Habakkuk 1: 2, 4
How long, O LORD, must I call for help?
But you do not listen! I cry, but you do not come to save.
The wicked far outnumber the righteous,
And justice is perverted with bribes and trickery. (NLT)
With all the problems that the human race is faced with today, I find it rather easy to understand why so many of the world’s people are crying out to God for help. And I believe the reason we cry out to God is because when we finally admit that man is incapable of fixing the problems it becomes quite obvious that it will take the Almighty God to get us out of the mess we have created. What is hard to understand, though, is why our gracious and loving God does not seem to hear our many cries for help! No matter where in the world you live, your physical well being (the very life that God has given you) is threatened with each new day, and there seems to be no end in sight. This is the very reason, my dear friends, that we must take our concerns to the LORD, for His sovereignty allows Him to see and hear all the cries of His people (Psalm 34:15), and it is only through our faith and trust in Him that we will ever find the kind of peace that will help us persevere in this confusing and difficult life journey with joy in our hearts and the hope of better things to come (Romans 5:1-2).
The LORD God is the Creator. We were created for His purpose and to give Him glory. If we are to remain steadfast in His purpose, we must believe that “God is in control.” Our Father in heaven gives us all that we need to know—all that we can handle in this life. He desires that we come to Him with our concerns and question Him for knowledge and understanding, but what He does not want us to do; is to question His sovereignty.
Remember, my friends, we are all destined to suffer in this life, just as our Lord Jesus suffered, and just as Jesus was raised into eternal life with a new and glorious heavenly body, so will you if you would only believe and trust in Him no matter what this fallen world does! For you will not only find joy in this Truth, but He will also give you great strength and the peace (Psalm 29:11) to wait patiently for His return.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
I hear your cry…My dear child, and I know all the difficulties you and My world faces. I Am the Creator and you must believe in Me and My purposes, for they are good and just. And as long as you cry out to Me, your Savior, I will give you all that you need to remain steadfast in your faith. Never doubt that all of My promises will remain true and that My faithful ones will surely share in the Glory that is due when My purposes are fulfilled.
Psalm 34:15
The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. (NAS)
Romans 5:1-2
Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. (NLT)
Psalm 29:11
The LORD will give strength to His people.
The LORD will bless His people with peace.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
The Truth
Micah 6:8
He has told you, O man, what is good;
And what does the LORD require of you
But to do justice, and to love kindness,
And to walk humbly with your God? (NAS)
We have such a gracious God (2 Chronicles 30:9), my dear friends; for He has never held back those things that bring about “right living” which not only pleases Him, but ourselves and others as well. The LORD our God gives us all that we need to live a righteous life in this world so that we can enjoy a holy life with Him forever in the next.
Is it such a difficult formula to understand? Is it so hard to act justly and show kindness to others? Is it possible to accept that there is a Power much greater than our own—a higher, Divine Power who is in control of our lives, and One we must bow down to?
None of these things takes someone of superior intelligence to comprehend, but it is because of our sin and prideful nature that these very things become extremely difficult to believe and act upon. Unfortunately, for those people who have never heard the words of God, the world is in control and it is the world that they submit to. For those who deny the existence of God, it is survival of the fittest that fuels their motivation. And for those who believe in God but refuse His sovereignty, they become their own gods and believe it is their right to control others for their own personal gain.
Believe this, my friends; that Satan, the ruler of all evil, has much power and control over our world, and has succeeded in deceiving many of its inhabitants into believing that God is dead and His Truth is not really the truth at all (1 John 2:22) . Too many people today believe that they have only one chance at life and, therefore, they must achieve all that they can while they can and sadly, if anyone stands in their way, they discard them and continue on with their quest with little or no remorse at all.
The ways of this world stand against the very fiber of God’s Being (Psalm 145:17), but when the His love fills your heart, you will find that acting justly with lovingkindness is the better way and when you walk humbly in faith, our loving and gracious LORD will honor that and bestow upon you the blessings of an eternal lifetime of peace and joy!
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Come to Me…dear child, for I will show you the Way which leads to life. The ways of this fallen world are deceiving in their nature and will rob you of the life I have promised you. Don’t believe in the lies of the Enemy and his followers, because they may sound sweet to the ears but they are poison for your soul. Be humble, My child, and know that I Am your God. I went to the Cross for you. I paid the final price for your freedom. Hold tightly to this Truth and let it shine for all to see!
2 Chronicles 39:9
“For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful
and will not turn away His face from you, if you return to Him.” (ESV)
1 John 2:22
And who is the great liar? The one who says that Jesus is not the Christ. Such people are antichrists, for they have denied the Father and the Son. (NLT)
Psalm 145:17
The LORD is righteous in all His ways
and kind in all His works. (ESV)
He has told you, O man, what is good;
And what does the LORD require of you
But to do justice, and to love kindness,
And to walk humbly with your God? (NAS)
We have such a gracious God (2 Chronicles 30:9), my dear friends; for He has never held back those things that bring about “right living” which not only pleases Him, but ourselves and others as well. The LORD our God gives us all that we need to live a righteous life in this world so that we can enjoy a holy life with Him forever in the next.
Is it such a difficult formula to understand? Is it so hard to act justly and show kindness to others? Is it possible to accept that there is a Power much greater than our own—a higher, Divine Power who is in control of our lives, and One we must bow down to?
None of these things takes someone of superior intelligence to comprehend, but it is because of our sin and prideful nature that these very things become extremely difficult to believe and act upon. Unfortunately, for those people who have never heard the words of God, the world is in control and it is the world that they submit to. For those who deny the existence of God, it is survival of the fittest that fuels their motivation. And for those who believe in God but refuse His sovereignty, they become their own gods and believe it is their right to control others for their own personal gain.
Believe this, my friends; that Satan, the ruler of all evil, has much power and control over our world, and has succeeded in deceiving many of its inhabitants into believing that God is dead and His Truth is not really the truth at all (1 John 2:22) . Too many people today believe that they have only one chance at life and, therefore, they must achieve all that they can while they can and sadly, if anyone stands in their way, they discard them and continue on with their quest with little or no remorse at all.
The ways of this world stand against the very fiber of God’s Being (Psalm 145:17), but when the His love fills your heart, you will find that acting justly with lovingkindness is the better way and when you walk humbly in faith, our loving and gracious LORD will honor that and bestow upon you the blessings of an eternal lifetime of peace and joy!
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Come to Me…dear child, for I will show you the Way which leads to life. The ways of this fallen world are deceiving in their nature and will rob you of the life I have promised you. Don’t believe in the lies of the Enemy and his followers, because they may sound sweet to the ears but they are poison for your soul. Be humble, My child, and know that I Am your God. I went to the Cross for you. I paid the final price for your freedom. Hold tightly to this Truth and let it shine for all to see!
2 Chronicles 39:9
“For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful
and will not turn away His face from you, if you return to Him.” (ESV)
1 John 2:22
And who is the great liar? The one who says that Jesus is not the Christ. Such people are antichrists, for they have denied the Father and the Son. (NLT)
Psalm 145:17
The LORD is righteous in all His ways
and kind in all His works. (ESV)
Monday, September 20, 2010
The Grace of Hope
Joel 2:21, 23
Don’t be afraid, my people! Be glad now and rejoice
because the LORD has done great things.
Rejoice in the LORD your God! For the rains He sends
are an expression of His grace. (NLT)
I think I can speak for the multitudes of people around the world when I say that it is not hard for the world we live in to discourage and get us down, and that Christian people are certainly not immune to the hardships of living in a fallen world. I believe that when it comes to the perseverance of trials in this hard and difficult life, the most obvious difference between people who are Christians and those who are not is this: the Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit and has the only Hope for a better tomorrow, which is (in this day and time) a reason to truly rejoice. And the reason Christians world wide can rejoice and be glad, my friends, is because they can confidently live each and everyday relying on God’s unending grace; for they have learned that relying on the world’s view for hope is not only disappointing, but has devastating consequences as well.
When people begin to know and understand the Christian Faith, they start relying on God’s sovereignty (instead of their own abilities) to get them through the difficult choices that must be made, for they know and believe that He does great and amazing things for those who put their trust in Him. We live in a world of uncertainties that threaten us everyday of our lives, but this should not keep you discouraged and fearful, dear friends, because just as the rain God sends to sustains us, so do the everyday miracles of His gracious favor. By trusting and relying on the LORD our God, there is really no need to fear this world (Psalm 27:1) and what it can do to you, because no matter what your circumstances may be, the Lord’s grace will always be more than sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9), and nothing can ever separate you from His unconditional, abounding love (Romans 8:38-39).
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Walk boldly with Me…my child, for when you do My Light will shine through the heavy darkness which surrounds you. Do not be afraid and live in fear, because this will not only take away the joy of living, but it also robs you of the joyful hope for an amazing future. Oh, the plans I have for you, dear child, plans that you cannot imagine—plans that have no end!
Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid? (ESV)
2 Corinthians 12:9
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you,
for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (ESV)
Romans 8:38
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from His love. Death can’t, and life can’t. The angels can’t, and the demons can’t. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can’t keep God’s love away. (NLT)
Don’t be afraid, my people! Be glad now and rejoice
because the LORD has done great things.
Rejoice in the LORD your God! For the rains He sends
are an expression of His grace. (NLT)
I think I can speak for the multitudes of people around the world when I say that it is not hard for the world we live in to discourage and get us down, and that Christian people are certainly not immune to the hardships of living in a fallen world. I believe that when it comes to the perseverance of trials in this hard and difficult life, the most obvious difference between people who are Christians and those who are not is this: the Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit and has the only Hope for a better tomorrow, which is (in this day and time) a reason to truly rejoice. And the reason Christians world wide can rejoice and be glad, my friends, is because they can confidently live each and everyday relying on God’s unending grace; for they have learned that relying on the world’s view for hope is not only disappointing, but has devastating consequences as well.
When people begin to know and understand the Christian Faith, they start relying on God’s sovereignty (instead of their own abilities) to get them through the difficult choices that must be made, for they know and believe that He does great and amazing things for those who put their trust in Him. We live in a world of uncertainties that threaten us everyday of our lives, but this should not keep you discouraged and fearful, dear friends, because just as the rain God sends to sustains us, so do the everyday miracles of His gracious favor. By trusting and relying on the LORD our God, there is really no need to fear this world (Psalm 27:1) and what it can do to you, because no matter what your circumstances may be, the Lord’s grace will always be more than sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9), and nothing can ever separate you from His unconditional, abounding love (Romans 8:38-39).
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Walk boldly with Me…my child, for when you do My Light will shine through the heavy darkness which surrounds you. Do not be afraid and live in fear, because this will not only take away the joy of living, but it also robs you of the joyful hope for an amazing future. Oh, the plans I have for you, dear child, plans that you cannot imagine—plans that have no end!
Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid? (ESV)
2 Corinthians 12:9
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you,
for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (ESV)
Romans 8:38
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from His love. Death can’t, and life can’t. The angels can’t, and the demons can’t. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can’t keep God’s love away. (NLT)
Sunday, September 12, 2010
A God Unlike Any Other
Isaiah 64:4, 8
For since the world began, no ear has heard,
and no eye has seen a God like You,
who works for those who wait for Him!
And yet, LORD, you are our Father.
We are the clay, and You are the potter.
We are all formed by Your hand. (NLT)
We can choose to believe it or not, but the LORD Almighty is the God and Creator of everything that exists. And unlike everything else that He has made, our God specially created us as His children by breathing the Spirit of life into our souls. (Genesis 2:7).
Although God chose Abraham to father the nation of Israel to be His people (Genesis 17:5), we are all children of the Sovereign God who takes a personal interest in every person that He forms with His hands. Our God has always been and always will be a relational being. And because He is a Father who does what is best for His children, He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ to be the Perfect Sacrificial Lamb so that all believers, both Jewish and Gentile, can share in the inheritance He has promised.
We have, my friends, a majestic Father in Heaven who has created a universe so big that it will take an eternity to discover it all. We also have a God who is unlike any other god, for His Spirit is alive in everyone who calls Him “Abba” and because of His great love for us; He has chosen to share the glory of His inheritance with His children. (Romans 8:15-17).
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
You are My child…and I love you as if you were My only one. There is nothing that can separate my love from you. I formed you in your mother’s womb, making each cell that became who you are. You are as unique as you are special. I have provided everything that you will need to live in this life as well as in the next. So never doubt, my child, for I Am who I say I Am, and by believing in this, you will share in the inheritance that has been set aside for you alone.
Genesis 2:7
Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground.
He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man
became a living person. (NLT)
Genesis 17:5, 7
“What’s more, I am changing your name. It will no longer be Abram; now you will be known as Abraham, for you will be the father of many nations.
I will continue this everlasting covenant between us, generation after generation. It will continue between me and your offspring forever. And I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you. (NLT)
Romans 8:15-17
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry our, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. (NKJ)
For since the world began, no ear has heard,
and no eye has seen a God like You,
who works for those who wait for Him!
And yet, LORD, you are our Father.
We are the clay, and You are the potter.
We are all formed by Your hand. (NLT)
We can choose to believe it or not, but the LORD Almighty is the God and Creator of everything that exists. And unlike everything else that He has made, our God specially created us as His children by breathing the Spirit of life into our souls. (Genesis 2:7).
Although God chose Abraham to father the nation of Israel to be His people (Genesis 17:5), we are all children of the Sovereign God who takes a personal interest in every person that He forms with His hands. Our God has always been and always will be a relational being. And because He is a Father who does what is best for His children, He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ to be the Perfect Sacrificial Lamb so that all believers, both Jewish and Gentile, can share in the inheritance He has promised.
We have, my friends, a majestic Father in Heaven who has created a universe so big that it will take an eternity to discover it all. We also have a God who is unlike any other god, for His Spirit is alive in everyone who calls Him “Abba” and because of His great love for us; He has chosen to share the glory of His inheritance with His children. (Romans 8:15-17).
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
You are My child…and I love you as if you were My only one. There is nothing that can separate my love from you. I formed you in your mother’s womb, making each cell that became who you are. You are as unique as you are special. I have provided everything that you will need to live in this life as well as in the next. So never doubt, my child, for I Am who I say I Am, and by believing in this, you will share in the inheritance that has been set aside for you alone.
Genesis 2:7
Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground.
He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man
became a living person. (NLT)
Genesis 17:5, 7
“What’s more, I am changing your name. It will no longer be Abram; now you will be known as Abraham, for you will be the father of many nations.
I will continue this everlasting covenant between us, generation after generation. It will continue between me and your offspring forever. And I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you. (NLT)
Romans 8:15-17
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry our, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. (NKJ)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Isaiah 57:15
The high and lofty One who inhabits eternity, the Holy One, says this:
“I live in that high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite
and humble. I refresh the humble and give new courage to those with
repentant hearts.” (NLT)
Our God is a faithful God, my friends, One who does everything He promises His children (Deuteronomy 7:9). Knowing that the God of all creation is always faithful with His children as He closely watches over them, is indeed refreshing, especially in this dark and troubling world that wants to swallow you up. When we humbly admit that our hearts are wicked by nature and that we need God’s forgiveness and grace to change, our gracious and loving God will not only comfort us, but give us both the courage and strength( Psalm 46:1) to fight the battle for our souls. Having a deep desire to change our hearts and minds so that we can life a godly life that brings glory to God in the highest is not an easy task for anyone, especially for those of us who have lived most of our lives apart from God. Changing the way we think and act from a world view to a godly view can be a difficult journey indeed, for the evil that consumes this world is a powerful force to be reckoned with, and one that is very hard to break away from.
My dear friends, our Mighty Lord promises us victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:57), but in order to secure this promise we must rely on Him for the courage and strength, because our own abilities will never sustain us in battle. Let Him, your Redeemer and Refresher, do what only He can do—give you renewed hope when you fail, and the courage to walk humbly in faith knowing that the victory is yours.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Rely on Me…My dear child, for I will never fail you nor will I ever forsake you. I will refresh you with the Living Water that sustains you, for I know the weariness this life-journey brings you. Take My hand and walk Home with Me, child, for there is no One else that knows the Way. And there is no One else who can provide everything you will need for this difficult and dangerous journey to the Home where you truly belong!
Deuteronomy 7:7
“Know therefore that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God, who deeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments.” (NASB)
Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble. (NLT)
1 Corinthians 15:57
How we thank God, who gives us victory over sin and death
through Jesus Christ our Lord! (NLT)
The high and lofty One who inhabits eternity, the Holy One, says this:
“I live in that high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite
and humble. I refresh the humble and give new courage to those with
repentant hearts.” (NLT)
Our God is a faithful God, my friends, One who does everything He promises His children (Deuteronomy 7:9). Knowing that the God of all creation is always faithful with His children as He closely watches over them, is indeed refreshing, especially in this dark and troubling world that wants to swallow you up. When we humbly admit that our hearts are wicked by nature and that we need God’s forgiveness and grace to change, our gracious and loving God will not only comfort us, but give us both the courage and strength( Psalm 46:1) to fight the battle for our souls. Having a deep desire to change our hearts and minds so that we can life a godly life that brings glory to God in the highest is not an easy task for anyone, especially for those of us who have lived most of our lives apart from God. Changing the way we think and act from a world view to a godly view can be a difficult journey indeed, for the evil that consumes this world is a powerful force to be reckoned with, and one that is very hard to break away from.
My dear friends, our Mighty Lord promises us victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:57), but in order to secure this promise we must rely on Him for the courage and strength, because our own abilities will never sustain us in battle. Let Him, your Redeemer and Refresher, do what only He can do—give you renewed hope when you fail, and the courage to walk humbly in faith knowing that the victory is yours.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Rely on Me…My dear child, for I will never fail you nor will I ever forsake you. I will refresh you with the Living Water that sustains you, for I know the weariness this life-journey brings you. Take My hand and walk Home with Me, child, for there is no One else that knows the Way. And there is no One else who can provide everything you will need for this difficult and dangerous journey to the Home where you truly belong!
Deuteronomy 7:7
“Know therefore that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God, who deeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments.” (NASB)
Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble. (NLT)
1 Corinthians 15:57
How we thank God, who gives us victory over sin and death
through Jesus Christ our Lord! (NLT)
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Faithful and Righteous Is He
September 4, 2010
Psalm 145:13, 14
The LORD is faithful in all He says;
He is gracious in all He does.
The LORD helps the fallen
and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
I have heard that the Christian faith is nothing more than a crutch to lean upon (Halleluiah!) or a cop-out when things get tough. What many non-believers do not seem to get is that we humans are extremely weak and fragile when compared to the reality of this fallen world, which is ruled by the seen and unseen forces that hate God and everything He stands for, and that we all need something greater than ourselves or anything the world has to offer when this reality shows its ugly head (2 Peter 1:2-4).
As God’s created beings, we depend on Him for everything we need to sustain us, both our physical needs as well as our spiritual needs (Acts 17:25). It is only by His grace that we have everything we need (2 Corinthians 12:9) and it is out of His abundant love that He watches over us (including those who want nothing to do with Him or His ways). Much like a human creator does with his creation, our sovereign God, even more so, carefully puts us together with His loving hands wanting only the best for His people by perfecting in us what we were intended to do; and that, my friends, is giving Him glory in all that we do. And we can be assured that when something goes wrong, He is right there doing what He does best—fixing us, the most precious of all His amazing creation, so that we can, one day, share in His Majestic Glory.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
You are…the most precious of all My creation and I will care for you above all else. But in order for Me to do this you must pledge your allegiance to Me, alone. Remember, My child, the world hated me first and will continue to do so, but fear not, for I have overcome the world and will protect you until its time for you to come Home. Remember, my child, that I Am not only your Provider, but your Redeemer as well, and all that I promise is true—even in the midst your darkest hour.
2 Peter 1:2-4
As we know Jesus better, His divine power gives us everything we need for living a godly life. He has called us to receive His own glory and goodness! And by that same mighty power, He has given us all of His rich and wonderful promises. He has promised that you will escape the decadence all around you caused by evil desires and that you will share in His Divine Nature. (NLT)
Acts 17:25
He Himself gives life and breath to everything,
and He satisfies every need there is. (NLT)
2 Corinthians 12:9
“My gracious favor is all you need.” (NLT)
Friday, September 3, 2010
Seek Him While He Is Near
Isaiah 55:6
Seek the LORD while you can find Him.
Call on Him while He is near.
Let the people turn from their wicked deeds.
Let them banish from their minds the very thought of doing wrong!
Let them turn to the LORD that He may have mercy on them.
Yes, turn to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. (NLT)
With all the uncertainties we face in this life and with all the untruths that are thrown at us, there is One Truth that stands apart from all others; that the Lord our God will not always be near and available for us (Romans 13:12), for once our earthly bodies die, so does our ability to find a Savior who will snatch us out of the grips of Satan and put us in the everlasting, loving arms of God. Because the dominion of the Devil is such a driving force in our world, it becomes extremely hard for people to discern what is true and what is not (Ephesians 6:12). And since we all have within us a sinful nature that is prone to side with what is wrong, we start thinking that wrong is right, for the Devil is the best at what he does, and that is… deceiving God’s people.
Do you know for certain that you will be alive tomorrow? Have you made a conscience effort to find the whole Truth? If not, there is no better time than now, for tomorrow may never come your way. The Lord our God wants no one to suffer His final wrath upon a world gone bad, so He gives us time to make a choice, but the time my friends, will one day run out without notice ( Luke 12:40), and so will the opportunity of an eternal lifetime.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Believe in Me…my child, for My Word speaks nothing but the truth. You have made the right choice and because of this, I will bring you home where you belong. And now that you know the way home, I need you to shine with gladness and point the Way for all to see. Knowing the Truth is never an easy route to follow, but its finial destination is one that is well worth the journey!
Romans 13:12
The night is almost gone, and the day is near.
Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness
and put on the armor of light. (NASB)
Ephesians 6:12
For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. (NLT)
Luke 12:40
“You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming
at an hour that you do not expect." (NASB)
Seek the LORD while you can find Him.
Call on Him while He is near.
Let the people turn from their wicked deeds.
Let them banish from their minds the very thought of doing wrong!
Let them turn to the LORD that He may have mercy on them.
Yes, turn to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. (NLT)
With all the uncertainties we face in this life and with all the untruths that are thrown at us, there is One Truth that stands apart from all others; that the Lord our God will not always be near and available for us (Romans 13:12), for once our earthly bodies die, so does our ability to find a Savior who will snatch us out of the grips of Satan and put us in the everlasting, loving arms of God. Because the dominion of the Devil is such a driving force in our world, it becomes extremely hard for people to discern what is true and what is not (Ephesians 6:12). And since we all have within us a sinful nature that is prone to side with what is wrong, we start thinking that wrong is right, for the Devil is the best at what he does, and that is… deceiving God’s people.
Do you know for certain that you will be alive tomorrow? Have you made a conscience effort to find the whole Truth? If not, there is no better time than now, for tomorrow may never come your way. The Lord our God wants no one to suffer His final wrath upon a world gone bad, so He gives us time to make a choice, but the time my friends, will one day run out without notice ( Luke 12:40), and so will the opportunity of an eternal lifetime.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Believe in Me…my child, for My Word speaks nothing but the truth. You have made the right choice and because of this, I will bring you home where you belong. And now that you know the way home, I need you to shine with gladness and point the Way for all to see. Knowing the Truth is never an easy route to follow, but its finial destination is one that is well worth the journey!
Romans 13:12
The night is almost gone, and the day is near.
Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness
and put on the armor of light. (NASB)
Ephesians 6:12
For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. (NLT)
Luke 12:40
“You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming
at an hour that you do not expect." (NASB)
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Our Teacher
August 26, 2010
Isaiah 48:16-17
Come closer and listen. I have always told you plainly
what would happen so you would have no trouble understanding.
And now the Sovereign LORD and His Spirit have sent me with this message:
The LORD your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, says; I am the LORD your God,
who teaches you what is good and leads you along the paths you should follow. (NLT)
The LORD our God created us to walk in His presence as Adam and Eve did in the garden. He wanted to draw us close to Himself as a Father is to his children. But because sin entered into the picture we can no longer walk in His presence, for He is a Holy God and cannot co-exist with sin and ungodliness. But because of His great love for us He sent His Son, the Holy Spirit, and His Holy Word to guide us in our life-journey so that we could once again stand in His presence and be His children.
When we humbly ask God to forgive us our sins, He does. When we ask Him to transform our lives, He will. When we ask Jesus Christ to be the Lord of our lives, He becomes our Shepherd. When we ask Him to create in us a new life and free us from the bondage of sin, He unleashes His Mighty Power to redeem us!
When I turned my life over to God, He opened my eyes so I could see and softened my heart so I could understand the world around me. And amazingly, the Holy Spirit gave me the ability to discern His truth from the lies of the world—lies that pull us deeper into darkness to hide the Truth. When I humbly decided to trust God with my life, He slowly and lovingly revealed the Truth and began to teach me all that I needed to transform my old sin filled life of darkness into a brand new life filled with the Light of God’s glory. Understand this, my friends; Our awesome God, the LORD Almighty, is all knowing (1 John 3:20) and stands for everything that is good (Luke 18:19) and holy (Isaiah 6:3). And when we follow the ways of our LORD, we are assured an abundant life that will richly prepare us for an eternal life of fellowship with the Father of Life; forever walking in His presence as His children and He…forever being our God—A bond that will never again be broken!
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Yes, My child…listen closely for My voice, for when you hear Me calling, you must follow the path I have chosen for you. You live in a dangerous world, dear one, and you need Me to lead you safely home. The journey will be as tough as it is uncertain, but your struggles and pain will shape your eternal character and prepare you for a heavenly journey unlike anything you can ever imagine!
1 John 3:20
For God is greater than our hearts and He knows everything. (NLT)
Luke 18:19
“Only God is truly good.” (NLT)
Isaiah 6:3
“Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of hosts,
The whole earth is full of His glory.” (NASB)
Isaiah 48:16-17
Come closer and listen. I have always told you plainly
what would happen so you would have no trouble understanding.
And now the Sovereign LORD and His Spirit have sent me with this message:
The LORD your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, says; I am the LORD your God,
who teaches you what is good and leads you along the paths you should follow. (NLT)
The LORD our God created us to walk in His presence as Adam and Eve did in the garden. He wanted to draw us close to Himself as a Father is to his children. But because sin entered into the picture we can no longer walk in His presence, for He is a Holy God and cannot co-exist with sin and ungodliness. But because of His great love for us He sent His Son, the Holy Spirit, and His Holy Word to guide us in our life-journey so that we could once again stand in His presence and be His children.
When we humbly ask God to forgive us our sins, He does. When we ask Him to transform our lives, He will. When we ask Jesus Christ to be the Lord of our lives, He becomes our Shepherd. When we ask Him to create in us a new life and free us from the bondage of sin, He unleashes His Mighty Power to redeem us!
When I turned my life over to God, He opened my eyes so I could see and softened my heart so I could understand the world around me. And amazingly, the Holy Spirit gave me the ability to discern His truth from the lies of the world—lies that pull us deeper into darkness to hide the Truth. When I humbly decided to trust God with my life, He slowly and lovingly revealed the Truth and began to teach me all that I needed to transform my old sin filled life of darkness into a brand new life filled with the Light of God’s glory. Understand this, my friends; Our awesome God, the LORD Almighty, is all knowing (1 John 3:20) and stands for everything that is good (Luke 18:19) and holy (Isaiah 6:3). And when we follow the ways of our LORD, we are assured an abundant life that will richly prepare us for an eternal life of fellowship with the Father of Life; forever walking in His presence as His children and He…forever being our God—A bond that will never again be broken!
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Yes, My child…listen closely for My voice, for when you hear Me calling, you must follow the path I have chosen for you. You live in a dangerous world, dear one, and you need Me to lead you safely home. The journey will be as tough as it is uncertain, but your struggles and pain will shape your eternal character and prepare you for a heavenly journey unlike anything you can ever imagine!
1 John 3:20
For God is greater than our hearts and He knows everything. (NLT)
Luke 18:19
“Only God is truly good.” (NLT)
Isaiah 6:3
“Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of hosts,
The whole earth is full of His glory.” (NASB)
Listen To Me
August 28, 2010
Isaiah 46:3-4
Listen to Me, all you who are left in Israel.
I created you and have cared for you since before you were born.
I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age.
I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. (NLT)
These words spoken by the only true Living God were not only for His people Israel to hear at the time, but they are also meant to be heard by all people throughout the ages—both those who put their hope and trust in the Lord God, their Creator, and also for all those who have been deceived into putting their hope and trust in the many man made gods of this world.
As God’s created people we must come to the realization that we were created by God (Genesis 1:27) and for God (Colossians 1:16). We must humbly except that we are powerless against the forces that rule this world and when we separate ourselves from God we are guaranteeing our failure no matter how successful we become in the eyes of the world. We were created above all else to proclaim the Glory of God. Our sole purpose is to live for God in ways that bring Him glory and the only way we can accomplish this purpose is by opening our hearts and minds to the Truth and live accordingly. And when we live for God, He will draw us close and protect us (James 4:7, 8). As a recipient of God’s promises I can proclaim that apart from the Living God our lives are free game for the world’s gods to conquer and destroy.
I lived 55 years believing and trusting in the world’s ways and it left me feeling empty and hopeless and a sorry excuse for a human being. My life was filled with darkness and I sinned against God and others to escape the pain of hopelessness and defeat. But when I redirected my focus and put my hope and trust in the One who created me, He gave me the confidence to face the world as it is, knowing that this life, with all its trials and tribulations, is controlled by its Maker and as long as I trusted in God’s sovereignty and purpose I could not go wrong. And now that my hair is gray and I’m getting closer to the end of this life, I have peace and joy in my heart no matter how this fallen world tries its best to discourage me into believing that there is no God, especially One who loves and cares for His people.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Trust in Me…My child, and put your faith in My Promise. For when you do…I become our Protector and I keep you from falling into the hands of Satan and his fallen world. All that I promise holds true and your only hope is in Me, your Savior! You can sleep in peace, dear child, knowing that I will get you safely Home!
Genesis 1:27
God created man in His own image,
in the image of God He created him;
male and female He created them. (NLT)
Colossians 1:16
For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth,
visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—
all things have been created through Him and for Him. (NSAB)
James 4:7, 8
Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (NLT)
Isaiah 46:3-4
Listen to Me, all you who are left in Israel.
I created you and have cared for you since before you were born.
I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age.
I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. (NLT)
These words spoken by the only true Living God were not only for His people Israel to hear at the time, but they are also meant to be heard by all people throughout the ages—both those who put their hope and trust in the Lord God, their Creator, and also for all those who have been deceived into putting their hope and trust in the many man made gods of this world.
As God’s created people we must come to the realization that we were created by God (Genesis 1:27) and for God (Colossians 1:16). We must humbly except that we are powerless against the forces that rule this world and when we separate ourselves from God we are guaranteeing our failure no matter how successful we become in the eyes of the world. We were created above all else to proclaim the Glory of God. Our sole purpose is to live for God in ways that bring Him glory and the only way we can accomplish this purpose is by opening our hearts and minds to the Truth and live accordingly. And when we live for God, He will draw us close and protect us (James 4:7, 8). As a recipient of God’s promises I can proclaim that apart from the Living God our lives are free game for the world’s gods to conquer and destroy.
I lived 55 years believing and trusting in the world’s ways and it left me feeling empty and hopeless and a sorry excuse for a human being. My life was filled with darkness and I sinned against God and others to escape the pain of hopelessness and defeat. But when I redirected my focus and put my hope and trust in the One who created me, He gave me the confidence to face the world as it is, knowing that this life, with all its trials and tribulations, is controlled by its Maker and as long as I trusted in God’s sovereignty and purpose I could not go wrong. And now that my hair is gray and I’m getting closer to the end of this life, I have peace and joy in my heart no matter how this fallen world tries its best to discourage me into believing that there is no God, especially One who loves and cares for His people.
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
Trust in Me…My child, and put your faith in My Promise. For when you do…I become our Protector and I keep you from falling into the hands of Satan and his fallen world. All that I promise holds true and your only hope is in Me, your Savior! You can sleep in peace, dear child, knowing that I will get you safely Home!
Genesis 1:27
God created man in His own image,
in the image of God He created him;
male and female He created them. (NLT)
Colossians 1:16
For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth,
visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—
all things have been created through Him and for Him. (NSAB)
James 4:7, 8
Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (NLT)
You Know Me, Yet You Love Me
August 29, 2010
Psalm 139:1
O LORD, you have examined my heart
and know everything about me. (NLT)
Our sovereign LORD is as much a personal God to us as He is perfect. He is not a God who stands apart from His creation, but a loving and merciful God who only wants the best for His people (Isaiah 62:5). I find it amazing that with all of the Lord’s wisdom and power and greatness that He even takes the time to know each one of us personally and puts into place those things that we need and are best for our salvation (Hebrews 4:16). We are all unique beings with our own personal cross we must bear—one that is made to fit our strength, and one that we can manage with the help of our LORD who knows first hand what its like to carry the weight of a cross so heavily burdened with all the sins of the world that only He, our Mighty LORD and Savior, could bear and live through it. How wonderful it is to have a God who knows us fully and yet, loves us so dearly with a love so great that He allowed mere men to humiliate Him, the Creator, and be nailed to a wooden cross to die.
I spent a good deal of my life despising some of those hidden things about myself that I could not share with anyone, not even with the One who created me. To be honest, I thought that these areas of my life where hidden so deep that even God Himself had no idea what they were. And with each day the burdens of guilt and shame I had to carry kept getting heavier and heavier until eventually they took their toll and I collapsed under the weight. But while I was laying in the muck of my life, buried in the burdens that were suffocating me and oblivious to the grace of God, the LORD reached down at the last moment to pull me up and slowly, one by one, began to remove those burdens that had wearied me to the brink of death. My dear friends, we were not meant to carry our burdens alone, for when we do, they always become too great for us to bear. I cannot explain what a relief I find in knowing that our God is someone I can trust with my deepest and darkest moments; someone who not only has the power, but is always willing to remove any and all of those burdens that tend to weigh me down and threaten my life.
We have a loving God, my friends, who loves us in spite of all our deep dark secrets and He is a God who will never change (Malachi 3:6).
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
I know you fully, My child…even better than you know yourself. I know what is good for you and what is not. I know all those things which cause you shame; things you try to hide in the dark. There is no need to hide from me, for I love you and I am here to help you. You can do nothing that surprises or shocks me, for I can handle all things, including everything that burdens you down. Do not be afraid in the dark, my dear one, for these things I say to you are not only true, but they are also strong and forever as well!
Isaiah 62:5
And as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride,
so your God will rejoice over you. (NASB)
Hebrews 4:16
Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace,
so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (NASB)
Malachi 3:6
For I, the LORD, do not change. (NASB)
Psalm 139:1
O LORD, you have examined my heart
and know everything about me. (NLT)
Our sovereign LORD is as much a personal God to us as He is perfect. He is not a God who stands apart from His creation, but a loving and merciful God who only wants the best for His people (Isaiah 62:5). I find it amazing that with all of the Lord’s wisdom and power and greatness that He even takes the time to know each one of us personally and puts into place those things that we need and are best for our salvation (Hebrews 4:16). We are all unique beings with our own personal cross we must bear—one that is made to fit our strength, and one that we can manage with the help of our LORD who knows first hand what its like to carry the weight of a cross so heavily burdened with all the sins of the world that only He, our Mighty LORD and Savior, could bear and live through it. How wonderful it is to have a God who knows us fully and yet, loves us so dearly with a love so great that He allowed mere men to humiliate Him, the Creator, and be nailed to a wooden cross to die.
I spent a good deal of my life despising some of those hidden things about myself that I could not share with anyone, not even with the One who created me. To be honest, I thought that these areas of my life where hidden so deep that even God Himself had no idea what they were. And with each day the burdens of guilt and shame I had to carry kept getting heavier and heavier until eventually they took their toll and I collapsed under the weight. But while I was laying in the muck of my life, buried in the burdens that were suffocating me and oblivious to the grace of God, the LORD reached down at the last moment to pull me up and slowly, one by one, began to remove those burdens that had wearied me to the brink of death. My dear friends, we were not meant to carry our burdens alone, for when we do, they always become too great for us to bear. I cannot explain what a relief I find in knowing that our God is someone I can trust with my deepest and darkest moments; someone who not only has the power, but is always willing to remove any and all of those burdens that tend to weigh me down and threaten my life.
We have a loving God, my friends, who loves us in spite of all our deep dark secrets and He is a God who will never change (Malachi 3:6).
Truth That Speaks To My Heart
I know you fully, My child…even better than you know yourself. I know what is good for you and what is not. I know all those things which cause you shame; things you try to hide in the dark. There is no need to hide from me, for I love you and I am here to help you. You can do nothing that surprises or shocks me, for I can handle all things, including everything that burdens you down. Do not be afraid in the dark, my dear one, for these things I say to you are not only true, but they are also strong and forever as well!
Isaiah 62:5
And as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride,
so your God will rejoice over you. (NASB)
Hebrews 4:16
Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace,
so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (NASB)
Malachi 3:6
For I, the LORD, do not change. (NASB)
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