How blessed I have been and am to have such great teaching to help me grow in my walk with Christ. How loved I am that He would be so very patient with me for I seem to be such a slow learner.
Recently I read an author who used an analogy that ministered to me. We know that we are called to walk the narrow way in Christ Jesus. The other ways lead only to eventual misery and certain judgment and destruction. Jesus Himself said He is the Way and the Truth and the Life and that no one comes to (God) the Father except through Him. He is the Only way, yet...
Yet His invitation is inclusive! It is to all who would receive. God sent His only Son (Jesus Christ) that whoever would believe in Him would receive life! An inclusive invitation to an exclusive engagement to those who would believe and receive Him.
The analogy addresses the new life in Christ that we walk in while here on this Earth. We are new creations in Christ Jesus. We are walking the narrow path with eternity in view...our Saviour leading the way. Yet, for now we walk in enemy territory. Belonging to Christ, we are sealed by His Holy Spirit, but the enemy still attempts to influence if not oppress us.
Imagine our walk as if in a large city with skyscrapers looming, making our way a bit dark and dreary yet we walk in the Light and toward He Who is the Light. We walk the way of Christ, keeping our eyes on He who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. As we walk, there are cat calls and distractions from the apartment buildings and alleyways. We may get momentarily distracted by these voices but we can choose to walk on. This is where we must take EVERY thought captive to the obedience of our Lord Jesus.
As we walk, we may get so distracted-especially if we do not take each thought captive because we can become influenced- influenced so much that we stop and tarry, looking toward the voices and listening. We do not want this to become a habit for it is detrimental to us. We may listen long enough to lies that we begin to believe them. And if we become distracted long enough, we may even venture down the alleyways. The allure is to our flesh, to the lust of the eyes. Our pride of life tells us that we can handle a temporary detour. Don't believe it! Though our enemy, the devil and his minions, cannot read our minds for only God is omniscient, the enemy can influence our thoughts. He knows humanitites weaknesses...the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the sinful pride of life and he knows how to tempt each one of us.
So, dear pilgrim, keep walking on with eternity in view, down the corridor of faith. Saints before you traversed this way. You are in good company! Keep your eyes on Jesus and walk worthy of Him. He will never leave you nor forsake you.
I too am on this pilgrimage with you! Stay in the Word. Be obedient to God's commands, taking every thought captive to Him. Stay in prayer and in fellowship with other believers. Receive solid, Biblical teaching and use the gifts you have been given for the glory of God. Don't give the enemy any ground...don't make his day. Do all that you do for the glory of God Almighty!
We must keep walking with our eyes on our Saviour. We must stay on His narrow path. If we stumble, fall, tarry where we shouldn't, we must quickly repent, receive our Lord's forgiveness, take EVERY thought captive to His will and move on toward Him.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Bedrock Remembrance
As the Bible study wrapped up, I was blessed with so many "pearls" of wisdom. They were little thinking points to ponder throughout the days. One such pearl was the statement of "bedrock remembrance". The Hebrews, after facing the flood raged Jordan River and then safely walking through on dry ground, were asked to place stones of remembrance as a testimony throughout the ages of God's faithfulness to His people.
I like the picture of a stones of remembrance, it is good practice for us to remember all God has done for us even if we don't physically place a stone down as the Israelites tribes did. Yet I especially like the idea of bedrock for it speaks to me of a foundational piece of remembrance. The stones of remembrance are good things to have as we walk this earth, the faithfulness that God has shown us throughout our days, but the bedrock remembrance is the foundations that we build our very lives upon. This foundation is none other than Jesus Christ, the God of the Universe. We are to be firmly rooted and grounded in Him. We are to remember that He is our foundation. Our Cornerstone.
What is this bedrock of remembrance? God is the very bedrock of our existence. And this remembrance is the character of our God. God is very predictable in His character for He is unchanging. God is predictable in His character but unpredictable in His activity.And as the chaos of life ensues about us, having this bedrock of remembrance is all the more necessary.
Remembering Who God is helps us to be firmly rooted in our faith. We get to know Him better by the study of His Word. In the Gospel account written by John, we learn that the Word was with God and that the Word was (is) God. The Word?...Jesus Christ, for John tells us that the Word became Flesh. So, as we study the Word, we are learning more about God. He teaches us through His Word. And time in His Word is time with Him.
What are some things the Bible says about God? Here are just a few "I am" statements...
John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
John 1: 10 "And the Word became Flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth."
John 6: 35 "I am the bread of life; he who come to Me shall not hunger, and he who believs in Me shall never thirst."
John 6:41, 48 "...I am the bread that came down out of heaven." "I am the bread of life."
John 6: 51 "I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread also which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh."
John 8:12..."I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me shall not work in the darkness, but shall have the light in his life."
John 8: 23..."I am not of this world."
John 10:9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."
John 10:11 "I am the Good Shepherd; the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep."
John 10: 14 "I am the Good Shepherd; and I know My own, and My own know Me."
John 10: 27-29 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand."
John 10: 30 "I and the Father are One."
John 11:25 "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die..."
John 14: 6 "I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me."
John 15:1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser."
John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing."
The Word of God is filled with Who God is, describing His character to us. Oh dear ones, delve into His word. Dive in and enjoy the treasures you will find.
Word studies of the attributes of God will fill your days and your mind with beautiful, acceptable meditations. Start with just one aspect of God's character...that He is merciful or that He is gracious. He is holy. He is righteous. He is just. He is perfect. He is forgiving. He is full of lovingkindness.
The Hebrew names attributed to God also reveal more about His character. A word study on these is also a blessing. He is Jehovah jireh, God our provider. Jehovah roi- our God who sees. Jehovah shalom-God our peace. The list goes on and on. Have fun with this...be blessed.
Your sister in Christ.
I like the picture of a stones of remembrance, it is good practice for us to remember all God has done for us even if we don't physically place a stone down as the Israelites tribes did. Yet I especially like the idea of bedrock for it speaks to me of a foundational piece of remembrance. The stones of remembrance are good things to have as we walk this earth, the faithfulness that God has shown us throughout our days, but the bedrock remembrance is the foundations that we build our very lives upon. This foundation is none other than Jesus Christ, the God of the Universe. We are to be firmly rooted and grounded in Him. We are to remember that He is our foundation. Our Cornerstone.
What is this bedrock of remembrance? God is the very bedrock of our existence. And this remembrance is the character of our God. God is very predictable in His character for He is unchanging. God is predictable in His character but unpredictable in His activity.And as the chaos of life ensues about us, having this bedrock of remembrance is all the more necessary.
Remembering Who God is helps us to be firmly rooted in our faith. We get to know Him better by the study of His Word. In the Gospel account written by John, we learn that the Word was with God and that the Word was (is) God. The Word?...Jesus Christ, for John tells us that the Word became Flesh. So, as we study the Word, we are learning more about God. He teaches us through His Word. And time in His Word is time with Him.
What are some things the Bible says about God? Here are just a few "I am" statements...
John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
John 1: 10 "And the Word became Flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth."
John 6: 35 "I am the bread of life; he who come to Me shall not hunger, and he who believs in Me shall never thirst."
John 6:41, 48 "...I am the bread that came down out of heaven." "I am the bread of life."
John 6: 51 "I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread also which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh."
John 8:12..."I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me shall not work in the darkness, but shall have the light in his life."
John 8: 23..."I am not of this world."
John 10:9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."
John 10:11 "I am the Good Shepherd; the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep."
John 10: 14 "I am the Good Shepherd; and I know My own, and My own know Me."
John 10: 27-29 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand."
John 10: 30 "I and the Father are One."
John 11:25 "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die..."
John 14: 6 "I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me."
John 15:1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser."
John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing."
The Word of God is filled with Who God is, describing His character to us. Oh dear ones, delve into His word. Dive in and enjoy the treasures you will find.
Word studies of the attributes of God will fill your days and your mind with beautiful, acceptable meditations. Start with just one aspect of God's character...that He is merciful or that He is gracious. He is holy. He is righteous. He is just. He is perfect. He is forgiving. He is full of lovingkindness.
The Hebrew names attributed to God also reveal more about His character. A word study on these is also a blessing. He is Jehovah jireh, God our provider. Jehovah roi- our God who sees. Jehovah shalom-God our peace. The list goes on and on. Have fun with this...be blessed.
Your sister in Christ.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Elephants and Christians...Overcoming (more thinking on Revelation)
An amazing story which many may already be familiar is that of training an elephant.
Now elephants being the huge land mammals they are can wreak havoc in the jungle, mowing down trees or anything in their way. These herd animals can be fierce in their protection and anyone threatening them will find their life in peril. Elephants are also trainable as many have observed at the zoo or in the circus. These huge, powerful animals can be contained, not in cages, but by a post and rope. How can this be?
The training begins when the elephant is a baby. He is removed from his herd, shackled and chained to a post in the ground (not unlike Dumbo!). He fights and struggles to be free. This struggle may go on for days, weeks, perhaps months until finally the elephant is resigned to his captivity. He no longer struggles against the shackle but yields to it. He is without his herd and without his freedom. Soon, only a rope tied to the post holds this enormous beast in place. Yet we know that all this elephant, now a grown adult, would have to do is tug a bit on the rope and it might break or pull until the post comes loose from the ground and then he would enjoy freedom. So, why doesn't he? Why doesn't this animal break free but remain tied in captivity?
Some observations of the elephants training for a life in captivity parallels that of a Christian.
(1) The elephant is removed from the protection it's herd. We Christians must be aware that we do not forsake the assembling of believers and become isolated...we NEED each other. We need to be in fellowship with one another for the glory of Jesus.
(2) The elephant is then shackled to a post that securely holds it in place. Once he is resigned to this, he then is 'content' to stay shackled. He lives as though he has forgotten his freedome. This is not unlike those without Christ (which included those of us before we belonged to Christ) who are shackled to a life style of sin being born in sin. Firmly and securely tethered in this life of sin not realizing there is anything else.
(3) The elephant's ability to obtain it's freedom is in it's power and strength, yet it remains tethered. It does not enjoy the freedom that is at hand because it believes that it is forever securely bound.
Once we were like that elephant, tethered and without hope. But unlike it, we had NO power within ourselves to deliver us from a life of sin and to deliver us from God's wrath against sin. Yet, we who belong to Christ have been freed from the life of sin. So why do often we remain tethered to a lifestyle of sin. Why do we remain entangled in sin when we have the power through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, to live a life unto Him? Why do we allow ourselves to being captive? Jesus has opened our cell doors. We must take Him at His word and walk in freedom. Jesus has set us free and whoever Jesus sets free, he is free indeed. Jesus set us free for freedom sake.
Hebrews 12:1-3 "Therefore, since we have so great a could of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance, the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despisng the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. "
In Revelation, Jesus reminds the overcomers of the blessings to come. Who are the overcomers? We are-those in Christ Jesus. How do we have the power to overcome? It is in the finished work of the cross of Jesus Christ-the Messiah.
We are to remain in Him and obey Him. We obey Him by loving Him and loving others. When the enemy attempts to lie to us, twist God's Word and entangle us in sin...we must remember who we are in Christ. We are free! We are no longer captives. There may be struggles, especially if we allow sin to take root and entangle us. The weeding and the detangling may hurt and will be difficult. But it is worth it! Walk in freedom. Read about the Hope we have in Christ! Take courage that if there is a battle that rages, that it is because you are walking in the freedom Christ purchased for you and this ticks off your enemy and mine. His goal is to keep believers from fully recognizing all our relationship with Christ offers us.
The battle rages...but Christ is victorious and we are overcomers! Let us walk in freedom.
Now elephants being the huge land mammals they are can wreak havoc in the jungle, mowing down trees or anything in their way. These herd animals can be fierce in their protection and anyone threatening them will find their life in peril. Elephants are also trainable as many have observed at the zoo or in the circus. These huge, powerful animals can be contained, not in cages, but by a post and rope. How can this be?
The training begins when the elephant is a baby. He is removed from his herd, shackled and chained to a post in the ground (not unlike Dumbo!). He fights and struggles to be free. This struggle may go on for days, weeks, perhaps months until finally the elephant is resigned to his captivity. He no longer struggles against the shackle but yields to it. He is without his herd and without his freedom. Soon, only a rope tied to the post holds this enormous beast in place. Yet we know that all this elephant, now a grown adult, would have to do is tug a bit on the rope and it might break or pull until the post comes loose from the ground and then he would enjoy freedom. So, why doesn't he? Why doesn't this animal break free but remain tied in captivity?
Some observations of the elephants training for a life in captivity parallels that of a Christian.
(1) The elephant is removed from the protection it's herd. We Christians must be aware that we do not forsake the assembling of believers and become isolated...we NEED each other. We need to be in fellowship with one another for the glory of Jesus.
(2) The elephant is then shackled to a post that securely holds it in place. Once he is resigned to this, he then is 'content' to stay shackled. He lives as though he has forgotten his freedome. This is not unlike those without Christ (which included those of us before we belonged to Christ) who are shackled to a life style of sin being born in sin. Firmly and securely tethered in this life of sin not realizing there is anything else.
(3) The elephant's ability to obtain it's freedom is in it's power and strength, yet it remains tethered. It does not enjoy the freedom that is at hand because it believes that it is forever securely bound.
Once we were like that elephant, tethered and without hope. But unlike it, we had NO power within ourselves to deliver us from a life of sin and to deliver us from God's wrath against sin. Yet, we who belong to Christ have been freed from the life of sin. So why do often we remain tethered to a lifestyle of sin. Why do we remain entangled in sin when we have the power through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, to live a life unto Him? Why do we allow ourselves to being captive? Jesus has opened our cell doors. We must take Him at His word and walk in freedom. Jesus has set us free and whoever Jesus sets free, he is free indeed. Jesus set us free for freedom sake.
Hebrews 12:1-3 "Therefore, since we have so great a could of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance, the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despisng the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. "
In Revelation, Jesus reminds the overcomers of the blessings to come. Who are the overcomers? We are-those in Christ Jesus. How do we have the power to overcome? It is in the finished work of the cross of Jesus Christ-the Messiah.
We are to remain in Him and obey Him. We obey Him by loving Him and loving others. When the enemy attempts to lie to us, twist God's Word and entangle us in sin...we must remember who we are in Christ. We are free! We are no longer captives. There may be struggles, especially if we allow sin to take root and entangle us. The weeding and the detangling may hurt and will be difficult. But it is worth it! Walk in freedom. Read about the Hope we have in Christ! Take courage that if there is a battle that rages, that it is because you are walking in the freedom Christ purchased for you and this ticks off your enemy and mine. His goal is to keep believers from fully recognizing all our relationship with Christ offers us.
The battle rages...but Christ is victorious and we are overcomers! Let us walk in freedom.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Fan Club or Family Member?
Matthew 7:20-23 Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven; but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord did we not prophesy in Your name and in Your name cast our demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' And then I will declare to them, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.'
Our God created us to have and enjoy relationships. Ultimately, He desires us to enter in to His company, the privilege which He purchased for us. This relationship is what separates Christianity from all other religions. Not the superficial Christianity of believing in God-for even the demons believe in Him and tremble, but the Christianity that demands a relationship with the Everlasting God. This Christianity is the repentant, lifestyle of faith that will allow us to stand before God's throne and have Jesus confess to His Father that we are His. This relationship is an open invitation to all who would believe and receive Christ. Yet it is exclusive in that only those who do enter in by the narrow way-through the Way, the Truth and the Life-Jesus Christ, may have a relationship with God the Father through Jesus the Son. We are no longer on the outside, but part of God's family
I share the following explanation of relationship's importance:
There are several bands that I have enjoyed over the years. I've love the music of Earth, Wind and Fire, Peter Frampton, the Beatles, Poco to name a few. And then when I became a Christian, I was blessed by the music of Keith Green, Sweet Comfort Band, 2nd Chapter of Acts, and later in my walk wiht Christ, the music of Steven Curtis Chapman, Newsong, Mercy Me, Casting Crowns, and Big Daddy Weave, to name a few.
Though I love music and enjoyed listening to it...loudly. I never became a fan member of any band or musician. And now becoming a fan is as easy as liking something on FaceBook and with a click of a button, you can become a fan of different organizations or artists or musicians.
Many people enjoy being a fan and being a part of something. Some people even aspire to be the "best fan" club member. This is the person may be one who organizes events for this fan club. The best fan might also have every marketing gimmick related to the fan club. This best fan will be able to tell you all about the fan club, as well as every fact, every detail of the person the club is organized for.
The best fan might even get back stage passes after an event. BUT...will the "best fan" be known? Will he be recognized? If this best fan just showed up backstage with no introduction, would he be recognized? Would the person be pleased to see this best fan and want to spend time with him? Would this best fan be invited to holiday family gatherings or special family events? Would this best fan enjoy vacations with his idol? No...none of this would happen.
Why? Because there is no relationship? At the end of the day, the musician or whoever is idolized, will go on with life and not think on the best fan because the musician has no relationship with him. The best fan isn't known.
Yet, in contrast, the family members may go backstage after the event and they are greeted with great joy and pleasure for they know one another. They belong together and being family members, they recognize one another.
The Scripture in Matthew 7:20-23, describes the difference between a fan of Jesus and a follower of Jesus. We may be very excited about things spiritual and do many Bible studies and many "good works" in the name of Christ, BUT if we do not belong to Him, He will not "know" us. We must accept His invitation to become joint-heir with Him. This is done only through His work on the cross. We can contribute NOTHING to this finished work. I Peter 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, the Just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.
The good works in Christ Jesus come later...we just need to believe and receive His work.
God's invitation is accessible and welcoming to all yet it is exclusive to those who receive it through the One Way, Jesus Christ.
John 6:35, 37, 40 Jesus said- "I am the bread of life, he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst...All that the Father gives to Me shall come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out...For this is the will of My Fathers, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life and I Myself will raise him up on that last day."
John 14:16-17, 21 Jesus said- And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom th world cannot receive, because it does not behold Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you, and will be in you....He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father , and I will love him, and will disclose Myself to him."
May none who might read this find themselves as a Fan of Jesus Christ but a family member of the One True, Triune God. Jesus words describe what will happen to fan members...on the last day-the most important day-the fans of Jesus Christ won't be known.
John 10:27-30 The Words of Jesus- "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are One."
Our God created us to have and enjoy relationships. Ultimately, He desires us to enter in to His company, the privilege which He purchased for us. This relationship is what separates Christianity from all other religions. Not the superficial Christianity of believing in God-for even the demons believe in Him and tremble, but the Christianity that demands a relationship with the Everlasting God. This Christianity is the repentant, lifestyle of faith that will allow us to stand before God's throne and have Jesus confess to His Father that we are His. This relationship is an open invitation to all who would believe and receive Christ. Yet it is exclusive in that only those who do enter in by the narrow way-through the Way, the Truth and the Life-Jesus Christ, may have a relationship with God the Father through Jesus the Son. We are no longer on the outside, but part of God's family
I share the following explanation of relationship's importance:
There are several bands that I have enjoyed over the years. I've love the music of Earth, Wind and Fire, Peter Frampton, the Beatles, Poco to name a few. And then when I became a Christian, I was blessed by the music of Keith Green, Sweet Comfort Band, 2nd Chapter of Acts, and later in my walk wiht Christ, the music of Steven Curtis Chapman, Newsong, Mercy Me, Casting Crowns, and Big Daddy Weave, to name a few.
Though I love music and enjoyed listening to it...loudly. I never became a fan member of any band or musician. And now becoming a fan is as easy as liking something on FaceBook and with a click of a button, you can become a fan of different organizations or artists or musicians.
Many people enjoy being a fan and being a part of something. Some people even aspire to be the "best fan" club member. This is the person may be one who organizes events for this fan club. The best fan might also have every marketing gimmick related to the fan club. This best fan will be able to tell you all about the fan club, as well as every fact, every detail of the person the club is organized for.
The best fan might even get back stage passes after an event. BUT...will the "best fan" be known? Will he be recognized? If this best fan just showed up backstage with no introduction, would he be recognized? Would the person be pleased to see this best fan and want to spend time with him? Would this best fan be invited to holiday family gatherings or special family events? Would this best fan enjoy vacations with his idol? No...none of this would happen.
Why? Because there is no relationship? At the end of the day, the musician or whoever is idolized, will go on with life and not think on the best fan because the musician has no relationship with him. The best fan isn't known.
Yet, in contrast, the family members may go backstage after the event and they are greeted with great joy and pleasure for they know one another. They belong together and being family members, they recognize one another.
The Scripture in Matthew 7:20-23, describes the difference between a fan of Jesus and a follower of Jesus. We may be very excited about things spiritual and do many Bible studies and many "good works" in the name of Christ, BUT if we do not belong to Him, He will not "know" us. We must accept His invitation to become joint-heir with Him. This is done only through His work on the cross. We can contribute NOTHING to this finished work. I Peter 3:18 For Christ also died for sins once for all, the Just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.
The good works in Christ Jesus come later...we just need to believe and receive His work.
God's invitation is accessible and welcoming to all yet it is exclusive to those who receive it through the One Way, Jesus Christ.
John 6:35, 37, 40 Jesus said- "I am the bread of life, he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst...All that the Father gives to Me shall come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out...For this is the will of My Fathers, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life and I Myself will raise him up on that last day."
John 14:16-17, 21 Jesus said- And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom th world cannot receive, because it does not behold Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you, and will be in you....He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father , and I will love him, and will disclose Myself to him."
May none who might read this find themselves as a Fan of Jesus Christ but a family member of the One True, Triune God. Jesus words describe what will happen to fan members...on the last day-the most important day-the fans of Jesus Christ won't be known.
John 10:27-30 The Words of Jesus- "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are One."
Friday, January 21, 2011
Beatitudes in Revelation
Did you know there are beatitudes in Revelation? Warren Weirsbe points our the following:
Revelation 1:3 blessing in reading the prophecy
Revelation 14:13 blessing if we die in the Lord
Revelation 16:15 blessed in watchfulness-the Lord is returning!
Revelation 19:9 blessed if invited to the Wedding Feast
Revelation 20:6 blessed and holy who share in first resurrection-following Jesus
Revelation 22:7 blessed are those who obey
Revelation 22:14 blessed are those who wash their robes for they will enter through the gates of the city and eat fruit from the Tree of Life.
(1) Reading the Book and specifically the book of Revelation promises a blessing. So, why not be blessed and read it often!
(2) For those who die in Jesus there is a blessing for it signifies our work here on earth is done and we are with He Who loved and loves us with His life!
(3) For those who anxiously await Christ's return, there is blessing. Not unlike young children anxiously awaiting for their birthday or some other awaited prize...but more so! For our waiting is for what is eternal! Our waiting has an imperishable prize, eternal life in Christ Jesus. Our waiting is for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Creator of all things seen and unseen. Now that is a magnificent reason to watchfully wait.
(4)Those who are invited to the Wedding Feast are blessed. Who doesn't like to go to weddings? There are television shows about wedding dresses, wedding cakes, weddings...the day of one's wedding is much anticipated and to be a guest is a delight. How much more for the Wedding Feast of the Bridegroom (Jesus) and His Bride (His Church)! How blessed to be invited to the Wedding Feast of the Lord of All, the Prince of Peace, the Savior, Y'shua, Jesus Christ. How wonderful to know that the invitation goes out to all the world. It is an invitation to whosoever believes and receives Jesus! It is a universal invitation with an exclusive guest list.
(5) Oh to share in the resurrection of Christ Jesus. All who belong to Him will enjoy this blessing! Life fulfilled in Him with bodily resurrection just as He was resurrected.
(6) Obeying God's Word is a blessing. How do I know? His Word tells me. So, even if the blessings may not be for the here and now, they are for the soon to be. God never fails. His Word never fails. He will fulfill what He says in His perfect timing. And we parents give our children the great gift of practicing obedience to us. They are to honor and obey their earthly parents..and in so doing establish a lifetime of this unto God Almighty.
(7)Those who belong to Christ and have their "robes" washed will enter God's kingdom by the gate. Now this washing is not something we do-but it is the work of God's Spirit in our lives, renewing our minds by His Word, teaching us, guiding us. This washing is done each time we obey God and His Word. We will then be blessed with going to the Tree of Life that was in the Garden with Adam and Eve and eat of it! This Tree of Life's fruit is eternal life! We will be robed in the righteousness of Christ and eat of His Tree of Life.
Pretty amazing, huh? Now, go pick up the Word and begin reading Revelation, chapter 1. You will be blessed as you read.
Revelation 1:3 blessing in reading the prophecy
Revelation 14:13 blessing if we die in the Lord
Revelation 16:15 blessed in watchfulness-the Lord is returning!
Revelation 19:9 blessed if invited to the Wedding Feast
Revelation 20:6 blessed and holy who share in first resurrection-following Jesus
Revelation 22:7 blessed are those who obey
Revelation 22:14 blessed are those who wash their robes for they will enter through the gates of the city and eat fruit from the Tree of Life.
(1) Reading the Book and specifically the book of Revelation promises a blessing. So, why not be blessed and read it often!
(2) For those who die in Jesus there is a blessing for it signifies our work here on earth is done and we are with He Who loved and loves us with His life!
(3) For those who anxiously await Christ's return, there is blessing. Not unlike young children anxiously awaiting for their birthday or some other awaited prize...but more so! For our waiting is for what is eternal! Our waiting has an imperishable prize, eternal life in Christ Jesus. Our waiting is for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Creator of all things seen and unseen. Now that is a magnificent reason to watchfully wait.
(4)Those who are invited to the Wedding Feast are blessed. Who doesn't like to go to weddings? There are television shows about wedding dresses, wedding cakes, weddings...the day of one's wedding is much anticipated and to be a guest is a delight. How much more for the Wedding Feast of the Bridegroom (Jesus) and His Bride (His Church)! How blessed to be invited to the Wedding Feast of the Lord of All, the Prince of Peace, the Savior, Y'shua, Jesus Christ. How wonderful to know that the invitation goes out to all the world. It is an invitation to whosoever believes and receives Jesus! It is a universal invitation with an exclusive guest list.
(5) Oh to share in the resurrection of Christ Jesus. All who belong to Him will enjoy this blessing! Life fulfilled in Him with bodily resurrection just as He was resurrected.
(6) Obeying God's Word is a blessing. How do I know? His Word tells me. So, even if the blessings may not be for the here and now, they are for the soon to be. God never fails. His Word never fails. He will fulfill what He says in His perfect timing. And we parents give our children the great gift of practicing obedience to us. They are to honor and obey their earthly parents..and in so doing establish a lifetime of this unto God Almighty.
(7)Those who belong to Christ and have their "robes" washed will enter God's kingdom by the gate. Now this washing is not something we do-but it is the work of God's Spirit in our lives, renewing our minds by His Word, teaching us, guiding us. This washing is done each time we obey God and His Word. We will then be blessed with going to the Tree of Life that was in the Garden with Adam and Eve and eat of it! This Tree of Life's fruit is eternal life! We will be robed in the righteousness of Christ and eat of His Tree of Life.
Pretty amazing, huh? Now, go pick up the Word and begin reading Revelation, chapter 1. You will be blessed as you read.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Overcomers
The Lord continuously draws me back to the passages in Revelation describing the seven churches. Each church is unique in their standing and their faith (or lack of faith). In each commendation or rebuke, the Lord Jesus reminds the church what is to come for those who overcome.
At the introduction of each message to the church is a description of Jesus. These alone are awe inspiring. 2:1 proclaims Christ as "The One Who holds the seven stars in His right hand, the One Who walks among the seven lampstands." 2:8 describes Him as "The First and the Last, Who was dead and has come to life." 2:12 "The One Who has the sharp, two-edged sword." 2:18 "The Son of God, Whose eyes are like flames of fire, Whose feet are like polished bronze." Revelations 2:23 proclaims "I am He Who searches minds and hearts." 3:1 Jesus is "the One Who has the sevenfold Spirit of God and the seven stars." 3:7 Jesus is "the One Who is holy and true, the One Who has the Key of David, what He opens no one closes, what He closes no one can open." And finally in verse 3:14, He is "the One Who is the Amen-the faithful and true witness, the Beginning of creation..."
One day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord. He is the One, the First and Last, the Righteous Judge, the Omniscient God, He is holy and true. He is the Omnipotent Lord, ruler of Heaven and Earth. These descriptions of our King of kings is awesome yet there is more! For those of us who belong to Him by His free gift of life to us, we who overcome, are promised the following from God's hand:
Revelation 2:7 "I will grant him to eat from the Tree of Life which is in the paradise of God." Adam and Eve were given the privelege to walk with God and dwell in His Garden. The ONLY restriction was to not eat from one tree out of all that was in the Garden. This tree, named Knowledge of Good and Evil, was forbidden because God, Creator of Adam and Eve, knew what was best for them. Yet, they chose rebellion over obedience and God in His magnificent love for His Creation, did not want His beloved to then eat from the Tree of Life and live forever in their rebellious condition, so He banned them from the Garden for a time.
Those who overcome will now enjoy the privilege of eating the fruit of the Tree of Life!
Revelation 2:10 "I will give you the Crown of Life." We will then be crowned with the Crown of Life.
Revelation 2:17 "I will give him some of the hidden manna. I will give to each one a white stone on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it."
The manna given to the Hebrews in their wilderness wandering was sustenance beyond their comprehension. It was a picture to mankind that we cannot live by bread alone by all that proceeds from the Mouth of God. We need His provision each day.
And I LOVE this part...He will give us a white stone that is engraved with a special name that only He and I will know. Each one of us will be given this precious stone with a "pet name" the Lord has for us.
Hosea records the names of his children through the harlot, Gomer. Each name is significant, describing the fruit of Israel's disobedience...Jezreel meant "the Lord will punish", and was a reminder to the Hebrews of the judgment to come upon them for their disobedience. Lo-ruhamah means that "the Lord will no longer have compassion". The House of Israel was to face judgment without compassion for their generations of disobedience while yet enjoying some of God's blessings. Lo-ammi was the third child of Gomer's whose name meant "you are not My people and I am not your God." This revealed that no longer would the House of Israel be referred to as God's people because of their grievous rebellion. Later, God shows His great lovingkindness and renames the children speaking of His forgiveness, His compassion and claiming His people.
Each of these original names could be the names we have grown up with...until we believed and received from Jesus Christ the Lord, His forgiveness and new life. Soon, we, like Hosea's children, will receive a new name-describing the new life we have in Christ. Hallelujah!
Revelation 2:23 "I will give to each one according to your deeds (whatever you deserve-NLT)."
This is being self explanatory, should also be sobering.
Revelation 3:5 you will be clothed in white and "I will never erase their names from the Book of Life. I will announce before My Father and His angels that they are mine." (NLT)
We will be given white, pure clothing and then Jesus tells us that He will never erase our names from His Book of Life. Jesus also tells us that He will announce us before His Father and His Father's angels that we belong to Him. It is a picture of coming into a royal hall and then being announced that you are the king's child! And this is EXACTLY what Jesus is doing for us. He is telling all of creation that we belong to Him!
Revelation 3:12 "I will make him a pillar in the Temple of My God..."
We become part of God's grand purpose...to glorify Him. How is this done? It is a mystery to me, but being a pillar in God's Temple pictures a place of importance and prominence. Pillars uphold the Temple, so we too uphold God and His glory, enthroning Him in our praise of Him.
Revelation 3:21 "I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne."
To sit down during the times of John (the author/recorder of Revelation) meant that your work was through. We will be granted the privilege to sit down because we have completed our work. We sit down with Christ on His throne because of His completed work on the cross.
All through out Scripture God has promises for His people. He does all the work and our part, to love Him with all our hearts, minds, soul and strength, is what is required of us. We who in Christ Jesus overcome we will receive from Him eternal life. We will be crowned with this eternal life for we are Christ's joint heirs in His kingdom.
May each one of us be overcomers in and through Christ Jesus.
Amen!
At the introduction of each message to the church is a description of Jesus. These alone are awe inspiring. 2:1 proclaims Christ as "The One Who holds the seven stars in His right hand, the One Who walks among the seven lampstands." 2:8 describes Him as "The First and the Last, Who was dead and has come to life." 2:12 "The One Who has the sharp, two-edged sword." 2:18 "The Son of God, Whose eyes are like flames of fire, Whose feet are like polished bronze." Revelations 2:23 proclaims "I am He Who searches minds and hearts." 3:1 Jesus is "the One Who has the sevenfold Spirit of God and the seven stars." 3:7 Jesus is "the One Who is holy and true, the One Who has the Key of David, what He opens no one closes, what He closes no one can open." And finally in verse 3:14, He is "the One Who is the Amen-the faithful and true witness, the Beginning of creation..."
One day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord. He is the One, the First and Last, the Righteous Judge, the Omniscient God, He is holy and true. He is the Omnipotent Lord, ruler of Heaven and Earth. These descriptions of our King of kings is awesome yet there is more! For those of us who belong to Him by His free gift of life to us, we who overcome, are promised the following from God's hand:
Revelation 2:7 "I will grant him to eat from the Tree of Life which is in the paradise of God." Adam and Eve were given the privelege to walk with God and dwell in His Garden. The ONLY restriction was to not eat from one tree out of all that was in the Garden. This tree, named Knowledge of Good and Evil, was forbidden because God, Creator of Adam and Eve, knew what was best for them. Yet, they chose rebellion over obedience and God in His magnificent love for His Creation, did not want His beloved to then eat from the Tree of Life and live forever in their rebellious condition, so He banned them from the Garden for a time.
Those who overcome will now enjoy the privilege of eating the fruit of the Tree of Life!
Revelation 2:10 "I will give you the Crown of Life." We will then be crowned with the Crown of Life.
Revelation 2:17 "I will give him some of the hidden manna. I will give to each one a white stone on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it."
The manna given to the Hebrews in their wilderness wandering was sustenance beyond their comprehension. It was a picture to mankind that we cannot live by bread alone by all that proceeds from the Mouth of God. We need His provision each day.
And I LOVE this part...He will give us a white stone that is engraved with a special name that only He and I will know. Each one of us will be given this precious stone with a "pet name" the Lord has for us.
Hosea records the names of his children through the harlot, Gomer. Each name is significant, describing the fruit of Israel's disobedience...Jezreel meant "the Lord will punish", and was a reminder to the Hebrews of the judgment to come upon them for their disobedience. Lo-ruhamah means that "the Lord will no longer have compassion". The House of Israel was to face judgment without compassion for their generations of disobedience while yet enjoying some of God's blessings. Lo-ammi was the third child of Gomer's whose name meant "you are not My people and I am not your God." This revealed that no longer would the House of Israel be referred to as God's people because of their grievous rebellion. Later, God shows His great lovingkindness and renames the children speaking of His forgiveness, His compassion and claiming His people.
Each of these original names could be the names we have grown up with...until we believed and received from Jesus Christ the Lord, His forgiveness and new life. Soon, we, like Hosea's children, will receive a new name-describing the new life we have in Christ. Hallelujah!
Revelation 2:23 "I will give to each one according to your deeds (whatever you deserve-NLT)."
This is being self explanatory, should also be sobering.
Revelation 3:5 you will be clothed in white and "I will never erase their names from the Book of Life. I will announce before My Father and His angels that they are mine." (NLT)
We will be given white, pure clothing and then Jesus tells us that He will never erase our names from His Book of Life. Jesus also tells us that He will announce us before His Father and His Father's angels that we belong to Him. It is a picture of coming into a royal hall and then being announced that you are the king's child! And this is EXACTLY what Jesus is doing for us. He is telling all of creation that we belong to Him!
Revelation 3:12 "I will make him a pillar in the Temple of My God..."
We become part of God's grand purpose...to glorify Him. How is this done? It is a mystery to me, but being a pillar in God's Temple pictures a place of importance and prominence. Pillars uphold the Temple, so we too uphold God and His glory, enthroning Him in our praise of Him.
Revelation 3:21 "I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne."
To sit down during the times of John (the author/recorder of Revelation) meant that your work was through. We will be granted the privilege to sit down because we have completed our work. We sit down with Christ on His throne because of His completed work on the cross.
All through out Scripture God has promises for His people. He does all the work and our part, to love Him with all our hearts, minds, soul and strength, is what is required of us. We who in Christ Jesus overcome we will receive from Him eternal life. We will be crowned with this eternal life for we are Christ's joint heirs in His kingdom.
May each one of us be overcomers in and through Christ Jesus.
Amen!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Valleys
Just that word, "valleys" initially brings to my imagination the beauty of a river valley. It is lush and green and full of life. River valleys are often referred to as the bottom lands where crops and animals may thrive. Yet valleys, upon further meditation, can also refer to a difficult time spiritually. We say we are "down in the dumps" when we are sad yet also refer to "mountain top" experiences when we feel happy and times seem good. These two types of valleys are not mutually exclusive as I will share with you here in a bit.
The earliest reference to valley that I found in my study (please let me know if you found another!) is of the Jordan Valley in Genesis 13:10. This reference is before the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrha where the river valley was a desirable and choice place for Lot to settle. It was referred to as "like a garden of the Lord". Another positive reference of a valley is from Joshua 10:12 where God caused the sun to stand still to benefit the Israelites.
Jesus is called the Lily of the valleys...which is a picture of purity and beauty. (Song of Solomon 2:1) And as I thought on this "picture" I am reminded that He is with us, in His beauty and purity, in the valleys of life, good or bad, easy or difficult. He is the Lily of the valleys (singular in reference to Jesus, plural in reference to our lives).
There are other references to valleys in Scripture. Psalm 23:4 mentions the "valley of the shadow of death" or the NLT translates it as the "valley of deep darkness". This valley of deep darkness expresses what we feel as we face difficult times. Yet, God does not end it there in Psalm 23-the Shepherd's Psalm. As we go through the valley of the deep darkness, He is with me! His rod and His staff comfort me (and directs me). What love that is! Verse 6 states that "goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." So even though we go through the valley of deep darkness, the Lord is there! He is Jehovah Shammah.
Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Joel also have a reference to valleys, but there are two others that I would especially like to focus on. These two passages demonstrate that the valley can be both positive and negative. These two valley references speak of turning what would considered a negative situation into something good and full of blessing.
"Passing through the valley of Baca, they make it a spring, the early rain also covers it with blessings. They go from strength to strength." Psalm 84:6-7(a)
This valley is also referred to as the valley of weeping. The cedars which grew in this valley would "weep" their sap/gum of balsam and it is for this reason that the valley is also referred to as the valley of balsam.
The beauty of this passage is that the valley of weeping will be turned to blessings. Our sorrows will be turned to joy. And we are promised the strength (aka "resources") we need to continue on the journey God has set before us.
"Therefore, behold, I will allure her, bring her into the wilderness, and speak kindly to her. Then I will give her vineyards from there, and the valley of Achor (valley of Trouble) as a door of Hope...and it will come about in that day, declares the Lord, "That you will call me Ishi and will not longer call Me Baali." Hosea 2:14,15 & 16
This portion of Scripture became significant to me most recently as my family and I faced tremendous challenges. The Lord seemed to confirm this message to me as the Bible study group I was in suggested we study the book of Hosea. What a journey of blessing that was!
In this passage, Hosea is inspired by God to write about His (God's) great love for Israel. This applies to we believers for we have been grafted in as God's children through Jesus Christ. God allures us and draws us to places we might not choose to go...like the wilderness. Yet, He draws us away to these places of solitude to speak kindly and lovingly to us. The promise that follows is amazing.
The valley of Achor is also referred to as the valley of Trouble or Troubling as this is where God's judgment fell on Achan for his disobedience and rebellion. This valley of Achor God promises will become a door of Hope!
So, what must we do? Walk through the Door. I think sometimes standing at the threshold is what we settle for, yet Jesus bids us come in! As we face difficulties, heartaches, sorrows-these Jesus will turn into joy. He exchanges beauty for ashes. He restores that which the locusts have eaten.
We must go through the wilderness and listen to the Words of God. We must walk through the valley of trouble to reach the door of Hope and then...step through to His peace, His love, His joy.
May you be blessed with the knowledge that the God of the Universe, the Sovereign Lord is not ignorant of your situation but is intimately acquainted with you for He is your Creator. He has great plans for you if you only trust Him, walk in obedience to His Word.
We serve a God Who can change a valley of sorrow into joy. He can change a valley of trouble into a promise of hope. We serve an Awesome God!
The earliest reference to valley that I found in my study (please let me know if you found another!) is of the Jordan Valley in Genesis 13:10. This reference is before the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrha where the river valley was a desirable and choice place for Lot to settle. It was referred to as "like a garden of the Lord". Another positive reference of a valley is from Joshua 10:12 where God caused the sun to stand still to benefit the Israelites.
Jesus is called the Lily of the valleys...which is a picture of purity and beauty. (Song of Solomon 2:1) And as I thought on this "picture" I am reminded that He is with us, in His beauty and purity, in the valleys of life, good or bad, easy or difficult. He is the Lily of the valleys (singular in reference to Jesus, plural in reference to our lives).
There are other references to valleys in Scripture. Psalm 23:4 mentions the "valley of the shadow of death" or the NLT translates it as the "valley of deep darkness". This valley of deep darkness expresses what we feel as we face difficult times. Yet, God does not end it there in Psalm 23-the Shepherd's Psalm. As we go through the valley of the deep darkness, He is with me! His rod and His staff comfort me (and directs me). What love that is! Verse 6 states that "goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." So even though we go through the valley of deep darkness, the Lord is there! He is Jehovah Shammah.
Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Joel also have a reference to valleys, but there are two others that I would especially like to focus on. These two passages demonstrate that the valley can be both positive and negative. These two valley references speak of turning what would considered a negative situation into something good and full of blessing.
"Passing through the valley of Baca, they make it a spring, the early rain also covers it with blessings. They go from strength to strength." Psalm 84:6-7(a)
This valley is also referred to as the valley of weeping. The cedars which grew in this valley would "weep" their sap/gum of balsam and it is for this reason that the valley is also referred to as the valley of balsam.
The beauty of this passage is that the valley of weeping will be turned to blessings. Our sorrows will be turned to joy. And we are promised the strength (aka "resources") we need to continue on the journey God has set before us.
"Therefore, behold, I will allure her, bring her into the wilderness, and speak kindly to her. Then I will give her vineyards from there, and the valley of Achor (valley of Trouble) as a door of Hope...and it will come about in that day, declares the Lord, "That you will call me Ishi and will not longer call Me Baali." Hosea 2:14,15 & 16
This portion of Scripture became significant to me most recently as my family and I faced tremendous challenges. The Lord seemed to confirm this message to me as the Bible study group I was in suggested we study the book of Hosea. What a journey of blessing that was!
In this passage, Hosea is inspired by God to write about His (God's) great love for Israel. This applies to we believers for we have been grafted in as God's children through Jesus Christ. God allures us and draws us to places we might not choose to go...like the wilderness. Yet, He draws us away to these places of solitude to speak kindly and lovingly to us. The promise that follows is amazing.
The valley of Achor is also referred to as the valley of Trouble or Troubling as this is where God's judgment fell on Achan for his disobedience and rebellion. This valley of Achor God promises will become a door of Hope!
So, what must we do? Walk through the Door. I think sometimes standing at the threshold is what we settle for, yet Jesus bids us come in! As we face difficulties, heartaches, sorrows-these Jesus will turn into joy. He exchanges beauty for ashes. He restores that which the locusts have eaten.
We must go through the wilderness and listen to the Words of God. We must walk through the valley of trouble to reach the door of Hope and then...step through to His peace, His love, His joy.
May you be blessed with the knowledge that the God of the Universe, the Sovereign Lord is not ignorant of your situation but is intimately acquainted with you for He is your Creator. He has great plans for you if you only trust Him, walk in obedience to His Word.
We serve a God Who can change a valley of sorrow into joy. He can change a valley of trouble into a promise of hope. We serve an Awesome God!
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