Tag Archives: 2 Timothy 3:12

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!!!

What/Who Are YOU Waiting For??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 23

02 Monday May 2022

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Choices And Consequences, Choose You This Day!, Choose you this day?, There IS a Test!

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 23 What/Who Are YOU Waiting For???

We are all waiting on something; a package we have ordered, a new piece of furniture, a new baby (one of the greatest gifts that God gives us—be it child, grandchild or great-grandchild), moving into a new house, or a new season of life, and this time of year we see many new seasons—graduates going off to adult life, those taking off on summer adventures, and during the trials of the last 2 years, many have had to adjust to life changes, loss, and trying to deal with unexpected grief, physical trials and challenges that have caused us all to “wait” on one thing or another.  Changes are a part of life and so is ‘waiting’!  The key is to know what we are waiting for—or more importantly—WHO we are waiting for.  Some are waiting for a ‘prince charming’ who will solve all their problems, others for that job that will take them to new heights of power and fame; for some, it’s waiting for that ‘special someone’ to “make me happy”!  Well, my friends, happiness is a word related to circumstances, but JOY is the peace of mind, heart and soul that only Jesus can and does give to those who will choose HIM—and wait for HIS direction, will and provision, and it goes far beyond circumstance but is grounded in the security of The Savior who paid the price to redeem us to Himself, and will direct our way when we seek HIM.

“Hast thou not known?

hast thou not heard,

that the everlasting God,

the LORD,

the Creator of the ends of the earth,

fainteth not,

neither is weary?

there is no searching of his understanding.

29 He giveth power

to the faint;

and to them that have no might

he increaseth strength.

30 Even the youths

shall faint and be weary,

and the young men

shall utterly fall:

31 But they that wait upon the LORD

shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings

as eagles;

they shall run,

and not be weary;

and they shall walk,

and not faint.”  Isaiah 40:28-31

Every person has a God-given freedom to choose, we can choose wisely, or we can choose foolishly.  Jesus gave a great lesson in this regard.  The choice is to believe and receive Jesus, or to go our own way, focused on ‘self’! You will choose the ‘rock’ or the ‘sand’—the lesson implies that each house ‘appears’ to the world to be the same, but the foundation makes the difference.  One person chose Jesus—The Rock; the other chose ‘self’—the sand.  You can impress the world or have peace with God—but most generally you can’t have them both at the same time; whether we look at coming to Jesus and accepting His substitutionary, atoning, sacrifice; or the living out of either trusting and obeying Jesus or trusting and yielding to our own wisdom and fleshly wisdom.  (See Romans 5:1-11)

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine,

and doeth them,

I will liken him

unto a wise man,

which built his house upon a rock:

25 And the rain descended,

and the floods came,

and the winds blew,

and beat upon that house;

and it fell not:

for it was founded upon a rock.

26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine,

and doeth them not,

shall be likened

unto a foolish man,

which built his house upon the sand:

27 And the rain descended,

and the floods came,

and the winds blew,

and beat upon that house;

and it fell:

and great was the fall of it.

28 And it came to pass, when Jesus

had ended these sayings,

the people were astonished at his doctrine:

29 For he taught them

as one having authority,

and not as the scribes.”  Matthew 7:24-29

Joshua gave one of the greatest summations of this personal dilemma of all time, for we must “choose” whom we will wait for, wait on and look unto for all of life’s issues, especially the salvation of our souls!

“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

Jesus is the “rock of my salvation” and HE will be yours if you will look to HIM! Oh, how I love Jesus!

“I will love thee, O LORD,

my strength.

2 The LORD is my rock,

and my fortress,

and my deliverer;

my God,

my strength,

in whom I will trust;

my buckler,

and the horn

of my salvation,

and my high tower.

3 I will call upon the LORD,

who is worthy to be praised:

so shall I be saved

from mine enemies.”  Psalm 18:1-3

The question is, what and who are you “waiting” for?  After many years of life, experience, disappointments, joys, and learning that there is only ONE person who is worthy of my focus, my continual devotion, and on whom I can depend, HIS name is JESUS!  And while I am blessed with many faithful and trusted friends, there is only ONE upon whom I place my total confidence, my best friend, JESUS!  And HE is worth waiting for—and I truly believe that His return is imminent!  Are you ready?

“I had fainted,

unless I had believed to see

the goodness of the LORD

in the land of the living.

14 Wait on the LORD:

be of good courage,

and he shall strengthen thine heart:       

wait, I say,

on the LORD.”  Psalm 27:13-14

“Wait on the LORD,

and keep his way,

and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land:

when the wicked are cut off,

thou shalt see it.”  Psalm 37:34

As we wait upon “The Lord”, we can be assured that Jesus is “God”, not an imposter or just ‘one’ of many ways to God!  HE IS GOD, He said so Himself, and He also said HE is coming back again, and HE is trustworthy—and I’m looking UP expectantly!!!

“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 14:6

So, my friends, what/who are you waiting on?  You can choose to believe in the ONE who is coming back for HIS own, waiting with joy and expectancy. Or not?  Choose “you this day” to go your own way or God’s?  And just as a bit of reminder for some of you and news for others of you, let’s rehearse what scripture says about “who/what” Jesus claimed Himself to be from the Gospel of John—one of my favorite books about Jesus.  A great New Testament book to read if you want to know more about Him!  And note “the Word” is Jesus—the living WORD, as well as the author of the written Word, and here, as well as several other passages, identified as “creator”.  (See Colossians 1:16)

“In the beginning

was the Word,

and the Word

was with God,

and the Word

was God.

2 The same was in the beginning

with God.

3 All things were made

by him;

and without him

was not any thing made

that was made.

4 In him was life;

and the life was the light of men.

5 And the light shineth

in darkness;

and the darkness

comprehended it not.”  John 1:1-5.  (See John 3:19-21 for more)

Jesus’ first express revelation of His deity was to the woman at the well:

“The woman saith unto him,

I know that Messias cometh,

which is called Christ:

when he is come,

he will tell us all things.

26 Jesus saith unto her,

I that speak unto thee am he.”   John 4:25-26

Yet sometimes “seeing” isn’t “believing”:

“And Jesus said unto them,

I am the bread of life:

he that cometh to me

shall never hunger;

and he that believeth on me

shall never thirst.

36 But I said unto you,

That ye also have seen me,

and believe not…

….48 I am that bread of life…

….51 I am the living bread

which came down from heaven:

if any man eat of this bread,

he shall live for ever:

and the bread that I will give

is my flesh,

which I will give

for the life of the world.”   John 6:35-36 & 48, 51

Without Jesus there is no way to God—you can choose to believe Him or reject Him, but choose wisely, there is a test, and a consequence.

“And he said unto them,

Ye are from beneath;

I am from above:

ye are of this world;

I am not of this world.

24 I said therefore unto you,

that ye shall die in your sins:

for if ye believe not

that I am he,

ye shall die in your sins.”  John 8:23-24

“Jesus said unto them,

Verily, verily, I say unto you,

Before Abraham was,

I am.

59 Then took they up stones to cast at him:

but Jesus hid himself,

and went out of the temple,

going through the midst of them,

and so passed by.”  John 8:58-59

“Jesus said unto her,

I am the resurrection,

and the life:

he that believeth in me,

though he were dead,

yet shall he live:

26 And whosoever liveth

and believeth in me

shall never die.

Believest thou this?

27 She saith unto him,

Yea, Lord:

I believe

that thou art the Christ,

the Son of God,

which should come into the world.”                       John 11:25-27

What do you believe?  Jesus spoke the truth and they wanted to kill Him, and we who follow Him won’t always be believed or accepted, and we need to know that Jesus prepared us for this truth (hard to accept sometimes, but true and becoming more and more evident every day!).  It’s important to remember that when we choose Jesus, and walk in obedience, we will suffer with HIM.

“These things I command you,

that ye love one another

18 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 15:17-21

Paul also said something very similar to us—a verse that is often ignored, but much needed today!

“Yea,

and all that will live godly

in Christ Jesus

shall suffer persecution.”  2 Timothy 3:12

And in closing, are you, am I, willing to “live godly in Christ Jesus”?  If not, what are you waiting for?  Holy or NOT?  The choice is yours but choose wisely, there is a test!  And remember God’s call upon those who are His own.  Don’t wait too long!

“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 1:15.-16

Amen and Amen!!!

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

14 Monday Feb 2022

Posted by 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

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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!!!

 

Abiding With Whom??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #681

18 Friday Sep 2020

Posted by in A Father's Love, Abiding In Jesus, All About Jesus!, All Sufficient God!

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #681  Abiding With Whom???

 

“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

As I write this morning, I am sitting here listening to some great Southern Gospel music and it delights my heart to rehearse the times I have heard and sung many of these songs.  In fact, the word I want to share with you this morning was triggered by and old song; and I pray that it will encourage our hearts to “Abide” in and with Jesus, who wants to “Abide” in and with YOU and me.

Just as Jesus spoke to the disciples in the passage above, He calls us to “Abide” with Him in all our ways; and He promises that if we will “Abide” IN Him we will bear fruit, and even as the Father prunes our lives, we will grow into fruitful branches.  Are you a branch of Jesus’?  Are you fighting the pruning this morning?  Or are you ready to rejoice in the fact that Jesus is “the true vine” and we “are the branches”? Or are you trying to be your own “vine”?

It seems to me, that much of what proports to be ‘Christianity’ today is simply greed and selfish lust dressed up in church clothes!  Jesus paints a different picture of HIS body—a body of commitment to HIM, abiding in HIM personally.  Jesus IS the vine, not the church building, or its hierarchy, much less congregations who are clamoring for entertainment, comfort and prosperity!  The church is The Body of Jesus Christ—branches who are abiding in The Vine!  Paul told Timothy a hard truth—but none the less, truth—and not very popular today!

“Yea, and all that will live godly

in Christ Jesus

shall suffer persecution.”  2 Timothy 3:12

As we spoke the other day, Jesus keeps HIS own, even in the trials and persecutions!  The question is, “Are you HIS own?”  It’s a question that only you can answer, but Jesus knows the answer, and there is a test!

“Nevertheless

the foundation of God

standeth sure,

having this seal,

The Lord knoweth them

that are his.

And, Let every one

that nameth the name of Christ

depart from iniquity.”  2 Timothy 2:19

Are you HIS?  Are you abiding IN HIM?  HE is ready to abide IN you!  If you aren’t HIS, then I invite you to bow before my King Jesus, repent of your sin and ask HIM to forgive your sin; for that is why HE came as the substitutionary (in our place), atoning (making payment for our sin), sacrifice (HE died to BE that very payment for our sin), and He is still saving and changing lives today.  In fact, He transformed me, and HE is ready to give you a new heart and life; or to revive your heart if you are His already!!!  When we receive His life-changing grace, He enables us to walk in that transforming grace as we yield to HIS work in our lives through the power of His indwelling Holy Spirit—abiding IN HIM! Transformed—abiding—and bearing HIS fruit!

“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

And there’s an old song that I have been pondering lately, I pray that it will encourage your heart to pursue HIS abiding presence, for HE Has promised to be there for us, for it is HIS abiding IN us that prevails!  Don’t give up—abide!

“Ye are of God, little children,

and have overcome them:

because greater is he that is in you,

than he that is in the world.”  1 John 4:4

       Abide With Me    By Henry Francis Lyte

“Abide with me! fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide!
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
Earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see;
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.

Come not in terrors, as the King of kings;
But kind and good, with healing in Thy wings:
Tears for all woes, a heart for every plea;
Come, Friend of sinners, thus abide with me.

I need Thy presence every passing hour:
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s power?
Who like Thyself my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, oh, abide with me.

I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless:
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness:
Where is death’s sting? where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.”

Amen and Amen!

Daniel Measured Up! Do We??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #636

20 Friday Mar 2020

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Bibe Study, Bloom Where You're Planted!, Born Again, Choices And Consequences, Come To Worship HIM, Crucified With Christ, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Faithfulness, Flesh-vs-Spirit, Give Us This Day, Great is Thy Faithfulness, It's Your Choice, Remember, Salvation, Teaching Always, That They May Know, The Crucified Life

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #636  Daniel Measured Up!  Do We???

 

I wasn’t going to post today since I shared a guest post yesterday, but with all of the hoopla going around on social media, I feel compelled to share some biblical insight that seems to be lacking around us.

First of all, let me say that we are to interpret life in light of God’s Word, not interpret God’s Word based on the world events going on around us.  God has been, IS, and ever will BE The Sovereign God Almighty of all creation!  We, His people, are to stand on HIS Word not the latest buzz “philosophy” that is drawing a following.  I feel led to share one of my favorite biblical characters, Daniel; for he gives us an example that is, may I say, less than politically correct!  But Daniel was a man of godly character regardless of his circumstances.

“But Daniel purposed in his heart

that he would not defile himself

with the portion of the king’s meat,

nor with the wine which he drank:

therefore he requested

of the prince of the eunuchs

that he might not defile himself.”  Daniel 1:8

This young man (probably a mid to late teen) made up his mind, he “purposed in his heart”, that he would do nothing to “defile himself”!  This requires a bit of context and history to explain Daniel’s plight.  Much of what we hear going around today, proports that God will protect Christians from every harm if they only do “_____”, and you can fill in the blank.  Yet scripture is replete with accounts of God’s people having to suffer the consequences of those around them—and Daniel and his three friends were some of those.  God had been calling His people to repent for a long while, and yet they refused to heed the warning of impending judgment.  Interestingly enough, they had continued to ‘worship’ in their “temple”, yet God had rejected their hypocritical ‘worship’ and called them to come to HIM not religion!

“Wherefore the Lord said,

Forasmuch as this people draw near me

with their mouth,

and with their lips

do honour me,

but have removed their heart

far from me,

and their fear toward me

is taught by the precept of men:

14 Therefore, behold, I will proceed

to do a marvellous work among this people,

even a marvellous work

and a wonder:

for the wisdom

of their wise men

shall perish,

and the understanding

of their prudent men

shall be hid.”   Isaiah 29:13-14

And this message is one so needed then, and now, that Jesus quoted it to those in His day.

“Ye hypocrites,

well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,

8 This people draweth nigh unto me

with their mouth,

and honoureth me

with their lips;

but their heart

is far from me.

9 But in vain they do worship me,

teaching for doctrines

the commandments of men.”  Matthew 15:7-9

What is God telling us?  Just as He told Jeremiah to preach repentance, He is still calling people to repent and believe in The Son of God, Jesus.  And when God calls, we can hear and respond in faith or go our own way!  Daniel had been raised in this country who had walked away from God repeatedly, and even with the fires of revival under a godly king, it was, if you would, too little too late!  But delayed his judgment because of the response of a remnant of genuine believers.  Yet judgment came as God had promised, and Daniel and his friends suffered the penalty of captivity—yet even in that captivity, Daniel determined to remain faithful to His God.

And I personally believe (after much study and prayer) that this decision was so significant because Daniel had probably already been ‘ceremonially’ defiled, as these young men were more than likely castrated (as was the custom of the time, for those taken captive for service in the palace).  Yet Daniel and his friends determined to trust The God whom they had trusted before their captivity.  I also find it interesting that they walked faithfully with their God for the whole record of the book of Daniel, and at least Daniel survived the entire 70 years of captivity.

The thing that I want us to consider is this principle of trusting God even in the crises, for sometimes we do suffer for the choices of others; yet when we do, we are to still keep on trusting our God.  And Paul surely wanted us to remember that “ease” isn’t the what we will usually encounter when we “take up our cross“ and “follow” Jesus!

“Nevertheless the foundation of God

standeth sure, having this seal,

The Lord knoweth them

that are his.

And, Let every one that nameth

the name of Christ

depart from iniquity.”  2 Timothy 2:19

“Yea, and all that will live godly

 in Christ Jesus

shall suffer persecution.”  2 Timothy 3:12

Oh my, we don’t hear that preached very much!  Daniel suffered because of the sin of his nation, but he didn’t doubt, pout, or drop out (as my friend, Pastor Brad, is known to say!).  Daniel stood fast in “the evil day” in which he lived, and in the “evil place” where he was thrust, and he shared truth at every opportunity—even when it was at his own peril.  Why do we think that we are to be immune for this broken world just because we are born again?

In fact, when Daniel was near the end of his life and ministry, he prayed for his people who were about to go back into the land of Israel!  Hopefully his prayer will open some eyes to see that we are to identify with those around us (not join in their sin but identify with our human plight) offering the hope of our “Redeemer” and His life-giving salvation from sin! (Read Daniel 9 in its entirety).

“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

Are you spreading the hope of salvation by the “blood of the Lamb”?  Or are you looking for the “easy” way, the ‘gospel of ease’ rather than the gospel of taking up HIS CROSS!  Are you willing to die to self—or cling to it?

“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

Jesus told us to take up our cross not to dictate to God!  Our circumstances are God’s business, and if all we can do is whine, or complain—who are we really trusting?

And just FYI, Daniel had no temple to attend—he worshipped, prayed, served, and testified where he was because he knew HIS God and HIS Word!  What about you?  I think church attendance is important, and scripture says we aren’t to neglect it, but we must understand that born-again believers “ARE” the church, and we are to “BE” the church not just attend a meeting in a building.  Daniel and his friends prayed together, served God where they were, supported and encouraged one another where they were!  Are we going to follow their example—or stomp our feet and ignore the dangers of our present danger or seek God’s face for our particular situation.  Jesus clearly told us that we aren’t to “tempt God” with our presumption on HIS Word!  I would encourage you to spend some time pondering these things that Jesus left as our example.

“And when the tempter came to him, he said,

If thou be the Son of God,

command that these stones

be made bread.

4 But he answered and said,

It is written,

Man shall not live by bread alone,

but by every word

that proceedeth

out of the mouth of God.

5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city,

and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,

6 And saith unto him,

If thou be the Son of God,

cast thyself down:

for it is written,

He shall give his angels

charge concerning thee:

and in their hands

they shall bear thee up,

lest at any time

thou dash thy foot

against a stone.

7 Jesus said unto him,

It is written again,

Thou shalt not tempt

the Lord thy God.

8 Again, the devil taketh him up

into an exceeding high mountain,

and sheweth him all the kingdoms

of the world,

and the glory of them;

9 And saith unto him,

All these things will I give thee,

if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

10 Then saith Jesus unto him,

Get thee hence, Satan:

for it is written,

Thou shalt worship the Lord

thy God,

and him only shalt thou serve.”  Matthew 4:3-10

Measure what you’re hearing these days by the words of The Master!  Don’t be presumptuous toward God’s sovereignty or His Word; Jesus clearly tells us that we are to trust God for our provision, not step out on our own judgment (See Proverbs 3:5-6); we are never to “tempt” God by presumption on His will or His Word.  Not all promises apply to every situation, there are conditional promises—you need to know God’s Word and the context of what you’re camping on!  And our worship is to totally be directed toward God and not just His blessings and benefits.  Daniel loved, prayed to, served, and worshipped His God continually even though He never made it back to “the temple”!  What about you—do you know HIS Word well enough to practice it at home, to teach it to your children and family?  God calls every believer to know HIS Word!  That means you and me, not just the preachers and teachers!  He doesn’t mean just the “paid” staff!

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God,

a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,

rightly dividing the word of truth.

16 But shun profane and vain babblings:

for they will increase

unto more ungodliness.”   2 Timothy 2:15-16

So, my challenge to each of us is that we will learn to judge things around us biblically and not by popular ‘buzz-words’, memes, and political correctness (which is usually not biblically correct!)!  And Peter’s challenge to us to always consider our Lord’s Word, His life and His example (and while He came to save us from our sin, His life is one we can always trust!), knowing that suffering and persecution are often the normal for genuine believers!  Consider what scripture says, and the lives of those who died for God—in fact spend some time in Hebrews 11:32-40 (it might give you a different take on real ‘Faith’!)

“Honour all men.

Love the brotherhood.

Fear God.

Honour the king.

18 Servants, be subject to your masters

with all fear;

not only to the good and gentle,

but also to the froward.

19 For this is thankworthy,

if a man for conscience toward God

endure grief,

suffering wrongfully.

20 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 2:17-25

Are we measuring up to our Lord’s example?  Won’t you join me in drawing near to Jesus, and measuring those things around us with HIS yardstick not the world’s? And remember what Jesus told the woman at the well!

“Jesus saith unto her,

Woman, believe me, the hour cometh,

when ye shall neither in this mountain,

nor yet at Jerusalem,

worship the Father.

22 Ye worship ye know not what:

we know what we worship:

for salvation is of the Jews.

23 But the hour cometh, and now is,

when the true worshippers

shall worship the Father

in spirit and in truth:

for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

24 God is a Spirit:

and they that worship him

must worship him

in spirit and in truth.”   John 4:21-24

Be safe and blessings on your week.  I’ll be taking some down time and probably won’t post until later next week.  See you soon!