• About

Bible Ballistics

~ A WordPress.com site

Bible Ballistics

Category Archives: Follow Jesus

The ONE Who Never Fails??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 12

14 Monday Feb 2022

Posted by Blanche in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, All About Jesus!, Discernment, Don't believe the Lies, Follow Jesus, For Such A Time As This, Gospel, Jesus Never Fails, True Gospel

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

1 Peter 1:13-16, 2 Peter 1:2-4, 2 Peter 3:10-11, 2 Timothy 3:12, Choose Wisely--there is a test!, Galatians 2:20, Gospel Truth, Hebrews 13:5-6, Hebrews 13:8, Hebrews 4:12-13, Jesus Never Fails, Jesus Saves!, John 14:6, John 15:20, John 3:16-21, Luke 13:3-5, Matthew 16:24-26, Matthew 1:21, Matthew 6:24, Matthew 7:13-14, Philippians 2:8-11, Romans 12:1-2, Trust Jesus not the lies

Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 12   The ONE Who Never Fails???

 

As I sit here writing this evening, I am using some notes I made earlier, for my heart is heavy with the disregard that we, as a nation, a culture, often even the church, seem to have for God, His Word, and the pursuit of holiness.  Holiness is an oft-neglected term in regard to the biblical principle, I’m referring to the nature of biblical “holiness”, not the denomination; for “holiness” is not just for those who belong to “Pentecostal” or “charismatic” churches, but rather it is the call to all who belong to Jesus!  And it breaks my heart that we are so neglectful of it.

“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind,

be sober,

and hope to the end

for the grace that is to be brought

unto you

at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

14 As obedient children,

not fashioning yourselves

according to the former lusts

in your ignorance:

15 But as he which hath called you is holy,

so be ye holy

in all manner of conversation;

16 Because it is written,

Be ye holy;

for I am holy.”  1 Peter 1:13-16

Peter reiterated this principle in his second letter, talking about the coming of The Lord and the judgment that HE will bring.

“But the day of the Lord

will come

as a thief in the night;

in the which

the heavens shall pass away with a great noise,

and the elements shall melt with fervent heat,

the earth also

and the works that are therein

shall be burned up.

11 Seeing then

that all these things shall be dissolved,

what manner of persons ought ye to be

in all holy conversation

and godliness,”  2 Peter 3:10-11

We hear a lot about the coming of Jesus for HIS own, but we seldom hear about the judgment that HE will exercise when HE comes! While believers will give an account of their deeds—not for salvation but in regard to rewards or lack thereof—the lost will have no recourse or second chance as they face Jesus as their judge (the redeemer they rejected) with no opportunity for grace, mercy, or salvation.  For as Paul made very clear in his letter to the Philippians, “every knee shall bow”!  For the question isn’t “will you bow”; no matter the disregard, despite, and disrespect that is shown to The Lord that we love and follow, every person “will bow” before Jesus—the ONE who has been appointed by God to save “whosoever will” come to the cross in repentance and faith in the substitutionary, atoning sacrifice that Jesus made for our SIN, and judge those who reject HIM!!  For sin IS the issue, and your choice matters.  (See 1 Corinthians 3:10-18, Romans 3:23, and Romans 6:23)

“And she shall bring forth a son,

and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people

from their sins.”  Matthew 1:21

Jesus came to save us “from” our sins, in contrast to the ever-popular gospel of today, which claims that Jesus will save us “IN” our sin!  Jesus Himself made clear the truth!

“I tell you, Nay:

but, except ye repent,

ye shall all likewise perish…

….5 I tell you, Nay:

but, except ye repent,

ye shall all likewise perish.”  Luke 13:3 & 5

And if we look at Paul’s declaration of truth to the Philippian believers we find the cost of our sin—Jesus’ death on the cross:

“And being found in fashion as a man,

he humbled himself,

and became obedient unto death,

even the death of the cross.

9 Wherefore God also hath

highly exalted him,

and given him a name

which is above every name:

10 That at the name of Jesus

every knee should bow,

of things in heaven,

and things in earth,

and things under the earth;

11 And that every tongue should confess

that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.”   Philippians 2:8-11

Oh, how my heart grieves for those who are buying into a gospel of ease, convenience, and popularity, instead of the gospel that Jesus calls us to:

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples,

If any man will come after me,

let him deny himself,

and take up his cross,

and follow me.

25 For whosoever will save his life

shall lose it:

and whosoever will lose his life

for my sake shall find it.

26 For what is a man profited,

if he shall gain the whole world,

and lose his own soul?

or what shall a man give

in exchange for his soul?”  Matthew 16:24-26

Those who follow Jesus are called to share in HIS suffering—oh NO!  Not suffering?  Yes, Jesus warned us that if we are truly following HIM there will be rejection, suffering and/or ridicule. Holiness and the “crucified life” are inseparable.

“Yea,

and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus

shall suffer persecution.”  2 Timothy 3:12

“I am crucified with Christ:

nevertheless I live;

yet not I,

but Christ liveth in me:

and the life which I now live in the flesh

I live by the faith of the Son of God,

who loved me,

and gave himself for me.”  Galatians 2:20

And Jesus own warning which is so often overlooked.

“Remember the word that I said unto you,

The servant is not greater than his lord.

If they have persecuted me,

they will also persecute you;

if they have kept my saying,

they will keep yours also.”  John 15:20

Salvation is expressed in “denying self”, “taking up our cross” and “following Jesus”—meeting Jesus at the cross—the place where HE died for your sin and mine!  But we are believing a lie when we hear and see a message that says that we can have Jesus and sin without recourse—Jesus says something different.

“No man can serve two masters:

for either he will hate the one,

and love the other;

or else he will hold to the one,

and despise the other.

Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”  Matthew 6:24

Yet, ‘many’ are tolerating a new gospel that says we can do what we want and still belong to Jesus.  Jesus said even more about this dichotomy of the “new” gospel of our day—there is only ONE way to God, and HIS name is Jesus—the ‘narrow way’!  Kind of gives you a different take on being “narrow minded”!

“Enter ye in at the strait gate:

for wide is the gate,

and broad is the way,

that leadeth to destruction,

and many there be

which go in thereat:

14 Because strait is the gate,

and narrow is the way,

which leadeth unto life,

and few there be that find it.”   Matthew 7:13-14

We seem to be overrun by the “many” culture—if it’s popular with the “many” it must be right—it must be ok.  Yet, Jesus says that the wide and broad way “leadeth to destruction” and it is chosen by the “many…. which go in thereat”!  How it grieves my heart that so many whom I love have bought into the lie.  They claim the name of Jesus yet go the “broad way” with no compunction for the holy things of God.  It’s popular to go with the crowd rather than the “narrow” way which is often a lonely road—but remember that Jesus walked up Calvary’s Hill alone for you and me!  Which way are you going?  I know I am considered “old fashioned”, but I truly believe that God hasn’t changed, and HIS Word still stands as the standard.  Neither politics, social media, or the corrupt entertainment industry set the standard—God has declared truth for HE IS truth, and The Word will be the standard of HIS judgment (Both the written & living Word).

“For the word of God is

quick,

and powerful,

and sharper than any twoedged sword,

piercing even to the dividing asunder

of soul

and spirit,

and of the joints

and marrow,

and is a discerner

of the thoughts

and intents

of the heart.

13 Neither is there any creature

that is not manifest in his sight:

but all things

are naked

and opened

unto the eyes of him

with whom we have to do.”   Hebrews 4:12-13

This Word of God has been, IS and ever will be the standard of judgment—always–whether you/I have accepted it today or not—and the judge’s name is JESUS—and HE IS the only way to God, and the One to whom every person shall answer!

“Jesus Christ

the same yesterday,

and to day,

and for ever.”  Hebrews 13:8

Jesus is The ONE who never fails.  Ever!  For HE IS TRUTH!

“Jesus saith unto him,

I am the way,

the truth,

and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father,

but by me.”  John 14:6

And HIS truth is still true whether you believe it, accept it, follow it, or not! Jesus made it clear to Nicodemus, the religious leader seeking truth, that He has the truth, but even more, HE IS the truth, and those who reject HIM will pay the consequence.  And you’ll pay that consequence–death, and hell–in spite of the fact that God loves you so much that HE gave Jesus to die in your place–if you fail to believe HIM and receive HIM into your heart.  (See Revelation 3:20)

“For God so loved the world,

that he gave his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have everlasting life.

17 For God sent not his Son into the world

to condemn the world;

but that the world through him

might be saved.

18 He that believeth on him

is not condemned:

but he that believeth not

is condemned already,

because he hath not believed

in the name of the only begotten

Son of God.

19 And this is the condemnation,

that light is come into the world,

and men loved darkness

rather than light,

because their deeds were evil.

20 For every one that doeth evil

hateth the light,

neither cometh to the light,

lest his deeds should be reproved.

21 But he that doeth truth

cometh to the light,

that his deeds may be made manifest,

that they are wrought in God.”    John 3:16-21

Jesus never fails—HE has paid the price for our sin; and for those who have chosen to believe and receive HIS gift of salvation, HE will never leave us or forsake us.  What are we willing to do, to be for HIM?  What are we willing to sacrifice for HIM?  Will we be found Holy or Unholy?  Which will you/I choose?

“I beseech you therefore, brethren,

by the mercies of God,

that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice,

holy,

acceptable unto God,

which is your reasonable service.

2 And be not conformed to this world:

but be ye transformed

by the renewing of your mind,

that ye may prove

what is that good,

and acceptable,

and perfect,

will of God.”  Romans 12:1-2

His promise to you and me is incomparable, and worthy of all our praise, devotion, and obedience.  But to obey, we must know what HE says, what HE asks, and know the power of HIS Holy Spirit who will provide all that we need for life and godliness.

“Grace and peace

be multiplied unto you

through the knowledge of God,

and of Jesus our Lord,

3 According as his divine power

hath given unto us all things

that pertain unto life

and godliness,

through the knowledge of him

that hath called us

to glory and virtue:

4 Whereby are given unto us

exceeding great

and precious promises:

that by these

ye might be partakers

of the divine nature,

having escaped the corruption

that is in the world

through lust.”  2 Peter 1:2-4

Will you/I live in the light of HIS promises or are we falling to the lusts of the world?  You and I may fail, but Jesus never will, and HE promises to walk with His own!  Who is your God?  Your King?  Which road are you taking?  It’s your choice but choose wisely there is a test.

“Let your conversation be without covetousness;

and be content

with such things as ye have:

for he hath said,

I will never leave thee,

nor forsake thee.

6 So that we may boldly say,

The Lord is my helper,

and I will not fear

what man shall do unto me.”  Hebrews 13:5-6

 

Amen and Amen!!!

 

Share this:

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest

Like this:

Like Loading...

Seizing Jesus, Or…..??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 11

06 Sunday Feb 2022

Posted by Blanche in Abiding In Jesus, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Amazing Grace, Before the foundation of the world, Believe IN Jesus, Fixing Our Eyes On Jesus, Follow Jesus, Full Of what?, seizing Jesus

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Deny Self...Follow Jesus, Ephesians 1:3-5, Hebrews 12:1-2, Jesus IS The Prize, John 1:12-13, Looking Unto Jesus, Philippians 3:13-14, Romans 8:27-31, Sieze Jesus at the Cross, Take Up YOUR Cross

Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 11   Seizing Jesus, Or……???

 

“Wherefore

seeing we also are compassed about

with so great a cloud of witnesses,

let us lay aside

every weight,

and the sin

which doth so easily beset us,

and let us run

with patience

the race

that is set before us,

2 Looking unto Jesus

the author

and finisher

of our faith;

who for the joy that was set before him

endured the cross,

despising the shame,

and is set down

at the right hand

of the throne of God.”   Hebrews 12:1-2

This is one of my favorite passages, for it is so chocked full of instructions that we can apply practically to our lives.  Hebrews 11 is nicknamed “The Hall of Faith” for it not only describes what faith “IS”—”the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”—it also tells us what ‘faith’ looks like in the lives of believers.  Yet, all the pictures aren’t the same, contrary to a lot of popular teaching; not everyone who is listed in this “Hall of Faith” was rich, not all were famous, some men, some women, children; and the last part of the chapter deals with those who suffered persecution, did without, died without fanfare but they loved their God, and HE found them faithful!  That’s what matters, not just what other people think of us!  While we are to care about and preserve our testimony, we are to do that by “looking unto Jesus”!  Why?  For a lot of reasons, but the author of Hebrews reminds us that Jesus IS the “author and finisher of our faith”—that’s reason enough!

That means more than just what HE did at Calvary, but also that it was God’s plan from “before the foundation of the world”—in other words, HE (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit) created us knowing that we would “sin” yet had already made a plan for our salvation that would cost “His only begotten Son” on a cruel Roman cross! All so that we could have life—abundant life here and eternal life with HIM later.  And in the interim (here on earth), we are instructed to remember those who set the examples that are mentioned in chapter 11, to “lay aside” the sin that trips us up, running our own race—the race that JESUS sets before us—with our eyes on the prize, JESUS!  All knowing the price that my salvation cost Jesus, with gratitude, love, and devotion to serve my KING!  The ONE who was “the plan” from “before the foundation of the world”!

“Blessed be the God and Father

of our Lord Jesus Christ,

who hath blessed us

with all spiritual blessings

in heavenly places

in Christ:

4 According as he hath chosen us

in him

before the foundation of the world,

that we should be holy

and without blame

before him

in love:  

5 Having predestinated us

unto the adoption of children

by Jesus Christ

to himself,

according to the good pleasure

of his will,” Ephesians 1:3-5

What a joy and delight to know that HE chose you/me to be HIS children, it’s the only way to heaven! To seize JESUS and HIS substitutionary, atoning, sacrifice for our salvation!

“But as many as received him,

to them gave he power

to become the sons of God,

even to them

that believe on his name:

13 Which were born,

not of blood,

nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man,

but of God.”  John 1:12-13

Jesus is the joy of my heart, and I truly want to please HIM, yet I fail so miserably some days, but Praise His name, HIS grace is sufficient to make me more and more into HIS image, when I cling to HIM and HIS Word.

“And he that searcheth the hearts

knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit,

because he maketh intercession

for the saints

according to the will of God.

28 And we know that all things

work together for good

to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed to the image

of his Son,

that he might be

the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say

to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?”  Romans 8:27-31

As we seek Jesus, we will find that others don’t always like what we’re doing, and not everyone who brags on you has your best interest at heart.  Not everyone who smiles, or seems to be listening to you, is necessarily really hearing what you have to share, or wanting to learn what God has called you to teach, or follow the Jesus that you follow.  And in our culture, believe me, everyone doesn’t follow the “biblical Jesus”—or HIS cross.  But we must keep our eyes on the prize—our Lord’s pleasure, His grace, and His glory when we seek HIM—not worldly popularity, or financial prosperity, or positive “press” coverage!  Where are my/your eyes?

“Brethren,

I count not myself to have apprehended:

but this one thing I do,

forgetting those things

which are behind,

and reaching forth

unto those things which are before,

14 I press toward the mark

for the prize

of the high calling of God

in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 3:13-14

What are we treasuring; seizing; focusing on?  Let’s press on together for our King Jesus!  HE is my Lord and King?  How about you?  Are we acting like it?  Let’s commit to “deny…self, and take up…(my) cross daily, and follow…(Jesus).”

Amen and Amen!!!

Share this:

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest

Like this:

Like Loading...

It’s What I’m CALLED To Do!!! Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 09

23 Sunday Jan 2022

Posted by Blanche in Abiding In Jesus, All Sufficient God!, Choices And Consequences, Confidence, Conformed to HIS image, Cross, Dependence, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Father of lies, Fixing Our Eyes On Jesus, Flesh-vs-Spirit, Follow Jesus, Glory To God, Responding Rightly, Resting In Jesus, Roaring Lion, Strength-vs-weakness, The Call of God!, The Light of The Word IS Jesus

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

1 Peter 2:20-25, 2 Corinthians 12:8-9, 2 Corinthians 6:19-20, Called to Follow HIM, Following Jesus not man, Galatians 5:16 &25, John 15:1-5, John 8:44-47, My weakness>His Strength, Philippians 2:5-13, Philippians 3:13-14, Philippians 4;13, Resting In Jesus, Resting Or Wrestling?, Romans 8:27-31, Strength-vs-weakness, What I'm Called To Do?

Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 09   It’s What I’m CALLED To Do!!!

 

My call is to service—whether teaching, or serving others to meet their physical needs, their material needs, their spiritual needs, or their dying needs—it is what God has saved, called, and equipped me to do.  Even when we become weary—God is faithful to meet our needs.  Jesus became weary, but HE knew HE was doing the will of HIS Father—yes, HE rested, but HE walked up that hill regardless of HIS weakness—HE even fell, but God sent HIM help to get up and go on.  It’s the example that JESUS left for me/us!

“For what glory is it, if,

when ye be buffeted for your faults,

ye shall take it patiently?

but if,

when ye do well, and suffer for it,

ye take it patiently,

this is acceptable with God.

21 For even hereunto were ye called:

because Christ also suffered for us,

leaving us an example,

that ye should follow his steps:

22 Who did no sin,

neither was guile found in his mouth:

23 Who, when he was reviled,

reviled not again;

when he suffered,

he threatened not;

but committed himself to him

that judgeth righteously:

24 Who his own self

bare our sins

in his own body

on the tree,

that we,

being dead to sins,

should live unto righteousness:

by whose stripes ye were healed.

25 For ye were as sheep

going astray;

but are now returned

unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.”   1 Peter 2:20-25

While weariness is often hard to bear and work through, trusting to the sovereignty of God/Jesus, IS the source of my confidence, strength, and power!  Yes, I can get weary sometimes and be ‘driven’ instead of ‘lead’, but my absolute lodestar is the Cross of Jesus! For He died for me, and I am called to die to “ME” and live for HIM in weariness or strength, no matter what others may think.  When I am asked, “How do you do this or that, or how do you go on?”, my answer is and must always be ‘through my Lord and King’s power and Spirit’!  For I KNOW that HE is working all these things out for my good, and HIS glory.  Little else matters!

“And he that searcheth the hearts

knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit,

because he maketh intercession

for the saints

according to the will of God.

28 And we know

that all things work together

for good

to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed to the image of his Son,

that he might be the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?”  Romans 8:28-29

Because Jesus is working “all things” to conform His children, including you and me—and all who have been born again, into HIS image, Paul could assure the Philippian believers that they could do “all things” regardless of what they may have been facing.  All by God’s grace and power—the power of the Cross, and the risen LORD Jesus–including ‘resting’ in Jesus (I will give you rest, see Matthew 11:28!) when HE says “come… apart… and rest” (See Mark 6:31), I just need to work on the listening.

“I can do all things

through Christ

which strengtheneth me.”  Philippians 4:13

While it is often hard to do the things that Jesus calls, leads and directs me/you to do, I must—I must press on, for HIM, through HIM and to HIS glory—praying with the Psalmist, “order my steps in thy word” (see Psalm 119:33), not my flesh!

“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended:

but this one thing I do,

forgetting those things

which are behind,

and reaching forth unto those things

which are before,

14 I press toward the mark

for the prize

of the high calling of God

 in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 3:13-14

Of primary importance, as I pray the armor of God on each day, and put on that “helmet of salvation”, is, I believe, the call to have the “mind of Christ Jesus” my Lord in all these things—even when I don’t like it—even when I fail by trying to do it in my flesh—when I don’t understand the strain—it IS THEN that I must go back to the cross, pursuing that “mind of Christ Jesus” to be able to serve with total trust in the sovereign control of God my King, and my Lord Jesus Christ!

“Let this mind be in you,

which was also in Christ Jesus:

6 Who,

being in the form of God, thought it not robbery

to be equal with God:

7 But made himself of no reputation,

and took upon him the form of a servant,

and was made in the likeness of men:

8 And being found in fashion as a man,

he humbled himself,

and became obedient

unto death, even the death of the cross.

9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him,

and given him a name

which is above every name:

10 That at the name of Jesus

every knee should bow,

of things in heaven,

and things in earth,

and things under the earth;

11 And that every tongue should confess

that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.

12 Wherefore, my beloved,

as ye have always obeyed,

not as in my presence only,

but now much more

in my absence,

work out your own salvation

with fear and trembling.

13 For it is God

which worketh in you

both to will

and to do

of his good pleasure.”   Philippians 2 :5-13

I almost always come back to what Paul told the Corinthian believers when I fail, or become distracted, or forget my focus.

“What? know ye not

that your body

is the temple of the Holy Ghost

which is in you,

which ye have of God,

and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price:

therefore glorify God

in your body,

and in your spirit,

which are God’s.”  1 Corinthians 6:19-20

In contrast to what Satan is ever using to pull us down, we are to rehearse all the truths of whose I am/you are, and determine to walk in that truth, especially when I’m weak, weary, or worn.  It’s His Person, His truth, His power, and His Spirit, that carry me, as the song says, there’s often “one set of footprints in the sand” (‘Footprints In The Sand’, by Margaret Fishback Powers)! Yet, remember we do have an enemy of our soul, but he is a defeated foe, a ‘toothless lion’—one who roars loudly, but his end is certain by the blood of Jesus, our victorious King!

“Ye are of your father the devil,

and the lusts of your father

ye will do.

He was a murderer from the beginning,

and abode not in the truth,

because there is no truth in him.

When he speaketh a lie,

he speaketh of his own:

for he is a liar,

and the father of it.

45 And because I tell you the truth,

ye believe me not…

….47 He that is of God

heareth God’s words:

ye therefore hear them not,

because ye are not of God.”  Portions of John 8:44-47

I must hear and believe God’s truth—JESUS— not the lies of the enemy!  So, in considering a difficult question, “How am I to take care of ‘myself’?”; I do try, but I often simply forget what that looks like, and I need to remember that my Father will direct me to rest, if I will but listen to HIM, and let go of the perfectionism, the desire to control, the false need to ‘correct all wrongs’, and the plain old “FLESH”!  I MUST learn to more consistently “walk in the Spirit” not “the flesh”!

“This I say then,

Walk in the Spirit,

and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit,

and the Spirit against the flesh:

and these are contrary

the one to the other:

so that ye cannot do the things

that ye would…

….25 If we live in the Spirit,

let us also walk in the Spirit.”  Portions of Galatians 5:16-25

And to me, the greatest call of all is to “abide” in the right person, place, and things!  JESUS and HIS WORD!

“I am the true vine,

and my Father is the husbandman.

2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit

he taketh away:

and every branch that beareth fruit,

he purgeth it,

that it may bring forth more fruit.

3 Now ye are clean

through the word which I have spoken unto you.

4 Abide in me,

and I in you.

As the branch

cannot bear fruit of itself,

except it abide in the vine;

no more can ye,

except ye abide in me.

5 I am the vine,

ye are the branches:

He that abideth in me,

and I in him,

the same bringeth forth much fruit:

for without me

ye can do nothing.”  John 15:1-5

May I sing ever in recognition of my weakness becoming strength in HIM: “TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS” (by Helen Howarth Lemmel); truly learning to lean on HIS strength, obeying in all things—whether in service or in rest! Even as God told Paul, “my strength is made perfect in weakness”! ‘Nuff said!!!

“For this thing I besought the Lord thrice,

that it might depart from me.

9 And he said unto me,

My grace is sufficient for thee:

for my strength is made perfect

in weakness.

Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities,

that the power of Christ

may rest upon me.”  2 Corinthians 12:8-9

Amen and Amen!!!

Share this:

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest

Like this:

Like Loading...

Thankful For HIS Care??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 04

15 Monday Nov 2021

Posted by Blanche in Abiding In Jesus, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Abundant Life In Jesus, All Sufficient God!, Ask God For Wisdom, Attitude of Gratitude, Comfort, Confidence, Dependence, Follow Jesus, God Knows His Own, God of all comfort!, Gratitude, Gratitude Is Timeless, I Know Whom I Have Beleived, IN Jesus!, TODAY, Trust, Trusting God, Trusting Jesus, Truth is True, Wisdom

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

1 Corinthians 1:18-24, 1 Corinthians 3:18-21, 2 Corinthians 1:3-5, Be born again!, Confidence IN Jesus, God Cares for YOU, God's Comfort, Hebrews 4:12-16, James 1:5-7, John 14:1-4, John 3:16-19, Romans 8:28-32, Sharing HIS grace & care, Thankful for HIS Care?, Trust Jesus

Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 04   Thankful For HIS Care???

 

Today I’d like to share a bit of personal testimony as well as God’s Word; sometimes knowing that others are or have been in the same boat as we have been is a help and an encouragement.  I pray that we can encourage one another!

“Blessed be God,

even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

the Father of mercies,

and the God of all comfort;

4 Who comforteth us

in all our tribulation,

that we may be able

to comfort them

which are in any trouble,

by the comfort wherewith

we ourselves are comforted

of God.

5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us,

so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.”    2 Corinthians 1:3-5

Paul was sending this second letter to the believers at Corinth to encourage them after his first letter and their response of obedience to his instructions in a most difficult situation.  He was also reminding them that he had suffered trials and difficulties himself, and he is reminding them as well as us, that we are to be an encouragement to one another as we all face difficulties in life, and God can and will use all our trials to minister to others along with ourselves.  God’s comfort and provision isn’t to be “hoarded” but shared for God’s glory, our growth and good as well as good for others.

I have wrestled with a lot of life changes and challenges of late, and while it is just that “a challenge” to know what, when, where, or how to respond to the issues that we deal with almost daily, and to maintain a godly, kind, and honest demeanor to the things that seem to assail us with a vengeance.  Paul reminded the Corinthian believers to remember how God had comforted them, and to realize that our experiences are sent and/or permitted by God for our good and HIS glory!  In fact, it brought me to a new understanding of another passage about God’s sovereign work in our lives.

“Likewise the Spirit also

helpeth our infirmities:

for we know not

what we should pray for

as we ought:

but the Spirit itself

maketh intercession for us

with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27 And he that searcheth the hearts

knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit,

because he maketh intercession

for the saints

according to the will of God.

28 And we know that all things

work together for good

to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed to the image of his Son,

that he might be the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?

32 He that spared not his own Son,

but delivered him up

for us all,

how shall he not with him also

freely give us all things?” Romans 8:28-32

Even as Paul states in verse 26, “the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities”, we can have absolute confidence in God’s work in our lives, and the overflow of HIS work into the lives of others, if we will but trust HIM in all things and obey as we see HIS direction and hear HIS Spirit speaking to our heart and mind—and as we feast on HIS Word!  Just as it says above, the Holy Spirit is ever working in my life and yours, in fact in the lives of every born-again believer—working in us and helping us to know how to walk “according to the will of God”!

Oh, how grateful I am that I don’t have to depend on my own wisdom, for sometimes it is in pretty short supply, but God is never delinquent to supply HIS wisdom to all who will “ask…seek… (and)… knock”!

“If any of you lack wisdom,

let him ask of God,

that giveth to all men liberally,

and upbraideth not;

and it shall be given him.

6 But let him ask in faith,

nothing wavering.

For he that wavereth

is like a wave of the sea

driven with the wind

and tossed.

7 For let not that man think

that he shall receive any thing

of the Lord.”  James 1:5-7

Paul also gives us insight into the wisdom that we are to seek.  But remember that “godly wisdom” isn’t always welcome, but it is where we must stand by HIS power, grace, and provision—trusting the consequences to our Father and Lord!

“For the preaching of the cross

is to them that perish

foolishness;

but unto us

which are saved

it is the power of God.

19 For it is written,

I will destroy

the wisdom of the wise,

and will bring to nothing

the understanding of the prudent.

20 Where is the wise?

where is the scribe?

where is the disputer of this world?

hath not God made foolish

the wisdom of this world?

21 For after that in the wisdom of God

the world by wisdom

knew not God,

it pleased God

by the foolishness of preaching

to save them that believe.

22 For the Jews require a sign,

and the Greeks seek after wisdom:

23 But we preach Christ crucified,

unto the Jews a stumblingblock,

and unto the Greeks foolishness;

24 But unto them which are called,

both Jews

and Greeks,

Christ the power of God,

and the wisdom of God.”  1 Corinthians 1:18-24

Paul goes on to share even more about the difference between the wisdom of God and the wisdom of men.  Oh, that we would learn to recognize the difference!

“Let no man deceive himself.

If any man among you

seemeth to be wise in this world,

let him become a fool,

that he may be wise.

19 For the wisdom of this world

is foolishness with God.

For it is written,

He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.

20 And again,

The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise,

that they are vain.

21 Therefore let no man glory in men.

For all things are yours;” 1 Corinthians 3:18-21

I want you to know that as I face the difficulties that come my way, my greatest resource is Jesus Christ my Lord!  I go to HIM in prayer continually, seeking to know how HE wants me to respond in every situation, and going to HIS WORD as the standard for all things.  The Word of God is the standard that God has set, and if we don’t know what it says, we won’t know what God expects.  When I know HIS Word, I will find the confidence and power to run to Jesus instead of the world!

“For the word of God

is quick,

and powerful,

and sharper than any twoedged sword,

piercing even to the dividing asunder

of soul and spirit,

and of the joints and marrow,

and is a discerner

of the thoughts

and intents

of the heart.

13 Neither is there any creature

that is not manifest

in his sight:

but all things

are naked

and opened

unto the eyes of him

with whom we have to do.

14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest,

that is passed into the heavens,

Jesus the Son of God,

let us hold fast our profession.

15 For we have not an high priest

which cannot be touched

with the feeling of our infirmities;

but was in all points

tempted like as we are,

yet without sin.

16 Let us therefore come boldly

unto the throne of grace,

that we may obtain mercy,

and find grace to help

in time of need.”  Hebrews 4:12-16

I pray that this will help you today and encourage your heart to press on with the greatest Lord and friend, Jesus!  For remember, we win!

“Let not your heart be troubled:

ye believe in God,

believe also in me.

2 In my Father’s house

are many mansions:

if it were not so,

I would have told you.

I go to prepare a place for you.

3 And if I go

and prepare a place for you,

I will come again,

and receive you unto myself;

that where I am,

there ye may be also.

4 And whither I go

ye know,

and the way

ye know.”  John 14:1-4

And if you don’t know Jesus today, you can come to Him today by repenting of your sin, and trusting to HIS substitutionary (He took our place), atoning sacrifice (He paid our debt) for your sin (The problem we all have and cannot cure.), and receive HIS gift of eternal life.

“For God so loved the world,

that he gave

his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have everlasting life.

17 For God sent not his Son into the world

to condemn the world;

but that the world through him

might be saved.

18 He that believeth on him

is not condemned:

but he that believeth not

is condemned already,

because he hath not believed

in the name

of the only begotten Son of God.

19 And this is the condemnation,

that light is come into the world,

and men loved darkness

rather than light,

because their deeds were evil.”   John 3:16-19

Amen and Amen!!!

Share this:

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest

Like this:

Like Loading...

Remember To Forget??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #754

17 Friday Sep 2021

Posted by Blanche in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Abundant Life In Jesus, Fear, Fearfulness, Fearlessness, Follow Jesus, Forgetting or Remembering?, Forgiveness

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

1 John 1:9-10, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Forgetting The Past, Forgiving and Forgetting?, Hebrews 12:5-8, I forgive because I'm forgiven, Live peaceably, Mark 11:25, Matthew 5:23-24, Micah 7:19, Philippians 3:12-15, Philippians 4;13, Remember I am forgiven, Romans 12:17-18, Romans 5:5-8

Bible Ballistics: BBs #754  Remember To Forget???

 

I’m sure you’re thinking, ‘what a strange title’, and yes, it is a bit strange but there are some things that scripture reminds us that we ought to forget and press on regardless.  Let’s delve into a few and see what we can find out.

“Not as though I had already attained,

either were already perfect:

but I follow after,

if that I may apprehend

that for which also I am apprehended

of Christ Jesus.

13 Brethren, I count not myself

to have apprehended:

but this one thing I do,

forgetting those things

which are behind,

and reaching forth unto those things

which are before,

14 I press toward the mark

for the prize

of the high calling of God

in Christ Jesus.

15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect,

be thus minded:

and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded,

God shall reveal even this

unto you.”  Philippians 3:12-15

Here we have a passage of encouragement from the Apostle Paul to the church at Philippi—a letter of commendation with very little correction.  Yet, his instruction was a word of warning to walk faithfully before our God, and a watching world.  And we ought to take heed to his instruction and press on with our eyes wide open and our hearts and minds on guard, diligently remembering what to forget.

We begin our look at this passage with Paul’s declaration that he (in Blanche’s paraphrase) had “not arrived”, or in his words “not already attained” to all that God had for him to “be” and “do”.  We so often forget what we should remember; that ‘being’ comes before ‘doing’.  When we belong to Jesus we are to yield our hearts and minds to him, as Paul reminded them of in chapter 2.

“Let this mind be in you,

which was also in Christ Jesus:

6 Who,

being in the form of God,

thought it not robbery

to be equal with God:

7 But made himself

of no reputation,

and took upon him

the form of a servant,

and was made in the likeness of men:

8 And being found in fashion as a man,

he humbled himself,

and became obedient unto death,

even the death of the cross.”   Philippians 2:5-8

When we pursue the mind of Christ—the heart and mind of servanthood, as well as living the crucified life—the willingness to be “obedient unto death, even the death of the cross”!  Yet so much of the American Christian culture is focused on making Christianity a convenience rather than a sacrificed life!  But back to our consideration of “forgetting”.

Paul told the church at Philippi, as he is telling us today, that he has yielded his life to be what he called being “apprehended of Christ Jesus”, a total contrast of a culture that has and is trying to make Jesus/God a magic genie who is at our disposal for ease, comfort, and the supply of every worldly device that we might be enthralled with!  Instead, Paul goes on to give us the true key to walking with The Lord in power, peace, and productivity by HIS Spirit!  Ouch! But he goes on to remind us that we are not only “apprehended of” Jesus, but we are to continually purse the things of God by HIS power, grace and HIS Word!  Paul says something so powerful that we often miss it in the sheer simplicity of his words:

“this one thing I do,

forgetting those things

which are behind,

and reaching forth

unto those things which are before,

14 I press toward the mark

for the prize

of the high calling of God

in Christ Jesus”

WOW!  ONE. THING. I. DO.

I press toward the mark—

As I forget those things which are behind me–

 As I reach forth for what is before me—

Knowing that I am pressing on—

For the prize-

Of the high calling

Of GOD

IN JESUS!

And my dear ones, JESUS. IS. THE. PRIZE.!!!  Paul also reminds us that if we are mature this is the mindset that should mark our lives before a lost and dying world!  He also says that if we are pursuing Jesus, The Prize, HE will lead us and correct us; and if we are without any correction from the Lord, then we better examine what or who we think saved us.

“And ye have forgotten the exhortation

which speaketh unto you

as unto children,

My son,

despise not thou the chastening

of the Lord,

nor faint

when thou art rebuked of him:

6 For whom the Lord loveth

he chasteneth,

and scourgeth every son

whom he receiveth.

7 If ye endure chastening,

God dealeth with you as with sons;

for what son is he

whom the father chasteneth not?

8 But if ye be without chastisement,

whereof all are partakers,

then are ye bastards,

and not sons.”  Hebrews 12:5-8

Jesus told us that there are things to remember, even things that we want to forget.  The problem is we often fall into the habit of walking in the past with fear of tomorrow, not what God has called us to.  With God’s forgiveness, and cleansing, we can forget the failures of the past and boldly remind the enemy that we are forgiven, when we repent, confess, and receive not only God’s forgiveness but His cleansing and healing. For God has “not given us the spirit of fear;, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind…“!

“If we confess our sins,

he is faithful and just

to forgive us

our sins,

and to cleanse us

from all unrighteousness.

10 If we say that we have not sinned,

we make him a liar,

and his word is not in us.”  1 John 1:9-10

Our forgiven sin is not subject to the enemy’s use or reminders.  We can forget what God has forgotten, by reminding ourselves (and others) that we ARE forgiven!

“He will turn again,

he will have compassion upon us;

he will subdue our iniquities;

and thou wilt cast all their sins

into the depths of the sea.”  Micah 7:19

How can God forget our sin, and see us as righteous?  Good question, but one that scripture answers clearly.

“For he hath made him to be sin for us,

who knew no sin;

that we might be made the righteousness of God

in him.”  2 Corinthians 5:21

As Corrie Ten Boom often said, “God buries our sins in the depths of the sea and then puts up a sign that reads, “No Fishing.””  Jesus’ substitutionary, atoning sacrifice paid my sin debt and yours (He paid it for all who will believe in His death, burial, and resurrection for our sin, See John 3:16-19 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-5), therefore God sees those who are born again through the shed blood of Jesus—making us righteous before God, all because Jesus took my sin upon Himself and paid for it at Calvary!  Hence our sins are covered by the blood, forgiven, and forgotten before God—soooo, remember to forget what God has forgotten and forgiven.  Be sure to keep short accounts on sin and keep it under the blood.  And if others have sinned against us, we are to forgive liberally, and if we have wronged others, we are to seek forgiveness.  Then let it go, in the vernacular, “forget it”!

“Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar,

and there rememberest

that thy brother hath ought against thee;

24 Leave there thy gift before the altar,

and go thy way;

first be reconciled to thy brother,

and then come and offer thy gift.”   Matthew 5:23-24

“And when ye stand praying,

forgive,

if ye have ought

against any:

that your Father also which is in heaven

may forgive you

your trespasses.”  Mark 11:25

Let me just say, I know the old saying as well as anyone, “I can forgive but I can’t forget!”  But may we consider the words of Paul again—while maybe I can’t, God can!

 

“I can do all things through Christ

which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13

All because of what Jesus has done for me.

“And hope

maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.

6 For when we were yet without strength,

in due time Christ died

for the ungodly.

7 For scarcely for a righteous man

will one die:

yet peradventure for a good man

some would even dare to die.

8 But God commendeth his love toward us,

in that, while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.”  Romans 5:5-8

And in closing, let me simply say, what can I refuse to forgive someone else of, that would equal what Jesus has forgiven me of!  Nothing!  And believe me, I have wrestled with forgiveness just like you, but I have learned that when I “give it to Jesus” and remember that HE HAS forgiven me for more than I can (or want to) remember, I must rest in HIS work in me, and the truth of scripture, forgiving, and forgetting (the offense not the reality of an action). (Meaning to receive God’s power to live in Jesus’ forgiveness when I can’t erase the thoughts!)!  And believe me, there are thoughts that keep coming back again and again, but if I can depend on God to supply my need, so can YOU!  Remember—you can forget, by remembering Philippians 2:5, “let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus”  “Father forgive them“!

And one simple verse that brings reality to what I’m trying to share; God knows it’s not always up to you alone!  Others don’t always desire peace.

“Recompense to no man

evil for evil.

Provide things honest

in the sight of all men.

18 If it be possible,

as much as lieth in you,

 live peaceably with all men.”   Romans 12:17-18

Remember, we win!

Amen and Amen!!!

 

Share this:

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest

Like this:

Like Loading...
← Older posts

Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Join 393 other followers

Recent Posts

  • Firecrackers Of Regret??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #18
  • Brighten Your Own Corner??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #17
  • Call It “Rock-It” Science??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No.05
  • A Timing Chain??? A Word form THE WORD!!! #16
  • Breathe! It’s OK!!! A Word from THE WORD!!!

Archives

  • July 2022 (1)
  • June 2022 (11)
  • May 2022 (11)
  • April 2022 (10)
  • March 2022 (10)
  • February 2022 (10)
  • January 2022 (7)
  • December 2021 (9)
  • November 2021 (9)
  • October 2021 (10)
  • September 2021 (9)
  • August 2021 (10)
  • July 2021 (10)
  • June 2021 (12)
  • May 2021 (9)
  • April 2021 (11)
  • March 2021 (10)
  • February 2021 (10)
  • January 2021 (13)
  • December 2020 (9)
  • November 2020 (11)
  • October 2020 (8)
  • September 2020 (9)
  • August 2020 (11)
  • July 2020 (12)
  • June 2020 (11)
  • May 2020 (12)
  • April 2020 (13)
  • March 2020 (13)
  • February 2020 (11)
  • January 2020 (14)
  • December 2019 (11)
  • November 2019 (12)
  • October 2019 (12)
  • September 2019 (13)
  • August 2019 (13)
  • July 2019 (12)
  • June 2019 (11)
  • May 2019 (13)
  • April 2019 (11)
  • March 2019 (14)
  • February 2019 (12)
  • January 2019 (13)
  • December 2018 (12)
  • November 2018 (13)
  • October 2018 (13)
  • September 2018 (10)
  • August 2018 (14)
  • July 2018 (11)
  • June 2018 (13)
  • May 2018 (11)
  • April 2018 (13)
  • March 2018 (13)
  • February 2018 (12)
  • January 2018 (13)
  • December 2017 (12)
  • November 2017 (12)
  • October 2017 (13)
  • September 2017 (13)
  • August 2017 (13)
  • July 2017 (13)
  • June 2017 (13)
  • May 2017 (13)
  • April 2017 (11)
  • March 2017 (14)
  • February 2017 (12)
  • January 2017 (9)
  • December 2016 (13)
  • November 2016 (14)
  • October 2016 (12)
  • September 2016 (13)
  • August 2016 (9)
  • July 2016 (4)
  • June 2016 (11)
  • May 2016 (13)
  • April 2016 (13)
  • March 2016 (12)
  • February 2016 (12)
  • January 2016 (14)
  • December 2015 (13)
  • November 2015 (23)
  • October 2015 (12)
  • September 2015 (13)
  • August 2015 (13)
  • July 2015 (14)
  • June 2015 (12)
  • May 2015 (14)
  • April 2015 (12)
  • March 2015 (13)
  • February 2015 (12)
  • January 2015 (12)
  • December 2014 (13)
  • November 2014 (13)
  • October 2014 (14)
  • September 2014 (11)
  • August 2014 (15)
  • July 2014 (13)
  • June 2014 (13)
  • May 2014 (13)
  • April 2014 (13)
  • March 2014 (13)
  • February 2014 (12)
  • January 2014 (11)
  • December 2013 (27)
  • November 2013 (22)
  • October 2013 (9)
  • September 2013 (10)
  • August 2013 (9)
  • July 2013 (4)
  • June 2013 (5)
  • May 2013 (4)
  • April 2013 (4)
  • March 2013 (5)
  • February 2013 (4)
  • January 2013 (4)
  • December 2012 (5)
  • November 2012 (2)

Categories

Blogroll

  • Bible Ballistics on FaceBook
  • Get Polling
  • WordPress.com News

Christian Resources

  • Bible Gateway

Ministries

  • Hell's Best Kept Secret
  • Living Waters Publications
  • Precept Ministries
  • Pregnancy Resource Center of SW Oklahoma
  • Ship to Shore Ministries

Translate

Blog at WordPress.com.

  • Follow Following
    • Bible Ballistics
    • Join 393 other followers
    • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
    • Bible Ballistics
    • Customize
    • Follow Following
    • Sign up
    • Log in
    • Report this content
    • View site in Reader
    • Manage subscriptions
    • Collapse this bar
%d bloggers like this: