Category Archives: True Knowledge

Blow Up Or Bow Down??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #731

26 Wednesday May 2021

Posted by in All About Jesus!, All Sufficient God!, Faith, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Suffering With Jesus, Today is the day of Salvation, Trials, Troubles, True Knowledge, Trust, Trusting Jesus, Truth

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #731 Blow Up Or Bow Down???

 

Whether we like it or not, crises come into our lives, usually when we least expect them; but our God is faithful, and HE never says “oops”!  I’m so glad—yet I want to talk about our responses to crises, for we have options, and two of those are to “blow up” and pitch a “hissy fit” (southern for a real fit!), or to “bow” before our Lord and seek HIS face for the wisdom, grace and strength to “stand fast in the evil day”!

“Beloved,

think it not strange concerning the fiery trial

which is to try you,

as though some strange thing

happened unto you:

13 But rejoice,

 inasmuch as ye are partakers

of Christ’s sufferings;

that, when his glory shall be revealed,

ye may be glad also

with exceeding joy.”  1 Peter 4:12-13

James also encourages us to realize that trials are a part of life—especially the life of God’s children!

“My brethren,

count it all joy

when ye fall into divers temptations;

3 Knowing this,

that the trying of your faith

worketh patience.

4 But let patience have her perfect work,

that ye may be perfect and entire,

wanting nothing.”  James 1:2-4

James goes on to advise us as to what we ought to do when we don’t understand, leading us to achieve the maturity that he mentions (perfect –is referring to spiritual maturity, not sinless ‘perfection’!).

“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.”  James 1:5-6

Are we blowing up—being tossed and driven by the winds of life?  Or are we seeking God’s face for strength and wisdom to persevere?

So many are preaching an “easy life” gospel which falsely tells people that “if you have enough faith”, “if you name it and claim it” it will happen, but God’s Word tells us that “the servant is not greater than his Lord”; and our Lord suffered for “Being” right as well as “Doing” right and He told us that we should expect the same!  Ouch!  Not a popular perspective or message, but it is truth!

James gives us another principle for dealing with our trials, and trouble—not a very popular answer in our culture—yet it is God’s answer; to recognize that GOD is still GOD and I “am not”!

“Humble yourselves

in the sight of the Lord,

and he shall lift you up.”  James 4:10

When we recognize that God is God, and we are not, we can bow ourselves before HIM, knowing that HE is ever working for HIS glory and our good; even when we don’t see it or understand it!

“Let the wicked forsake his way,

and the unrighteous man his thoughts:

and let him return unto the LORD,

and he will have mercy upon him;

and to our God,

for he will abundantly pardon.

8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts,

neither are your ways my ways,

saith the LORD.

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,

so are my ways higher than your ways,

 and my thoughts than your thoughts.

10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow

from heaven,

and returneth not thither,

but watereth the earth,

and maketh it bring forth and bud,

that it may give seed to the sower,

and bread to the eater:

11 So shall my word be

that goeth forth out of my mouth:

 it shall not return unto me void,

but it shall accomplish that

which I please,

and it shall prosper in the thing

whereto I sent it.”  Isaiah 55:7-11

Blow up or bow down?  The choice is yours, but if you will see and acknowledge that GOD is GOD and seek His face, “he will have mercy”!  God’s mercy is here for you and me, but we must seek HIM while HE may be found.  Today is what we have—what will you do with it?

“(For he saith, I have heard thee

in a time accepted,

and in the day of salvation

have I succoured thee:

behold, now is the accepted time;

behold, now is the day of salvation.)”.  2 Corinthians 6:2

Consider the contrast between David and Saul, who each received rebuke from The Lord, yet had two different responses.  Saul was busy “doubting, pouting and dropping outing”, while David humbled himself before God and accepted the discipline of God in his life.  Which one will you emulate (copy)?

“And David said unto Nathan,

I have sinned against the LORD.

And Nathan said unto David,

The LORD also hath put away thy sin;

thou shalt not die.”  2 Samuel: 12:13

Saul in contrast:

“But now thy kingdom shall not continue:

the LORD hath sought him a man

after his own heart,

and the LORD hath commanded him

to be captain over his people,

because thou hast not kept that

which the LORD commanded thee…

… 11 It repenteth me that I have set up Saul

to be king:

for he is turned back

from following me,

and hath not performed my

commandments.

And it grieved Samuel;

and he cried unto the LORD all night…

.19 Wherefore then didst thou not obey

the voice of the LORD,

 but didst fly upon the spoil,

and didst evil

in the sight of the LORD?

20 And Saul said unto Samuel,

Yea, I have obeyed

the voice of the LORD…

…. 22 And Samuel said,

Hath the LORD as great delight

in burnt offerings and sacrifices,

as in obeying

the voice of the LORD?

Behold, to obey

is better than sacrifice,

and to hearken

than the fat of rams.

23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,

and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.

Because thou hast rejected

the word of the LORD,

he hath also rejected thee

from being king.”   1 Samuel 13:14 & 15:11 & 19-23

The choice is yours; will you offer “sacrifices” unto God and refuse to obey (I encourage you to read the full account of Saul and Samuel in chapters 12-16)?  Or will you confess, repent and receive God’s forgiveness, cleansing and restoration?  Choose wisely, there is a test.

“If we confess our sins,

he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,

and to cleanse us

from all unrighteousness.”  1 John 1:9

May we hear HIS voice today and respond? Amen!!!

Why Here? Why Now? Why Me? Bible Ballistics: BBs #714

17 Wednesday Mar 2021

Posted by in All About Jesus!, All Sufficient God!, Choices And Consequences, Come To Worship HIM, Confidence, Consider Your ways, Contentment, Dependence, Knowing GOD, Knowing God's Word, Lies, Lies That Defeat Us, That They May Know, The Only Way, Trials, Troubles, True Knowledge, Trust God, Trusting Jesus, Truth

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #714   Why Here? Why Now? Why Me?

 

I would like to share some thoughts with you this morning about God’s faithfulness and His totally trustworthy sovereignty!  We’ve all asked these questions at various time—particularly “Why Me?”!  But scripture assures us that if we will learn to depend fully on our God, our Lord and Savior, we will walk in victory; even when we don’t understand we can take Jesus at HIS Word, for no matter where, or when trials come, we are NEVER alone!  So, let’s start there, and remember ‘conversation’ is a reference to ‘life-style’ not just our speech!

“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

Are you walking in contentment or are you allowing the enemy to lead you into disruption, distrust, and subtle dissatisfaction?  When we walk in contentment and the confidence of knowing “our God reigns”, we will find that “peace…..which passeth all understanding”!

“But godliness with contentment

is great gain.

7 For we brought nothing into this world,

and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

8 And having food and raiment

let us be therewith content.”  1 Timothy 6:6-8

And while it seems that “contentment” is the antithesis of the American dream, it isn’t and even if it were, it’s what God has called us to!  In fact, discontent is one of the chief factors that drive us into bad situations (by our own bad choices, more often than not!).  Even as Jesus’ message to John in The Revelation, we must consider our ways in light of God’s Word—and to do that we must be IN The Word.

“Blessed is

he that readeth,

and they that hear

the words of this prophecy,

and keep those things

which are written therein:

for the time is at hand.”   Revelation 1:3

The blessing isn’t promised to those who simply read or peruse the ‘words’ that are written in this message, but to those who read it—hear it (regarding what they hear)—and keep it!  We must heed all of God’s Word and pursue our relationship with Jesus, knowing that like Esther we are here for God’s purposes!

“and who knoweth

whether thou art come to the kingdom

for such a time as this?”  Esther 4:4b

And, my dear friends, if there ever were “such a time as this”—it is now, and we must, absolutely must, “stand fast in the evil day” which is upon us!  But stand in God’s power, wisdom and ways not our own.

“Then he answered and spake unto me, saying,

This is the word of the LORD

unto Zerubbabel, saying,

Not by might,

nor by power,

but by my spirit,

saith the LORD of hosts.”   Zechariah 4:6

It’s the how and why of Paul’s encouragement to the Philippian believers.  It’s how we live, walk and have victory in all we do!

“I can do all things

through Christ

which strengtheneth me…

… 19 But my God

shall supply all your need

according to his riches in glory

by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:13 & 19

Are you wrestling with blame, confusion, uncertainty, or just plain fear of the future?  God has a better way for you!

“For God hath not given us

the spirit of fear;

but of power,

and of love,

and of a sound mind.”  2 Timothy 1:7

Don’t succumb to the enemy of your soul, but stand fast in the truth that truly, “our God reigns”!  And Satan is a defeated foe!  Jeremiah is often referred to as the ‘weeping prophet’ because his task was difficult and God told him beforehand that it would be—but God supplied his every need and his burden for truth and God’s people was beyond comprehension, and perhaps these words of Jeremiah’s that mean so much to me in making it through some difficult struggles will also speak to you today.

“Therefore thus saith the LORD,

If thou return,

then will I bring thee again,

and thou shalt stand before me:

and if thou take forth the precious

from the vile,

thou shalt be as my mouth:

let them return unto thee;

but return not thou unto them.

20 And I will make thee unto this people

a fenced brasen wall:

and they shall fight against thee,

but they shall not prevail against thee:

for I am with thee

to save thee

and to deliver thee,

saith the LORD.

21 And I will deliver thee

out of the hand of the wicked,

and I will redeem thee

out of the hand of the terrible.”   Jeremiah 15:19-21

Jesus gave us our marching orders and HIS way is always best, even when the way looks long and dreary (what Oswald Chambers refers to as “the mundane”), or even scary– our God is ever by us, before us, behind us and is causing our steps to glorify HIM!

“Having your conversation honest

among the Gentiles:

that, whereas they speak against you

as evildoers,

they may by your good works,

which they shall behold,

glorify God

in the day of visitation.”  1 Peter 2:12

Jesus’ own words direct our hearts, steps, and our choices:

“Therefore take no thought, saying,

What shall we eat?

or, What shall we drink?

or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

32 (For after all these things

do the Gentiles seek:)

for your heavenly Father knoweth

that ye have need of all these things.

33 But seek ye first

the kingdom of God,

and his righteousness;

and all these things

shall be added unto you.

34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow:

for the morrow shall take thought

for the things of itself.

Sufficient unto the day

is the evil thereof.”  Matthew 6:31-34

In closing, what do we think and do?  We guard our hearts and minds from the enemy of our souls; and think on the things of God, as someone once said— “Check the enemy at the door of your mind!”  Don’t let the “Father of lies” deceive you into less than GOD has for you!

“Be careful for nothing;

but in every thing

by prayer

and supplication

with thanksgiving

let your requests be made known

unto God.

7 And the peace of God,

which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts and minds

through Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brethren,

whatsoever things are true,

whatsoever things are honest,

whatsoever things are just,

whatsoever things are pure,

whatsoever things are lovely,

whatsoever things are of good report;

if there be any virtue,

and if there be any praise,

think on these things.”  Philippians 4:6-8

I pray that we will all march forward to victory in Jesus (that would make a great song!) each day, knowing that:

“And a voice came out of the throne, saying,

Praise our God,

all ye his servants,

and ye that fear him,

both small

and great.

6 And I heard as it were the voice

of a great multitude,

and as the voice of many waters,

and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying,

Alleluia:

for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.

7 Let us be glad

and rejoice,

and give honour to him….”   Revelation 19:5-7a

May you have a blessed week and keep your eyes fixed on the prize—Jesus.  Don’t let the bend in the road distract you from God’s love and purposes!

“…God is love…”!

Amen and Amen!!!

Faithfully Standing For ____??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #704

20 Wednesday Jan 2021

Posted by in By Him We Live, By His Grace, Confidence or Presumption?, Daniel Prayed--Will You?, Daniel's choices, Glory To God, God Is In Charge, God Who Sees, God's Faithfulness, Nebuchadnezzars & Daniels, Sovereignty, True Knowledge, Trust God, Trusting Jesus, Wisdom

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #704  Faithfully Standing For ____???

 

“And when thou prayest,

thou shalt not be

as the hypocrites are:

for they love to pray

standing in the synagogues

and in the corners of the streets,

that they may be seen

of men.

Verily I say unto you,

They have their reward.

6 But thou, when thou prayest,

enter into thy closet,

and when thou hast shut thy door,

pray to thy Father

which is in secret;

and thy Father which seeth in secret

shall reward thee openly.”  Matthew 6:5-6

This may seem like an odd continuation of our study of Daniel’s character, but in our last session, I believe we saw this principle in action!  Daniel and his friends didn’t whine and complain that they couldn’t “obey”; they didn’t make demands of their “captors”—or if you would, their adversaries—rather they behaved with respect toward those who were over them and went to God with their plight!  How about you and me?  Now, don’t misunderstand me, there is nothing wrong with public prayer that lifts others and calls our hearts to join in praise, adoration, and petition for those in need (even ourselves), but we are talking about taking our issues before God rather than men!  Why?  Because if it is God that we truly know and serve, then He should always be our first source of help!  OH, that I could learn to do this better and continually!  For, you see, we have something that Daniel and his friends didn’t have, the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide, teach and support us—God in us and with us continually, the very promise of the New Covenant!  Jesus’ own promise to His followers—even us!

“These things have I spoken unto you,

being yet present with you.

26 But the Comforter,

which is the Holy Ghost,

whom the Father will send

in my name,

he shall

teach you all things,

and bring

all things to your remembrance,

whatsoever I have said

unto you.”  John 14:25-26

Now don’t presume on this promise—it is not a promise for instant “knowledge” or “wisdom” from God, but Jesus said that His Holy Spirit would bring things to our “REmembrance”; but if you haven’t taken the time to “member” God’s Word and know His ways by study, exercising truth, and applying it to your life, you won’t have anything to “REmember”!  I love what the author of Hebrews proclaims to God’s children—we have a King and we have been given the privilege to come to HIM who is on the throne—boldly!  Not presumptuously, but as a little child who knows “my daddy” can take care of anything!  Where are you running to when you are in need?  Won’t you stand with me and join Daniel in staying before that amazing and wonderful throne of God!  He is always ‘right’, and ‘right here’ when we will avail ourselves of HIS presence!

“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 4:14-16

Now maybe I’m the only one, but I find that my needs are ever present and continual—oh, to be found pursuing HIS presence and supply rather than my own, or the flimsy solutions of the world!  That was Daniel’s very way of life, even in his youth.  And I praise God for those young friends who encourage my heart that God is still raising up young people who love HIM and are ready to seek, serve and share HIM with others!  Let us be faithful to pray for our young people as we encourage them to Bible study and holy living; even as the Apostle Paul encouraged his young protégé, Timothy, to pursue God with courage, and not be stopped short because of his youth!

“For bodily exercise profiteth little:

but godliness is profitable unto all things,

having promise of the life that now is,

and of that which is to come.

9 This is a faithful saying

and worthy of all acceptation.

10 For therefore we both

labour

and suffer reproach,

because we trust in the living God,

who is the Saviour of all men,

specially of those that believe.

11 These things

command and teach.

12 Let no man

despise thy youth;

but be thou an example

of the believers,

in word,

in conversation,

in charity,

in spirit,

in faith,

in purity.”  1 Timothy 4:8-12

And may I just add that Daniel was a perfect example of this kind of godly commitment to faithful seeking, serving and sharing his faith in God; and we’ll begin our look at chapter 2 in our next post, but I do want to share a portion to whet your appetite, to recognize the understanding and wisdom of these young men of faith who found themselves serving a Nebuchadnezzar!  How about you?  Are you resting in this awesome GOD, or something less?  Do you know HIM in all these characteristics?

“Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel

in a night vision.

Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.

20 Daniel answered and said,

Blessed be the name of God

for ever and ever:

for wisdom and might

are his:

21 And he changeth

the times and the seasons:

he removeth kings,

and setteth up kings:

he giveth wisdom

unto the wise,

and knowledge

to them that know understanding:

22 He revealeth

the deep and secret things:

he knoweth

what is in the darkness,

and the light

dwelleth with him.

23 I thank thee,

and praise thee,

O thou God of my fathers,

who hast given me wisdom

and might,

and hast made known

unto me now

what we desired of thee:

for thou hast now made known

unto us

the king’s matter.”  Daniel 2:19-23

May God encourage your heart today and remind each of us, that no matter what “Nebuchadnezzars” we may live under—God is still KING, and HE still expects us to “quit you like men” and live faithfully like we believe what we profess!  God is still on HIS throne—and HE “never says oops”!

Amen and Amen!!!

GOD Needs A__Good__??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 22

09 Sunday Aug 2020

Posted by in All About Jesus!, Be not conformed to this world, Building on The Rock or The Sand?, Choices And Consequences, Consider Your ways, He Died That We Could Live, IN Jesus!, Salvation, Saved by grace, The Broad or Narrow Way?, True Knowledge, Trusting Jesus, Truth

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 22 GOD Needs A ___Good___???

 

Most of us have heard the slogan, “_____needs a few good men…”!  But I’d like us to talk about our God, and while God doesn’t “need” anything, there are some things that God says about what HE desires for His own, for all mankind.

“The Lord knoweth how

to deliver the godly

out of temptations,

and to reserve

the unjust

unto the day of judgment

to be punished:”  2 Peter 2:9

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise,

as some men count slackness;

but is longsuffering

to us-ward,

not willing that any should perish,

but that all should come

to repentance.”  2 Peter 3:9

God truly desires for all to “come to repentance”, for His desire is that none “should perish” but come to Jesus for salvation.  Yet the thing we need to remember is that God isn’t looking for a “few”, nor is He looking for “good” men, He is calling to all who will hear and heed His message of salvation IN JESUS; recognizing that Jesus came to save sinners, not “good” men, those who think they can save themselves.

Paul talked about this ability to recognize our need of a Savior; and as long as we are “good” enough on our own, why would we need a Savior?  But when we see our sin, and understand that we can’t save ourselves, then we can see our need and come to know the One who can remedy our sin problem.

“And the grace of our Lord

was exceeding abundant

with faith

and love

which is in Christ Jesus.

15 This is a faithful saying,

and worthy of all acceptation,

that Christ Jesus came into the world

to save sinners;

of whom I am chief.”  1 Timothy 1:14-15

Paul talked of this to the Roman believers to remind them of this very thing.

“As it is written,

There is none righteous,

no, not one:

11 There is none that understandeth,

there is none that seeketh after God.

12 They are all gone out of the way,

they are together become unprofitable;

there is none that doeth good,

no, not one…

…. 22 Even the righteousness of God

which is by faith of Jesus Christ

unto all

and upon all them

that believe:

for there is no difference:

23 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 3:10-12 & 22-24

God doesn’t need us, but we need Jesus; and just as Jesus said in Matthew 7, we must choose wisely for there is only one way—Jesus—and while the broad way may be appealing, it is deceptive.  So, we must consider God’s truth and receive His forgiveness for our sin, by choosing HIS path–JESUS!

“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…

…. 21 Not every one that saith unto me,

Lord, Lord,

shall enter into the kingdom of heaven;

but he that

doeth the will of my Father

which is in heaven.

22 Many will say to me in that day,

Lord, Lord,

have we not prophesied in thy name?

and in thy name have cast out devils?

and in thy name done many wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them,

I never knew you:

depart from me,

ye that work iniquity.”   Matthew 7:13-14 & 21-23

Forgiveness is found only in Jesus, yet just as the song says, the truth IS “Jesus Saves” still! (Written by Priscilla Jane Owens).

“Giving thanks unto the Father,

which hath made us meet

to be partakers of the inheritance

of the saints in light:

13 Who hath delivered us

from the power of darkness,

and hath translated us

into the kingdom of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

even the forgiveness of sins:”   Colossians 1:12-14

Truly we only find that forgiveness when we humble ourselves before God, seeking His forgiveness in Jesus death, burial and resurrection for our sin!

“But he giveth more grace.

Wherefore he saith,

God resisteth the proud,

but giveth grace unto the humble.

7 Submit yourselves therefore to God.

Resist the devil,

and he will flee from you.

8 Draw nigh to God,

and he will draw nigh to you.

Cleanse your hands,

ye sinners;

and purify your hearts,

ye double minded.

9 Be afflicted,

and mourn,

and weep:

let your laughter be turned

to mourning,

and your joy

to heaviness.

10 Humble yourselves

in the sight of the Lord,

and he shall lift you up.”   James 4:6-10

And as God wants us to know, and choose wisely, He is ever seeking those who will come to HIM!  Remember, as my former pastor says, “Jesus died for our sin, so we don’t have to die IN our sin!”

“The eyes of the LORD

are in every place,

beholding the evil

and the good.”  Proverbs 15:3

So then, who is the “good” one?  No one!  But when Jesus saves and transforms our lives, we are changed into the image of The Son; we are changed from lost sinners to saved saints (and saints aren’t perfect, just forgiven, redeemed and being transformed—see Romans 8:28-29!)!  One of my favorite passages, helps us understand this principle—Jesus saves us “from” our sin, so we won’t have to die “IN” our sin! (See Matthew 1:21)

“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

It’s because of God’s saving work that we can understand with the Psalmist, that the “good” man mentioned by the Psalmist is only “good” by God’s saving grace! (Remember Romans 3!)

“The steps of a good man

are ordered by the LORD:

and he delighteth

in his way.

24 Though he fall,

he shall not be utterly cast down:

for the LORD upholdeth him

with his hand.”  Psalm 37:23-24

So, my question for us today is simply this, “Are you one of those who will respond to God’s call?”  Will you recognize your true condition and come to the Savior in repentance and faith?  Will you allow God to save, redeem and transform you?  Or will you go your own way, choosing to pay for your own sin.  It’s your choice, but choose wisely, there is a test.

“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

By HIS salvation we can know the power of a truly transformed life, having a renewed heart and mind by the power of Jesus’ sacrifice, God’s Word, and His Holy Spirit.

“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

I pray that you will find peace, joy and rest in this transforming power of salvation in Jesus.  For Jesus isn’t just seeking a “few good men/women”, but all who will see their sin and know that HE is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”!

Won’t you come to this loving Savior who died for you?  And if you already know Him, won’t you share this truth with those around you who don’t?  May God raise us up—the army of The Lord–remembering that:

“And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat,

Thus saith the LORD unto you,

Be not afraid

nor dismayed

by reason of this great multitude;

for the battle is not yours,

but God’s.”    2 Chronicles 20:15

Blessings on you and yours.  I pray that you will be one of the “few there be that find it”!

Amen and Amen!!!

 

 

 

 

 

Truth Or More Tragedy??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 18

12 Sunday Jul 2020

Posted by in Ask God For Wisdom, Be not conformed to this world, Stand Fast!, Trendy Or Truth, True Knowledge, Trust God, Trusting Jesus?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 18   Truth Or More Tragedy???

 

I had a topic for today’s post, but after reading an article just this morning, I feel I must address what I see as as dangerous mindset of many today.  It seems we are so biblically uninformed that we are willing to trade our biblical foundations for cultural ideologies.  Much like the passage that I had originally intended to focus on, God spoke to Jeremiah about what Israel had traded truth for.

“Be astonished, O ye heavens, at this,

and be horribly afraid,

be ye very desolate,

saith the LORD.

13 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 2:12-13

I am intimately acquainted with “hold no water” today, after having “plumbing issues” this week, and because our hot water heater wouldn’t “hold water” we had to have things re-routed, moved, changed and replaced.  It seems that is what we are doing with our biblical faith!  It is falling prey to popular or even unpopular cultural ideas, and that’s what I want to talk with you about this afternoon.  I saw an article that was calling on a certain group of believers to change a symbol of their denomination—and in my opinion not just their denominational icon, but the very core of our faith!  We must take a stand on truth—we must stop trading truth for appeasement, we must stop interpreting our faith through the eyes of our culture and start to, once again, interpret our culture in light of biblical truth.  Please, our very future depends upon our choices today!  Jesus told us that we would face opposition, but it shouldn’t come from within (but it often does, even as it did with our Lord!).  We should be leading people to the cross not away from it.  We are to help the world see Jesus and HIM crucified, not erase the very paths that lead to the cross and salvation.

“As it is written,

Behold, I lay in Sion

a stumblingstone

and rock of offence:

and whosoever believeth on him

shall not be ashamed.”   Romans 9:33

Paul addressed this truth of the offense of the gospel to the world, and throughout history we have had to “stand fast in the evil day” to hold to the cross of our Lord Jesus!

“Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture,

Behold,

I lay in Sion a chief corner stone,

elect,

precious:

and he that believeth on him

shall not be confounded.

7 Unto you therefore which believe

he is precious:

but unto them which be disobedient,

the stone which the builders disallowed,

the same is made the head of the corner,

8 And a stone of stumbling,

and a rock of offence,

even to them which stumble

at the word,

being disobedient:

whereunto also they were

appointed.

9 But ye are a chosen generation,

a royal priesthood,

an holy nation,

a peculiar people;

that ye should shew forth the praises

of him who hath called you

out of darkness

into his marvellous light:” 1 Peter 2:6-9

The article that I read made some valid personal observations, but, in my opinion, the conclusions that he made were interpreting the ‘symbols’ through his cultural experience (which I am not denying are very important) but we can’t change the gospel or the truth of what the cross stands for because some have perverted it!  The cross of Christ Jesus is the very “corner stone” of our faith.

“And said unto him,

Art thou he that should come,

 or do we look for another?

4 Jesus answered and said unto them,

Go and shew John again those things

which ye do hear and see:

5 The blind receive their sight,

and the lame walk,

the lepers are cleansed,

and the deaf hear,

the dead are raised up,

and the poor have the gospel

preached to them.

6 And blessed is he,

whosoever shall not be offended

in me.”  Matthew 11:3-6

Paul warned the Ephesian leaders that the time would come, and even people would come, who would challenge the truth of the cross, even coming from among their midst!

“Wherefore I take you to record this day,

that I am pure from the blood of all men.

27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you

all the counsel of God.

28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves,

and to all the flock,

over the which the Holy Ghost

hath made you overseers,

to feed the church of God,

which he hath purchased

with his own blood.

29 For I know this, that after my departing

shall grievous wolves enter in

among you,

not sparing the flock.

30 Also of your own selves

shall men arise,

speaking perverse things,

to draw away disciples

after them.”  Acts 20:26-30

As God’s children, and followers of Jesus Christ, we must hold to HIM and HIS truth—we must interpret the events around us in light of the freedom of the cross, not let culture change it into a perverted object that evil men have tried to make it through the centuries.  Where will we stand, or more importantly “come down” (or fall down)?  On the side of the gospel, which interprets all things in light of God and HIS Word (truth), rather than the twisted words of men!  (Peter talks about the men of ‘twisted words’ [read 2 Peter 2]!), those who take God’s words and try to make them suit an agenda, and greed, rather than aligning our lives in accord with God’s Word—the whole counsel of God!).  Paul only had one message, and I pray that I will live the same way!

“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;

19 Because that which may be known of God

is manifest in them;

for God hath shewed it

unto them.”  Romans 1:16-19

May we join Paul and stand fast on the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and the power of the cross—the only power that matters—no matter how others have perverted it in the past, in the present or may in the future!

“For Christ sent me not to baptize,

but to preach the gospel:

not with wisdom of words,

lest the cross of Christ

should be made of none effect.

18 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.”  1 Corinthians 1:17-21

May the cross ever BE our banner of truth.

“And I, brethren, when I came to you,

came not with excellency of speech

or of wisdom,

declaring unto you the testimony

of God.

2 For I determined not to know any thing

among you,

save Jesus Christ,

and him crucified.

3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear,

and in much trembling.

4 And my speech and my preaching

was not with enticing words

of man’s wisdom,

but in demonstration

of the Spirit

and of power:

5 That your faith should not stand

 in the wisdom of men,

but in the power of God.”   1 Corinthians 2:1-5

May my/your life always be lived and testify of what the Christ of the cross has done for me/you.  Will you join me and stand fast on Christ Jesus, crucified, risen and coming again.  May we be found faithful to HIS cross for it truly is the only “power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth”!  What about you?

“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

I stand fast on the truth of The Word of God.

“For I determined not to know any thing

among you,

save Jesus Christ,

and him crucified.”  1 Corinthians 2:2

Crucified for my sin and yours—Jesus who died as my/your substitutionary, atoning, sacrifice for sin—for all who will believe!  I will not abandon the cross.  And just for extra measure:

“I indeed baptize you with water

unto repentance:

but he that cometh after me is mightier than I,

whose shoes I am not worthy to bear:

he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost,

and with fire:

12 Whose fan is in his hand,

and he will throughly purge his floor,

and gather his wheat into the garner;

but he will burn up the chaff

with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:11-12

Amen and Amen!!!