trust in God, in His Word only comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
Yes! I REALLY am being hard on us today. This is for a very good reason...it is so far past time that we stop playing Christianity and saying we believe in God but not truly believing what He says.
If I really believe what God says, I would act on it!!! To question if I dare to Trust God only reveals my level of carnality, spiritual immaturity and lack of true knowledge of God, for if I truly KNEW Him, I would certainly Trust Him!
So, how do I fix my lack of Trust in God?
1. Recognize that I really don't trust God as I should. Perhaps in one area of my life I do, but in other areas of my life, I really do not.
2. Repent! Father, I admit I am not trusting You. Forgive me. I have been believing and responding to experiences, other reports, circumstances, fear... even lies of the enemy more than I have been trusting, relying on and depending on You and what You say. Father, help me to put my trust completely in You. Help me to take You at Your Word. You alone have the Words of Life.
3. Study and meditate on God's Word. Be a workman who won't be ashamed because you really do know what God's Word teaches. Get to really KNOW God. The more you know the Word of God, the more you will know God. They are One.
Psalm 1:2-3 But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
4. Live, behave and speak in accordance with the Word of God. Trusting in God is the 1st and only way a Child of God should behave. Read God's Word. Really, Really Think about what God is saying. Take action to obey the instructions you find as you spend time with God and be a doer of what you hear. When you hear it and do not do what you hear you are reasoning contrary to the truth. God will give you the grace to follow His ways, if you desire to do so.
This is not a message of condemnation! This is a message to capture our attention and jack us up. We are lights in a dark place, but it is obvious by the level of light, life, power and success in the lives of Christian's as a whole, that something is not right in our lives. It is also obvious that what I have spoken about today are some of the issues that need to be addressed and changed. We are the ones that need to respond. Let's BE disciples and make disciples.
What are disciples?
John 8:31-32
“You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Disciple = The "mental effort needed to think something through") – properly, a learner; a disciple, a follower of Christ who learns the doctrines of Scripture and the lifestyle they require; someone catechized with proper instruction from the Bible with its necessary follow-through (life-applications).
Remain faithful = You remain and continue. You last and endure in God's Word.
You are not moved by things that distract from and even oppose the truth. You keep stickin' to the Truth no matter what.
Know = then you will come to know through personal experience, the Truth and the Truth that you know will set you free.
The world will be drawn to the LIFE they see in us. If we look, behave, and speak like them and our lives are not different than theirs, what really do we have that would draw them to Jesus?
Read these scriptures again:
Proverbs 16:20 says, "He who heeds the word finds prosperity, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD."
Jeremiah 17:7 tells us, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him."
Prosperity = success, pleasant, agreeable, good, welfare, bountiful, prosperity
Blessed= happy, happiness
Trusting God most definitely is a choice, it is a decision. We must deny ourselves, humble ourselves and submit to God.
This is not Law or rules that attempt to put us in bondage This is wisdom, instructions from God on how to live life and life more abundantly that He came to give us. By placing our trust truly and firmly in God and remaining faithful to Him (His Word) regardless of the waves around us, we will find our lives are full of benefits beyond what we can imagine. The goodness of God will be evident to all and best of all, we will be living the life of faith in God that brings Him great pleasure.
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
Prayer for Today
Father, I give You my Thanks this morning. I am so grateful to You. You have never left me without help. You have never left me without hope. You have always my ready help. You surround with mercy and your favor surrounds me like a shield! You are my Great, Mighty and Faithful God! There is none more marvelous than You!
Thank You for pouring Your Love out upon me. You alone are my God - I stand at attention to You, Father. I say, You are my Lord! You are my Master! You are my Supreme Authority. I humble myself before You and I say with all sincerity, not my will, but Thine be done in my life. Show me the way that You would have me to go and what You would have me do and say. May I be a tool in your hand for Your use and a vessel for Your glory.
I declare: This life is not about me, it is all about You. Help me to lay down every carnal way and walk in Your ways by Your Spirit! Thank you for giving me the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead. That same Spirit dwells in me and quicken's, energizes, vitalizes and strengthens this physical body. Thank You!
You are my Jehovah Rapha! You are my Great Physician! You sent your Word and You healed me and You delivered me out of every one of all of my troubles! You ARE the Lord that healeth me. Thank You!
You are my Jehovah Nissi, my Deliverer!
You Lord, You are my rock, my protector. You are my fortress. I run to You and I am safe. You protect me like a shield. You ARE my shield I say of You Lord, you are my refuge, you protect me from every trap of the enemy and from every deadly pestilence. Thank You!
You are my Jehovah Nissi, my Deliverer!
You Lord, You are my rock, my protector. You are my fortress. I run to You and I am safe. You protect me like a shield. You ARE my shield I say of You Lord, you are my refuge, you protect me from every trap of the enemy and from every deadly pestilence. Thank You!
You are my Jehovah Tsidkenu, my righteousness. You made me righteous so that I can stand with confidence before you without spot or blemish.
You are my Jehovah Jireh. You are the Lord who sees ahead and provides ahead. Whatever need there is in my life, You will see to it! You tell me that I will lack no good thing, I even have an abundance of all things so I can meet the needs and even the desires of others. You make a way and where there seems to be no way. You are the One that makes the streams in the desert and a way through this valley. I am confident in You. I put my Trust in You.
I am so grateful! Thank You.
I am so grateful! Thank You.
Father help me to be a light in a dark place today. Help me to bring a word of encouragement where there's so much discouragement. Help me respond to whatever happens today in the way that you would want me to respond - in a manner that pleases you and represents your Love, Your mercy and Your grace, not rudely, selfishly or impatiently. Thank you for strengthening me with your power and grace.
Thank you for giving me life and life more abundantly. Thank you for making me More than a conqueror, for giving me the overwhelming victory over whatever comes my way today! You are my more than enough God, nothing is too difficult for You.
Give wise counsel to our President and Vice President. Protect them and their families from every evil. I pray that no harm would even come near them. Surround them with godly counselors and strengthen them for the work You have called them to do. Silence the voices of those who come to deceive and destroy Your will and Your plans and undermine our One Nation under God. Cause their efforts to backfire on them mightily. Make a show of them openly so that all can see their wicked endeavors.
Help me to make a difference in the lives of others today for good and for godliness. Help me to be a voice for You in the Wilderness of their lives to show them the way to go. In Jesus Name. Amen
Monday, April 6, 2020
"Wall of Resistance"
The way I grew up taught me not to trust people or God. I had subconsciously built a "Wall of Resistance" around me, as if to say, "if I don't expect anything or trust anyone, nobody can disappoint me or hurt me."
The "Wall" that I had constructed to protect myself, was actually preventing me from letting people and God into my life, on more than just a superficial level. If you don't let them in, you minimize risk and you don't need to trust them. So, you won't be let down. On the other hand, you won't experience the benefits of a deeper, true relationship, either.
I have spoken previously about when I was very ill, facing a possible divorce with a diagnosis of a miserable life physically and an early death due to an autoimmune disease. It was then that, out of desperation, I had begun to study God's Word and asked for His help to change me and expressed my desire to enjoy my every day life and learn to live in Peace. I was studying the Bible daily, listening to Joyce Meyer daily and learning to obey God. My life, my physical, emotional and mental health and my marriage all were improving. I was building a confidence in who God was and what He said, I was starting to obey Him, yet, I knew there was more.....
By the time I was in my early 40s, I began to realize that I had never really trusted anyone, let alone God. I had trusted my husband only enough to marry him. I had trusted God only enough to become born again and to begin to learn and obey His Word, however, I had not trusted either of them enough to totally yield myself to them, to relinquish control or rather, attempt to control, to relax and be at peace - really trusting their Word, their character or their faithfulness.
One morning, as I sat in my chair in the loft of the home we had built, everything externally was peaceful... it was spring, the birds were happy, the grass was green, the trees were in full bloom and the morning sun was shining in on me. It was my favorite place to be, the best time of the day and the best time of the year, however, internally, I was disrupted. God was posing this question to my heart, "Will you Trust Me?
...... Will you Trust Me?
...... Will you Trust Me?"
...... Will you Trust Me?"
I responded, "How? I don't know how? What will it be like?" I was scared. It was like I was on a high cliff and I had to jump into the water, but I don't know how to swim, I didn't know how deep the water was or if I would hit rocks. Would someone rescue me? Really? It was like being on a zipline and I didn't know if the line was solidly attached and I can't see the end! "Trust, but where would it lead me? Trust, but what will happen? Trust, but will I sink? Will I drown? Trust you, God, but I don't know what that will be like. Do I dare?" I knew God was asking me come further with Him.
Then the thought provoking question came to me from God, "Will you DARE...... to Trust Me?" I was worried that if I didn't choose to Dare to Trust God, that it might be the last time I would have the opportunity. I felt that I had to choose.....TO Trust or NOT to Trust...God. Choose to stay in my own prison walls or choose to dare to Trust God.
I was scared, but I knew that my life had been greatly improving as I had been learning from and obeying God. I had learned that doing things my own way was the way to frustration, at the very least. I was tired of trying to keep my walls up to protect myself from every presumed and assumed problem. It was exhausting and still unpredictable.
So, I said, "Yes. I will Dare to Trust You, but I don't know how!!! You have to teach me!" I sat there and cried and I cried. It was like those internal "Walls of Resistance" were falling down as I sat there. Now tears come down again, as I write.
I wrote about my Miss Daisy experience in a previous post where I had made the commitment that I would trust God at least as much as I had just trusted in a machine! That happened in the same timeframe as what I share today. It's easy to Say, " I will trust You, Lord". It's completely another thing to actually do it!
As the days went on, I began to learn what this scripture meant, "The just shall live by faith." If anyone would have asked me before what it meant to live by faith, I wouldn't have had a clue how to answer. It seemed like it would be like something from a space alien movie.
In previous days, I learned had three foundational things that have changed my life. They are principles that daily guide me even now. I think they are keys to obeying and to trusting God.
#1 God cannot lie! Titus 1:2
It is impossible for God to Lie! Hebrews 6:18
God is not a man that he should lie! Numbers 23:19
#2 The sum of Your Word is Truth. Psalm 119:160
Your Word is Truth John 17:17
Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Proverbs 30:5
For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God in us. 2 Corinthians 1:20
#3 God is Faithful 1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:13
So, this is what I am convinced of: God absolutely cannot lie. His Word is True. So, whatever He says HAS to be so, whether it makes sense or not. Regardless of what the other reports say or what it looks like naturally or what I feel. God cannot lie. His Word is True. I will not call Him a liar! God IS Faithful. He will do what He says. The question is not, "Is God Faithful?" The question is, "Will I remain faithful to God. Will I stick with His Word...no matter what?
When I am convinced that God cannot lie and His Word is True and He will not go back on His Word. My fears are irrational. Trusting Him makes sense, because I am convinced He is Trustworthy, even though I don't see the full picture or have the details. I am convinced He will not fail me.
In the years after that day in my loft, I have learned that Living by Faith in God is a simple matter of choosing. Choosing first to Dare to Trust God.
Secondly, find out what God has to say about the matter at hand. Find at least 3 scriptures that agree to keep from being in error.
Finally, make the decision and don't back down, that what God has to say about your situation is the Truth because God cannot lie. You choose to put your Trust in Him, in His Word and in His faithfulness to fulfill it. The just shall live by faith. It is a far better way!
There is no faith in God without having His Word regarding the issue, because faith comes from hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Faith is believing that what God's Word says is SO....... it has to be SO or I am calling God a liar. I can't do that, can you? Then Know that God WILL DO as He says He will do. It IS safe to Trust God!
I have seen many Christian's be mad at God because they think He failed them regarding a certain issue. Listen! God will never fail to fulfill His Word that we put our confident trust in. He will fulfill He Word with signs following if we will just believe it. It is not so hard if you will let the "Walls of Resistance" be torn down by "Daring to Trust God".
I think of the Israelites as they were leaving the bondage of Egypt with the Word of God telling them the will inherit the Promised Land. Why were Joshua and Caleb the only ones of that generation who actually experienced the Promise and entered the Promised Land?
Joshua and Caleb held on to what God promised them. After they and the other spies had inspected the land, Joshua and Caleb were confident in the Lord, saying, "we are well able to take this land! God is with us!"
On the other hand, the remainder of the Israelites refused to trust what God had told them and evaluated their situation on what they saw and what they felt instead. They actually opposed God. They certainly, were not faithful to God! They didn't believe what God said was true. They did not believe in the nature of God, that it is impossible for God to lie. They missed out on what God promised them. God fulfilled His Word to the 2nd generation of Israelites who went into the Promised land with Joshua and Caleb.
So, today, do you have a "Wall of Resistance" built up?
Are you ready to let that wall be torn down?
Will you Dare to Trust God?
Are you willing to choose to make your decisions based on God's Word, not on how it appears, or how it feels or what other reports say?
Are you willing to call God a liar by not trusting Him?
Will you humble yourself and say to God. I believe you are not a man that you would lie. I believe your Word is True. It HAS to be the way You say it is and I believe You will do what You said You will do.
Will you PUT your trust in God and not back down?
Choose today.....To Trust or not to Trust.... God.
Without that "Trust" Faith, it is impossible to please God.
The just shall Live by faith....every issue, every moment. Every day. It is a far better way.
Psalm 115:11
You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and shield.
You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and shield.
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
Psalm 31:14
But I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, “You are my God!”
But I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, “You are my God!”
Thursday, April 2, 2020
FREEDOM!!!
One of the saddest things I have ever heard was from a lady when she said, " I don't really spend time with God, I am doing pretty well on my own."
I used to not spend time really learning from God, either. Truthfully, I never understood the importance of learning God's Word and doing things His way. I didn't realize that I needed to change or that it was possible for me to change. My understanding was that God would take care of everything. Anyway, I really didn't understand what I read, when I did try to read. I couldn't even say that I was doing "pretty well on my own", because, truthfully, I was doing a terrible job on my own.
When I finally decided I needed help, I began to pursue God for answers and for His help. I was now willing to be taught and learn. (Note: at this time I was already a Christian, but only born again, with little knowledge of God or His ways and certainly I was not a disciple of God). I began to not only understand what I read, but I had the desire to change my ways and do things God's way.
When I humbled myself and asked God to help me do what I was learning, regardless of the issue.... controlling my tongue, or taking my totally uncontrolled thoughts captive and making them obey God or submitting to my husband, or humbling myself, or daring to trust God, or following the pattern of the behavior of the Proverbs 31 woman or stopping gossip and slander.... whatever it was that I knew God was getting my attention on and teaching me about and I saw I needed to change, I would ask God to help me with a true desire to change. Even though I had no idea how I could possibly do what I needed to do, suddenly, the changing was not near as difficult as I anticipated. That had to be the Grace of God.
When I humbled myself and asked God to help me do what I was learning, regardless of the issue.... controlling my tongue, or taking my totally uncontrolled thoughts captive and making them obey God or submitting to my husband, or humbling myself, or daring to trust God, or following the pattern of the behavior of the Proverbs 31 woman or stopping gossip and slander.... whatever it was that I knew God was getting my attention on and teaching me about and I saw I needed to change, I would ask God to help me with a true desire to change. Even though I had no idea how I could possibly do what I needed to do, suddenly, the changing was not near as difficult as I anticipated. That had to be the Grace of God.
As I learned and yielded and obeyed, my life got better and better. I became peaceful and calm even in the midst of what would have previously made me panic and be filled with fear and anxiety. I became healthier, and my marriage improved greatly.
I believe that regardless how well or how badly we are doing apart from God's wisdom/instruction, that by learning and following God's ways, we will certainly do better. He is the All Wise God. We must learn His ways and follow them.
This is about not being under the law, this is about loving God. This is about being wise. This is about loving yourself so you can love others better. This is about finding true success. This is about experiencing life and healing to your entire body. This is about Freedom.
Proverbs 19:8
He who acquires wisdom loves himself; one who safeguards understanding will find success.
He who acquires wisdom loves himself; one who safeguards understanding will find success.
Proverbs 16:20
Whoever heeds instruction will find success, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
Whoever heeds instruction will find success, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
Proverbs 4:20-22
My child, pay attention to what I say.
Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body.
My child, pay attention to what I say.
Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body.
James 1:22
But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.
But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.
Matthew 4:14, 20
The sower sows the Word....But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”
The sower sows the Word....But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”
Matthew 28:20
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
John 13:17
John 13:17
If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
Matthew 7:24
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”Whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked.
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”Whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked.
Luke 6:46-48
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? …
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? …
Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Learn= gain knowledge; to hear, be informed: to learn by use and practice; to be in the habit of, accustomed to:
John 14:15
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.
I think the point is clear. We must learn from God and do what He says.....this is what being a disciple is about. It is not Law, truly it is Life and Freedom.
John 8:31-32
Jesus therefore said to those of the Jews who had now believed in Him, "As for you, if you hold fast to my teaching, then you are truly my disciples; and you shall know the Truth, and the Truth will make you free."
Jesus therefore said to those of the Jews who had now believed in Him, "As for you, if you hold fast to my teaching, then you are truly my disciples; and you shall know the Truth, and the Truth will make you free."
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
Do Your Part!
Sometimes we feel like we should do more, you know, "Do our Part", but what if in God's eyes our part is to: Cast all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7
Cast your cares = give up to God, throw off, cast upon.
Care = worry, anxiety, a dividing and fracturing of a person's being into parts. Idea of distraction.
If we do not "Do Our Part" by casting our cares upon the Lord, are we interfering with God working on our behalf?
Is our insistence on holding on to our anxieties and worries, which are distractions that are tearing us to pieces, actually doing us and perhaps others, more harm than good??? Hmmmmm, wonder, wonder, wonder......
Do we think that our concerns about things and particularly the well-being of others justifies and necessitates our holding on to our worries and anxieties. So, instead of following God's instructions and "Doing Our Part" we hold on to those cares.
I suggest we "Do Our Part" today and throw off, onto God, the things that are causing us anxiety, worry and distraction and stop allowing ourselves to be torn up. We can trust the care that God has for us and the promise we find in...
Psalm 55:22 Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.
Take God at His Word, and "Do Your Part" today. Release your burdens into His caring arms....He is more than able to take care of all than concerns you.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.
Cast your cares = give up to God, throw off, cast upon.
Care = worry, anxiety, a dividing and fracturing of a person's being into parts. Idea of distraction.
If we do not "Do Our Part" by casting our cares upon the Lord, are we interfering with God working on our behalf?
Is our insistence on holding on to our anxieties and worries, which are distractions that are tearing us to pieces, actually doing us and perhaps others, more harm than good??? Hmmmmm, wonder, wonder, wonder......
Do we think that our concerns about things and particularly the well-being of others justifies and necessitates our holding on to our worries and anxieties. So, instead of following God's instructions and "Doing Our Part" we hold on to those cares.
I suggest we "Do Our Part" today and throw off, onto God, the things that are causing us anxiety, worry and distraction and stop allowing ourselves to be torn up. We can trust the care that God has for us and the promise we find in...
Psalm 55:22 Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.
Take God at His Word, and "Do Your Part" today. Release your burdens into His caring arms....He is more than able to take care of all than concerns you.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.
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