Category Archives: Living in Christ

Seeing Clearly Or Darkly??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #182

05 Monday Feb 2024

Posted by in 'Come unto me, Abiding In Jesus, Holy Living, Holy Spirit, I Know Whom I Have Beleived, I Will Never Leave You, Intercessors, JESUS, Jesus IN You!, Jesus IS The Gift!, Jesus Knows, Jesus Saves!, Jesus SinLESS Son of God, Jesus' Sacrifice, Jesus--our all in all, Life or Death?, Light In The Dark, Like Jesus NOT Each Other, Listening To God, Living in Christ, Living Right, Living TODAY!, Look up and Praise The Lord, Looking Unto Jesus, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?

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Seeing Clearly Or Darkly???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #182

One of my favorite parts of the book of Romans is chapter 8, and it is so full, but sometimes we work so hard to separate it into pieces that we forget it was written as a whole (in the whole book, as well as in the particular context of chapters), and Romans can be looked at in sections of chapters: 1-3; 4-5; 6-8; 9-11; and 12-15 and 16.  So as we consider this passage, I won’t take the time to post the entire chapter, although it would be of great benefit for you to read it all.  Let’s jump in and see what we can learn, but first of all a word from Paul’s message to the Corinthian beleivers about love, and seeing clearly, and knowing that God reveals things in His own time; also that we need to walk in love and maturity, not act like children.  There is a difference between “childlike” and “childish”, we need to examine our lives for we all have moments of “childishness” rather than being “childlike” in our faith and devotion to Jesus.

“When I was a child,

I spake as a child,

I understood as a child,

I thought as a child:

but when I became a man,

I put away childish things.

12 For now we see through a glass, darkly;

but then face to face:

now I know in part;

but then shall I know even as also I am known.

13 And now abideth

faith,

hope,

charity,

these three;

but the greatest of these

is charity.”  1 Corinthians 13:11-13

There is a time coming when we will have that “face to face” understanding, yet I believe that Paul is reminding us that until that day comes, we are to walk in the “love of Jesus” as mature adults!  Children operate in a world of “me” and “mine”, and they often aren’t happy when anyone touches “their stuff”.  Many adults today, even many beleivers in Jesus, often behave the same way; but Paul calls us to walk in maturity, with love in sight at all times.  In fact he calls us to walk as mature adults, with “faith, hope, (and) love”!  And where do we get this love?  Another of Paul’s truths which he shared with the Roman believers answers that question.

“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.”  Romans 5:5-6

When we are saved, The Holy Spirit makes sure that the “love of God is shed abroad in our hearts”, may we share it generously!  So, let’s jump into Romans chapter eight and consider what else Paul has to say to us about love, maturity, and God’s work of salvation!  Thank YOU, Jesus!

“There is therefore now no condemnation  

to them which are in Christ Jesus,

who walk not after the flesh,

but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:1

This is one of my favorite verses of Romans, as it answers the question that ends chapter 7, and yet so many miss that this is the answer to “who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” (the sinful flesh in which we still live after our salvation until our physical death).  The answer is “The Holy Spirit”; as we walk in HIS power, deliverance rather than our flesh, we can walk in victory!  Oh, the beauty of God’s provision for us, “no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus”! (See John 3:16-19).  The reason that we are not condemned is because of JESUS’ death, burial, and resurrection to pay for our sin—mine and yours, as Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians. In my paraphrase, “Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, went to Calvary in my place—He took my sin, and imparted to me HIS righteousness.  Exchanged my dirty rags for His spotless robe!”  If I may, I’ll write out this verse with my commentary:

“For he–God

hath made him—Jesus–

to be sin for us, –the sinless paying the sinners’ debt–

who knew no sin;–Jesus was the sinless Lamb of God–

that we might be made—transformed by Jesus’ payment–

the righteousness of God—God making the vile holy–

in him. -It’s all about Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection-” 2 Corinthians 5:21

(He gave His all that we could be made holy.)

In Jesus, we find the place of forgiveness, righteousness, and the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, which brings us into the place of “no condemnation”.  Praise God for all that we have in Jesus, as well as what we have been released from!  So, let’s get back to chapter 8:

“2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus

hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

3 For what the law could not do,

in that it was weak through the flesh,

God sending his own Son

in the likeness of sinful flesh,

and for sin,

condemned sin in the flesh:

4 That the righteousness of the law

might be fulfilled in us,

who walk not after the flesh,

but after the Spirit.

5 For they that are after the flesh

do mind the things of the flesh;

but they that are after the Spirit

the things of the Spirit.

6 For to be carnally minded

is death;

but to be spiritually minded

is life and peace.”  Romans 8:1-6

Are we displaying the “things of the Spirit” and living as “spiritually minded”, or are we allowing the flesh to have sway over us?  Are we choosing “life” or “death”!  Choose wisely, there is a test; but Paul goes on to give us even more confidence in this work of salvation “in Jesus”!

“So then they that are in the flesh

cannot please God.

9 But ye are not in the flesh,

but in the Spirit,

if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.

Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ,

he is none of his…

…. 13 For if ye live after the flesh,

ye shall die:

but if ye through the Spirit do mortify

the deeds of the body,

ye shall live.

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God,

they are the sons of God.

15 For ye have not received

the spirit of bondage again to fear;

but ye have received

the Spirit of adoption,

whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit,

that we are the children of God:

17 And if children,

then heirs;

heirs of God,

and joint-heirs with Christ;

if so be that we suffer with him,

that we may be also glorified together.

18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time

are not worthy to be compared

with the glory which shall be revealed

in us.”  Portions of Romans 8:8-18

Oh, the glory of living for Jesus, by His Spirit, through His power and unto His glory!  A glory which we will see in Him when we see him in person, either when we leave this world, or when He calls us to Himself in the air!  But in this life, there are a couple of verses which we can often miss the import of, and I want to share them before we go into the last part of the joy, confidence, and assurance of the ending verses of this great and amazing chapter eight of Romans.  We have The Holy Spirit to not only help, lead, guide and direct our steps, but we also have one who intercedes for us when we don’t know how to pray!  I’m so grateful for HIS presence, HIS guiding hand, and HIS ever-present help in guiding our prayers be what they need to be –even speaking for me when I don’t know how or what to pray for–before our Father God, and our other intercessor, Jesus!  Thank you, Jesus, for this unspeakable gift of Your Holy Spirit to teach, lead and guide us in this dark place.

“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.” Romans 8:26-27

Even John reiterated this principle.

“And this is the confidence that we have in him,

that, if we ask any thing

according to his will,

he heareth us:

15 And if we know that he hear us,

whatsoever we ask,

we know that we have the petitions

that we desired of him.”  1 John 5:14-15

How often do we forget that prayer is our open channel to our Father God, whose will we are to pursue, knowing that HE is working all things to make you and me more like Jesus, especially  in this world that is lost and dying, and in need of Jesus more than they can ever know unless we not only tell them, but live it out before them; being mirrors of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ The Lord!

So, my friends I want to share this last part of Romans 8, simply sharing it for your perusal, praying that we may hear God’s voice speaking to our hearts, leading us to be more like our KING JESUS!

“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?

33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge

of God’s elect?

It is God that justifieth.

34 Who is he that condemneth?

It is Christ that died,

yea rather, that is risen again,

who is even at the right hand of God,

who also maketh intercession for us.”  Romans 8:28-34

Oh how this great and amazing intercessor, Jesus, gives us even more confidence in HIS provision for us—even as I know HE is here, right now for I was just called to pray about an immediate need!  Thank YOU, Jesus!  Our Redeemer saves, transforms, and keeps His own!  But it gets even better as we continue in these final verses of the chapter.  I pray that it will grip, bless, and transform your day—and every day knowing all the joy of His presence, His work, and His love for you and me!  We win!!!

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?

shall tribulation,

or distress,

or persecution,

or famine,

or nakedness,

or peril,

or sword?

36 As it is written,

For thy sake we are killed all the day long;

we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

37 Nay, in all these things

we are more than conquerors

through him that loved us.

38 For I am persuaded,

that neither death,

nor life,

nor angels,

nor principalities,

nor powers,

nor things present,

nor things to come,

39 Nor height,

nor depth,

nor any other creature,

shall be able to separate us

from the love of God,

which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”                    Romans 8:35-39

Oh, Praise God for His amazing grace, love, and care for us.  May you find God’s peace, presence, and power for your day.  Remember, “If God be for us, who can be against us?”; as I’ve said, we Win!!!

Amen and Amen!!!

Smile!! Jesus Is On The Way!!! A Word from THE WORD!!! #176

19 Friday Jan 2024

Posted by in 'Come unto me, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Broken Cisterns, Jesus Is Alive, Jesus Is Coming Again., Jesus Is Coming!, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Living in Christ, Living Waters

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Smile!!  Jesus Is On The Way!!!  A Word from THE WORD!!! #176

“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.

5 Thomas saith unto him,

Lord, we know not whither thou goest;

and how can we know the way?

6 Jesus saith unto him,

I am the way,

the truth,

and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father,

but by me.”  John 14:1-6

Jesus is not only our Savior and Lord, but He is also our soon-coming King, and we can rejoice in that hope and assurance.  Take a few minutes today and look up and thank God for our living hope—the living water; and we remember to follow Daniel’s example not fretting over the lions but looking up to praise Jesus that He has paid the price, is our eternal hope.

“For my people have committed two evils;

they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters,

and hewed them out cisterns,

broken cisterns,

that can hold no water.”  Jeremiah 2:13

Amen and Amen!!!

You’re A Witness Regardless??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #151

06 Monday Nov 2023

Posted by in A Form of godliness?, A Witness--Good or Bad???, Abiding In Jesus, Are you ready?, Ask God For Wisdom, Follow Jesus, Following Jesus, Following Jesus or the World?, Living in Christ, Living TODAY!, Servanthood, Service, The Right Jesus!, Witness

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You’re A Witness Regardless???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #151

November has arrived and the Fall here in Oklahoma has been of the yoyo variety this year, we’ve had lovely cool temperatures and I sit here this morning with the door open to the screen to let in the lovely cool air.  I love this time of year, and along with cool temperatures hopefully our minds are sifting through the abundant blessings of God for which we are thankful.  I could make a list, but so could you; but do we?  Sometimes we let the busyness of life cloud out our attitude of gratitude, and gratitude is a much-needed commodity in our culture today—everyday—but especially in a day of ‘entitlement’ thinking we are needed to spread the good news of what God has done for us, you, and me!

The saddest part to me is that we are so busy looking for ‘new’ stuff that we haven’t taken time to consider what God has done for us, the blessings that HE has provided, our salvation, family, friends, possessions, etc…  We have fallen for the Wall Street idea of “new” stuff—all eyes and minds (even mine!) get distracted by the “Sales” that you just can’t miss!  “You have to have this!”  “Your kids have to have that!”  “A new car would get better mileage than our current car!”—knowing that there is no reason we “need” any of these things.  I find myself caught up sometimes, it’s like going to an auction where you can get caught up in the ‘bidding’ and wind up with something that you have absolutely no need for, just because you got caught up in the ‘competition’!  Really?  Where’s my attitude of gratitude?

An attitude of gratitude does help, yet there is something more that I want us to consider today about gratitude; that is being a “witness”!  When we call upon Jesus for our salvation, HE delivers us from sin, shame, and death, and calls us to be HIS witnesses!

“When they therefore were come together,

 they asked of him, saying,

Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again

the kingdom to Israel?

7 And he said unto them,

It is not for you to know the times or the seasons,

which the Father hath put in his own power.

8 But ye shall receive power,

after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:

and ye shall be witnesses unto me

both in Jerusalem,

and in all Judaea,

and in Samaria,

and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

9 And when he had spoken these things,

while they beheld,

he was taken up;

and a cloud received him out of their sight.”   Acts 1:6-9

Jesus makes it clear that when we are saved “ye shall be witnesses unto me”!  We are enabled to be witnesses for Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit who is imparted to every born-again believer, Jesus gives us all we need—the power of the Holy Spirit and His Holy Written Word!  We can deny it, we can pass it off on the preachers and teachers, we can just neglect it!  But my friends the truth is that YOU/I ARE witnesses right now; are. you a good witness, living in the power of the Holy Spirit and the power of God’s Holy Word?  The question isn’t are you a witness—for YOU are a witness!  The question is whether we are being “good and faithful” witnesses, or we are being poor and negative witness?  It’s your choice and mine but choose wisely for God is holding us accountable for our witness!  Not by the number of tracts we gave out, but by what people see in our lives; do they see Jesus or the world.  It’s not about perfect attendance pins, or how much we ‘give’, or if we work tirelessly in some ministry!  Rather it’s about how closely we are walking with Jesus!  And to walk closely with Jesus we have to get to know HIM through prayer, and Bible Study—not just reading the Bible but digging in and letting God’s Word direct your/my steps, and the fellowship of like-minded believers in a Bible-preaching church!

When we are following Jesus, some may not like it; you may not be the most popular person at the office; you may make some people mad for your biblical stands; you may even be ridiculed and spoken ill of, but Jesus said this was to be the norm for those who loved HIM and followed HIM!

“If the world hate you,

ye know that it hated me before it hated you.

19 If ye were of the world,

the world would love his own:

but because ye are not of the world,

but I have chosen you out of the world,

therefore the world hateth you.

20 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.

21 But all these things will they do unto you

for my name’s sake,

because they know not him that sent me.”   John 15:18-21

Even in the beginning of His ministry Jesus mentioned this cost of being HIS witness.

“Blessed are they which are persecuted

for righteousness’ sake:

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 Blessed are ye,

when men shall revile you,

and persecute you,

and shall say all manner of evil against you

falsely,

for my sake.

12 Rejoice,

and be exceeding glad:

for great is your reward in heaven:

for so persecuted they the prophets

which were before you.”  Matthew 5:10-12

We don’t hear a lot of preaching and teaching on this subject, but I believe it is much needed, and it’s one of the reasons that I write at all, especially on this subject, and in this season of “gratitude”– a time when we can take stock of our possessions, our blessings, our callings, our faithfulness to The ONE we call Lord, and the opportunities which HE gives us.  I pray that you will take some time this month, even today, to go before The Lord Jesus and seek HIS face asking to know HIM more and hear from HIM with your Bible open to help you nail it down!  If you ask, HE will reveal truth to you (one of the functions of The Holy Spirit!)!  Yet there is a cost to discipleship—a cost many aren’t willing to pay!  How about you?  Paul warned his son-in-the-ministry, Timothy, about being prepared for the cost of being Jesus’ witness, disciple, follower, lover!

“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus

shall suffer persecution.

13 But evil men and seducers

shall wax worse and worse,

deceiving,

and being deceived.

14 But continue thou in the things

which thou hast learned

and hast been assured of,

knowing of whom thou hast learned them;”   2 Timothy 3:12

We are called to keep our eyes on The Prize, Jesus, and like Paul I pray that my life will reflect the glory of Jesus, drawing people to HIS cross, and helping to grow HIS children in The Word.  Peter also has a word of wisdom about this suffering.

“But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake,

happy are ye:

and be not afraid of their terror,

neither be troubled;

15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts:

and be ready always to give an answer

to every man that asketh you a reason

of the hope that is in you

with meekness

and fear:

16 Having a good conscience;

that, whereas they speak evil of you,

as of evildoers,

they may be ashamed that falsely accuse

your good conversation in Christ.

17 For it is better,

if the will of God be so,

that ye suffer for well doing,

than for evil doing.

18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins,

the just for the unjust,

that he might bring us to God,

being put to death in the flesh,

but quickened by the Spirit:”  1 Peter 3:14-18

In closing, another word from Peter that I pray will encourage you, as well as a word from Paul’s letter to the Galatian believers that speaks to us all—a crucified life, for Jesus paid it ALL!!!  How can we be less than faithful witnesses before a lost and dying world?  It’s a question only you can answer—only I can answer!  It’s your choice and mine, but choose wisely, there is a test!

“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

Paul’s challenge to us all!  May our ‘witness’ be of Jesus rather than the world—who needs our LORD JESUS desperately!!!

“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

Amen and Amen!!!

Grace IS Based On Truth??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #130

11 Monday Sep 2023

Posted by in 'Come unto me, A Form of godliness?, A heart of faith, Good News, Gospel, Grace, Living by Faith or Entertainment?, Living in Christ, Living Right, Living TODAY!, Looking Unto Jesus, Repentance, Responding Rightly, Restoration, Righteousness, Salvation, The Word, Transformation, Transformed life, Trust God, Trusting God, Trusting Jesus?, Truth

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Grace IS Based On Truth???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #130

 

We live in a world where many, even in the church, have changed the gospel into an ‘easy-believe-ism’–just say this prayer, do this thing, join this group and you will ‘go to heaven’.  But I join Paul in his statement of faith!

“So, as much as in me is,

I am ready to preach the gospel

to you that are at Rome also.

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:

for it is the power of God unto salvation

to every one that believeth;

to the Jew first,

and also to the Greek.

17 For therein is the righteousness of God

revealed from faith to faith:

as it is written,

The just shall live by faith.

18 For the wrath of God is revealed

from heaven

against all ungodliness

and unrighteousness of men,

who hold the truth

in unrighteousness;”  Romans 1:15-18

Paul makes some things very clear as he proclaims his confidence in “the gospel of Christ”–and he makes it clear that the gospel is about “the righteousness of God”!  And it’s all about having the “the righteousness of God”–it’s not about a “get out of hell free” card; it’s about bowing before the cross and turning from our sin to JESUS!

“Therefore if any man be in Christ,

he is a new creature:

old things are passed away;

behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God,

who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ,

and hath given to us

the ministry of reconciliation;

19 To wit,

that God was in Christ,

reconciling the world unto himself,

not imputing their trespasses unto them;

and hath committed unto us

the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ,

as though God did beseech you

by us:

we pray you in Christ’s stead,

be ye reconciled to God.

21 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 5:17-21

Paul wanted the Corinthian believers (and us!) to understand that it’s not just “sayin’ so” but it’s receiving Jesus’ sacrifice and having HIS righteousness applied to us–which means, as he said here in chapter 5, that “IF” “if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature”!  Our nature is changed to a work-in-progress, being “conformed to the image of HIS SON”!  In other words, being in communion with Jesus, as HE describes in Revelation:

“Behold,

I stand at the door,

and knock:

if any man hear my voice,

and open the door,

I will come in to him,

and will sup with him,

and he with me.”  Revelation 3:20

 John also deals with this in the first chapter of the Gospel of John.

“He came unto his own,

and his own received him not.

12 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.

14 And the Word was made flesh,

and dwelt among us,

(and we beheld his glory,

the glory as of the only begotten

of the Father,)

full of grace and truth.”  John 1:11-14

Jesus said a lot about this and while we won’t look at all He said, we will consider several passages–it’s not about what you “say”, or even what you “do”, it’s about who YOU have bowed down to; Jesus or the enemy!  Jesus’ answer to the religious leaders about the “sinners/sick” needing a physician rather than those who thought they were well; but we’ll preface Jesus’ response with Paul’s declaration of “who” needs Jesus!

“For all have sinned,

and come short of the glory of God;

24 Being justified freely

by his grace

through the redemption

that is in Christ Jesus:” Romans 3:23-24

“But now being made free from sin,

and become servants to God,

ye have your fruit unto holiness,

and the end everlasting life.

23 For the wages of sin is death;

but the gift of God is eternal life

through Jesus Christ our Lord.”   Romans 6:22-23

You can have life and freedom from sin, or you can have death; and while the consequences don’t always show up immediately, sin will take you farther than you wanted to go, keep you longer than you wanted to stay, and cost you more that you wanted to PAY; and the payment will usually come when you least expect it.  But, back to what Jesus said about who needs salvation.

“And it came to pass,

as Jesus sat at meat in the house,

behold, many publicans and sinners came

and sat down with him and his disciples.

11 And when the Pharisees saw it,

they said unto his disciples,

Why eateth your Master

with publicans and sinners?

12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them,

They that be whole need not a physician,

but they that are sick.

13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth,

I will have mercy,

and not sacrifice:

for I am not come to call the righteous,

but sinners to repentance.”  Matthew 9:10-13

Jesus came to call sinners to repentance–how sad to me, that we have virtually eliminated the message of ‘repentance of our sin’ from the Gospel, but Jesus spoke clearly of the need for repentance.  For unless we see our own sin, which is what the Holy Spirit works to convict us of, we have no need of a Savior.  This is exactly what Jesus was telling the religious leaders–those who “thought” they had no sin, hence no need of a Savior, Jesus! (You can read this same statement from Jesus in Mark 2:17, and Luke 5:31).  The Apostle John also makes this clear in his first epistle/letter.

“This then is the message

which we have heard of him,

and declare unto you,

that God is light,

and in him is no darkness at all.

6 If we say that we have fellowship with him,

and walk in darkness,

we lie,

and do not the truth:

7 But if we walk in the light,

as he is in the light,

we have fellowship one with another,

and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son

cleanseth us from all sin.

8 If we say that we have no sin,

we deceive ourselves,

and the truth is not in us.

9 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 1:5-10

Why am I belaboring this point, because so many are ignoring the need for repentance and transformation in sharing the Gospel.  Jesus came to save us FROM our sin, not IN IT!

“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 made it clear that HE IS The only way, and we must come to Him in repentance of our sin, and faith/trust in HIS substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for our sin!

“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

Is your life a testament to God’s saving, transforming work, or are you making God a liar by your refusal to face your own sin.  I am convinced that only desperate people come to Jesus, for only when we recognize the desperation of our lostness without Jesus will we bow before King Jesus: even those of us who for years counted on our ‘religious activity’ and ‘churchianity’!  Only Jesus can save–and HE doesn’t do shoddy work!  Have you been transformed by the grace of God, knowing the truth of what that means.  Paul paints the picture better than anything that I can say–just don’t forget what verse 10 says (for we often quote verses 8-9 without verse 10, which is incomplete understanding!)

“For by grace are ye saved

through faith;

and that not of yourselves:

it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works,

lest any man should boast.

10 For we are his workmanship,

created in Christ Jesus unto good works,

which God hath before ordained

that we should walk in them.”  Ephesians 2:8-10

Paul also conveyed this idea to the Roman believers, that we have a calling to righteousness, for God’s glory, our good, and the furtherance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ–the true gospel, not an ‘easy’ grace that produces no change and costs nothing but a few empty words!

“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.

3 For I say, through the grace given unto me,

to every man that is among you,

not to think of himself more highly

than he ought to think;

but to think soberly,

according as God hath dealt

to every man the measure of faith.”               Romans 12:1-3

Peter also reminds all believers to trust our God, live in humility, and a co-dependence upon one another that we may reflect the love and grace of Jesus in truth and power.

“Likewise, ye younger,

submit yourselves unto the elder.

Yea, all of you

be subject one to another,

and be clothed with humility:

for God resisteth the proud,

and giveth grace to the humble.

6 Humble yourselves therefore

under the mighty hand of God,

that he may exalt you in due time:

7 Casting all your care upon him;

for he careth for you.

8 Be sober,

be vigilant;

because your adversary the devil,

as a roaring lion,

walketh about,

seeking whom he may devour:

9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith,

knowing that the same afflictions

are accomplished in your brethren

that are in the world.

10 But the God of all grace,

who hath called us unto his eternal glory

by Christ Jesus,

after that ye have suffered a while,

make you perfect,

stablish,

strengthen,

settle you.

11 To him be glory

and dominion

for ever and ever. Amen.”  1 Peter 5:5-11

In a wrap up of our study, a final word from Jesus’ encounter with a religious man who was looking for answers.  Jesus gave him answers that are still true today.  Will you receive them in grace and truth, through the saving power of the Lamb of God who ‘taketh away the sin of the world’?  I’m praying for you!

“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

I pray that you know Jesus and have been born again!  If you don’t know HIM, you can call upon HIM in repentance and faith today, just like He says above!  If you already know Him, He will enable you to live IN HIM.  Be blessed and walk each day IN JESUS. Crucified with JESUS!

“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

Amen and Amen!!!

If God Were Watching??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #123

18 Friday Aug 2023

Posted by in A Form of godliness?, Abiding In Jesus, Cross, Crucified With Christ, God Is In Charge, God Knows, God Who Sees, God's Faithfulness, God's glory NOT mine!, God's Judgment, God's love, God's measure isn't ours, God's Presence Not Presents, God's ways are not our ways, God's Wisdom, Godliness will be opposed, Godly Wisdom, Holey, Holiness, Holy, Holy Living, Living by Faith or Entertainment?, Living in Christ, Living In My Season, Living Right, Living TODAY!, Take Up YOUR Cross, Teach The Children, Testing and Trials?

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If God Were Watching??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #123

OH! Wait! HE is!  How easy it is to forget that our amazing Lord and King is watching this world as it spins on the axis that HE set in place.  Jesus, The Son of God, Father God Almighty, and the precious Holy Spirit that has been given to those who come to Jesus in repentance and faith in HIS substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for MY sin and YOURS!  Yet, even when we come to Jesus for salvation, forgiveness, and the new birth (yes, being born again by the blood of The Lamb who “taketh away the sin of the world” See John 1:29), we still have to walk around in this body of flesh, and it doesn’t usually want to cooperate!!

So, what are we doing with, in and for not only “this” body that God has given us, but the entire body of Christ–the church?  The church was established by Jesus, and we are called to join together with other believers of like faith and practice to spread the Gospel and The Kingdom of God–even when it’s difficult! And it is often difficult and trying for those who are committed to seeing God’s will accomplished, for there is a price to pay!

“Yea, and all that will live godly

in Christ Jesus

shall suffer persecution.”  2 Timothy 3:12

Are we living up to the call of Jesus upon our life as HIS sheep; or have we yielded to the compromise of the world’s cry that we must appeal to the ‘entertainment need’ of the lost?  I’d simply like to share a few scriptures to encourage us to press on in truth and godliness.  You choose what/whom you will listen to and serve?

“And if it seem evil unto you

to serve the LORD,

choose you this day

whom ye will serve;

whether the gods which your fathers served

that were on the other side of the flood,

or the gods of the Amorites,

in whose land ye dwell:

but as for me and my house,

we will serve the LORD.”  Joshua 24:15

Paul made his declaration as clear as Joshua’s!  Are you ashamed to live for Jesus?  You know–and God does too, no matter what others think they see!  Let’s truly pursue Jesus and HIS way!

“So, as much as in me is,

I am ready to preach the gospel

 to you that are at Rome also.

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:

for it is the power of God unto salvation

to every one that believeth;

to the Jew first,

and also to the Greek.

17 For therein is the righteousness of God

revealed from faith to faith:

as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

18 For the wrath of God is revealed

from heaven

against all ungodliness

and unrighteousness of men,

who hold the truth in unrighteousness;”                 Romans 1:15-18

And I stand with Paul in his declaration that the Gospel of JESUS is our call, not making it an ‘easy-believism’ that deceives people and gives them a false sense of security.  Again, God is watching!

“For I determined not to know any thing among you,

save Jesus Christ,

and him crucified.”  1 Corinthians 2:2

I pray that we will see that Jesus’ call upon the lives of HIS own is real and we must take heed to it if we want to make a difference in the lives of people who are watching our lives–not just what we say, or where we go to church (if and when we go), they are watching our lives–in the good times, and especially in the bad/hard times!  If Jesus isn’t real every day–then HE’s not real at all.  We are called to reflect God’s character in new-birth, regenerated lives that shine the holiness of Jesus to a world lost and dying in the dark right now.

“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.

17 And if ye call on the Father,

who without respect of persons

judgeth according to every man’s work,

pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:

18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed

with corruptible things,

as silver and gold,

from your vain conversation

received by tradition from your fathers;

19 But with the precious blood of Christ,

as of a lamb without blemish

and without spot:” 1 Peter 1:14-19

While this is a lengthy passage, I encourage you to read the entire chapter–in fact–the entire book would be a great investment of your time.  And in closing the words of Jesus which describe a different picture than many preach today of just say a prayer, join a church, use Jesus’ name as a magic talisman to get your way!  Jesus paints a different way!  Have you been to the cross?  The cross is an instrument of death–death to self, and alive IN JESUS!! If you have, are you taking up “your cross” and walking with Jesus every step of the way?  May it ever be so for each of us–it ain’t easy–but by HIS grace, power, love and being “strong in the Lord and the power of HIS might” …we can “do all things through Christ who strengthens me”!

“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?

27 For the Son of man shall come

in the glory of his Father with his angels;

and then he shall reward every man

according to his works.”  Matthew 16:24-27

May we ever bear the cross with gratitude and devotion, following our King where ever HE may lead and direct our steps.  Blessings on you and yours.  Our soon coming King DOES see me/you today!

“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

Amen and Amen!!!