Tag Archives: Romans 11:33-36

What’cha Doing With What’cha Know? A Word from THE WORD! #388

19 Friday Sep 2025

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What’cha Doing With What’cha Know? A Word from THE WORD!!! #388

It’s hard to escape all the clutter and clatter going on around us!  What are we to do?  I think the scriptures can help us make our way through all the fog, failure and frustration of this world.  Let’s just dive in.

       “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about

              with so great a cloud of witnesses,

       let us lay aside every weight,

       and the sin which doth so easily beset us,

       and let us run with patience

              the race that is set before us,                 

       2 Looking unto Jesus

              the author

              and finisher

                      of our faith;

                             who for the joy that was set before him

                                    endured the cross,

                                    despising the shame,

                             and is set down at the right hand

                                    of the throne of God.

       3 For consider him that endured

              such contradiction of sinners against himself,

       lest ye be wearied

              and faint in your minds.” Hebrews 12:1-3

We must keep our eyes on the prize—JESUS—who has promised to bring us to glory!  And this “great a cloud of witnesses” isn’t the picture of a great stadium with fans cheering us on!  No, it’s a reference to chapter 11 just previous and the faithful saints who have gone before us—some rich, some poor, some seemingly unsuccessful to the world, some who were persecuted and suffered depravation and torture, even unto death, yet they trusted God to the end!  These are our “witnesses”, testifying by their lives that their faith was in God Almighty, and the one who would come to pay for our sins; The One who came in flesh, the God, Man, Savior!  The One who lived in flesh and “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”  While we won’t be ‘sinless’ in this life, we can have a heavenly mindset, fixed on Jesus, and live a holy victorious life. How?  We must be sure we know truth—and truth IS Jesus!  The more I know Him, not just know about Him, but know HIM in a personal relationship that we each can have, then seeking to have more of His reflection shine before this dark world.

So, what’s your focus?  Who’s your focus?  When we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, by being born again, in repentance of our sin and trusting/believing in His substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for that sin, then we need to dig into The Word and find out what God says a faithful walk in Jesus looks like; we are to live and pursue holiness in the work that God has prepared for us to do.  What are you doing with what you know?  Are you in the The Word finding out what you need to know about God, Jesus, The Holy Spirit, the work that HE has for me/you?  Don’t let the enemy distract and diffuse your journey with Jesus!

       “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

Salvation is all of God!  God created us knowing beforehand that we would sin, yet He created us anyway and had already provided the plan for our redemption; the the Lamb of God, Jesus, to come and pay for the sin of all who will come to Him in repentance and faith in the truth that His blood paid for our sin.  But He doesn’t just save us from sin, for God has set works of righteousness before us to accomplish!  Not works to get saved by earning our salvation but works of righteousness that are to be a reflection of the God who lives within us when we are saved; especially before a world lost in darkness, sin and deception.  Are you and I walking in the truth of His Word?  And my friends, you have to get into The Word to get anything out of it!  It’s all about God—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—don’t get focused on men, but keep your eyes fixed on Jesus!

       “O the depth of the riches

              both of the wisdom and                   

              knowledge of God!

       how unsearchable are his judgments,

       and his ways past finding out!

              34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord?

              or who hath been his counsellor?

              35 Or who hath first given to him,

               and it shall be recompensed unto him again?                      

              36 For of him,

              and through him,

                      and to him,

                             are all things:

              to whom be glory for ever. Amen.”   Romans 11:33-36

It’s all about Jesus—not me (or any other person)!  But when we belong to Jesus there should be a true reflection of Him to the world, in our daily living!  What are you reflecting?  Are you a “doer” of His work, or only as “hearer of the word”?     I want us to consider what James had to say about this, especially in light of recent days—days when everyone seemingly has a word, a thought, an opinion, and they all think their thoughts belong in the public eye!  Stop letting the world, the media, social media, or popular culture dictate what you believe, know and choose to stand on!  Some information may be true, much is not; but God’s Word stands true to this day and will until the end of time!  What do you know to be true?  Did God say so?  Do you know God?  If you know Him, are you reflecting His truth and glory, or the are you covered with the stains of the world?  Do you know His Word?  It’s your choice but choose wisely there is a test.

       “Wherefore, my beloved brethren,

              let every man be                

                      swift to hear,

                      slow to speak,

                      slow to wrath:

       20 For the wrath of man

    worketh not the righteousness of God.                                

   21 Wherefore lay apart

              all filthiness

              and superfluity of naughtiness,

       and receive with meekness

              the engrafted word,

                      which is able to save your souls.

       22 But be ye doers of the word,

              and not hearers only,

                      deceiving your own selves.       

       23 For if any be a hearer of the word,     

              and not a doer,

       he is like unto a man beholding

              his natural face in a glass:

       24 For he beholdeth himself,                   

              and goeth his way,

\            and straightway forgetteth

                      what manner of man he was.

       25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty,                         

and continueth therein,

       he being not a forgetful hearer,

              but a doer of the work,

                      this man shall be blessed in his deed.

       26 If any man among you

              seem to be religious,

              and bridleth not his tongue,

                      but deceiveth his own heart,

              this man’s religion is vain.

       27 Pure religion and undefiled

              before God and the Father is this,

                      To visit the fatherless and widows I

                             n their affliction,

              and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”   James 1:19-27

Which path are you choosing?  And yes, we are free to choose, but we are not free to set the consequences of those choices; and there is a day coming when you will be faced with the consequences of your choices!  Jesus warns us about the choices and calls us to choose wisely for the consequence are evident if we will but pay attention.  Remember just saying so, doesn’t make it so!

“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.

15 Beware of false prophets,

which come to you in sheep’s clothing,

but inwardly they are ravening wolves…

….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.”  Portions of Matthew 7:13-23

And in closing the words of our Shepherd.  Do you know Him?  I pray that you do, and if you don’t that you will call on Him today in repentance and faith in His sacrifice for you and me!  He makes it clear that HE knows His own, and Paul confirms this also.

“I am the good shepherd,

and know my sheep,

and am known of mine.

15 As the Father knoweth me,

even so know I the Father:

and I lay down my life for the sheep…

…27 My sheep hear my voice,

and I know them,

and they follow me:

28 And I give unto them eternal life;

and they shall never perish,

neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

29 My Father, which gave them me,

 is greater than all;

and no man is able to pluck them

out of my Father’s hand.

30 I and my Father are one.”  John 10:14-15 & 27

And as Paul said:

“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

Amen and Amen!!!

What’cha doing with what’cha know?

Choose wisely, there is a test!  (Read Revelation 20:11-15)

Who Am I??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 08

16 Sunday Jan 2022

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Abundant Life In Jesus, Consider Your ways, Looking up Or around?, Resting In Jesus, Resting Or Wrestling?, Who Am I?, Who's Listening Anyway?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 08   Who Am I???

 

This is a unique kind of post and while I am writing it in the first person, I am also writing it as a guide for each of us to question and discern who we are being for Jesus, and why we choose the way that we do in our life choices.

While I am the culmination of all my life experiences, I am not just that—I am the product of the work of God in my life; I am a blood bought, born again, heaven bound, grace saved, believer in Jesus, who has the mark of God on my life, and it is HIS work that is to be seen in me.

“What? know ye not

that your body is the temple

of the Holy Ghost

which is in you,

which ye have of God,

and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price:

therefore glorify God

in your body,

and in your spirit,

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

But who do I think and act like I am?  Is what others see a true reflection of the ONE who bought and paid for my salvation, that “abundant life” that HE, Jesus, died to provide?  That is the question that I’d like us to consider today, and I hope my method of investigation here will help us to draw near to God, and see what HE sees, for James said if we draw near to HIM, HE will draw near to us!

“Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain,

The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?

6 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 4:5-10

Have we drawn near to HIM or let the world come in between?  We are to assess our lives on a regular basis to be sure that we are truly hearing and obeying the call of God on our lives, and expressing the glory, grace, and power of our God, with the gifts that HE has given to each of His own.

“As every man hath received the gift,

even so minister the same

one to another,

as good stewards

of the manifold grace of God.

11 If any man speak,

let him speak as the oracles of God;

if any man minister,

let him do it as of the ability

which God giveth:

that God in all things

may be glorified

through Jesus Christ,

to whom be praise and dominion

for ever and ever.

Amen.”  1 Peter 4:10-11

So, who am I? If I might do some exploring with you, there are some things that apply to me, and they may apply to you, or you may have different gifts and callings, but we are each to do what with them?  And if you’ll notice there are two main groups of gifts, speaking gifts, and serving gifts, both necessary for the function and edification of the church body!  We are to obey and follow our Lord and serve with humility and total dependence upon God’s provision—His gifts, His provision, to His glory and for other’s good. All to reflect Jesus to a lost and dying world!   What will I do with my gift/gifts? You?

“He said unto them,

But whom say ye that I am?

Peter answering said,

The Christ of God.

21 And he straitly charged them,

and commanded them to tell no man that thing;

22 Saying,

The Son of man

must suffer many things,

and be rejected

of the elders and chief priests

and scribes,

and be slain,

and be raised the third day.

23 And he said to them all,

If any man will come after me,

let him deny himself,

and take up his cross daily,

and follow me.

24 For whosoever will save his life

shall lose it:

but whosoever will lose his life for my sake,

the same shall save it.

25 For what is a man advantaged,

if he gain the whole world,

and lose himself,

or be cast away?”   Luke 9:20-25

I am a follower of Jesus, and that means I have a cross to bear for my LORD, not for my salvation, but as an identifying mark of the Master who paid for my sin!  I am one who has a debt of love that I pray will be reflected in everything I do! How about you?  What are some of the gifts that we may have?  Let’s take a look at some of the callings of God, and as I have shared before, there is sometimes a call on my life, that may not be on yours; as a little tract I read many, many years ago called to my heart, and is still calling today, “Others may, you cannot!”  I am bound to The King of my soul no matter what others do or think of what I am called to be and do!

“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

It’s all about Jesus—the only WAY—the only FOUNDATION!

“For other foundation can no man lay

than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.

12 Now if any man build upon this foundation

gold,

silver,

precious stones,

wood,    

hay,

stubble;

13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest:

for the day shall declare it,

because it shall be revealed by fire;

and the fire shall try every man’s work

of what sort it is.

14 If any man’s work abide

which he hath built thereupon,

he shall receive a reward.

15 If any man’s work shall be burned,

he shall suffer loss:

but he himself shall be saved;

yet so as by fire.

16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God,

and that the Spirit of God

dwelleth in you?”   1 Corinthians 3:11-16

Our culture, even the Christian culture around us today, says that there are many “foundations”, and that we are all going to the same destination, we are just going different ways!  NOT!  Paul said it so clearly—”other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ”, and we must heed his warning and be sure that we are building on the right foundation—the only foundation!  For even Jesus Himself made it clear that there is only ONE WAY!

“Jesus saith unto him,

I am

the way,

the truth,

and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father,

but by me.

7 If ye had known me,

ye should have known my Father also:

and from henceforth

ye know him,

and have seen him.”  John 14:6-7

Jesus also made it clear that HE IS GOD!  First, last, and always.

“My sheep hear my voice,

and I know them,

and they follow me:

28 And I give unto them eternal life;

and they shall never perish,

neither shall any man

pluck them out of my hand.

29 My Father, which gave them me,

is greater than all;

and no man is able to pluck them

out of my Father’s hand.

30 I and my Father are one.”  John 10:27-30

If we are HIS sheep, how are we building on that foundation?  Are we building with “wood, hay, stubble” or “gold, silver, precious stone”?  Choose wisely, for there is a test, and Paul declares that the test of our works will be by fire, and we all know what’s left after fire on the “wood, hay, stubble”, nothing but ashes, and Paul goes on to say that when genuine believers see our “self” works go up in smoke, we “shall be saved; yet so as by fire”!  How sad to stand before our Lord, with nothing to show for the gifts, callings, and opportunities that HE has given to us!  How sad, indeed!

But there is more to consider!

“Son of man,

I have made thee a watchman

unto the house of Israel:

therefore hear the word at my mouth,

and give them warning

from me.

18 When I say unto the wicked,

Thou shalt surely die;

and thou givest him not warning,

nor speakest to warn the wicked

from his wicked way,

to save his life;

the same wicked man

shall die in his iniquity;

but his blood will I require

at thine hand.

19 Yet if thou warn the wicked,

and he turn not from his wickedness,

nor from his wicked way,

he shall die in his iniquity;

but thou hast delivered thy soul.”  Ezekiel 3:17-19

God went on to give Ezekiel an even more graphic picture of the responsibility of a watchman; and take note that a watchman isn’t always listened to, and is often unpopular, but when God calls us to it, we are HIS watchmen and watchwomen!  What has God called you to do?  God gave Ezekiel another message about the watchman, and while it is a bit lengthy, I think it necessary for us to consider the import of our calling—be it a speaking or serving gift!

“Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them,

When I bring the sword upon a land,

if the people of the land take a man of their coasts,

and set him for their watchman:

3 If when he seeth the sword come

upon the land,

he blow the trumpet,

and warn the people;

4 Then whosoever heareth the sound

of the trumpet,

and taketh not warning;

if the sword come, and take him away,

his blood shall be upon his own head.

5 He heard the sound of the trumpet,

and took not warning;

his blood shall be upon him.

But he that taketh warning

shall deliver his soul.

6 But if the watchman see the sword come,

and blow not the trumpet,

 and the people

be not warned;

if the sword come,

and take any person from among them,

he is taken away in his iniquity;

but his blood will I require

at the watchman’s hand.

7 So thou, O son of man,

I have set thee a watchman

unto the house of Israel;

therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth,

and warn them from me.

8 When I say unto the wicked,

O wicked man, thou shalt surely die;

if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked

from his way,

that wicked man shall die in his iniquity;

but his blood will I require

at thine hand.

9 Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked

of his way

to turn from it;

if he do not turn from his way,

he shall die in his iniquity;

but thou hast delivered thy soul.”  Ezekiel 33:2-8

As we saw Peter’s instruction in 1 Peter 4 above, God gives the gifts, and we are responsible for what we do with them; we are blood bought children of God (if we have been born again by the Spirit of God, see John 1:11-13 and John 3:3-19)), and it is HIS power that we are to walk in, not our own.  Scripture is replete with reminders to “walk in the Spirit” and not the flesh, as we share the Gospel truth, trusting God to bring it to fruition. But if we don’t share?  Whose blood is on my hands?

“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 15:4-5

“Nothing”!  Ouch!  Crucifixion hurts—it hurt Jesus to pay for our sin on that Roman cross, and it will cost us, if and when we choose to “take up his cross daily, and follow” Jesus!  The cross is not just a cute piece of jewelry that some wear, for whatever reason, but the cross is an instrument of death!  It killed my Lord, though HE willingly laid down HIS life for you and me, how can we do any less for HIM whom we claim to love and serve!  Serving Jesus gets messy, and is often, as Oswald Chambers calls it, mundane to the eyes of men, yet when we are serving our Lord, the results will be seen for eternity in glory.  It’s why, with Job, I can honestly declare:

“Though he slay me,

yet will I trust in him:

but I will maintain mine own ways

before him.”  Job 13:15

So, what does all this mean?  Good question: yet sometimes the answer is a difficult one, but sometimes not so difficult, for we can see our duty and our service opportunities clearly; but sometimes we wrestle with balance, discernment, heavy loads, life events that test and try our faith, uncertainty, or just plain bodily weariness.  Does God know?  Does God care?  That I can answer, ABSOLUTELY—HE loves us and cares about every thing that concerns you and me. (If you haven’t heard it, find the Collingsworth Family’s song, “If it matters to you, it matters to The Master”—it will bless your soul!). Jesus loved YOU/ME to death—HIS death– for our SIN!

“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 5:6-11

And as the Psalmist says:

“Sing unto the LORD,

O ye saints of his,

and give thanks

at the remembrance of his holiness.

5 For his anger endureth

but a moment;

in his favour

is life:

weeping may endure for a night,

but joy cometh in the morning.”  Psalm 30:4-5

And in conclusion, I would simply like to say that even when I’m confused, tired, weary, or even uncertain of the next step, GOD STILL REIGNS!  He is my faithful Lord, and I trust HIM—and because I have found Him faithful in every way, I can go on, I can take a break and go on.  I can find rest in fellowship, sleep, time away, even outside counsel when I need it.  After all, when Elijah ran from Jezebel, God didn’t fuss at him, He told him to go to sleep, and sent food by the birds to feed his body!  God cares for you and me, and we can take care of ourselves in living a balanced life, but we must be sure that our eyes stay “fixed on Jesus”—The One who died for me, and Who is working “all things” for me, in me, through me, to HIS glory and my/your good!  Amen!

And I leave you with a few passages to ponder through your day, week and beyond.

“O the depth of the riches

both of the wisdom

and knowledge

of God!

how unsearchable

are his judgments,

and his ways

past finding out!

34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord?

or who hath been his counsellor?

35 Or who hath first given to him,

and it shall be recompensed unto him again?

36 For of him,

and through him,

and to him,

are all things:

to whom be glory for ever.

Amen.”  Romans 11:33-36

“And we know

that all things work together for good

to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed

to the image of his Son,

that he might be the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?”  Romans 8:28-31

And remember that when you take up that “cross” of Jesus, you are also “yoked” together with HIM, and you will NEVER “pull” alone!

“Come unto me,

all ye that labour

and are heavy laden,

and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you,

and learn of me;

for I am meek and lowly in heart:

and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

30 For my yoke is easy,

and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11:28-30

“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

May God’s voice speak and direct your steps today!

Amen and Amen!!!

Christmas Ponderings #2!!! Bible Ballistics: BBs #768

03 Friday Dec 2021

Posted by in 'Tis The Season?, A Father's Love, Faithful Father--heavenly and earthly, Jesus the carpenter, Joseph the Carpenter

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #768   Christmas Ponderings!!! #2

 

Let’s look today at “the carpenter”, Joseph, the builder, whether he worked in wood, stone, or other materials, he was still a builder!  Why Joseph?  Why a carpenter?  Only God really knows but I would like to give us some food for thought.  For in reality, we are all ‘builders’ of one sort or another.

“And he went out from thence,

and came into his own country;

 and his disciples follow him.

2 And when the sabbath day was come,

he began to teach in the synagogue:

and many hearing him

 were astonished, saying,

From whence hath this man

these things?

and what wisdom is this

which is given unto him,

that even such mighty works

are wrought by his hands?

3 Is not this the carpenter,

the son of Mary,

the brother of James,

and Joses,

and of Juda,

and Simon?

and are not his sisters here with us?

And they were offended at him.”  Mark 6:1-3

It seems apparent that Joseph was not in the picture, most likely not alive at the time, but his part in God’s plan is often overlooked in our attention to the story of the birth of Jesus Christ the Lord!  Let’s spend some time this morning (or whatever time you’re reading this…) looking at this humble man of faith and obedience.

“Is not this the carpenter’s son?

is not his mother called Mary?

and his brethren,

James, and Joses,

and Simon, and Judas?”  Matthew 13:55

Jesus was called a “carpenter” and “the carpenter’s son”, and it was customary for the son to follow in his father’s trade, so we can surmise that Joseph was building into his son the skills of life and livelihood, as well as modeling a life of faith and obedience.  And while we don’t know much about Joseph after Jesus’ childhood, we can see that he was known as the carpenter by those of his community, and his life of obedience is so clear in Matthew’s account of the incarnation.

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise:

When as his mother Mary

was espoused to Joseph,

before they came together,

she was found with child

of the Holy Ghost.

19 Then Joseph her husband,

being a just man,

and not willing

to make her

a publick example,

was minded to put her away privily.

20 But while he thought on these things, behold,

the angel of the Lord appeared unto him

in a dream, saying,

Joseph, thou son of David,

fear not to take unto thee Mary

thy wife:

 for that which is conceived in her

is of the Holy Ghost.

21 And she shall bring forth a son,

and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people

from their sins…

24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep

did as the angel of the Lord

had bidden him,

and took unto him his wife:

25 And knew her not

till she had brought forth

 her firstborn son:

and he called his name JESUS.”   Matthew 1:18-21 & 25

I don’t think we can imagine what this man of God thought of all these things, but he obediently obeyed the direction of God.  Just consider:

 a just man—being a “just” man–

 a compassionate man—considered Mary–

 a diligent man—thought about what to do–

 a thoughtful man—“he thought on these things”–

 an obedient man—HE DID AS THE ANGEL SAID—

a self-controlled man—he knew her not….until…–

 “he called his name JESUS”!!!

I am amazed at this simple man, a carpenter-a builder, was so receptive to God’s direction, and did things that were totally outside the realm of human reason.  Yet today, we think God has to explain Himself, show us the outline, draw us a map, and line it out for our future!  Oh, Lord, help me be more like Joseph who was willing to step out in faith (literally) and follow your direction, not just this once but again when the “wise men came” as he took Mary and the babe to Egypt.

“When they saw the star,

they rejoiced

with exceeding great joy.

11 And when they were come into the house,

they saw the young child

with Mary his mother,

and fell down,

and worshipped him:

and when they had opened their treasures,

they presented unto him gifts;

gold,

and frankincense,

and myrrh.

12 And being warned of God in a dream

that they should not return to Herod,

they departed into their own country

another way.

13 And when they were departed,

behold,

the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph

in a dream, saying,

Arise, and take the young child

and his mother, and flee into Egypt,

and be thou there

until I bring thee word:

for Herod will seek the young child

to destroy him.

14 When he arose,

he took the young child

and his mother by night,

and departed into Egypt:

15 And was there

until the death of Herod:

that it might be fulfilled

 which was spoken of the Lord

 by the prophet, saying,

Out of Egypt

have I called my son.”  Matthew 2:10-15

This precious man was willing to forsake his own way, and go God’s way: he took his (in our terms fiancée’) promised wife who was pregnant, but not by him; he refused to accuse her of infidelity (which meant he was taking the blame for her pre-wedding pregnancy) and took her into his home; he cared for her without benefit of connubial bliss; he took her with him to Bethlehem to register with the government where Mary delivered baby Jesus;  he hosted shepherds who also had an amazing story of angelic announcements of this child.  He apparently took up residence in Bethlehem and provided for his little family; he had to have been flabbergasted at the presence and story of the ‘wise men’ who had traveled long and far to bring gifts to this young child/infant (in the house not the stable).  Then he obeyed the message from another angelic messenger to leave Bethlehem by night and take his family to Egypt (probably financed by the gifts of the wise men)!  And waited until God told him to return, which he did with great concern for the safety of his family, and faithful obedience and concern to obey and protect the child!

“But when Herod was dead, behold,

an angel of the Lord appeareth

in a dream

to Joseph

in Egypt,

20 Saying,

Arise, and take the young child

and his mother,

and go into the land of Israel:

for they are dead

which sought the young child’s life.

21 And he arose,

and took the young child and his mother,

 and came into the land of Israel.

22 But when he heard that Archelaus

did reign in Judaea

in the room of his father Herod,

he was afraid to go thither:

notwithstanding,

being warned of God in a dream,

he turned aside

into the parts of Galilee:

23 And he came

and dwelt in a city called Nazareth:

that it might be fulfilled

which was spoken by the prophets,

He shall be called a Nazarene.”   Matthew 2:19-23

Joseph spent a lifetime (however long his life was, for we don’t know when he died, except that it appears that he wasn’t present during the public ministry of Jesus) building an example of faith, obedience, and trust in God’s leading for his life and the life of his family.  He trusted God when he couldn’t really understand what was going on.  He built a house of faith, not doubt!  He built a heritage and so should we.  In fact, we are building a heritage no matter what!  Our children will follow our example more than our words.  We must remember that we are building—building up or tearing down—our choices affect those around us—up or down, and we don’t always know which way it will go; but we must be vigilant to be builders who are pleasing to God.

When we live lives of faithful love, devotion, and obedience to our Lord and Savior, then our children will see our hearts lived out in our actions!  While they may not always do that which pleases us, they can’t deny that we tried to lead them to the Savior!  I think Joseph sets an amazing example of yieldedness to God—of total obedience in the face of worldly misunderstanding—of faith over fear—of wisdom, grace, and steadfastness regardless of his circumstances.

Let’s face it, most of us would be questioning “a barn” for a delivery room—shepherds as birthday greeters—foreigners as gift bearers—yet Joseph stood fast through trails, trials, threats, and danger.  Oh, that we can learn to be so faithful.  I pray that this will encourage your heart today, and may we truly remember that “JESUS” IS the reason for every season.

“O the depth of the riches

both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!

how unsearchable

are his judgments,

and his ways

past finding out!

34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord?

or who hath been his counsellor?

35 Or who hath first given to him,

and it shall be recompensed unto him again?

36 For of him,

and through him,

and to him,

are all things:

to whom be glory

 for ever. Amen.”   Romans 11:33-36

Amen and Amen!!!

HIS Power NOT Mine??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 12

24 Sunday May 2020

Posted by in Armor of God, Choices And Consequences, Distractions, Faith, Fighting With God's Weapons, Filled With His Spirit, Follow Jesus, Full Of what?, Holy Spirit, I Know Whom I Have Beleived, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Jesus Saves!, Only One Way, Salvation, Strong Tower, The Little Things., The Things of God, The Word, Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done, Trendy Or Truth, True Knowledge, Walking With Jesus, Who are YOU following?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 12    HIS Power NOT Mine???

 

“O the depth of the riches

both of the wisdom

and knowledge

of God!

how unsearchable

are his judgments,

and his ways

past finding out!

34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord?

or who hath been his counsellor?

35 Or who hath first given to him,

and it shall be recompensed unto him again?

36 For of him,

and through him,

and to him,

are all things:

to whom be glory for ever.

Amen.”   Romans 11:33-36

I saw something the other day, and the gest was that because I have faith “I” have power to do _____, whatever you want to put in the blank.  What I want to say is that it is never my rights, my power, my strength, or my wisdom that I am to walk in!  It is all about God!  It’s HIS power, HIS grace and HIS strength that motivates, empowers, and sustains me for HIS work.  For when I yield to Jesus’ work in me, HE will accomplish all that He is calling, leading, equipping, and directing me to be and do!

“I can do all things

through Christ

which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13

When we are born again by The Spirit of God, we are enabled to walk in that very Spirit, accomplishing the works of God and not the flesh.  Yet, when we presume to take things upon ourselves, we will find that we are caught up in self-will, self-indulgence, and often disregard of God’s will and His Word! Jesus tells us how to keep our focus right through prayer when HE instructed us to pray, “Thy kingdom come…..Thy will be done”, God’s will not mine—a totally opposite agenda than what many purport today!  We are called to “let this mind be in you” (See Philippians 2:5-11) and to let His Word “dwell in you richly”.  His Word, His way, His will—His power NOT mine!

“Put on therefore,

as the elect of God,

holy and beloved,

bowels of mercies,

kindness,

humbleness of mind,

meekness,

longsuffering;

13 Forbearing one another,

and forgiving one another,

if any man have a quarrel against any:

even as Christ forgave you,

so also do ye.

14 And above all these things

put on charity,

which is the bond of perfectness.

15 And let the peace of God

rule in your hearts,

to the which also ye are called

in one body;

and be ye thankful.

16 Let the word of Christ

dwell in you richly

in all wisdom;

teaching

and admonishing one another

in psalms

and hymns and spiritual songs,

singing with grace in your hearts

to the Lord.

17 And whatsoever ye do

in word

or deed,

do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,

giving thanks

to God

and the Father

by him.”   Colossians 3:12-17

It is with and in the power of God that we are to function, not our own resources!

“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 15:5

Paul gives the ultimate description of where our resources come from when we put on the armor of God.

“Finally, my brethren,

be strong in the Lord,

and in the power

of his might.”   Ephesians 6:10

Paul reminded us that by the power of God we are to put on that “armor of God”—not by our own intelligence, wisdom or even our “faith”!  My faith is only as strong as the object in which it is placed—Jesus!  We can choose to be a channel of God’s work or produce our own—and the fruit will reveal our choice.  And that “shield of faith” is what will “quench all the fiery darts of the wicked”—not because of my faith in me, or even my faith in faith, but because of my faith in The One who saves and delivers me, allowing His power to be displayed through my life!

“For other foundation can no man lay

than that is laid,

which is Jesus Christ.

12 Now if any man build upon this foundation

gold,

silver,

precious stones,

wood,

hay,

stubble;

13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest:

for the day shall declare it,

because it shall be revealed by fire;

and the fire shall try every man’s work

of what sort it is.

14 If any man’s work abide

which he hath built thereupon,

he shall receive a reward.

15 If any man’s work shall be burned,

he shall suffer loss:

but he himself shall be saved;

yet so as by fire.”   1 Corinthians 3:11-14

It’s all about Jesus—not me!  HE is my all in all, my “strong tower”!  And believe me, I run into that tower often!

“For in him

we live,

and move,

and have our being…”. Acts 17:28a

All because of Jesus and the price that HE paid for my sin and yours—it’s why HE came!  He came not to be just an example—though HE was one.  Not just to show us the way to God—although HE did—but because HE IS the way, by His substitutionary, atoning sacrifice for sin–mine and yours!

“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

When I order my steps in God’s ways, by His power and for His glory, great and mighty things will be accomplished for the kingdom of God—not because I have great faith, or great wisdom, but because I love, follow and adore The One who is Lord of Lords and King of Kings—the ONLY way to God.

“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

It is only by God’s grace that we can be of service to our King!  WE win because God has provided all we need in Jesus, our soon-coming King!

“But thanks be to God,

which giveth us the victory

through our Lord Jesus Christ.

58 Therefore, my beloved brethren,

be ye stedfast,

unmoveable,

always abounding

in the work of the Lord,

forasmuch as ye know that your labour

is not in vain

 in the Lord.”   1 Corinthians 15:57-58

The work of The Lord—oh what a glory—to serve The One who gave HIS life for me; knowing that HE loves us/me and can be seen and glorified in us/me as we yield to HIS will!  May we never become so distracted by the outward blessings and elements of God’s grace and power that we forget it’s all about HIM not me!

“In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

the forgiveness of sins,

according to the riches of his grace;

8 Wherein he hath abounded

toward us in all wisdom

and prudence;

9 Having made known unto us

the mystery of his will,

according to his good pleasure

which he hath purposed in himself:

10 That in the dispensation

of the fulness of times

he might gather together

in one

all things

in Christ,

both which are in heaven,

and which are on earth;

even in him:

11 In whom also

we have obtained an inheritance,

being predestinated

according to the purpose

of him who worketh all things

after the counsel

of his own will:

12 That we should be

to the praise of his glory,

who first trusted in Christ.”    Ephesians 1:7-12

And as the author of Hebrews reminds us, may we find power, comfort and delight in this loving Lord Jesus, without being distracted or forgetting Who is our power and might!

“Now the God of peace,

that brought again from the dead

our Lord Jesus,

that great shepherd of the sheep,

through the blood

of the everlasting covenant,

21 Make you perfect

in every good work

to do his will,

working in you

that which is wellpleasing

in his sight,

through Jesus Christ;

to whom be glory

for ever and ever.

Amen.”   Hebrews 13:20-21

HIS Power NOT Mine!!!

Amen and Amen!

 

 

Who Are You Fighting With??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 09

03 Sunday May 2020

Posted by in Abiding In Jesus, Armor of God, Faith, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Fighting With God's Weapons, IN Jesus!, Spiritual Warfare, Stand Fast

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 15 No. 09 Who Are You Fighting With???

 

As we all wrestle with the circumstances surrounding us, we often find ourselves wrestling, even fighting, with others.  No, not usually fisticuffs, but sword-fighting with our words, our emotions, and our fleshly wits.  Let’s take just a few minutes today to remind ourselves of the resources we have, IN Jesus, to overcome our own wrestlings—no matter our “perceived” adversaries!

“Finally, my brethren,

be strong

in the Lord,

and in the power

of his might.”   Ephesians 6:10

Even as Jesus told us so clearly in John 15, our strength, power, wisdom, and ability to follow HIM comes from HIM!  It’s what Paul was reminding the Ephesian Christians of; our strength is IN “the Lord” and IN “the power of his might”!  Just as we talked earlier about the battle being The Lord’s—our strength is from HIM—always!

“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 15:5

“O the depth of the riches

both of the wisdom

and knowledge

of God!

how unsearchable

are his judgments,

and his ways

past finding out!

34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord?

or who hath been his counsellor?

35 Or who hath first given to him,

and it shall be recompensed unto him again?

36 For of him,

and through him,

and to him,

are all things:

to whom be glory

for ever. Amen.”   Romans 11:33-36

Paul also continued to tell the Ephesian believers:

“Put on the whole armour of God,

that ye may be able to stand

against the wiles of the devil.

12 For we wrestle not

against flesh and blood,

but

against principalities,

against powers,

against the rulers of the darkness

of this world,

against spiritual wickedness

in high places.”  Ephesians 6:11-12

And because we are in a battle with unseen forces, Paul tells us that this battle requires heavenly weapons, just as he told the believers at Corinth to be aware and prepared, so must we.

“For though we walk in the flesh,

we do not war after the flesh:

4 (For the weapons of our warfare

are not carnal,

but mighty through God

to the pulling down

of strong holds;)

5 Casting down imaginations,

and every high thing

that exalteth itself

against the knowledge of God,

and bringing into captivity

every thought

to the obedience

of Christ;”  2 Corinthians 10:3-5

So, as you take on that armor of God, just a quick guide to what that armor represents in our life every day!

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

Righteousness:

“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 15:21

Peace:

“Therefore being justified by faith,

we have peace with God

through our Lord Jesus Christ:”  Romans 5:1

“And the peace of God,

which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts

and minds

through Christ Jesus.”   Philippians 4:7

Faith:

“And be found in him,

not having mine own righteousness,

which is of the law,

but that which is through the faith

of Christ,

the righteousness

which is of God

by faith:”  Philippians 3:9

Salvation:

“Neither is there salvation

in any other:

for there is none other name

under heaven.”   Acts 4:12

The Word of God:

The Living Word:

“In the beginning was the Word,

and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.”    John 1:1

The written 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.

14 Seeing then that we have

a great high priest,

that is passed into the heavens,

Jesus the Son of God,

let us hold fast our profession.”   Hebrews 4:12-14

Prayer:

“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 4:15-16

(Remember prayer is not “dictation” to God, but rather the “pursuit” of HIM, HIS will, HIS way, and HIS purposes for me!)

So, dear brothers and sisters—hold fast to the one who loves you, gave His life for our salvation, and ever lives to intercede for us.  May you draw near to Him and overcome those battles—no matter who the adversary is!

“Wherefore he is able also

to save them

to the uttermost

that come unto God

by him,

seeing he ever liveth

to make intercession for them.”  Hebrews 7:25

Amen and Amen!!!