A9. MAIN-Overcoming sin

A9. OVERCOMING SIN

INEFFECTIVE IN THE FIGHT

• Mankind in his limited hindered and broken sinful state cannot overcome evil

• We see all around us, evidence of man's failed attempts to solve the sin problem without God, for He is not even a thought in the solution

• Satan loves when God's people are mired in sin, disabled, dejected, and useless on the spiritual battlefield

• To many, Satan is a cartoon character or mythological harmless creation; the real Satan takes pleasure in this caricature for it helps disguise his diabolical plans for the world and real intentions for its citizens <H995>

• We live in a spiritual war, with Satan wanting to destroy the soul of every person

• Those who are blind to the battle are going to be the target and victim of the battle <M1501>

• There are those who want to make moral changes in their lives but don’t get to the root of their problem, which is the absence of God in their lives

• People will make changes in their lives for many reasons: sometimes, when they face a crisis, they begin to evaluate their priorities and determine what needs to change

• But often the same people end up going back to their old ways. Why? Because the house is swept and put in order, but it’s still empty!

• The sins they commit are but symptoms of a deeper problem: the lack of Jesus Christ living inside them! <L120>

AN ACTIVE FAITH

• The problem is not the depravity of the wicked but the ambivalence of the faithful

• Christianity is not a passive faith

• God doesn't care whether we signed a document to become a member in a church, for instance, but we will be judged on whether we lived our life FOR HIM

• If we're not living for Him, then we're living a lie <M1506>

• Notice that God instructed Gideon to tear down the Asherah poles and Baal's altar (Jdg 6:25-26)

• In conjunction with God's power through prayer, His followers are to ACTIVELY confront evil <G78>

• We are not to only pray the problem away

• Even though evil is arrogant, overconfident and often stupid, it can be overcome through the power of Christ <S2002>

• We don’t have to be a master gardener to know that the branches of a vine can’t survive and thrive unless they’re connected to the vine

• And we can’t survive and thrive spiritually unless we stay connected to Jesus

• God gives us the spiritual nourishment we need to produce good fruit in our lives <L120>

THE ONLY WAY

• God is the ONLY solution to the moral dilemma we are in; without God we are doomed to repeat the failings of history <D40>

• The only way we can expose and combat evil is to identify as Christ's disciple and proclaim His truth <K110>

• The spirit controls the flesh, as can be seen when Jesus cast out demons from a man and placed in the herd of pigs (Matt 8:31-32) <M1501>

• When facing sin, why not run into the arms of the Savior who can help resist sin than running to the edge and giving into that temptation to only suffer from its consequences? <B313>

• Continue to go to the Word of the Lord and prayer for cleansing

• If we don't, we'll let that sin-issue fester and not gain victory over it; we'll also see it continue to rise in our lives even when we thought we had victory over it <B23>

John 17:17 NIV

[17] Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.

John 8:32 NIV

[32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

RELATED COMMENTS

Note: each ** comment in this APPLICATION doc comes from CHAPTER doc(s), where the comments are in numerical order according to verse(s) from the chapter

** The same Spirit that rose Jesus from the dead can bring a fulfilled eternal life to those who call on Him!

• Anyone who calls on the name of Christ will be saved and receive the Holy Spirit

• Those who are born again can live a fulfilled life of joy, peace and hope through the power of the Holy Spirit

• In addition to living a fulfilled life in this mortal existence, the same believer is promised eternity with Christ when their life is over

Romans 8:11 NIV

[11] And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

Acts 1:8 NIV

[8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Romans 15:13 NIV

[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

John 10:10 NIV

[10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

** God empowers us to live in obedience through His Word and His Spirit <W212>

• God does not ask the impossible

• In Jesus, we see the Torah fulfilled and salvation made personal

• This is not an Old Testament truth, for the Holy Spirit is meant to dwell within us today

• He will help shape our hearts, our words, and our actions as we walk in His covenant promises

Deuteronomy 30:14-16 NIV

[14] No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it. [15] See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. [16] For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess.

Romans 8:12-14 NIV

[12] Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation---but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. [13] For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. [14] For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

Galatians 5:22-25 NIV

[22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

** God's Word is the powerful lifeblood for His followers

• God expects every Christian to make a pledge to read and live out His Word in their life

• This helps them live life as a Christian, providing:

• Armor to help combat the enemy

• A plumb line to help discern falsehoods

• Prophecy to be prepared for what's coming

• Power to overcome temptation, and

• Guidance to avoid sinning against the Father

• Pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word

• Pledge to make His Word a lamp for your feet and light for your path

• Pledge to hide God's Word in your heart so you can readily apply it when needed <D502>

Isaiah 55:10-11 NIV

[10] As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, [11] so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Hebrews 4:12 NIV

[12] For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

** God’s wisdom leads to real and lasting life and purpose; dig deep into the Scriptures to find the ancient wisdom He provides <D502>

Ecclesiastes 8:17 NIV

[17] then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all their efforts to search it out, no one can discover its meaning. Even if the wise claim they know, they cannot really comprehend it.

** The call to choose life is personal; each person is responsible to see clearly and to make faithful choices that align with God’s will <W212>

• Obedience isn’t just about grand acts of faith, but is lived out in daily decisions

• Choosing life is both a responsibility and a blessing, for in following God’s way, we find provision, protection, and purpose

• The Lord makes the options plain; the decision, however, rests with us

• Our choices matter in all areas of life, for it is the little choices that shape our direction

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NIV

[19] This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live

** There's a vast difference between the words 'remorse' and 'repentance' <L120>

• People are sorry when their sin catches up with them and feel remorse when they begin to reap what they sow

• But remorse doesn’t necessarily mean that someone has repented

• If you are truly sorry, you will not only have remorse for your sins, but you will also repent and change your behavior

2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV

[10] Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

• Too many people have a false assurance that they are Christians because they possess a sense of remorse for their sins, even though they never repent

• The word repent means to change direction

• But we have people today who theoretically come to Christ without ever changing their lifestyle: they have never repented

• They will say, “I’m sorry for what I did,” and then keep sinning like nothing ever happened

• What kind of sorrow is that?

Acts 3:19 NIV

[19] Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord

• Remorse is a great first step when it comes to sin, but it’s only the first step

• Let us never passively soak in the truth without any real intent to apply it through repentance

Proverbs 28:13 NIV

[13] Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

** If spiritual disciplines such as prayer, worship, and studying God’s Word are new to you, it’s only natural it will take a while to find your rhythm.

Your first steps as a new believer will likely be a little shaky. Know that God doesn’t look at your outward accomplishments, but at what’s going on in your heart and your intentions. Continue developing the spiritual disciplines on your faith journey:

• Set aside time every day to talk and listen to God, even if it feels awkward

• Praise Him for who He is

• Thank Him for what He’s done

• Ask Him to forgive your sins

• Take your requests to Him

• Spend time in His Word

• Ask God to guide your understanding of it and show you ways to apply it in your life

• Find a church where you can worship and fellowship with other believers

• Look for ways to include your faith in your conversations <L120>

Psalm 119:1-3 NIV

[1] Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord. [2] Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart--- [3] they do no wrong but follow his ways.

** Place your life and complete trust in God alone, for He promises to be your:

• Strength

• Rock

• Fortress

• Deliverer

• Refuge

• Shield

• Salvation

• Stronghold and

• Worthy of our praise

Psalm 18:1-3 NIV ['Horn of salvation' = metaphor for animal whose strength lies in his horns]

[1] I love you, Lord, my strength. [2] The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. [3] I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies.

Psalm 18:31 NIV

[31] For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God?

** There are verses that confirm we are all full of sin and there is no hope for us under the law; even our best efforts are still seen as filthy rags – loathsome and abominable – in the eyes of God, so we need to turn to Him for the answer

Psalm 14:2-3 NIV

[2] The Lord looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God. [3] All have turned away, all have become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one.

Isaiah 64:6 NIV

[6] All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

** One of the most important aspects of the Christian life is knowing what it means to confess our sin; in fact, our very forgiveness hinges on whether we understand the term <L120>

1 John 1:9-10 NIV

[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. [10] If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

• The problem is that people think they’ve confessed their sin when they haven’t

• Far too many people believe that confessing their sin is merely acknowledging it

• They say something like, "That was a bad thing" and then go out and do it again

• Genuine confession means understanding that sin puts distance between you and your Heavenly Father (Isa 59:2) and undermines your Christian witness

• The Holy Spirit will help us understand the seriousness of sin and need for genuine confession

• Confession means to see sin for what it is, to be sorry for it, and to turn from it

Isaiah 59:2 NIV

[2] But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.

John 16:8 NIV

[8] When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment

** When we commit our lives to Christ, we also gain enemies <L120>

• The three primary enemies Christians face are the world, the flesh, and the devil

• That’s what David was talking about when he wrote, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies”

• This unholy trinity of the world, the flesh, and the devil creates a powerful opposition, especially for new believers

• The best strategy to combat it is to nurture an intimate relationship with the Lord, whom David describes as a shepherd

• When we sit at the table of the Lord, we’re satisfied because we know that everything we need is there

• Because the Lord has set a table before us, we have no reason to fear our enemies

Psalm 23:5 NIV

[5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Psalm 116:10-11 NIV

[10] I trusted in the Lord when I said, “I am greatly afflicted”; [11] in my alarm I said, “Everyone is a liar.”

** Before David loaded the stone into his sling, he warned Goliath that this was the Lord’s battle <L120>

• David was calm where other warriors had panicked

• He knew who was really doing the fighting

• We cannot win spiritual battles if we rely on our own strength

• And we cannot lose spiritual battles if we rely on the power of God

1 Samuel 17:47 NIV

[47] All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's, and he will give all of you into our hands.”

Ephesians 6:10 NIV

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

** The Biblical advice on identifying a fool is clear, and suggests a nuanced approach when responding to a fool

The word 'fool' is repeated throughout Scripture and can describe one who:

• Constantly talks and is not known for listening to wisdom (Prov 10:10)

• Brings ruin (Prov 10:14)

• Utters slander (Prov 10:18)

• Claims to be right in his own eyes (Prov 12:15)

• Is associated with wickedness and denies God (Psalm 53:1), etc <G72>

Proverbs 10:10,14,18 NIV

[10] Whoever winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin. [14] The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin. [18] Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.

Proverbs 12:15 NIV

[15] The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.

Psalm 53:1 NIV

[1] The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, and their ways are vile; there is no one who does good.

There are several considerations when dealing with a fool:

• Do not respond to a fool according to his folly, lest you become like him

• Expose the foolishness of the fool's arguments or actions to prevent them from mistakenly believing they are wise and correct

• Not all fools are worth engaging with, and some situations may be best handled by simply walking away

• The ability to discern when to engage and when to remain silent is a mark of wisdom <W2201>

Proverbs 26:4-5 NIV

[4] Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. [5] Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.

** Be aware that spiritual revival never goes unopposed <L120>

• If the devil sees the embers of a spiritual awakening or renewal, he will do everything he can to douse them

• The devil’s strategies are no mystery to people who study Scripture because he successfully repeatedly operates from the same playbook

• That’s the bad news

• The good news, is that we can plan for how the enemy works

• For instance, he will first entice someone into temptation and then make them feel guilty for giving in to it

• Sadly, many people fall for his routine and allow their guilt and shame to separate them from God, His Word, and His people -- the things they need most!

• Just remember, no matter what you’ve done, no matter what temptation you’ve given in to, no matter what sin you’ve committed, God is always ready to forgive you if you’ll turn away from your sin and return to Him

• Don’t let the devil isolate you from God, His Word and His people, because that’s exactly what he’s trying to do

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

[8] Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

2 Corinthians 2:11 NIV

[11] in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.

** This world is not our home -- but that does not give Christians license to sit around while waiting for their eternal home

• God is invested in His creation and cares what happens in this world

• He not only created us, but loves us and wants what is best for us

• Christ also paid the ultimate cost by coming to this earth in human form and enduring death on a cross to provide a way of hope for His creation

• Followers of Christ have a job to do while living this earthly existence

• Before the arrival of God's final chapter, He desires we combat evil when encountering it

• God promises to help those who look to Him fight all physical and spiritual battles, providing blessings and abilities as needed

• At the same time, followers of Christ realize this world is not their home and live accordingly, not putting hopes and dreams in this temporary existence

• The Christian's hope rests in their final destination -- God's eternal kingdom

John 18:36 NIV

[36] Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

Matthew 6:33 NIV

[33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

** God has given us the safety of His promises in Scripture <D502>

• We don’t have to deal with unfounded fears on our own, for God provides promises in Scripture

• Let’s allow His loving truths to illuminate our mind and steps throughout each day

Psalm 121:7-8 NIV

[7] The Lord will keep you from all harm---he will watch over your life; [8] the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Romans 15:13 NIV

[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

** Too many Christians never use the sword of the Spirit in spiritual battle; this pacifist approach plays right into the devil’s hands, for he knows all too well the power and authority of the sword of the Spirit which is God’s Word <L120>

• The pieces of the armor of God the apostle Paul lists in Ephesians 6 are almost all defensive in nature, designed to protect in battle

• Only one is intended as a weapon -- the sword of the Spirit, the word of God

• Unfortunately, many believers never use it as a weapon

• They have the rest of their armor in place while keeping their sword in its sheath

• Remember how effectively Jesus used the sword of God’s Word when He faced a spiritual attack in the wilderness (Matt 4:1–11)

• Similarly, when the devil tries to attack you with temptation, fear, or doubt, or when he brings up past sins you’ve already confessed and been forgiven of, remember the sword of the Spirit

• Pull God’s Word out of its sheath and use it aggressively to protect yourself!

• If you have a hard time picturing your Bible as a weapon, look at Paul’s words in 2 Cor 10:3–5

• As believers, our battles are spiritual

• The battles take place in our hearts and minds, so standard military weaponry and tactics don’t apply

• They’re played out in our thoughts, philosophies, priorities, and beliefs

• Because the Bible is God’s truth -- the ultimate and most powerful source of truth -- nothing else can match its impact

• It has the power to demolish the excuses, philosophies, reasoning, and arguments that cause people to oppose and reject the Christian faith

• We also use it to set the devil’s spiritual captives free, by sharing the gospel with unbelievers using the words of Scripture

• As spiritual warriors for Christ, we must confront the lies of this world and enemy's strongholds with the truth of God’s Word

• There is authority and power in the Word of God, so wield it!

Ephesians 6:17 NIV

[17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NIV

[3] For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. [4] The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. [5] We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Hebrews 4:12 NIV

** No matter how solid the breastplate of a Roman soldier was, and no matter how tightly he cinched his belt, those pieces of armor would be of little use if he slipped and fell in the heat of battle <L120>

• The shoe of a Roman soldier was called a caligae, a sandal-boot hybrid designed for maximum comfort and protection

• In Paul’s day, the Roman soldiers wore sandals with nails or cleats on the soles to give them firm footing

• They could dig in and hold their ground

• With leverage comes advantage, and with advantage comes victory

• That explains why one of the favorite tactics of our enemy is to throw us off-balance, to keep us from getting solid spiritual footing

• Look at the serpent’s question to Eve in the Garden of Eden: “Did God really say...?" (Gen 3:1)

• If our enemy can get us to question the bedrock of our faith, then everything becomes negotiable

• If we can’t trust what the Lord really said about the trees in the Garden, how can we trust what He says about salvation? Or forgiveness? Or eternal life?

• The Good News, the gospel, gives us security and a firm foundation on which to build our lives

• In spiritual warfare, solid grounding is essential; we stand firm by studying the Lord’s teaching and following it in the way we live

• If we do that, we will always have leverage against our enemy <L120>

Ephesians 6:15 NIV

[15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

** Jesus has the spiritual power to keep His children from stumbling; He can guard them from evil and prevent Satan from gaining a foothold in their life when they call on Him in prayer <M1501>

Jude 1:24 NIV

[24] To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy

Matthew 7:7 NIV

[7] “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

Psalm 116:3-6 NIV

[3] The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow. [4] Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Lord, save me! ” [5] The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. [6] The Lord protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me.

** To be content is to recognize the goodness and generosity of God that put you where you are <L120>

• It’s a matter of focus

• Take inventory of the amazing things God has done for you and given you, and remember from Whom all good gifts are given

• If your eyes are on the things of this world, you won’t be content because there's always a new toy, nicer car, and bigger house on the horizon

• It’s only after you acquire the things of desire that you discover the stinging truth of Solomon’s words: that everything is meaningless

Ecclesiastes 2:11 NIV

[11] Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.

• If, on the other hand, your eyes are on God and His will for your life, contentment is always within reach

James 1:17 NIV

[17] Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Philippians 4:11-12 NIV

[11] I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [12] I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

** God incorporated work into our lives so we have purpose, value what we do, and can share with others <S1992>

Genesis 2:15 NIV

[15] The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.

Colossians 3:23 NIV

[23] Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters

** The Church in Philadelphia was not large or of great power, but they overcame Satan's schemes <M1501>

• Christians today need to follow suit and hold on to God's Word and His Name

• Be a Bornean to be able to decipher falsehoods claiming to be truth

Revelation 3:8-9 NIV

[8] I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. [9] I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars---I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you.

** In light of the apostacy that will occur in the end times, Jude encourages believers in conflict with each other to have mercy on those who have been swept away by deceit <M1501>

• Turn on any mainstream media today, and it is no wonder the masses are deceived when they blindly following its propaganda

• Typically, many end up being misled who don't do a deep dive to find 'the story behind the story' but simply want a summary statement analysis of what's happening

• People perish for the lack of knowledge, which leads to ignorance, which leads to doubt, which leads to rejecting Christ, which leads to fire

• Jude calls us to have mercy on our brothers and sisters who are perishing in order to save them from deceit

Jude 1:22-23 NIV

[22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear---hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.

** Come to God and let Him straighten your life around for you <R1795>

• Notice the order of sequence: the new believers turned to God first so they could turn from their idols

• Some want to get their life in order before coming to God, but only God’s power will enable them to break the chains that bind them

1 Thessalonians 1:9b-10 NIV

[9] …you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, [10] and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead---Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.

** Paul and others did not cease to pray for the Colossians and to ask that they be transformed from the inside out so they will live by the will of God <S1993>

His prayer was that they:

• Be filled with the knowledge of His will – a precise, full, participatory, real knowledge

• Find all spiritual wisdom – insight, intelligence, discretion, capacity to understand and act wisely

• Be filled with the knowledge of His will – what God has determined shall be done, not to be conceived but be an expression or inclination of pleasure toward what is liked

• Continually bear fruit in every good work – the result of the relationship with Jesus and serving Him in newness of the Spirit

• Be strengthened with the power of His might – the One who raised Jesus from the dead, to attain steadfastness, patience and joy

• To walk joyfully and thankfully to the Father for all His blessings

Colossians 1:9-10 NIV

[9] For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, [10] so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,

Romans 12:1-2 NIV

[1] Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God---this is your true and proper worship. [2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

John 15:4 NIV

[4] Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

Ephesians 1:19-21 NIV

[19] and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength [20] he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, [21] far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come

** How awesome that we serve a God who is willing to forgive and offer us hope through salvation!

Isaiah 44:22 NIV

[22] I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.”

Hebrews 10:22 NIV

[22] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.

** Hezekiah was stimulated to restore the worship of the Lord to Judah by the realization that his nation’s past troubles appeared when his people turned their backs on God; Judah’s only hope was to return to God in full commitment <R1795>

2 Chronicles 29:6-8,10 NIV

[6] Our parents were unfaithful; they did evil in the eyes of the Lord our God and forsook him. They turned their faces away from the Lord's dwelling place and turned their backs on him. [7] They also shut the doors of the portico and put out the lamps. They did not burn incense or present any burnt offerings at the sanctuary to the God of Israel. [8] Therefore, the anger of the Lord has fallen on Judah and Jerusalem; he has made them an object of dread and horror and scorn, as you can see with your own eyes. [10] Now I intend to make a covenant with the Lord, the God of Israel, so that his fierce anger will turn away from us.

** The Apostle Peter forewarned his readers of the rage Satan has for all of God’s human creation, and for believers in particular <J100>

• God placed so much in His Word to warn about this adversary and his legions

• The devil and his minions have been in the cosmos since that first great war in Heaven, saturating every aspect of existence

• But we, who name the name of Jesus Christ, can take comfort

• We are on the 'other side' of this spiritual dimension, of this cataclysmic collision of supernatural worlds

• It is true that we who are flesh and blood must, for now, exist side by side with that dimension

• We live in a third dimension -- one we perceive to be reality but is really no more than a vapor in terms of God’s eternal economy

• But we are not left without defense against our enemies that comprise of Satan’s evil forces

• God tells us we not only CAN stand against Satan and his evil, but it is our duty to do so!

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

[8] Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Ephesians 6:10-12 NIV

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Psalm 121:5-8 NIV

[5] The Lord watches over you---the Lord is your shade at your right hand; [6] the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. [7] The Lord will keep you from all harm---he will watch over your life; [8] the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

** Remember that Jesus invites everyone to come as they are -- but He never calls them to stay as they are <H82>

• ONE EXAMPLE of a trend in the church today is acknowledging homosexual acts as sinful but claiming the identity is not (May 2025)

• How can any Christian identify themselves by a temptation that the Lord hates and that their regenerate hearts should equally hate?

• How can anyone fight a sin they don’t hate?

• Hating our own sin is a key component to doing battle with it

• Followers of Christ maintain that we who repent and believe stand in robes of righteousness as beloved sons and daughters of God, even as we do daily battle with any and all sexual lust and unbiblical desire that claims our affections

• Christians ought never to let sin define them but must look to the cross to overcome it

• The cross doesn’t just free those who are in Christ from sinful acts -- it frees people from sinful identities, from sinful desires, and from succumbing to temptations

• We are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness (Rom 6:18)

• The cross redeems us and calls us to be holy as the Father is holy (1 Peter 1:15–16)

• It also declares that our previous identity in sin is what we once were (1 Cor 6:11)

• Strugglers of EVERY KIND of sin need the real, full Gospel which sanctifies and sets captives free!

Matthew 11:28 NIV

[28] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Romans 6:18 NIV

[18] You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

1 Peter 1:15-16 NIV

[15] But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; [16] for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

1 Corinthians 6:11 NIV

[11] And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

** Everyone has sin in their life -- thoughts and actions that go against God's will in some way -- but there is a way out from the bondage of sin through the power of Christ

• Paul recognized he was once operating against God as a blasphemer, persecutor and violent

• Thanks be to God that He gave Paul the strength and ability to overcome this sin, transforming his life and ministry

• Christians still have to deal with their sin nature while in our sin-cursed bodies

• All Christians have feet of clay; no matter how dedicated to the Lord and His Word, we are all susceptible to being drawn into error because of our sin nature <H82>

• There is some sin and it's temptation we struggle with more than others, and we will struggle as long as we live in this world

• Not everyone struggles with the same sin, but everyone is in need of Christ's redemption

1 Timothy 1:9-11 NIV

[9] We also know that the law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, [10] for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers---and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine [11] that conforms to the gospel concerning the glory of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.

1 Timothy 1:12-15 NIV

[12] I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. [13] Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. [14] The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. [15] Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners---of whom I am the worst.

Romans 3:23-24 NIV

[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

1 Corinthians 6:11 NIV

[11] And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

** The resurrection we celebrate isn’t just an historical event; it also plays an important role in our daily lives <L120>

• Who is this man that we are talking about today?

• What sets the Christian faith apart from all other beliefs and religious systems out there in the world?

It might come down to this...

• If you go to the tomb of Confucius, you will find that it is occupied

• If you go to the tomb of Buddha, you will find that it, too, is occupied

• If you go to the tomb of Muhammad, you will find that it is occupied

• But if you go to the tomb of Jesus Christ, you will find that it is empty because He is alive; we serve a living Savior!

Romans 8:11 NIV

[11] The Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

Philippians 3:10 NIV

[10] I want to know Christ---yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death

Galatians 2:20 NIV

[20] I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

** Paul reminds believers what it means to be united to Jesus in His death and resurrection <R1795>

• A citizen owes allegiance to the laws and rulers of his nation

• Paul implores believers to owe no allegiance to their old way of life

• Those who even try to be good and so merit God’s favor are enemies of the Cross, which stands stark and bare as a symbol of man’s utter sinfulness

• What man cannot do, God has done, and God will continue to do in us

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

[20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, [21] who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

** Using the armor of God is not a matter of 'putting it on in the morning then getting on with your day' but LIVING OUT every moment of your day utilizing the armor as needed <G77>

For instance:

• Having the Bible in your backpack will not help in a spiritual battle but rather recalling the Word of God against the enemy in every situation

• The Word of God should be the foundation for everything you learn and hold fast to

• Understand that Scripture is your window into a world you cannot see

• A believer without prayer is like a man without food

• Every believer needs to communicate with the Father to navigate their way through the battle <K110>

• God gives us all the tools we need to fight our spiritual enemy on a moment-by-moment basis

• Rest in God through faith and prayer to know how and when to use His armor

Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

** David knew his military victories were only possible with the help of the Lord

• One amazing example of David choosing to obey God occurred when he obtained spoils of war and didn’t use them for his own efforts

• We read in early Scriptural documents that God instructed no king of Israel to obtain horses

• David obeyed this command after capturing a thousand chariots and horses from Hadadezer

• David decided to hamstring all but 100 horses so they were unfit for warfare

• David was not tempted to utilize the horses even though they were considered ‘super weapons’ in the ancient world, for he understood that without God’s help, the horses would be useless <R1795>

1 Chronicles 18:4 NIV

[4] David captured a thousand of his chariots, seven thousand charioteers and twenty thousand foot soldiers. He hamstrung all but a hundred of the chariot horses.

Deuteronomy 17:16 NIV

[16] The king, moreover, must not acquire great numbers of horses for himself or make the people return to Egypt to get more of them, for the Lord has told you, “You are not to go back that way again.”

• Likewise today, we need not rely on weapons of this world – without God’s help they are useless, and with God’s help we don’t need them!

• Having Christ as our shield does not mean the attacks from the enemy will stop; they may actually increase!

• We live in an end times season of division, so it's all the more important believers go to God

• Go to God in prayer and delve into His Word to be renewed, to find guidance, to find strength, and to be able to put out the enemy's darts in every challenge he initiates <M1501>

Matthew 10:16-22 NIV

[16] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. [17] Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. [18] On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. [19] But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, [20] for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. [21] “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. [22] You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.

** Following the wisdom of God plants our hearts in fertile soil; that life gets called righteous, and God watches over it <D502>

Psalm 1:6 NIV

[6] For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

** When Christians encounter disagreements, particularly regarding prophetic matters, our response should be marked by grace and humility <H9993>

Practical Steps to Combat Division:

1. Stay Grounded in Scripture

• We must prioritize Biblical truth over personal opinions or speculative interpretations

• Paul commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to see whether things were true (Acts 17:11)

2. Exercise Discernment

• Not every debate or disagreement requires engagement

• Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will also be like him (Prov 26:4-5)

3. Pray for Unity

• Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the Christian community and the Church toward unity and humility

• Remember to bring our concerns to God with thanksgiving (Phil 4:6-7)

4. Focus on the Gospel

• Let the message of salvation in Christ remain central to all discussions

5. Avoid Personal Attacks

• In debates, focus on ideas, not individuals

• Let our speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so we will know how we should respond to each person (Col 4:6)

6. Remember the Enemy’s Schemes

• The true battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness (Eph 6:12)

Galatians 5:14-15 NIV

[14] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [15] If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.

** Focus on God and His Word, allowing Him to guide you in the hour of darkness

• It's because God loves us, that He provides the gift of suffering and promises to help us when we call on Him

• God wants to work with us through our pain

• Focus on God: order can come from chaos <M1501>

• We will be strengthened by the experience and can also discover our abilities and God's plans along the way

• All of this should ultimately be for God's glory!

Isaiah 42:16 NIV

[16] I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.

2 Peter 1:3 NIV

[3] His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV

[20] Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, [21] equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

** Jude has a strong desire to remind his readers not to forget the past and what it was like to live before God rescued them <M1501>

• God lifts people out of their unfulfilled lives to give them promise and purpose

• He not only leads people out of bondage but destroys the unbelieving oppressors

Jude 1:5 NIV

[5] Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord at one time delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe.

** The Christian is freed from the Law in order to become righteous through Christ <R1795>

• Judaizers argued that removing the Law would unleash the beast in man, for it is the Law that helps keep him under control

• Paul’s response was that grace allows the change in man so he does not desire to sin

• Removing the bars is safe if the man’s nature can be transformed

• Christ can give us a new nature that can be controlled by the Spirit of God

• As we yield to the Holy Spirit, we live righteous lives and experience a gradual transformation

• Through grace, God has done what the Law was never able to do – change us from within to live good and holy lives!

Galatians 5:1 NIV

[1] It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

** One reason Christians are to put on the helmet of salvation in spiritual battle, is to protect our mind and keep our wits about us with God's truth <M1501>

Ephesians 6:17 NIV

[17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

** Jesus telling the Jewish leaders they could be 'set free' was an odd claim, coming from people whose ancestors had been under the control of the Egyptians, Philistines, Babylonians, Persians, Syrians, and Romans at various times in history <L120>

• Jesus tried to help them understand that if you sin, you’re a slave to sin because you have no choice in the matter

• You have no power to break free from sin’s mastery over you

• Only the Son, who enjoys the rights and privileges of being part of God’s family, can free a slave of sin

John 8:31-34 NIV

[31] To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. [32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” [33] They answered him, “We are Abraham's descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” [34] Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.

** Salvation is a radical transformation for an individual, requiring a radical shift in focus to fear and serve God above all else <M130>

• Paul used the concept of ‘death’ to convey a spirit that cannot sense or respond to God; a spiritual death

• But spiritual death goes beyond the neglect to align with God to imply corruption

• As the physical body decays, so the spiritually dead become infested with all sorts of corruption

• Spiritually dead follow the ways of the world and the ruler of the kingdom of the air (Satan)

• The rotten flesh of the spiritually dead gasps and heaves in the grip of the cravings of our sinful nature

• Paul wanted us to understand that this is the raw material from which God constructs is His church

• This mass of corruption is what God intends to use to display His glory and the beauty of His holiness!

• Thank God this is what believers in Christ were, not what we are <R1795>

Ephesians 2:1-2,4-5,10 NIV

[1] As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, [2] in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. [4] But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, [5] made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions---it is by grace you have been saved. [10] For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Philippians 3:21 NIV

[21] who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Malachi 3:16 NIV

[16] Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name.

** The transforming power of Christ can not be illustrated better than the miraculous conversion of Saul (who murdered Christians) to Paul (who discipled them) <M130>

Acts 9:17-20 NIV

[17] Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord---Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here---has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” [18] Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, [19] and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. [20] At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.

** Engaging in spiritual warfare requires choosing a side and getting help from the spiritual realm

• Do you believe in spiritual warfare where there is a battle between good and evil?

• We are heading to an end times battle that is outlined in Scripture

• All chess pieces are in place and God is in charge of the outcome

• There should be no surprise when hearing of lies and evil attempts to thwart God; it has been going on since the beginning of time

• Satan is called the 'Father of Lies' for a reason

• We are not able to 'figure things out' on our own, so we rely on God to see us through

• The worldly powers-that-be want to keep the masses from knowing truth so they thwart access and understanding of God's Word with the aim they will continue believing the lies

• Spiritual warfare requires help from the spiritual realm

• The Bible Is a solid and reliable source, authored by God Himself, and has been around for thousands of years

• In addition to 'physical proof' of God's Word via the Dead Sea Scrolls and archaeological finds, there is daily 'spiritual proof' when the Holy Spirit works in every believer's life

• It's to the point where everyone simply needs to CHOOSE a side -- are you going to be led by the principalities of this world or by God?

• Don't be fearful but be prayerful!

Joshua 24:15 NIV

[15] But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

John 8:31-32 NIV

[31] To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. [32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

** Asa’s son Jehoshaphat succeeded him as king of Judah and made three spiritual moves <M130>

a) Jehoshaphat obeyed the Lord

b) Removed false worship from the land, and

c) Sent out teachers who taught the people the law of the Lord

2 Chronicles 17:3-9 NIV

[3] The Lord was with Jehoshaphat because he followed the ways of his father David before him. He did not consult the Baals [4] but sought the God of his father and followed his commands rather than the practices of Israel. [5] The Lord established the kingdom under his control; and all Judah brought gifts to Jehoshaphat, so that he had great wealth and honor. [6] His heart was devoted to the ways of the Lord; furthermore, he removed the high places and the Asherah poles from Judah. [7] In the third year of his reign he sent his officials Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel and Micaiah to teach in the towns of Judah. [8] With them were certain Levites---Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah and Tob-Adonijah---and the priests Elishama and Jehoram. [9] They taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the Lord; they went around to all the towns of Judah and taught the people.

** After becoming a Christian, it is God who enables them to grow in their relationship with Him and a ministry that is honoring to Him

1 Corinthians 3:6-7 NIV

[6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. [7] So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.

1 Peter 2:2 NIV

[2] Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation

2 Corinthians 3:6 NIV

[6] He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant---not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

** God's unfailing love led Him to provide us with a way of salvation through Jesus Christ

Psalm 13:5 NIV

[5] But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.

1 Thessalonians 5:8-9 NIV

[8] But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. [9] For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

** By accessing the power of the Holy Spirit, believers in Christ can safely journey through demonic attacks and confrontations <M1501>

• We read that 'snakes and scorpions' are symbols of the demonic throughout Scripture

• Followers of Christ are not at the mercy of the enemy and should never shy away in fear

• It is the responsibility of the Christian believer to confront evil even encountering it

• Believers are called out from the world to come against demonic manifestations; they are not called to hide in their churches hoping they will not to be noticed

• All born again believers have the power of the Holy Spirit within them to confront evil as needed

• Greater is He that is in those who choose to call on Him than the demons who are currently roaming this world

Deuteronomy 8:15 NIV

[15] He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock.

1 John 4:4 NIV

[4] You, dear children, are from God and have overcome [false spirits], because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

** Demons can manifest in a person physically or audibly in spirit form -- including in a psychic medium's mind -- to influence them and take worship away from the One True Living God <S2011>

• The spirit world is alive and well and demons will appear as they need to accomplish their goal

• When encountering a spirit, we should always determine from where the spirit and their power is coming -- is it a good spirit from God or an evil spirit from Satan?

• Remember, Satan's aim is to kill and destroy

• Only Christ can provide genuine peace

• Do not look for peace with psychics or entertaining any other medium that has access to the demonic

Acts 16:16 NIV

[16] Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a female slave who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling.

John 10:9-10 NIV

[9] I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. [10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

John 14:27 NIV

[27] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

** Do not allow Satan a foothold by accepting pagan practices in your personal life or in the church community <W2202>

• When a person allows their mind to be altered by anything – doesn’t have to be drugs or alcohol but satanic compromise – that creates an open door for the enemy to enter <B312>

• For instance, do not turn a blind eye to the sacrificing of children such as the current acceptance of abortion and transgender practices

• Do not acknowledge pagan holidays, such as Halloween, for it is on the Satanic calendar and is intended to honor demons <M1501>

• A Christian celebrating Halloween is similar to a holocaust survivor celebrating Hitler's birthday

• Christians who normalize pagan ideas find that Satan's foothold grows and often become accepted practices in Christianity

Deuteronomy 18:9-13 NIV

[9] When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations there. [10] Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, [11] or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. [12] Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord; because of these same detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you. [13] You must be blameless before the Lord your God.

** An essential part of living as a believer in Christ is depending on the Holy Spirit all day, everyday

• Christ Himself knows HOW we should move forward and gives us the STRENGTH to do so

• Those who merrily go along without an intimate connection with the Holy Spirit need to question their spiritual status as a Christian

Acts 2:38 NIV

[38] Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13 NIV

[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

• Question to ask: what's the difference between a 'believer' without the Holy Spirit and an enemy evil spirit who also believes in God and trembles?

James 2:19 NIV

[19] You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that---and shudder.

** God provides His followers with full armor so they can rely on Him and be anxious for nothing

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

** Those who are grounded in God's Word are solidly connected with God, like trees planted by streams of water

• God's voice is like the sound of many waters

• God's Word will spring forth from those who are grounded in Him in all circumstances!

Psalm 1:1-3 NIV

[1] Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, [2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. [3] That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither---whatever they do prospers.

John 7:37-38 NIV

[37] On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. [38] Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

** Anyone who calls out to God can experience His awesome saving power, for He promises to bring new life by setting them free from sin!

Colossians 2:13-14 NIV

[13] When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, [14] having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.

1 Corinthians 15:22 NIV

[22] For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

** God invites us to let Him transform us from the inside <D502>

2 Corinthians 4:16 NIV

[16] Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

** Paul is saying that it is a hostile world out there -- both physically and spiritually -- so we need to be prepared to stand against it <W212>

• Remember the battle with Amalek? (Exod 17)

• When Moses’ hands were lifted up, the Israelites prevailed and when his hands were lowered, Amalek prevailed

• We learn that Amalek was not only a physical king that did a most horrible atrocity against the children of God, but also an evil spirit that God promised to deal with over the generations until there is peace in Israel

• The 'spirit of Amelek' is spiritual that manifests in the physical

Exodus 17:16 NIV

[16] He said, “Because hands were lifted up against the throne of the Lord, the Lord will be at war against the Amalekites from generation to generation.”

• Quite frankly, there are evil people and spirits that constantly test us in our everyday life

• Just like our parents taught us to look both ways before crossing the street, we need to be aware and prepared to deal with evil like the 'spirit of Amalek'

• Followers of Christ can conquer any evil they come against, whether it manifests in the physical or not, by calling on the One who loves them to defeat it

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

Romans 8:37-39 NIV

[37] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

** Stones were used in ancient times to denote boundaries, such as identifying homes and cities; Christ is our spiritual cornerstone so all will be able to identify and depend on Him

1 Peter 2:6 NIV

[6] For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”

Isaiah 28:16 NIV

[16] So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.

Psalm 118:22 NIV

[22] The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone;

** We decide what spirit we are going to invite in; for example, we will allow either a spirit of fear or the spirit of Christ to rule our heart and mind <M1501>

• Beware! Satan mimics God and will also stand at the door asking to come in

• We decide to whom and when we open the door to our heart and soul

• Whatever spirit we accept will develop a stronghold in the mind

• Only open the door to the spirit of God through His Word

• As followers of Christ, we don't have time to entertain any other spirit!

Revelation 3:20 NIV

[20] Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

Ephesians 4:25-27 NIV

Romans 8:1-2 NIV

[1] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, [2] because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.

** Our nature is not good, and every member of the human race (without exception) stands before God as a sinner <D40>

• Paul is referring to the human individual nature, not their dignity or worth

• Thank God we are not totally depraved (beyond hope) so that, through Christ who paid the penalty for our sin, we can be redeemed

• We are not left in our depravity when we accept God's gracious offer of salvation

Romans 3:22-23 NIV

[22] This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

Titus 2:11-14 NIV

[11] For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope---the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, [14] who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

** The soon return of Jesus also carries with it a message for believers: lukewarm and carnal Christians are called to commit their lives to holiness <R173>

Romans 13:12-14 NIV

[12] The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. [13] Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. [14] Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.

Colossians 4:2 NIV

[2] Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Titus 3:8-11,14 NIV

[8] This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. [9] But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. [10] Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. [11] You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned. [14] Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.

** God gives us the ability to conquer our circumstances and prepares the hearts of people to fulfill His will

• When the old generation died out, God began to give the new generation a taste for success

• In a series of increasingly difficult battles, God gave Israel increasingly greater victories <R1795>

Deuteronomy 2:30-33 NIV

[30] But Sihon king of Heshbon refused to let us pass through. For the Lord your God had made his spirit stubborn and his heart obstinate in order to give him into your hands, as he has now done. [31] The Lord said to me, “See, I have begun to deliver Sihon and his country over to you. Now begin to conquer and possess his land.” [32] When Sihon and all his army came out to meet us in battle at Jahaz, [33] the Lord our God delivered him over to us and we struck him down, together with his sons and his whole army.

Deuteronomy 2:36 NIV

[36] From Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Gorge, and from the town in the gorge, even as far as Gilead, not one town was too strong for us. The Lord our God gave us all of them.

** Through God's eyes, our old path has no claim on us <D502>

Romans 6:8-11 NIV

[8] Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. [9] For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. [10] The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. [11] In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:12-14 NIV

[12] Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. [13] Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, [14] I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

** Our God is with us every moment of every day in every situation when we call on Him in joyful praise

Psalm 90:14,17 NIV

[14] Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. [17] May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us---yes, establish the work of our hands.

Psalm 113:3 NIV

[3] From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.

** Believers need to get in the habit of disciplining themselves by fixing their eyes on Jesus if they want to win the race and receive the reward <F60>

1 Corinthians 9:25-27 NIV

[25] Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. [26] Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. [27] No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV

[1] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, [2] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

** The Holy Spirit that resides in believers gives them the power to be able to have victory over sin

• The Spirit of God takes residency in the body of the believer and supernaturally empowers them to live a life of victory

• Followers of Christ used to be governed by the desires of the flesh but are now governed by the power of God

• The Spirit of God now tells the believer what He wants so the flesh, as His slave, obediently follows that voice <K110>

Galatians 2:20 NIV

[20] I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

1 John 4:4 NIV

[4] You, dear children, are from God and have overcome [evil spirits], because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

** Since the east and the west can never meet, it is literally impossible for our transgressions (sins) to even be remembered; from this description, it seems that once something is forgiven, it can no longer be remembered

Psalm 103:10-12 NIV

[10] he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. [11] For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; [12] as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

Hebrews 8:12 NIV

[12] For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more. ”

** If you have Jesus and are willing to be used by Him, you have enough

Isaiah 60:1-2 NIV

[1] “Arise, shine, for your light has come,

and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. [2] See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you.

1 John 5:4-5 NIV

[4] for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. [5] Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.

John 16:33 NIV

[33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

** We are attracted to darkness when our deeds are evil; conversely, we become attracted to light when we live by God's truth

• Someone may prefer the dark so they won't be exposed to what they are doing wrong

• There are times when those in darkness can be attracted to the light because they want to change their ways and live in the way of light

• How is my witness and testimony to others?

• Am I sharing the light so others are attracted to God's ways or am I hiding the light so others don't notice?

John 3:19-21 NIV

[19] This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. [20] Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. [21] But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.

Matthew 5:16 NIV

[16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

** John the Baptist acknowledged that Jesus should have priority in our lives for numerous reasons:

• He is above all (31)

• He comes from heaven (31)

• He knows by experience what He is speaking about (32)

• All who accept Jesus’ words discover personally just how truthful He is (33)

• He speaks the words of God (34)

• God gives Him unlimited supply of the Spirit (34)

• The Father loves Him (35)

• God has placed everything in His hands (36)

• He is the source of eternal life for all who believe (36)

• He is the only way to escape the coming wrath (36) <R1795>

John 3:31-36 NIV

[31] The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. [32] He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. [33] Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. [34] For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. [35] The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. [36] Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on them.

** The world pushes the message that “we need to be rescued from ourselves” because we are doomed to destroy ourselves unless there is outside intervention <S199>

• Christians say, “This is true. We need Jesus Christ who came to die for sinners (Rom 5:8) and to deliver people from the righteous wrath of God.”

• How awesome that Jesus gives us eternal hope outside the bounds of this fallen world and beyond a creation that groans under the effects of sin (Rom 8:22)

Romans 5:8 NIV

[8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 8:22 NIV

[22] We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.

** Stop looking for logic and reason to understand what is happening in the world today

• Recognize the spiritual war that has overtly reared its ugly head

• We are witnessing God allowing delusion in every corner of society

• Evil is simply evil and cannot be reasoned with

• This doesn't mean believers in Christ have permission to sit back and do nothing

• We are still called to be an ambassador of Christ, bringing His light of truth and hope to a dying world

• Fortify your position against evil, having God and His Word as your Commander

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

1 John 5:18-20 NIV

[18] We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them. [19] We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. [20] We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.

2 Corinthians 5:20-21 NIV

[20] We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

** Even though God allows delusion to seep among the wicked, those who truly seek Him can still find Him <R178>

2 Thessalonians 2:10b-12 NIV

[10] They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. [11] For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie [12] and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.

Luke 11:9-10 NIV

[9] “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. [10] For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

** We decide who will live in our house; if the house is empty and we leave the door open then evil spirits will come in to reside, but believers in Christ are to sweep it clean and fill the house with God's presence <M1501>

Matthew 12:43-45 NIV

[43] “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. [44] Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. [45] Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.”

** To the person who is playing games or isn’t interested, the Lord will say nothing. But to the person who is genuinely searching and wants to know the answers to life, God will reveal the truth.

Nicodemus had a lot of questions about life. Even though he was well-known, highly educated, and deeply religious, there was something missing in his life. And that brought him to a conversation with Jesus one night.

Nicodemus had been hearing about the Lord’s ministry, which was just wrapping up at this point. He had enough spiritual discernment to know that Jesus was sent from God.

The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus wasn’t simply a conversation between two historical figures. Rather, it was a conversation between God and humanity. If we were to elect someone to represent us before God, we could not choose a finer individual than Nicodemus.

He was the finest specimen that humanity could offer, apart from God’s touch. And Jesus gave Nicodemus the answers that have unlocked the mystery of life for countless millions of people through the centuries. It was a significant conversation.

It’s interesting to see how Jesus made time in His very busy schedule for the searching Nicodemus. In contrast to the fickle crowds, here was a man who truly was searching. So, Jesus had time for Him. <L120>

John 3:1-2 NIV

[1] Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. [2] He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.”

Jeremiah 29:12-13 NIV

[12] Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. [13] You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

** If we knew the Word of God, we would have solutions to the numerous issues we face <K110>

• In conjunction with the trend to reject history (especially anything viewed by evangelicals), the world turns to its own pagan solutions and movements which typically add sinful solutions to sinful problems

• It's like throwing fuel on fire

• The answer is to not only read the Bible from cover to cover, but to take it for what it says, even if it is difficult to comprehend with our limited human minds

• For instance, if God said through Paul that Jesus is going to yank believers into the sky in what is known as the rapture, then that is what is going to happen <B23>

2 Timothy 3:14-16 NIV

[14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, [15] and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. [16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

1 Thessalonians 4:16 NIV

[16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

** Jesus issued seven warnings to the religious leaders and those who follow them so they could avoid becoming failures in their own spiritual lives <R1795>

The seven include not:

• Shutting others out

• Making converts for your own sake and in your own image

• Making rules for others despite a lack of personal spiritual insight

• Majoring on minor religious issues while ignoring God’s true priorities

• Being concerned with appearances rather than personal righteousness

• Covering sinful motives with deceitful talk and actions

• Professing responsiveness to God as a cloak to hostility

Matthew 23:13ff NIV

[13] “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites…

** We are to take whatever measure is needed to avoid sinning

Matthew 18:8-9 NIV

If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life maimed or crippled than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal fire. [9] And if your eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.

** Asking God to intervene in our lives requires faith on our part before He acts

Matthew 9:27-28 NIV

As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” [28] When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him, and he asked them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they replied.

Matthew 9:29-30 NIV

Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”; [30] and their sight was restored. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.”

Matthew 9:32-33 NIV

While they were going out, a man who was demon-possessed and could not talk was brought to Jesus. [33] And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been mute spoke. The crowd was amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”

** It is not enough to get rid of an evil spirit occupying a person but it must be replaced with a godly spirit

• The Pharisees were great at ‘sweeping out’ but their failure to welcome Jesus left them vulnerable to demons far worse than the one they worked hard to brush away

• Invite Christ in to empower us for godly living <R1795>

Matthew 12:43-45 NIV

“When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. [44] Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. [45] Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.”

** Jesus, God incarnate, was going to be executed but would send another Comforter to His followers just like Himself: God. The Trinity is real. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. <G73>

John 14:25-26 NIV

[25] “All this I have spoken while still with you. [26] But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

John 20:21-22 NIV

[21] Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” [22] And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.

Acts 5:32 NIV

[32] We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”

** One of the reasons this world appeals to many of us and we find its offerings tantalizing, is that we’re lacking closeness with God.

If we can get our priorities right, however, we can see the world for what it is. That is what Caleb did. The Bible said that he wholeheartedly followed the Lord, the God of Israel.

The key to wholeheartedly following the Lord is maintaining a love relationship with Jesus Christ. When you do, this world will lose its appeal. <L120>

Joshua 14:14 NIV

[14] So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the Lord, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly.

John 8:47 NIV

[47] Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

** Evil exists to the right and left; stick to the narrow road <D40>

Proverbs 4:27 NIV

[27] Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.

Matthew 7:13-14 NIV

[13] “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. [14] But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

** People who bury their head in the sand and refuse to admit there is a spiritual war going on around them are typically the first to be hurt by it <K110>

• All things are possible with God!

• The only way to combat spiritual warfare is by relying on God's power and using the tools (armor) He provides His children

• God has demonstrated His ability to enact paranormal activity -- activity beyond the scope of normal scientific understanding -- throughout Scripture's history, observed in our current day and will see again in the future

Mark 10:27 NIV

[27] Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”

Ephesians 6:10-12 NIV

** The enemy of God is absolutely terrified of even ONE candle shining their faith light in the darkness <E58>

• Satan is a force to be reckoned with but he is NOT an equal and opposing force to God, having similar power and influence <D40>

• Too many believe Satan is more powerful than he is and he gladly continues to spread this lie <M132>

• Believers need to rely on God when confronted by evil -- know that the enemy will kneel at God's surpassing power!

John 1:5 NIV

[5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Psalm 116:3-6 NIV

** We should ask the Holy Spirit to guide our words when witnessing lest we think our persuasive words are the reason for another coming to faith in Christ

• Paul went to the Corinthians with ‘fear and trembling’ yet knowing He should rely on the Holy Spirit to provide the needed words

• Like Paul, we may have his fears but we also have the Spirit who made his ministry so effective

• Our impact doesn’t rest on brilliant or persuasive presentation, but on the Spirit’s power <R1795>

1 Corinthians 2:1,3-5 NIV

[1] And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. [3] I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. [4] My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, [5] so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power.

1 Corinthians 2:13 NIV

[13] This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words.

** Moses confronting the evil Pharaoh and releasing the 10 plagues foreshadows what the end times will hold for the Antichrist <H86>

• Instead of 10 plagues, there will be 28 plagues at that time

• Pharaoh thought he was god as the Antichrist will believe he is god

Exodus 5:1-2ff NIV

[1] Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the wilderness.' ” [2] Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.”

Terminology:

• Egypt=world

• According to Paul, leaving=salvation

• Walking through desert=spiritual immaturity

• Going through Red Sea=baptism

• Entering promised land=maturity

• Moses and Aaron approaching Pharaoh identified the spiritual battle — God vs evil — and provided a good example of how believers are to confront others

• We are commanded to confront

Ezekiel 3:18-19 NIV

[18] When I say to a wicked person, 'You will surely die, ' and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways in order to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. [19] But if you do warn the wicked person and they do not turn from their wickedness or from their evil ways, they will die for their sin; but you will have saved yourself.

Confronting others involves:

• Stating the truth (no debate) with grace and mercy

• Working within “the system”

• Being objective (non emotional) toward who is being confronted

• Showing how the other person's behavior is affecting others

• Making a demand for change (no threat) and finding what discomfort level gets their attention, as a parent disciplines their children

• Conveying how the change will benefit THEM

Reasons we don’t confront:

• We don’t want to lose the relationship

• Fear of being the object of retaliation

• Thinking fear is hurtful instead of helping

• Don’t want to be perceived as being bad

• The classic response is for those confronted to try to divide and conquer, as Pharaoh was successful in getting the Israelites to blame Moses instead of Pharaoh

• When possible, they will try to separate the people from their leader

• In the end, people tend to surround themselves with those who do not challenge but enable their behavior

Exodus 5:20-21 NIV

[20] When they left Pharaoh, they found Moses and Aaron waiting to meet them, [21] and they said, “May the Lord look on you and judge you! You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.”

** There comes a time when the Christian needs to stop 'playing nice', especially when they are compromising their witness

• Living in Jesus’ kingdom calls for us to be decisive about moral issues; determine what is right and do it! <R1795>

• Christians often look to find the 'least offensive way' of communicating God's truth instead of helping others process via critical reasoning <D40>

• Many believe that 'playing nice' is the least offensive approach even though it placates and ends up supporting those opposing God's law

• God's commands do not come with 'extenuating circumstance clauses' -- such as "do this in case you..." -- which give people an out from obeying God

• God's commands should be considered red lines that define the behavior of His followers

• In this light, It's never acceptable to compromise God's law for ANY reason!

• Nothing wrong with discussing opposing views but, all too often, people refuse to listen and don't know how to reason through an issue or debate their views

• Too many people simply expect others to automatically compromise their view so they can feel comfortable having more people in their camp

• If others don't automatically join their view, the offended party oftentimes look for justification -- perhaps finding a negative label to identify the other to add pressure on them to concede, or fabricated reason to explain their non-compliance, all in an effort so they feel ok 'unfriending them'

• There comes a point in time when reasoning with another becomes ineffective and futile

• Be prepared to 'shake the dust from your feet' and move on when this happens <E58>

• In time, any love that is constantly rejected must ultimately fail <R1795>

• It’s best to know when to ‘let go’ and use our energies toward more-successful ways

Mark 6:11 NIV [Jesus said]

[11] And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.

Luke 9:5 NIV [Jesus said]

[5] If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.

Luke 21:16-19 NIV

[16] You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. [17] Everyone will hate you because of me. [18] But not a hair of your head will perish. [19] Stand firm, and you will win life.

** There comes a point in time when you have to mock people who blindly follow their idol; no data or reasoning will get them to see the error of their ways, so go ahead and mock <D40>

• Pagan gods and goddesses were thought by their worshipers to be engaged in humanitarian affair, such as traveling, sleeping and even ‘doing business’

• Elijah’s taunts ridiculed this humanist view of deity <R1795>

1 Kings 18:27 NIV

[27] At noon Elijah began to taunt them. “Shout louder!” he said. “Surely he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened.”

** Sewing fig leaves together portrays man's first, futile, effort to deal with sin via their own works; the couple knew this effort failed because they still hid from God <R1795>

Genesis 3:7-8 NIV

[7] Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. [8] Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden.

** Becoming a Christian does not only require a public declaration of a person's commitment to Christ but an inward heart-felt belief that Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice on a cross (on our behalf) to conquer death and cleanse us of our sin so we can approach our righteous God and look forward to eternity with Him

Romans 10:9-10 NIV

[9] If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.

1 John 1:9 NIV

[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Romans 6:22-23 NIV

[22] But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. [23] For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

** Joseph stayed true to his morals and respected Potiphar by not sleeping with his wife, recognizing that would be a sin against God

• Joseph wasn’t fooled; he knew this ‘victimless crime’ in having sex with Potiphar’s wife was, in fact, a sin against God

• Satan eagerly sticks new labels on old sins, trying to confuse humanity and provide us with excuses to do what we know is wrong

• It is important that our vision be as clear as Joseph’s, and that we be as honest with ourselves as Joseph was with Potiphar’s wife <R1795>

Genesis 39:6b-9 NIV

[6] Now Joseph was well-built and handsome, [7] and after a while his master's wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!” [8] But he refused. “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care. [9] No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”

** We can fritter away our time on a lot of things or make a daily commitment to read the Word of God <H86>

Psalm 119:15-16 NIV

[15] I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. [16] I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.

** Overcoming sin MUST start with repentance, understanding that sin not only hurts the sinner but grieves God; after repenting ‘stand back and watch the glory of God unfold’ <E58>

Acts 3:19 NIV

[19] Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord

Psalm 51:1-4 NIV

[1] Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. [2] Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. [3] For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. [4] Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge.

** Christ identifies those who follow Him as kings and high priests

• As kings and high priests, we are required to continually walk in a lifestyle of repentance

• In this way, we will actually turn from our sin to 'follow Him'

• Those who follow the world are going in a different direction than Christ and, therefore, must repent and turn from their ways <M1501>

Revelation 1:5b-6 NIV

To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, [6] and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father---to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

** God who sees everything happening in our world, knows us intimately and knows how to help us overcome evil

Psalm 139:17-19 NIV

[17] How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! [18] Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand---when I awake, I am still with you. [19] If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty!

Job 38:4-5,12-15 NIV

[4] “Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. [5] Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? [12] “Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, [13] that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it? [14] The earth takes shape like clay under a seal; its features stand out like those of a garment. [15] The wicked are denied their light, and their upraised arm is broken.

Job 12:13,22 NIV

[13] “To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his. [22] He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings utter darkness into the light.

** ‘Ending our life' is not an option to find relief from a problem; our lives are not ours to decidedly end <F60>

• The Lord gives us life and it is for Him alone to remove when He desires

• We may 'hit rock bottom' with seemingly no way out, but the Lord promises to help anyone who calls on His name

• We have a role in living a life of faith

• Things we can't possibly imagine happening can happen simply because, in all our brokenness, we will not stop looking to God <E58>

1 Kings 19:4 NIV

[4] while he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.”

Job 1:21 NIV [Job speaking]

[21] “Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”

Psalm 55:16-17 NIV

[16] As for me, I call to God, and the Lord saves me. [17] Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.

** Believer beware, for Satan masquerades as a representative of God!

2 Corinthians 11:13-15 NIV

[13] For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. [14] And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. [15] It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.

• No wonder false religions are on the rise when those who call themselves believers in Christ cannot discern the fake from the real

• False religion is also attractive to the world because they belong to the Kingdom of Darkness and cannot hear the voice of God; yet those deceived believe they are doing something righteous by advocating for a religion they don't know is false

Matthew 7:13-14 NIV

John 8:47 NIV

[47] Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

• The most dangerous of false religions are those that 'appear' to be Scriptural but twist its meaning ever so slightly

• False teaching can go from one extreme to the other -- like turning the true grace-filled salvation that Jesus offers into one that requires works and achievement, or only focusing on God's grace and never being concerned about the condition of their heart or results produced

• False teachers typically espouse empty words and an abundance of intellectual knowledge; words and knowledge does not save but must be believed and put into action

• In the end when they stand before God, many will be surprised their words and knowledge did not get them anywhere; they never submitted to the will of God

2 Timothy 3:5 NIV

[5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.

James 1:21-22 NIV

[21] Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. [22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

• It is imperative believers in Christ continually deep-five into the Bible to learn from God's 'primary source', for only then can they identify a prevalent Doctrine of Demon

• Believers must examine themselves for a false sense of assurance, such as believing in a formulaic prayer and never examining the condition of their heart to determine their motives and priorities

• In order to have an acceptable walk with God, the desires of a believer's heart must center on Christ; He will not accept a divided heart

Proverbs 23:26 NIV

[26] My son, give me your heart and let your eyes delight in my ways,

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, [17] so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 Corinthians 13:5 NIV

[5] Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you---unless, of course, you fail the test?

• Genuine followers of Christ aim to reject the ways of a sin-filled world on a daily basis and, as a result, are known by Christ-inspired fruit

• We must desire to say and do as God commands, practicing the law of God <M130>

• To God, our hearts must be exclusively devoted, in all its faculties; nothing must be an object of hope or fear, joy or sorrow -- except which is subservient to His glory and in obedience to His commands <S179>

Luke 6:43-45 NIV

[43] “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. [44] Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. [45] A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

• When all is said and done, God will judge the heart of every individual to determine whether they truly believe in Him or are putting on an act

Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

[21] “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' [23] Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'

** Revival is needed to clean up the mess this world is in, but it comes at a personal cost <E58> <D40>

• Revival is not 'adding Jesus' to our existing lifestyle and thinking we can go on 'as usual'

• Revival is not 'God coming to save the day' so everyone can continue living in their preferred comfortable sinful state

• Rather, revival is God disrupting our sinful ways which may involve bringing us to the point of suffering

2 Corinthians 1:5 NIV

[5] For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.

• Jesus can be a disruptive force in our lives when we accept Him and walk with Him daily

• The revived person will not only clean up their act but shift their focus from themself to God and others

• We will be able to see this force in action when Jesus returns in the last days to fill the valleys and level the mountains

Philippians 2:1-3 NIV

[1] Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,

Amos 3:3 NIV

[3] Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?

** "A bleeding Savior I have viewed, and now I hate my sins!" <N150>

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

[17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

1 Peter 1:14-16 NIV

[14] As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. [15] But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; [16] for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

1 Peter 2:24 NIV

[24] “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”

Luke 19:10 NIV

[10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

** Repentance involves a public showing of regret or remorse for sin that leads to a changed life governed by God

• Repentance in the Christian life is not a one-time deal for it is the acknowledgment of perpetual sin that occurs

• Human nature is sinful and "All of the Christian life is a life of repentance" <L1292>

Acts 3:19 NIV

[19] Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,

** The vine is a frequent illustration in the Old Testament of God’s people <R1795>

• Psalm 80:8 speaks of Israel as a ‘vine brought out of Egypt’

• The clearest use of the image is found in Isaiah 5

• But Israel failed to produce the fruit of righteousness and justice that God looked for, so Christ came as the ‘true Vine’ that in and through Him all believers might produce the fruit of true godliness

• Only through relationship with Jesus can anyone strive for the moral qualities that God seeks

Psalm 80:8 NIV

[8] You transplanted a vine from Egypt; you drove out the nations and planted it.

Isaiah 5:1-2,7 NIV

[1] I will sing for the one I love

a song about his vineyard: My loved one had a vineyard on a fertile hillside. [2] He dug it up and cleared it of stones and planted it with the choicest vines. He built a watchtower in it and cut out a winepress as well. Then he looked for a crop of good grapes, but it yielded only bad fruit. [7] The vineyard of the Lord Almighty is the nation of Israel, and the people of Judah are the vines he delighted in. And he looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress.

** A branch that is properly grafted in the vine will be healthy and naturally bear fruit; a vine that is not properly connected to the vine will die and be thrown aside <B299>

John 15:4 NIV

[4] Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

** Everyone should be welcome to attend church, but they should not be able to join the community unless they fully accept Christ's offer of salvation and aim to live a mature sanctified life

• Sanctification involves recognizing the Bible as God's Word, then prioritizing and following it after repenting from the practice of sin

• For instance: members should not condone a person practicing adultery, saying "that's ok, go ahead and join our community and continue in your adultery as long as you love Jesus." when they have no intention of turning from their sin

• Jesus dined with sinners but did not condone their sin, nor should followers of Christ affirm those living in sin that is clearly spelled out in God's Word

• Sexual sin should be of particular concern because it grieves the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 6:18-20 NIV

[18] Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. [19] Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; [20] you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

John 8:11 NIV

[11] “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Luke 19:5-10 NIV

[5] When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” [6] So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. [7] All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” [8] But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” [9] Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

** There is this notion that 'God loves us as we are' -- but that is not the end of the story

• Indeed, God will MEET US where we are but then we are to repent and actively turn from our sinful ways

• The act of repentance involves recognizing our sin (rebellion against God), understanding how it hurts God, and then begging God for His mercy and forgiveness

• The awesome news is that God will make all things new, including forgiving and forgetting sin and then using it for His glory, whether in this life or His new kingdom <B312>

Mark 6:12 NIV

[12] They went out and preached that people should repent.

Isaiah 65:17-18 NIV

[17] “See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. [18] But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create, for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy.

** The Word of God states that sexual violators will not inherit the kingdom of God, despite the media and popular culture’s blessing

• Sexual promiscuity has been around since the beginning of time

• Contrary to the opposing arguments, there is no genetic excuse for sinful behavior and people have a choice whether they want to give in to temptation

• God's law is unchangeable opposing this sin

• God will bring about judgment as He did with Sodom and in the days of Noah

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NIV

[9] Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men [10] nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

THE LAW OF GOD exposes those practicing immorality...

1 Timothy 1:9 NIV

Deuteronomy 22:5 NIV

[5] A woman must not wear men's clothing, nor a man wear women's clothing, for the Lord your God detests anyone who does this.

Leviticus 18:22-25 NIV

[22] “ 'Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable. [23] “ 'Do not have sexual relations with an animal and defile yourself with it. A woman must not present herself to an animal to have sexual relations with it; that is a perversion. [24] “ 'Do not defile yourselves in any of these ways, because this is how the nations that I am going to drive out before you became defiled. [25] Even the land was defiled; so I punished it for its sin, and the land vomited out its inhabitants.

Isaiah 56:3 NIV

[3] Let no foreigner who is bound to the Lord say, “The Lord will surely exclude me from his people.” And let no eunuch complain, “I am only a dry tree.”

Isaiah 3:9 NIV

[9] The look on their faces testifies against them; they parade their sin like Sodom; they do not hide it. Woe to them! They have brought disaster upon themselves.

Romans 1:32 NIV

[32] Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.

THERE IS HOPE for those caught in sin...

• If Christians are to show love, we must confront them and let them know they are opposing God's design and judgment awaits if they don’t change their behavior

• Violators can become 'former violators' when they repent and start a new life

• Redeemed violators become sanctified (changed, separated) by the Spirit of God

• God's forgiveness and grace allows them to be able to start again!

1 Corinthians 6:11 NIV

[11] And that is what some of you WERE. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Psalm 107:10-13 NIV

[10] Some sat in darkness, in utter darkness, prisoners suffering in iron chains, [11] because they rebelled against God's commands and despised the plans of the Most High. [12] So he subjected them to bitter labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. [13] Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress.

** God guided, provided and protected the Israelites as they journeyed in the desert for 40 years and will do the same for today’s believer who seeks Him along their journey

• God watching over Israel’s journey is one of the most touching statements in Moses’ review of history

• Despite Israel’s rebellion and repeated sins, God watched over them

• God’s commitment to us is rooted in His character, not anything we may do or fail to do <R1795>

Deuteronomy 2:7 NIV

[7] The Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything.

2 Timothy 2:13 NIV

[13] if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself.

** Satan is behind every corrupt religion and false system of belief that goes against the truthful knowledge of God; believers in Christ must rely on God and His Word to help fight this 'truth war' <M130>

• Satan is not behind the wretched, corrupt, sinful behavior of any given society -- the sinful nature of flesh takes care of that

• We are engaged in spiritual warfare that is a battle of the mind; the battle typically involves responses to great insights and ideas, ideologies, theories, viewpoints, belief systems, psychologies, philosophies, religions

• People who latch on to corrupt ideas end up building fortifications that become their tombs

• The architect of these deceiving ideas that go against God is Satan

• Humans cannot rely on human weaponry when fighting spiritual battles

• Spiritual warfare must be fought by asking God to combat evil; human weapons are no match for massive strongholds no matter how noble the effort

• Believers in Christ must rely on God "who is in you" and who "is greater than the one who is in the world"

1 John 4:4 NIV

[4] You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

1 Corinthians 1:25 NIV

[25] For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.

2 Peter 2:1 NIV

[1] But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them---bringing swift destruction on themselves.

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 NIV

** In other words, “Pharaoh, read my lips: You get nada, zip, zero, nothing. You don’t get an inch. We’re taking everyone and everything, and we’re leaving, whether you like it or not.”

As Christians, that is what we need to say when the devil tempts us to compromise. He whispers, “All right, I can’t have all of your life, so let me have this one area. It won’t go any further.”

Like Moses, we need to say, “No, you get nothing.” Little things lead to big things. That’s why we can’t make deals with the devil. We can’t negotiate with Satan. There can be no compromise. If you are not prepared to go far away from Satan, then you’re never going to make it, because he will manipulate you. It’s time to break free. <L120>

Exodus 10:24-26 NIV

[24] Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and said, “Go, worship the Lord. Even your women and children may go with you; only leave your flocks and herds behind.” [25] But Moses said, “You must allow us to have sacrifices and burnt offerings to present to the Lord our God. [26] Our livestock too must go with us; not a hoof is to be left behind. We have to use some of them in worshiping the Lord our God, and until we get there we will not know what we are to use to worship the Lord.”

** Make sure every prompting of an 'inner small voice' aligns with the Word of God, for God has bound Himself to His Word and will not (cannot) go against it <D40>

• God's covenant to us is through His Word so every believer can rely on Scripture as their baseline for truth

• Followers of Christ are expected to listen to the Holy Spirit's inner voice prompting to guide them as He desires

• Watch out because Satan is a masterful imitator of this voice and our inclination (as we harbor a sinful nature) is to listen to what sounds preferable

• We can never go wrong discerning every prompting against God's Word

Philippians 1:9-11 NIV

[9] And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, [10] so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, [11] filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ---to the glory and praise of God.

Mark 13:5-6 NIV

[5] Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. [6] Many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and will deceive many.

Colossians 2:8-10 NIV

[8] See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. [9] For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, [10] and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.

** Belief in Christ is the only way to escape from this doomed planet when Jesus calls believers to Himself in the Rapture. Belief in Jesus as God’s designated route to salvation is the only way to be considered righteous.

Good works will not get anyone to Heaven. Only Christ, the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world–the only righteousness God recognizes—will put the believer in the presence of Christ <J100>

John 14:6 NIV

[6] Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

** David was blind to his sin, but when Nathan saw the sin and brought it to his attention, David was heartbroken. David knew he wasn’t above the Law, and like any other person he was subject to the penalty of his sin.

In response, David truly repented and turned away from his sin. As Christians, we can have this same blessing from God. He will forgive, but we have to repent. <G73>

Psalm 51:10-12 NIV

[10] Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. [11] Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. [12] Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

** The wise place a high value on 'understanding' that motivates their diligent search for wisdom

• Similar to those who seek after precious and expensive jewels

• Such dependence on the words of Scripture is especially needed with biblical prophecy

• Unless one is willing to do the hard work of thoroughly examining God’s Word and letting the words of the text speak for themselves, one is likely to wander down an erroneous path that leads to drowsiness found in the bubble of 'normalcy' <B26>

Proverbs 2:4-6 NIV

[4] and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, [5] then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. [6] For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Psalm 19:7,11 NIV

[7] The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. [11] By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

** For 40 years, 3-5 million Israelites survived without a police force or standing army because they had God’s moral law

• Today society relies on a civil law that tries to accomplish what God’s moral law already accomplished

• Every decision in life is covered by God’s Ten Commandments

• Any law is intended to restrain people so they can survive and pursue excellence

• God’s law should point us back to Him as our ultimate and only hope! <M149>

Exodus 24:12 NIV

[12] The Lord said to Moses, “Come up to me on the mountain and stay here, and I will give you the tablets of stone with the law and commandments I have written for their instruction.”

** God does not tremble in the sight of Satan; we should not fear him either because we are God’s children in His loving care <B295>

• Followers of Christ have access to His protection, direction and power — an awesome force to transform and sustain lives

• Understanding His awesome power prompts us to respect and fear God, not Satan!

Joshua 4:24 NIV

[24] He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God. ”

Job 30:18 NIV

[18] In his great power God becomes like clothing to me ; he binds me like the neck of my garment.

Psalm 68:35 NIV

[35] You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!

Acts 26:16-18 NIV [God’s call to Saul/Paul]

[16] 'Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me. [17] I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them [18] to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'

** Evil had a beginning, and evil will have an end <J1092>

• In the meantime, we have been given the full armor of God to combat evil in spiritual war

John 14:26-27 NIV

[26] But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. [27] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

• Even though evil appears to have an advantage and is increasing in this world, we must acknowledge it will have an end

• Christians are not to fear evil but be confident that God, the King of kings, will one day destroy it completely to His honor and glory <D40

• While we battle, we wait patiently for Christ to return to eradicate evil -- completely for eternity

Jeremiah 6:22-23 NIV

[22] This is what the Lord says: “Look, an army is coming from the land of the north; a great nation is being stirred up from the ends of the earth. [23] They are armed with bow and spear; they are cruel and show no mercy. They sound like the roaring sea as they ride on their horses; they come like men in battle formation to attack you, Daughter Zion. ”

Revelation 18:2 NIV

[2] With a mighty voice he shouted:

“ 'Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!' She has become a dwelling for demons and a haunt for every impure spirit, a haunt for every unclean bird, a haunt for every unclean and detestable animal.

** Why is the cross so important? Primarily, it was on the cross that Jesus redeemed sinners so they can be in relationship with God and defeat Satan's ultimate evil power <G72>

• We know of God’s great plan of salvation recorded for us in the Bible

• Jesus' conquering death and resurrection fulfilled over 300 Old Testament prophecies about the coming redeeming Messiah

• When Jesus uttered the words, "It is finished" He declared the debt owed to His Father was completely wiped away forever

• Jesus fulfilled the Mosaic Covenant; no more atonements are needed for Christ paid the ultimate atonement <D40>

• At that moment, God's will for Jesus was accomplished because Christ perfectly obeyed His Father

• Christ's death on the cross was a crucial moment in His mission to ‘seek and save the lost’

• Without the cross and resurrection, our Christian faith is futile

• Without the cross and resurrection, we might as well 'pack up and go home' because following Christ would be hopeless and meaningless <W2196>

Luke 19:10 NIV

[10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

John 12:31 NIV

[31] Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out.

John 19:30 NIV

[30] When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Hebrews 2:14 NIV

[14] Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death---that is, the devil---

1 Corinthians 15:17 NIV

[17] And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.

** The person who looks to the cross for salvation will find it

• Spiritual transformation happens when a person accepts Christ and His work on the cross

• Salvation is not about whether a person can achieve indicators such as becoming a morally better person or following a list of dos and don'ts, but is God's transforming power that changes a person into a new creation

• Being saved changes a person from the inside out; others hopefully see the change by what are called 'fruits of the Spirit' -- the result of the Holy Spirit in a person's life

• Salvation cannot be undone; a person can't become 'unsaved' <G70>

• We are not saved by good works -- in fact, before we are saved our works are done in the flesh and cannot please God; even our most 'righteous deeds' fall far short of God’s glory (Rom 3:20, Isa 64:6)

• We can be saved only because God is gracious and merciful and has designed a way for us to be declared righteous when we are not <G72>

Isaiah 64:6 NIV

[6] All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

1 Corinthians 1:18 NIV

[18] For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

John 5:24 NIV

[24] “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.

Romans 8:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus

Romans 3:20 NIV

[20] Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.

** The love of God for His people is armed with divine power, for the execution of its purposes and the fulfillment of its designs

• We may come up out of the wilderness, leaning upon the omnipotent arm of a Savior's love

2 Samuel 22:2-3 NIV

[2] He said: “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; [3] my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior---from violent people you save me.

Song of Songs 8:5a NIV

[5] Who is this coming up from the wilderness leaning on her beloved?

• It will perform all its good pleasure, but in the most judicious and prudent way

2 Samuel 22:18-22 NIV

[18] He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. [19] They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. [20] He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. [21] “The Lord has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me. [22] For I have kept the ways of the Lord; I am not guilty of turning from my God.

• Christ's omnipotent love for His people never varies, and it cannot fail

• Trust then in Jesus forever, for in the love of Jesus is everlasting strength! <S183>

** If Jesus quoted Scripture when confronting Satan's temptations -- continually referring to "what is written" -- then followers of Christ can assuredly obey and depend on the Word of God <N152>

A few examples...

Luke 4:8 NIV

[8] Jesus answered, “It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.' ”

Luke 10:26 NIV

[26] “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”

John 6:45 NIV

[45] It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God.' Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me.

** Anyone who chooses to be on the side of the Lord Jesus Christ by accepting His offer of salvation WILL face severe opposition from Satan and his evil followers; the battle begins from the moment you choose Christ <L120>

• War is ugly but sometimes necessary for a good cause

• Think how important it was to oppose Hitler in WWII and hinder his attempt to gain world control and eliminate the Jewish population

• The church is under attack like never before so believers must wake up and be ready to put on the full armor of God to fight against evil

• Christians should be ready to win souls for Christ in a loving way and gain victory in the culture war while relying on God's direction, strength and protection

Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV

2 Timothy 2:3 NIV

[3] Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

** Thank God for the comforts and blessings of this life, but do not let them become your idols!

Man's god is whatever:

• He depends upon

• Rules his mind

• Governs his affections

• Is the chief object of his delight

If there is anything you would not give up for God, it is your idol. If there is anything that you seek with greater fervor than you seek the glory of God, that is your idol. That for which you live, is your idol.

Man is such an idolater that if he cannot idolize anything else he will bow down and worship himself! If we had no idols in children, friends, wealth, ourselves -- we would not need half the trials we have.

If we are, indeed, Christians, then we have broken a great many idols. We have still some more to break and we must keep the hammer going until they are all broken!

Cast out the idols from your hearts. Let them all go. Love no one else and nothing else, as you love Him. <S185>

Ezekiel 14:3a NIV

[3] “Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts and put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces.

Ezekiel 20:16b NIV

[16] For their hearts were devoted to their idols.

1 John 5:21 NIV

[21] Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.

** In the midst of the battles, even with painful wounds and sacrifice, the joy of the Lord can be your strength <L124>

• No one wants to suffer, but suffering in fellowship with Him is sweeter than the grandest party with anyone else

• Stay close to Him, enjoying sweet fellowship with Him

• Sometimes that will include the fellowship of His sufferings

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

Philippians 3:10-11 NIV

[10] I want to know Christ---yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, [11] and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

1 Peter 4:12-13 NIV

[12] Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. [13] But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.

John 16:33 NIV

[33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

** Combat lies and temptation using Scripture just as Jesus defended Himself against Satan with Scripture in the wilderness <G795>

• There is authority and power in the Word of God

• Three times the devil tried to get Jesus to do wrong, and all three times Jesus countered his attack by quoting the Word of God

• The result was the devil going away

• Keep the enemy off-balance by immersing yourself in Scripture!

• When the enemy has you surrounded, keep him on the defensive with the Word of God <L120>

Matthew 4:1,4,7,10 NIV

[1] Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. [4] Jesus answered, “It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' ” [7] Jesus answered him, “It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' ” [10] Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.' ”

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, [17] so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

• Unfortunately, too many who claim to be followers of Christ do not know His Word even at the most basic level

• It doesn’t take long then for the church to join forces with the world when they don’t have Scripture as their plumb-line for truth

• It doesn’t seem to matter that Scripture opposes this alliance

Romans 12:2 NIV

[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

** The Tribulation will bring Israel to a point of ending their transgression (sin) so there can be reconciliation and blessing from God

• Likewise, anyone who desires relationship and blessing from the Lord must first recognize their sin and make amends for it

Daniel 9:24 NIV

[24] “Seventy 'sevens' are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the Most Holy Place.

** Part of being ‘wise about what is good’ involves knowing the enemy’s playbook; read up on competing worldviews to be able to defend the Christian belief <H86>

Romans 16:19 NIV

[19] Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.

** The vast majority of people would gladly accept a global government if it means the powers-that-be would take care of them and they would be free from moral restraint <M139>

• Too many desiring a welfare state want to avoid personal accountability, such as not having to work for their pay; rather have the government deposit the needed funds

• Growing the nanny state, however, means loss of individual freedoms; people become slaves to their provider

• Governments that ‘take care of the people’ typically gain control over them, as evidenced by tyrannical governments

• Advanced technology today allows for complete governmental control of the citizenry via surveillance, dictating ‘truth’, forced social credit scores, control over bank accounts, access to thought patterns, etc <H86>

• The more interconnected and dependent we become on technology, the easier it is to control and manipulate people's behavior <H994>

• Individual freedoms and accountability such as ‘choice’ and ‘work ethic’ are biblical principles, instituted by God

• God does not want global governance which is why He divided the people building the Tower of Babel into nation states

• There will be a price to pay when people abdicate their responsibility and choose to go their own way in sin

• Choose God to avoid the punishment for sin

Psalm 2:1-3 NIV

[1] Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? [2] The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed, saying, [3] “Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.”

Romans 6:16,23 NIV

** God does not judge us based on our performance; thank goodness because it is impossible to live without sin <F61>

• If God judged us based on performance then He would have been ‘done’ with the Jews back in the time of Genesis when they first rebelled <M135>

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

[8] For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith---and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--- [9] not by works, so that no one can boast.

** ALL believers, young and mature, struggle with sin throughout their entire life; given this fact, the important question is whether every believer continues the BATTLE to overcome sin through Christ <F61><B23>

• There will always be a war between flesh and spirit in every believer’s life

• No believer should be comfortable in their sin; if they are, they need ask themselves again why Jesus came to earth to suffer and die — so they can continue living in sin?

• Life should be filled with continual repentance, which is not checking off sins from a list but a continual process to rid sin with God’s help

• A believer understands and agrees with God they are a sinner, their ways are wrong, they desire to walk in the ways of the Holy Spirit and that over time they will be cleansed and gain victory over their sin

• It may take months even years for new believers to overcome sin habits but there must be an effort in this direction

• It’s good to keep in mind that life in Christ is a constant work in progress

• Followers of Christ come to the point where they agree “I’m not the person I used to be but am not the person I need to be either”

Mark 14:38 NIV

[38] Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Romans 7:18-19 NIV

Romans 12:21 NIV

[21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

** Entering through the narrow door does not mean ‘acknowledging Jesus plus another requirement’ but simply accepting Jesus Christ as Savior for the forgiveness of a person’s sin <B23>

Luke 13:24 NIV

[24] “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.

** One way to overcome the temptations in your life is to serve in the kingdom of God; you won’t be thinking about your own narcissistic thoughts when focused on helping others <D40>

Romans 12:21 NIV

[21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

** We can depend on God to provide the words to say when we aim to accomplish His will

Exodus 7:1-2 NIV

[1] Then the Lord said to Moses, “See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet. [2] You are to say everything I command you, and your brother Aaron is to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go out of his country.

** You cannot overcome light by ‘adding more dark’; darkness exists because there is no light, so as soon as light appears darkness vanishes!

John 1:4-5 NIV

[4] In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

** Christian believers are in the middle of a spiritual war and are either on one side or the other — either believing that Christ exists and accepting of His salvation plan, or on the side of the atheist or false religion

• Throughout my studies on this issue, I’ve concluded there is undeniable and overwhelming evidence that the God of the Bible exists, and He can live in the lives of those who call on Him

• It is the responsibility of every individual to decide at the personal level whether Christ exists or not

• In addition to my subjective personal experience, where I witnessed God as a powerful force in my life over the decades, I’ve noticed volumes that document objective proof of Christ’s existence; see Josh McDowell’s ‘Evidence That Demands a Verdict’ for example

• Hang, just observing how the world is moving EXACTLY as laid out as God recorded thousands of years ago in Scripture is proof enough for me

• I’m talking the convergence of a hundred last-days eschatological indications, and not just the more popular notion of ‘locusts’ or ‘earthquakes’

• Some of these events are recorded in Scripture with incredible detailed accuracy that would be impossible for a person TODAY to record in a similar way, let alone someone writing thousands of years ago when they were not familiar with general concepts (such as mass surveillance and advances in technology) let alone their application — only God can provide prophets of old such ability!

• What other book gives us a 100% undefeated accurate look into our future, enabling us to prepare and defeat forces of darkness with God at our side?

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NIV

• Both subjective and objective evidence makes the case for Christ irrefutable

• Knowing that Christ exists, we look to His Plan of Salvation recorded in Scripture that provides the ONLY way for us to align ourselves with God in this life and ensure we spend eternity with Him when this life is over

• Admittedly, the more-popular all-inclusive everyone-goes-to-heaven idea is easier to digest than the ‘narrow-minded Christian view’, but those are the terms God provides and we are foolish not to abide by them — after all, God is God and I am not!

• Therefore, I reject in confidence the notion that ‘all roads lead to heaven’ and that we can ‘discover our own truth’ as we journey in this life

• Any version of this is an outright lie the enemy wants to use to distract people from the truth of the Bible

Matthew 7:13-14 NIV

Romans 1:20 NIV

[20] For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities---his eternal power and divine nature---have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.

Acts 3:18,24 NIV

[18] But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Messiah would suffer. [24] “Indeed, beginning with Samuel, all the prophets who have spoken have foretold these days.

** The Bible contains all necessary truth — and nothing but truth. It was written expressly for sinners. It is freely given to them by God, that they may learn the things which make for their everlasting peace and salvation. It was never designed to gratify the critic's pride, or please the carnal imagination.

• The FOUNTAIN of divine truth is the Lord Jesus Christ

• The REPOSITORY of divine truth is the Holy Scriptures

• The proper ABODE of divine truth is the sinner's heart

• And the sacred REVEALER of truth is the Holy Spirit

It was intended to…

• Inform the mind

• Sanctify the heart

• Direct the feet

When we take it up, we should remember that it is a precious gift of God to poor sinners, designed to benefit them, and glorify His holy name.

In a word, this blessed Bible tells the poor sinner…

• What he is by nature

• What he must be by grace

• What he will be in glory

It shows him…

• Nature's deservings

• Mercy's way of escape

• How God is glorified in his present salvation and future glory

This book exhibits God's…

• Gracious purposes

• Merciful promises

• Wise precepts

It sets forth the…

• Thoughts of God

• Secrets of eternity

• Designs of everlasting love

• Method of salvation

• Saint's privileges and glory

• Impenitent sinner's state, condition, and awful doom!

The true Christian…

• Learns the doctrines with satisfaction

• Believes the promises with joy

• Accepts the invitations with gratitude

• Receives the cautions with fear

• Listens to the exhortations with pleasure

• Walks by the precepts with delight

• Reads it with reverence

• Searches it with diligence

• Implores the promised teaching and guidance of the Holy Spirit to understand it

Beware of slighting, despising, or neglecting the Bible. Read it daily. Pray over it incessantly, and

meditate on what it reveals continually! <S183>

Psalm 1:2 NIV

[2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.

** There is coming a day when Satan will attempt to rewrite the Bible and the masses, including lukewarm Christians, will be fooled into believing the new version because they don’t know the true original <T205>

• How crucial to be in God’s Word on a daily basis, not only learning but applying it to our every day

• We need to be able to instantly identify the fake Scripture in order to align ourselves with God

Romans 1:21-23 NIV

[21] For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. [22] Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools [23] and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles.

** As believers, we are no longer in darkness once we commit to Christ; evil days are dark days and the works of darkness are almost always done in secret <H85>

Colossians 1:13-14 NIV

[13] For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, [14] in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

• Even though Christ brings us out of darkness, we still live with darkness all around

• Believers must be always on guard, noticing what is not readily apparent and calling out hidden agendas

• It takes faith to see the ‘unseen hand’ and fight the ‘rulers of the darkness of this age’

Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV

[15] Be very careful, then, how you live---not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

Hebrews 11:1 NIV

[1] Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

Ephesians 6:12-13,16 NIV

** Choose your friends wisely so you can encourage each other in the Lord and live lives that are pleasing to Him; bad company corrupts good character

• Satan would love if we consume our time obsessing over every relational hiccup

• On occasion, we simply need to ‘assume the best’ when questioning another’s motive; God knows the heart and will fairly judge all of our motives in the end

• If a pattern of behavior becomes a concern, confront the friend with your observation and give them an opportunity to explain

• Allow God to make up for every relational disappointment experienced in others

• Remember: the relationships we have with brothers and sisters in Christ in this world will be perfected in the next!

• In the meantime, remember that one day God will evaluate the way we conducted ourselves in our relationships in this lifetime

Proverbs 12:26 NIV

[26] The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

Proverbs 18:24 NIV

[24] One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 NIV

[12] Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. [13] Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.

1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV

[33] Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

** Remember who is for you when facing those against you; make this your first priority — to take refuge in God first so you are ready when Satan arrives <S187>

1 Peter 5:8-9 NIV

[8] Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. [9] Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

** In these days of increasing world crises, it is imperative we do not allow ourselves to be governed by fear but keep our eyes focused on the Lord

Psalm 56:3 NIV

[3] When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

2 Samuel 22:29 NIV

[29] You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light.

Proverbs 3:5 NIV

[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

** Sanctification is God’s will for us and the act of sanctifying sets us apart for special use; to sanctify a person is to make him holy

• The word ‘sanctification’ is related to the word ‘saint’ — both words have to do with holiness

• In Christian theology, sanctification is a state of separation unto God; all believers enter into this state when they are born of God

• The sanctification is a once-for-ever separation of believers unto God

• It is a work God performs, an integral part of our salvation and our connection with Christ

• Theologians sometimes refer to this state of holiness before God as ‘positional sanctification’ that is related to justification <G72>

1 Thessalonians 4:3 NIV

[3] It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality;

1 Corinthians 1:30 NIV

[30] It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God---that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.

Hebrews 10:10 NIV

[10] And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

** God commissions us to be wise to the ways of the world, maintaining our innocence at the same time for His glory

Matthew 10:16 NIV

[16] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.

** As we walk with God, the devil fires his so-called smart bombs at us. His flaming arrows are swift and silent. We don’t receive advanced warnings of the attacks. They come unexpectedly and at the most inopportune times.

They may come in the form of an impure thought, a moment of hatred, or an onslaught of fear and worry. And when we feel guilty for having these kinds of thoughts, our accuser, the devil, moves in for the kill.

He whispers, “How could you think about something like that? What’s wrong with you? What kind of a Christian are you?”

We need to understand that this is an enemy attack. It’s a barrage of flaming arrows. So, what are we supposed to do when this happens? The apostle Paul gives us the answer in Eph 6:16 “In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.”

Notice this is a shield of faith, not a shield of emotions. If we base our Christian life on fluctuating emotions, we will quickly suffer defeat. There will be times when we don’t feel God’s presence. There will be times when we don’t feel that great.

It is then that we come back to faith in what God has said and in His promises to us. It is then that we take God at His Word and believe. <L120>

Ephesians 6:16 NIV

[16] In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

1 John 5:4-5 NIV

** Sometimes it seems as though you can’t overcome the sin you’ve been struggling with for so long. It seems as though you can’t break free from the addiction that has had a hold on your life for many years. And it seems as though you can’t get out of that lifestyle you are trapped in.

God is saying that you can — but not in your strength. You can do it in His strength. So, admit your weaknesses and inadequacies. Then ask God to help you utilize the principles for spiritual battle from His Word. <L120>

2 Chronicles 20:12 NIV

[12] Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you. ”

2 Chronicles 20:15 NIV

[15] He said: “Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.

** How sweetly encouraging is it to view Jesus as our present deliverer in every season of trouble and in all circumstances of danger, and to know He is ready to arise for our rescued deliverance <S183>

Psalm 116:8-9 NIV

[8] For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, [9] that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living.

** One purpose of the Bible is to make believers prudent and to help guard them against craftiness with an evil purpose <H85>

Proverbs 1:1,4 NIV

[1] The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: [4] for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young---

Genesis 3:1 NIV

[1] Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'? ”

** There are five ways a person can recognize a deceiver — one providing a counterfeit message to the true gospel of Christ <H87>

1. When they manipulate and play on feelings or spiritual experiences, often promising healing and prosperity

2. When Jesus is not their primary focus; they may mention him every so often but dismiss or mock the tenants of the Christian faith like sin, repentance, salvation and obedience

3. Those who consider the Bible archaic and irrelevant to our lives because it was written thousands of years old

4. When they say the Bible contradicts itself and encourage people to determine their ‘own truth’

5. When the focus of worship is concern over the overall experience, trying to evoke feelings rather than solely focusing on God

2 Corinthians 11:3-4 NIV

[3] But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. [4] For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough.

James 1:16,22 NIV

[16] Don't be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. [22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

Ephesians 5:6-7 NIV

[6] Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. [7] Therefore do not be partners with them.

2 Timothy 3:13-14 NIV

[13] while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. [14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it

** Follow David’s advice in seeking the Lord when in trouble — these sections could be used in any number of current help programs, like AA <C31>

ADMIT YOU'RE IN TROUBLE (1-2)

• David's crisis looked as if it would never end; David asks "how long?"

• David’s prayers seemed to go unanswered and he admitted that worry was growing in his heart

• Times of crisis and suffering can seem like forever; it can seem like you're drowning when it lasts day after day, year after year

• We feel like God does not see or care

• Trying to find our own solutions often creates more worry

SEEK HELP (3-4)

• Though in deep pain, David turned to God for he knew he could not survive without His help

• Don't let discouragement crush you for

healing can begin when we voice our discouragement and pour our hearts to God!

• God does not promise 'easy' solutions so use the opportunities to grow your trust in God

• God CAN move the mountain when you pray and read His Word but He doesn't promise to always do so, at least not in your time and your way

DON'T GIVE UP (5-6)

• Praying helped David remember he could turn to God

• Trust God when circumstances do not change

• Praise and trust God regardless whether you feel He has heard or answered

• Understand that circumstances did not change but David's heart did change!

• Realize that God is with you all the time

• Ask what it is that God has for you to learn in your situation

Psalm 13:6 NIV

[6] I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me.

** Do not put your hope in the systems of this world to save this world — be it left, right, Dem, Rep, liberal, conservative etc — but in God alone; at the same time expose the evil around you but do not play in their game <F60>

Ephesians 5:11 NIV

[11] Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.

Psalm 46

** God intended Himself to be the great fountain of supply to His creatures. All are to be dependent on Him, and to look for their supplies from Him. Just so, the believer is to apply to God for all. Ample provision is made, but it is only in Jesus. Promises are given, but they are to be fulfilled by Jesus. He possesses all fullness, and as such He presents Himself to us as His needy dependent creatures.

This is the business of faith and prayer: to look to Jesus, and apply to Jesus for all that we need. Let us consider these words as spoken unto us every day, as calling us away from dependence on the creature, and as directing us how to act under all circumstances. It is Jesus who speaks. Jesus, as God. Jesus, as the Savior. Jesus, full of sympathy and power. Let us therefore listen to, and act upon His Word. <S183>

Psalm 46:1 NIV

[1] God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Isaiah 45:22 NIV

[22] “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.

** How you handle insecurities in your life reveals your view of God; do you believe God is in full control even when life seems uncertain?

• The Psalmist recognized that difficulty can happen in life on a large and small scale

• We feel insecure when faced with natural disasters, wars and violence

• The world seems to be 'on fire' all around us

Psalm 46:2-3 NIV

[2] Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, [3] though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging

Psalm 46:6 NIV

[6] Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts

• Fear of the unknown and unexpected can lead to deep insecurity

• Insecurity then feeds on our emotions, prompting a feeling of being powerless, alone, overwhelmed, and hopeless

• If the insurmountable (like mountains and nations) can change then anything can change

• We can't control or change the majority of events

• How do you feel safe and secure when the unexpected happens in life?

• We CAN control how we respond, knowing that God is in control

• We tend to want to stand up to the battle ourselves but God knows everything is beyond our control

• Trust God and stop fighting battles without God <C31>

Psalm 46:10 NIV

[10] He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

** Trust God to be your refuge (safe place) and strength when you are tired

• Trust God to always be in our midst when we need Him; a very present help in trouble

• Trust God to have the power to protect and provide, for He is a leader with ultimate wisdom and intelligence

• Sometimes God saves us from something much worse than we realize; we don't see the big picture but focus on the difficult circumstance

• Ask God for wisdom to see the big picture and trust to faithfully allow Him to work in His way and timing

Psalm 46:1,7 NIV

[1] God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. [7] The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Isaiah 40:29-31 NIV

[29] He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. [30] Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; [31] but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Psalm 91:1-2 NIV

[1] Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. [2] I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

• Remember that the Holy Spirit lives within every believer today, with the same power and control He exhibited throughout Scripture <C31>

Psalm 46:5 NIV

[5] God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.

1 Corinthians 3:16 NIV

[16] Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?

** Who can prevail against us? Who can really injure us? Let us daily think of God's glorious perfections, and view them as engaged for us at all times.

• His power is engaged to support, defend, and strengthen us

• His omniscient eye is constantly upon us, watching over us for good

• His omnipresence is our safeguard from all our foes, for no one can come and find our God absent from us

• His justice and righteousness shine in all His dealings with us, and are like lofty mountains round about us

• His holiness shines in all His purposes and plans, and forbids the thought that He will act unsuitably towards us

• His mercy is ever great towards us, and by it He sympathizes with us in all our sorrows, griefs, and woes

• His goodness will constantly supply us, and is sufficient to fill us with admiration and astonishment

• His truth renders certain, every promise He has given and recorded in His Word

• His immutability bears us up and bears us on, confirming our faith and hope in His Word.

• His wisdom frustrates the designs of our foes, and arranges and manages all for our welfare

• His eternity is the date of our happiness, and the duration of our unspeakable blessedness!

How cheering this fact, and what sweet support it yields to the mind--to meditate on God's perfections and glorious attributes, seeing them all in Jesus--and in Him, engaged for our present and everlasting welfare!

What could shake our minds, if we did but firmly believe that God's omnipotence is engaged to defend us to the uttermost?

What could tempt us to commit any known sin, if we were realizing that God's omniscient eye is ever upon us; yes, that God is present with us, and that He is our sin-hating Father?

What could lead us into murmuring and rebellion, if we were fully persuaded that God's holiness and justice are for us, and will shine resplendent in all His dealings with us?

What could lead us to think that our prayers would not be answered, nor our petitions be regarded--if our minds were influenced by the assurance that God is truth?

How could we believe that He would ever turn against us, if we rightly viewed His immutability?

Or, how could we think that our affairs could be disordered, if we felt satisfied that His wisdom was working for us at all times! <S183>

Psalm 46:7 NIV

[7] The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Romans 8:31 NIV

[31] What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

** The Bible often uses the examples of military battle, fighting, and warfare as a picture of the Christian life. Anyone who chooses to be on the side of the Lord Jesus Christ will face severe opposition from Satan and his followers. On the day you put your faith in Jesus Christ, a very real spiritual war begins in your life.

We will either fight or suffer defeat. We will either gain ground or lose ground. But we must be involved in the spiritual battle. And if we try to be spiritual pacifists, we’ll be knocked down.

Therefore, we had better suit up. We had better put on our spiritual armor and learn principles from God’s Word that teach us how to be more than conquerors in Christ.

Remember, Jesus told the disciples that the gates of Hell would not prevail against them as the church. We may not fully understand what this means today. But in their first-century culture, they would have known that one of the primary strategies for attacking a fortress was to knock down the gates with a battering ram, rush in, and defeat the opposing army.

In the same way, we as the church are marching on, even against the fortresses of the enemy. And their gates will not prevail against us. Those gates eventually will fall, and we will triumph.

We may lose a skirmish here and a battle there, but we will win the war. There’s no doubt about it. The truth of the gospel ultimately will prevail. Meanwhile, it’s up to us to fight the good fight of faith. <L120>

2 Timothy 4:7 NIV

[7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 2:3 NIV

[3] Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV

Matthew 16:18 NIV

[18] And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.

** Like this psalm by the sons of Korah, Isaiah also wrote of a time when the Lord’s House will be established and He will be worshiped above all. People will throng to honor Him on the “Mountain of the Lord.” Wars will have ceased. There will be no more weapons. God will be exalted among the nations. <S187>

Psalm 46:8-11 NIV

[8] Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth. [9] He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. [10] He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” [11] The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Isaiah 2:2-4 NIV

[2] In the last days the mountain of the Lord's temple will be established as the highest of the mountains; it will be exalted above the hills, and all nations will stream to it. [3] Many peoples will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion, the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. [4] He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.

** “Be still and know that I am God” is His message to His people — even during the most terrible convulsions of nature, the most cruel wars, and the most painful trials! The Lord reigns and works, even in the most dreadful circumstances.

"Be still," for though painful at present, your trial will soon be over. Know that God is supreme and works all things after the counsel of His own will. Know that God never loses sight of you, or forgets your frame and your weakness. Exercise patience, relieve your burdened heart by prayer, and wait in full expectation of a blessing.

• Do not complain, for it will displease the Lord

• Do not murmur, for it will grieve Him

• Do not fear, for it will dishonor Him

Instead

• Be still, for your safety is provided for

• Be still, for your needs shall be supplied

• Be still, for all things shall work together for your good

• Be still, for God bids you and all will end well

The Lord is constantly doing His will, and accomplishing His purposes, and He never forgets His promises. <S183>

Psalm 46:10 NIV

[10] He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

** Paul made a call to the exclusivity of the Christian faith comprised of one body (church), one Spirit, one hope (heaven for those in Christ), one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God

• There is no other faith that leads to God than redemptive salvation through Jesus Christ

• The unity Paul talks about in the early verse of Eph 4 is for the brothers and sisters who belong to the Christian faith <M130>

• Paul wrote the letter to Ephesians based on the conviction that the body of Christ is one

• Our lives in Christ must express this conviction by affirming our love for other believers <R1795>

Ephesians 4:3-6 NIV

[3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called ; [5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism; [6] one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

** God has made A BAG FOR OUR SINS. Job said, "My transgression is sealed up in a bag, and you sew up my iniquity." In ancient times when men died at sea, their bodies were placed in a weighted bag which was sewn together and sealed. Then they were cast into the depths of the sea.

That is what God has done with our sins. They are cast "into the depths of the sea." When Christ died for our sins which were imputed to Him, He put them all away. They were buried in the sea of God's infinite forgiveness, put away never to be brought up again. God almighty will never charge us with sin, impute sin to us, remember our sins against us, or treat us any less graciously because of our sin. That is the forgiveness of God! "Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin." <F67>

Job 14:17 NIV

[17] My offenses will be sealed up in a bag; you will cover over my sin.

** It is important for followers of Christ to be led by the Spirit — allowing Him to order our steps into all truth and showing us things to come — as Jesus was lead into the wilderness <F61>

Luke 4:1 NIV

[1] Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness

** It often astonishes me that I did not see the importance of meditation upon Scripture earlier in my Christian life. We must consider what we read, ponder over it, and apply it to our hearts. The most important thing I do, is to read the Word of God and to meditate on it. Thus my heart might be comforted, encouraged, warned, reproved and instructed. <M140>

Some people like to read so many chapters every day. I would not dissuade them from the practice, but I would rather let my soul soak in half a dozen verses all day, than rinse my hand in several chapters. Oh, to be bathed in a text of Scripture, and to let it be sucked up into your very soul, till it saturates your heart! Set your heart upon God's Word! Let your whole nature be plunged into it as a cloth into a dye! <S185>

Psalm 119:97 NIV

[97] Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.

Psalm 77:5-6 NIV

[5] I thought about the former days, the years of long ago; [6] I remembered my songs in the night. My heart meditated and my spirit asked

** Satan knows Scripture and will attempt to trip up others with a false narrative, often wrapping truth around a lie

• Followers of Christ need to STUDY Scripture and store it in MEMORY, so they can fight Satan with the truth <P163>

Matthew 4:8-10 NIV

[8] Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. [9] “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” [10] Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.' ”

Psalm 119:9-11 NIV

[9] How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. [10] I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. [11] I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

** People are so concerned about their physical health and what food they put in their body but do not concern themselves with what they put in their mind <F60>

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

[8] Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

** Followers of Christ gain discernment (knowing right from wrong) through daily prayer and the Holy Spirit’s leading when studying Scripture

• The church should be a support and pillar for the Christian community, where believers can go to focus on God and be encouraged with His truth via Scripture

• According to John MacArthur, the biggest problem in the church is lack of discernment because churches don’t solely focus on God or desire to learn His full counsel available in Scripture

• Review Psalm 19 to read how David viewed the importance and power of God’s word

• Is it our desire to become wise and open our eyes to His truth so we can identify falsehoods?

2 Timothy 2:15 NIV

[15] Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

Psalm 19:7-11 NIV

[7] The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. [8] The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. [9] The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. [10] They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. [11] By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

** The Holy Spirit helps every believer in Christ gain confidence interpreting and applying Scripture to their life

• All the while, believers are to remain open to the correction by the Holy Spirit because base evil forces lead unwitting people astray

• Scripture is the believer’s only baseline for truth in these days of confusion and relativity

• Studying His Word and connecting with God in reflective daily prayer makes discernment of interpretation possible

2 Timothy 3:14-16 NIV

** God wants us to turn to Him for answers that are plainly outlined in His Word, not string Him along with endless questions

2 Timothy 3:14-16 NIV

• Believer and non-believer alike needs guidance, not a Buddy or some Mystic Figure — they can come to know about our Creator and His thoughts through His Word

• God includes 1050 commands in the New Testament that give us direction and over 600 ancient commands in the Old Testament that provide insight into who He is and His ways

• There must come a point in time in every believer’s life when they become either hot or cold, accepting His truth as outlined in Scripture or not

“If the Bible is the inerrant Word of God, and if it authoritatively answers the fundamental questions of life, then who can logically be passive and ignore its teachings? If the Bible accurately tells us who God is, who we are, why we are here, and what happens when we die, is there a living soul anywhere who should fail to be impressed?” <A12>

As opposed to every other belief system that leaves you with questions and uncertainty, Christianity provides compelling answers to the questions of origin, meaning, morality, and destiny. <F66>

John 16:13a NIV

[13] But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.

John 18:37 NIV

[37] “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

Psalm 119:52 NIV

[52] I remember, Lord, your ancient laws, and I find comfort in them.

Jeremiah 6:16a NIV

[16] This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.

** Sin takes our attention off God, and places it on ourselves and things around us.

Grace calls our attention off of everything else to fix it upon God, for grace directs us to:

• Look to the Lord

• Come to the Lord

• Trust in the Lord

• Wait on the Lord

• Hope in the Lord, and even

• Delight in the Lord

"Delight yourself in the Lord." Take delight, not in health, or wealth, or position, or friends, or in anything that is changeable — but in the unchangeable Lord.

Delight yourself in Him, as the:

• Father of the fatherless

• Friend of the friendless

• Hope of the wretched, and

• Savior of the lost

Delight yourself in His glorious character — as gracious, merciful, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. <S183>

Psalm 130:5-8 NIV

[5] I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. [6] I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. [7] Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. [8] He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.

Psalm 37:4 NIV

[4] Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Psalm 33:20-22 NIV

[20] We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. [21] In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. [22] May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.

** The temptation of man is to ‘run the other way’ when faced with trials but God wants us to turn to Him during these times of struggle

• The world may see this as being hypocritical because it appears that Christians are simply ‘putting on a good face’ when they are really exercising faith

• The real hypocrisy occurs when Christians claim to know Christ but then act on their own selfish desires <D40>

Romans 15:13 NIV

[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 4:3 NIV

[3] What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”

Psalm 20:7 NIV

[7] Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

Psalm 40:1-4 NIV

[1] I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. [2] He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. [3] He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. [4] Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.

** If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature…

• He is convinced of sin, and mourns over it

• He hates sin, and departs from it

• He reads the Word of God, and loves it

• He hears the gospel of Christ, and believes it

He becomes a disciple of Christ…

• Learning His doctrines

• Trusting His promises, and

• Doing His will

He receives the Spirit of Christ, which is a spirit of meekness, love and holiness. He would rather suffer for Christ, than sin against Christ! He loves the person of Christ, imitates the example of Christ, and observes the ordinances of Christ.

He commits his soul into the hands of Jesus…

• To be pardoned through His blood

• To be justified by His righteousness

• To be sanctified by His Spirit

• To be preserved by His power

• To be used for His glory, and

• To be presented faultless by Him to the Father at last

He looks for the second coming of Christ with joy, because then he will be like Him, for he will see Him as He is! <S183>

1 Thessalonians 5:23 NIV

[23] May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

** There is a great deal of comfort one can experience going to Scripture as the plumbline for truth, especially in these days of ‘relative uncertainty’

• Rather than relying on a source such as the Bible, the vast majority in this world think they can come up with their 'own version of truth'

• Personal truth is often untested and self-serving, but it sure makes people feel good

• Avoid the temptation to ask ‘what does this Scripture passage mean to you' and then cherry-pick from Scripture to support your personal interpretation

• We constantly live in a spiritual battle but we can find encouragement and align our heart with God when we invest in daily prayer and obediently follow His Word

• Read and understand the full Scriptural counsel of God in order to determine truth and be able to identify false teachers

• We have access to the Ultimate Power against the evil around us when we call on the name of Jesus and go to His Word — God’s inspired Word that has been written and tested over thousands of years

Ephesians 6:12

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

** Even though instruction was given to Israel, its principle applies to us today for any nation. <F61>

2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV

[14] if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

** Christ commands that churches discipline its members, as iron sharpens iron

• Church members should initially ‘hold each other accountable’ in a private, loving and humble manner; increase the number of those approaching the member as needed

• When anyone repents of their sin and desires to change course, they can experience God's mercy and redemption when seeking Him

• “Church discipline can display love for the Lord, love for the Scriptures, love for the body of believers, love for the individual, and love for the world.” <Anon>

Proverbs 27:17 NIV

[17] As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

Matthew 18:15-17 NIV

[15] “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. [16] But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' [17] If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

• As Paul wrote, the church has a responsibility to call out a brother who was overtly living in sin and, afterward, 'reaffirm your love for him'

1 Corinthians 5:1-2

It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that even pagans do not tolerate: A man is sleeping with his father’s wife. And you are proud! Shouldn’t you rather have gone into mourning and have put out of your fellowship the man who has been doing this?

2 Corinthians 2:5-8

If anyone has caused grief, he has not so much grieved me as he has grieved all of you to some extent—not to put it too severely. The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him.

** Pray that the seed of truth planted in unbelievers would be used by God to let them understand the concept of sin and know they are living contrary to God’s design; pray that, ultimately, they would seek Christ to repent of their sin and change as needed

• It is more important people hear truth and let the Spirit convict than have them feel safe and comfortable in their sin

• God can effect change in a person’s heart more than humans can effect change through words of reason

• Sharing truth to another must be accompanied with prayer so the Spirit can reveal truth to that person by ‘opening their eyes’

Luke 8:15 NIV

[15] But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

1 Samuel 10:9-11 NIV

[9] As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul's heart, and all these signs were fulfilled that day. [10] When he and his servant arrived at Gibeah, a procession of prophets met him; the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he joined in their prophesying. [11] When all those who had formerly known him saw him prophesying with the prophets, they asked each other, “What is this that has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?”

** The prayerful study of the Word is not only a means of instruction, but an act of devotion wherein the transforming power of grace is often exercised — changing us into the image of Christ, of whom the Word is a mirror. <S185>

Psalm 119:105 NIV

[105] Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

** Let me tell you a little secret: whenever you cannot understand a text, open your Bible, bend your knee, and pray over that text; and if it does not split into atoms and open itself, then try again. If prayer does not explain it, then it is one of those things that God did not intend you to know at present, and you may be content to be ignorant of it.

Prayer is the key that opens the cabinets of mystery. Prayer and faith are sacred picklocks that can open secrets, and obtain great treasures! There is no college for holy education like that of the blessed Spirit, for He is an ever-present tutor, to whom we have only to bend the knee, and He is at our side — the great Expositor of truth!

You will frequently find fresh streams of thought leaping up from the passage before you, as if the rock had been struck by Moses' rod! New veins of precious ore will be revealed to your astonished gaze as you quarry God's Word and use diligently the hammer of prayer! <S185>

Psalm 119:18 NIV

[18] Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.

John 16:13 NIV

[13] But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

"Every text prayed over opens a mine of 'unsearchable riches,' with a light from above, more clear and full than the most intelligent exposition." <B291>

"A humble and prayerful spirit will find a thousand things in the Bible--which the proud, self-conceited student will utterly fail to discern." <R170>

"There should be a definite asking Him to graciously anoint our eyes — not only that we may be enabled to behold wondrous things in His law, but also that He will make us of quick discernment to perceive how the passage before us applies to ourselves — what are the particular lessons we need to learn from it. The more we cultivate this habit, the more likely that God will be pleased to open His Word unto us." <P161>

** God always had a plan for the salvation of mankind — one eternal gospel — and knew who would choose to be saved since the foundations of the earth were laid <G71>

Revelation 13:8 NIV

[8] All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast---all whose names have not been written in the Lamb's book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.

Isaiah 46:9-10 NIV

[9] Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. [10] I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.'

Ephesians 1:4-5 NIV

[4] For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love [5] he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will---

• Old Testament law was given by God so His people would realize they could not attain salvation through the impossibility of abiding by it, so they knew there needed to be another way to salvation and began awaiting a coming Savior

Romans 3:20-25 NIV

[20] Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin. [21] But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. [22] This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. [25] God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood---to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished---

• God’s purpose was to always redeem mankind through the blood and death of His Son on the cross; Christ’s death was the result of sin <G77>

Galatians 4:4-5 NIV

[4] But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.

1 Peter 1:19-21 NIV

[19] but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. [20] He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. [21] Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.

Titus 3:5 NIV

[5] he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit

• God’s plan was revealed over time and Gentiles (particularly) eventually understood the ‘Jesus component’ needed for salvation when He arrived on earth; for instance, people eventually understood that FAITH alone was required and not simply adherence to the law and animal sacrifice

Galatians 3:7-9 NIV

[7] Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham. [8] Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.” [9] So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.

• God deals with humans based on their level of knowledge at certain points throughout history, just like a parent would have different expectations of a 3 year old vs a 16 year old

• The parent loves them both but has different expectations of them based on their maturity and understanding

• Likewise, God takes into account what man knows of His progressively revealed plan <G70>

Stages of God’s revealed plan:

1. In Genesis, God revealed that a Savior will come from the seed of the woman

2. At the time of Cain and Abel, animal sacrifice and conscience was introduced

3. Over time the world became exceedingly wicked, and God’s wrath (flood) and mercy (promise to never destroy again) is understood

4. Abraham taught us about God’s favor toward his descendants (through whom Jesus would come) and being justified by faith in God

5. Moses and the law (a conditional covenant) was given to God’s people so they could show evidence of their faith — both at the personal and national levels — even though they would never to able to perfectly demonstrate their faith through obedience

6. God established a new covenant of salvation (via the criss) at the beginning of the Church Age, since Israel broke the previous covenant

7. The time between Christ’s resurrection to Pentecost, believers learned more about Christ’s offer of salvation and received the indwelling of the Holy Spirit which completed the terms of His plan

8. Thus, we enter into the last days when the world is universally wicked, the rapture and Jesus’ second coming will come about; those experiencing the Tribulation will completely understand God’s offer of salvation via the 144,000 witnesses and the Israelites will recognize Jesus as their Messiah

Hebrews 10:19-22 NIV

[19] Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, [20] by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, [21] and since we have a great priest over the house of God, [22] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.

** “Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong, but it’s knowing the difference between right and almost right” <S185>

Luke 21:8 NIV

[8] He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and, 'The time is near.' Do not follow them.

2 Corinthians 11:3 NIV

[3] But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.

** Consider that you move through life on parallel roads: a personal road and societal road. The personal road takes you through life at the individual MICRO (friends, work, church) level, while the societal road moves you and those around you at the MACRO (national, global) level.

On each road along the journey, we are to:

a) Move in the direction of God’s will — toward His conclusion and in His timing, but also

b) Fight against sin — oftentimes correcting motives and actions

• We don’t need to ask God’s permission to fight against sin, for He has given us everything we need to do so, including written instruction-commands in His Word and the means by which to do so via the Holy Spirit!

• I appreciate the favorite American Revolution creed to “fight like it’s up to us and pray like it’s up to God”, appealing to the Supreme Ruler of the universe for the rectitude of our actions

• What ‘works’ in life on this planet, is not how God ‘works’; make sure you live by His standard as you journey through life

Romans 12:2 NIV

[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 7:21-23 NIV

[21] So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. [22] For in my inner being I delight in God's law; [23] but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me.

** Don’t seek approval from those around you, whether they are a believer or not, but live your life for God alone

• Others typically don’t care, or want to know, or can’t understand all the details of your situation

• Get used to living without man’s approval and remember all the times in the past when you had to ‘march to a different drummer’

• At the same time, don’t stop investing in others simply because they don’t understand or respond in kind; again, live your life for God alone!

Galatians 1:10 NIV

[10] Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

John 6:27 NIV

[27] Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”

Romans 2:6-8 NIV

[6] God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” [7] To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. [8] But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.

** I have just heard that an old friend, far advanced in life, has fallen into sin! May the Lord pardon and restore him.

In looking back, I wonder that I have not publicly fallen; for I have been powerfully tempted to other sins, equally as bad. I have regularly observed, that in my experience the Lord has not often allowed the temptation and the opportunity, to meet! And when they have, fear has worked powerfully and kept me back.

Psalm 73:2 NIV

[2] But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.

Ah, how frequently have I been almost gone! I can call to mind places and times, when I have been in the very mouth of danger, on the brink of a fearful fall — and yet the Lord has held me up! But for special keeping, where would I have been this morning? And what would I be? Blessed be God, though it was almost, it was not fully. This word, almost, has been sweet to my soul. <S183>

Almost gone, but altogether saved — through God's most free and all-glorious grace!

But I would not merely be kept from open sin, I desire to be so deeply sanctified, that my soul may…

• Hate, abhor, and detest sin in every form

• Tremble at its approach, and

• Flee from the very appearance of evil, to Jesus!

I find that my nature is still corrupt, depraved, and polluted; and that…

• The blood of Jesus

• The restraining power of the Holy Spirit, and

• The forgiving grace of God

are as necessary as ever!

Psalm 119:117 NIV

[117] Uphold me, and I will be delivered; I will always have regard for your decrees.

Jude 1:24-25 NIV

[24] To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy--- [25] to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

** The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God and is a precision instrument so we can utilize appropriate verses for specific instances; we must KNOW the Word first in order to yield it effectively and boldly

Ephesians 6:17 NIV

[17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

1 Timothy 4:4-6 NIV

[4] For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, [5] because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. [6] If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.

** Part of the armor of God is the belt of truth which is referenced in Isaiah

Isaiah 11:5 NIV

[5] Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist; truth is based on the Word of God and presupposes that the Christian KNOW and APPLY His word

The belt is bound around the waist for 3 reasons:

a) gives you freedom because the truth sets you free

b) truth is both an offensive and defensive weapon

c) displays things outwardly just like the truth should be made public; truth must be spoken and not silenced <H86>

Ephesians 6:10-14 NIV

** May I always do my best with what I know and what I am given to work with

• Regardless of whether I see any difference in the way others conduct their lives, my viewpoint and attitude for my life should reflect Christ’s teaching and be different than the world

• I want to do the best job I can and not let others get in the way of my spiritual focus

• May I be a support to others as directed by the Holy Spirit, regardless if I disapprove of the other person’s tactics or lack of spiritual manner

• I am still responsible to God for how I conduct myself, just like others who will be responsible to Him for their decisions and actions

Philippians 1:9-11 NIV

2 Timothy 2:15 NIV

[15] Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

1 Corinthians 2:4-7 NIV

[4] My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, [5] so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power. [6] We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. [7] No, we declare God's wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began.

Philippians 3:15-16 NIV

[15] All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. [16] Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

** David was young, but he knew the Lord, and knew Him personally. His battle experience was not against men, but he had faced the lion and God gave him victory. He protected his sheep from the bear, and God gave him victory.

The army shivering with fear behind David might not have had his back. But David stood in that valley — the living God within him and the armies of heaven on all sides. Goliath’s size, experience, equipment, and power were as nothing before God. And David made sure that everyone understood Who Goliath opposed that day in the valley. The giant could easily defeat David alone, but he didn’t stand a chance against God.

Maybe you feel alone in the valley — ill-equipped and ill-trained. The Christian army behind you may seem weak, ineffective, compromised, fearful, or uninterested. That which stands against you may seem confident, powerful, and committed. Even in such a dire circumstance, you can say with Paul in

Acts 20:24 NIV

[24] However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me---the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace.

It's not about you, your strengths, or your weaknesses. In Christ, you can face any enemy, defeat any giant because… the battle is the Lord’s! <L124>

1 Samuel 17:47-50 NIV

[47] All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's, and he will give all of you into our hands.” [48] As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. [49] Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. [50] So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

** The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation

• No sinner is too vile

• No sins are too numerous

• No guilt is too black

• For its powerful efficacy!

• This is proved by the conduct of Christ, in offering His mercy to such sinful characters; and by the death of Christ, which was for the chief of sinners. How rich His grace! How impartial His love!

Luke 5:27-28 NIV

[27] After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. “Follow me,” Jesus said to him, [28] and Levi got up, left everything and followed him.

• The context contains an account of the grace and favor of Christ to a sinful and despised tax collector

• Matthew followed Christ, that is, he became His disciple

To follow Christ implies:

1. A knowledge of Christ and His truth. The design of preaching is to give the knowledge of Christ. No man can really follow the Redeemer, without some understanding of Him. This is the result of the Spirit's enlightening operations.

2. It implies dissatisfaction with a life of sin, and a conviction of the superior excellence of a holy life. This also is the result of the Spirit's enlightening operations.

3. It implies a decision for Christ. The resolve of the heart to love Him and follow Him, "Lord, I am yours!"

4. It implies renunciation of everything that stands in competition with Christ. Matthew surrendered a lucrative employment, a good business, etc.

He "got up, left everything, and followed Him!" Just so, the sinner must surrender:

• His darling sins

• His impure pleasures

• His self-interest

• The world

• The creature, however dear, if it's a competitor with Christ

Mark 8:34-35 NIV

[34] Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. [35] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.

5. It implies dependence upon Christ's Sacrifice for acceptance with God, and for all needful blessings.

6. It implies prompt obedience to all Christ's commandments. "Follow Me," Jesus said to him. And Levi got up, left everything and followed Him! <N153>

** Combat the enemy with Scripture; pray for God’s protection, voice the name of “Jesus” and remind Satan of his demise by reading Revelation 20:10 when sensing a demonic attack in spiritual warfare <P163>

Revelation 20:10 NIV

[10] And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

Ephesians 6:12-18 NIV

[12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. [14] Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, [15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. [16] In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. [17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.

** While we’re going through a testing period, remember to place our primary focus on our Lifeline, not on the issues in front of us

• For instance, how do we respond to those who unjustly criticize us? Do we perpetuate the distraction Satan puts in front of us and take our focus off God?

• Be willing to let go of all infractions by others; not forgiving affects us at so many levels

• Carve room to develop a relationship with God over everything else; make Him priority number one!

Romans 12:12 NIV

[12] Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

1 Peter 3:12 NIV

[12] For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

Romans 8:6 NIV

[6] The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.

** God is to be given complete and utmost priority, even more so than loving and fulfilling our responsibility to family

• This verse does not mean we are to hate our parents; on the contrary, we are to honor them

• Of course, we are called to love and be responsible to the family members God places in our path

• Our love for them, however, must come secondary to our love for God

Luke 14:26 NIV

[26] “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters---yes, even their own life---such a person cannot be my disciple.

** It is easy to assume the Lord will give the ‘the desires of your heart’ in relation to what is selfishly wanted

• Rather, when committing our ENTIRE LIFE to the Lord — making God our sole priority, not focusing on the situation or status around us but delighting in God alone — we find our desires fall in line with God’s desires and are met in completion

• In essence, God becomes our desire and we become completely satisfied in Him, regardless of our situation

• An awesome promise from God!

Psalm 37:4 NIV

[4] Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Psalm 105:3-4 NIV

[3] Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. [4] Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.

** Satan tries to lead others astray but Christ’s death and resurrection took care of our eternal souls <K111>

• War broke out in heaven; Satan has limited access to heaven

• Satan leads others astray, like Genesis account; cults do this today like Scientologists brain-washing and constant feelings of guilt so they need a way out

• Eventually the Anti-Christ will convince Israel they are protected

• Jesus already paid the price and is all powerful; we can claim this victory in our lives with God's word etc

Revelation 12:7-9 NIV

[7] Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. [8] But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. [9] The great dragon was hurled down---that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.

** Knowing the impending punishment requires of us a wisdom and vigilance to decipher that which is of God and that which is not

• Be on guard of what lures us

• That which appeals to us is short-term; these things in the long-term, however, are deadly

• Are we more attracted to the things of the world or God? Can we give up what we value?

• Things can own us if it gets in the way of following God

• Look at financial prosperity: money itself is not evil but the motive & purpose we place behind it

• In the eyes of the world, financial prosperity is deemed successful but it can really be a curse

• Our challenge is to discern and avert from that which lures us away from God; we must daily choose the cross of Christ over the world

• Only God can help us triumph over sin so we must align ourselves with Him!

Revelation 17:8-9 NIV

[8] The beast, which you saw, once was, now is not, and yet will come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction. The inhabitants of the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the creation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast, because it once was, now is not, and yet will come. [9] “This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman sits.

** Renouncing the demonic from your life <H86>

Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV

a) Face the reality of the situation

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

b) Resist with the Word of God; believe in your position and identify in the Messiah

James 4:7 NIV

[7] Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

c) Confess your sins

1 John 1:9 NIV

[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

d) Renounce your sins of the occult and any ‘hereditary complicity’

2 Corinthians 4:2 NIV

[2] Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.

e) Have extended periods of prayer and fasting

Mark 9:28-29 NIV

[28] After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn't we drive it out?” [29] He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer. ”

f) Destroy every occult object and methods derived by the occult or paganism

Acts 19:19 NIV

[19] A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas.

g) Sever contact with psychics, necromancers, mediums or anyone involved in the occult, including family

Galatians 5:19-20 NIV

[19] The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; [20] idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions

h) Do not isolate; fellowship with other believers

Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV

[24] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, [25] not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another---and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

I) Expunge every false doctrine from you and replace it with true doctrine

Hebrews 13:9a NIV

[9] Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings.

1 Timothy 6:3 NIV

[3] If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching,

j) Renew your mind in order to identify demonic lies; Satan wants to gain a foothold so dig deep and identify the lies you are buying into

Romans 12:2 NIV

[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

k) Renounce the lies so God’s truth will set you free

John 8:32 NIV

[32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

1 John 4:4 NIV

[4] You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

** So what do we do in our day? We fight. We take a stand just like Elijah on Mt. Carmel. Yet...

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

The above passage doesn't say we don't wrestle, WE DO! We just don't wrestle against our fellow humans (most of whom are trapped and imprisoned under the bondage of darkness). We wrestle against those forces who keep them in bondage. For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.

2 Corinthians 10:4-6 NIV

[4] The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. [5] We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. [6] And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.

Finally, do all you can to stand when that evil day comes...and it's here. The reason I like to address you all as being part of the 310 Tribe, is that a tribe (as opposed to a family) denotes that amongst your other duties, you fight. You fight because you are all warriors. You don't need a black belt in Karate or Kung-Fu to fight this kind of fight, you need a black belt in Prayer-Fu! You need a sound mind, which you get through the daily reading of the Word of God that cleanses our minds and brings every thought (not just the bad ones) into submission. Lastly, we need charity (love) because the last thing we want to be is a bunch of clanging symbols. <G70>

John 13:34-35 NIV

[34] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV

** We are expected to STAND against the evil forces, not necessarily win each battle but to remain standing after the fight demonstrating how the power of God enabled you to do so; Satan desires to weaken us but we can stand against him via the armor that is God’s Word!

Ephesians 6:13 NIV

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

** Having your feet fitted with the preparation of the gospel of peace does not mean we are to share the gospel during time of war but be grounded by (knowing) the gospel and the peace that it brings so we remain standing, not in an effort to advance; it is our responsibility to put these shoes on so we can stand in peace that only comes from our Lord <H86>

Ephesians 6:15 NIV

[15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

Ephesians 6:15 KJV

[15] And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

** We can be encouraged because Satan has limited time of influence

Revelation 12:9 NIV

[9] The great dragon was hurled down---that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.

Revelation 12:12 NIV

[12] Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.”

** Humans are so hard-wired for sin that they cannot accept the truth; deception has reigned in this world since the fall of man; we must know God and allow Him to show us truth if we are to know the truth <M130>

John 8:45 NIV

[45] Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me!

** Believers are instructed to obey the truths of Scripture with the aid of the Holy Spirit

Revelation 22:7 NIV

[7] “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”

** When we are weak, we should run to God

• Satan's constant attack has resulted in the church having little influence and being weak

• Those who are low will be brought high through the power of God

• In the end, enemies will be brought low and prostrate themselves

Revelation 3:7 NIV

“To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.

** We cannot do anything on our own but must ask God in the moment to help us accomplish what we know is right, for His honor and glory

Revelation 3:18 NIV

I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.

** Hold on to what God has given and complete unfinished deeds; don't sleep your way through life

Revelation 3:1b-3 NIV

“I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. [2] Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. [3] Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you."

** The Church of Pergamum was to repent of their sin and follow His Word; their response would determine how God would judge them

Identify the things of the world that contradict the Word of God, and:

• Actively turn from them, not conforming by any measure

• Repent for the times you slip up and entertain them

Repenting will offer:

• Hidden manna = godly provision rather than worldly provision that will enable people to survive with eternal life

• White stone in Jewish culture = friendship; also refers to a victor's reward and personal ticket to heaven

Revelation 2:16-17 NIV

Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. [17] Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.

Romans 12:2 NIV

[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

** God gives time for sinners to repent and punishes those who don't repent

Revelation 2:21-22 NIV

I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. [22] So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways.

There are:

• Physical consequences for sexual immorality

• Spiritual consequences when God gives them over to their sin/bondage

• Judgments based on one’s belief in God; does this judgment have ‘levels’ where one can get closer to God in heaven than others?

** If we don't receive the word of God eagerly and accurately, then we won't know how to apply it to our lives <C31>

• Seize every opportunity to learn God's word and apply it to your daily life

• If we stop growing then we are not trying; God gives us every opportunity to mature

• Be quick to listen and slow to speak; make sure you are saying what God wants you to say

• Are you agitated and carry resentment with the message of God's word?

James 1:19-21 NIV

[19] My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, [20] because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. [21] Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

** Put all sin aside so you receive God's word with a prepared heart; sin hinders growth that results from hearing His word <C31>

• There’s nothing wrong with God's seed (word) but only the soil that receives it

• Receive God's word with humility; know that we cannot survive or succeed without His guidance

James 1:21 NIV

[21] Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

** Reflect on God’s word and put it into action <C31>

• Just like a mirror helps us reflect ourselves, so reading Scripture can help us examine our lives

• Moses collected mirrors to melt and make into a water basin in front of the altar, which was then used to cleanse visitors

• God's word can cleanse us and transform us

• Make reading a habit where it becomes familiar and you remember it

• We have a responsibility to act on God's word when we hear it; that's why some would rather not know it

James 1:22-25 NIV

[22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. [23] Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror [24] and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. [25] But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it---not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it---they will be blessed in what they do.

Exodus 38:8 NIV

[8] They made the bronze basin and its bronze stand from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the tent of meeting.

** After receiving God’s word, we are to act and share its message; not through guilt or habit like paying homage to spirits in spirit houses but out of a desire to follow and please God

• Let others know we don't follow a religion but a relationship

• Control the tongue and share out of service with a sincere heart

• Aim to be a defender of orphans and widows <C31>

James 1:26-27 NIV

[26] Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. [27] Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

** Lot’s wife is an example of someone wanting to save their life; as believers in Christ we must be dead to self and alive to our resurrected Christ

Luke 17:32-33 NIV

[32] Remember Lot's wife! [33] Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it.

• Those who believe in Christ and are willing to lose their life will be “taken”, or “drawn near in a familiar relationship” as the word is defined in Greek

Luke 17:34-35 NIV

[34] I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. [35] Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left.”

• Bodies of believers are taken where the eagles fly; eagles can fly and see from 10-15,000 feet high which confirms rapture theory <G71>

Luke 17:37 NIV

[37] “Where, Lord?” they asked. He replied, “Where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather.”

1 Thessalonians 4:17 NIV

[17] After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

** As Christians we should think about what is most important in life and want to connect with the living God

Mark 12:28 NIV

[28] One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”

• Jews put a lot of emphasis on following the law and were often tempted to add to it

• The scribe asked about the priority of commandments most likely because he wanted to trick/discredit Jesus

• Jews treated God like they would when following a recipe; their relationship was based on works

• Our aim should be to move beyond following the rules and concern ourselves with spiritual reality

• As fruit has a seed to produce, so God plants a seed in us with all the genetic info needed to produce and reach our potential

• We need to be rooted in His soil in order to grow and realize our potential

• We all have opportunity to nurture our faith in this way <C31>

** In our Christian pilgrimage it is well for the most part to be looking forward. Forward lies the crown, and onward is the goal. Whether it is for hope, for joy, for consolation, or for the inspiring of our love--the future must, after all, be the grand object of the eye of faith!

Looking into the future, the Christian sees:

• Sin cast out

• The body of sin and death destroyed,

• The soul made perfect, and fit to be a partaker of eternal glory

Contemplation of my glorious future may well relieve, the darkness of the past, and the gloom of the present. The joys of Heaven will surely compensate for the sorrows of earth! <S183>

2 Corinthians 4:18 NIV

[18] So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Timothy 4:8 NIV

[8] Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day---and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

** "God will wipe away every tear from their eyes!" Numerous are the sources of sorrow here on earth — but God will dry them all up in Heaven. There will be no mourning Christian to drop tears there, "for all sorrow and sighing shall flee away!" There is nothing in that happy residence to distress or annoy.

• Jeremiah will utter no plaintive language there

• Transgressors will grieve the holy no more

• Bartimaeus is the poor blind beggar no more

• Lazarus's sores have been replaced by immortal beauty

• The weeping widow is no longer crushed to the dust by the heavy hand of poverty

• The orphan child is no longer forsaken and homeless

• Pinching poverty and wasting disease are unknown

• The distressing complaint will never accost the ear, "I am sick!"

• The sting of death and the terrors of the grave will never present themselves there

• There are no graves in the land of eternal life

• There is no death of friends there

• Martha and Mary go to no beloved brother's grave to weep

The former things have passed away, and the era of immortality has arrived. <N153>

Revelation 7:17 NIV

[17] For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; 'he will lead them to springs of living water.' 'And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.' ”

** When we are born again in the Spirit, we desire what is good because we are resurrected from spiritual death

John 3:3-6 NIV

[3] Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. ” [4] “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother's womb to be born!” [5] Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. [6] Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.

• Our new spiritual life comes about by our being justified before God the Father as Holy, not because of our effort to do good — as if God needed our works — but through the shed blood of His Son

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

[8] For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith---and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--- [9] not by works, so that no one can boast.

Colossians 1:13-14 NIV

[13] For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, [14] in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

• At the moment of belief, we are indwelt and sealed by God the Holy Spirit, who not only transformatively gives us a new nature but we become a new creation altogether

Ephesians 1:11-14 NIV

[11] In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, [12] in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. [13] And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, [14] who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession---to the praise of his glory.

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 NIV

[17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! [18] All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: [19] that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. [20] We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

• This is why in the Old Testament, only Adam and the angels could be called "sons of God," — as they were direct creations of God — but in the New Testament, all born-again believers can also claim this title

• True born-again believers are direct creations of God <G70>

Romans 8:14 NIV

[14] For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

** Anyone who puts their faith in anyone besides Christ will fail, including politicians and the law of the land; we are not bound by any Mosaic or societal law but are bound to Christ’s commands alone

Galatians 2:16 NIV

[16] know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified.

** We can experience a new life by being baptized into Jesus' death; connect to Jesus who conquered death and make Him a vital part of your new life!

Some theory suggests that Jesus played dead, like a possum

• If this were true then Christianity would be worthless

• Fortunately Jesus experienced literal death and a literal resurrection after

• This was part of His plan: creating humans, giving His law, providing sacrifice in animals because people couldn't keep His commands

• Animal sacrifice was never enough so He sent His Son to be the eternal all-sufficient sacrifice

• God has absolute power over all, including the spirit world

• Since He has ultimate power, He was able to rise from the dead and prove power over death

• The tomb is empty and Jesus is the only way to have a new life!

• Every day can be a new day with peace, meaning, love, forgiveness, etc in our inner selves <C31>

Romans 6:3-4 NIV

Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

Romans 6:6-7 NIV

For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--- [7] because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.

** Believers in Christ can experience power over death because Jesus already died and conquered death; as a result, we are guaranteed eternity with Him in heaven

• We die to ourselves and live with Jesus = relationship

• We will never have to worry about death again

• We will not only have victory over death but all tears, sickness, and anything that is a consequence of sin <C31>

Romans 6:8-9 NIV

Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. [9] For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him.

Revelation 21:3-5 NIV

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. [4] ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” [5] He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

** The benefits of the cross are multiple: atonement for sin, presence of HS within us, conquering death, eternity, etc <C31>

FIRST SIN AND FIRST SIGN OF HOPE

• Adam & Eve were in a perfect relationship with God in a perfect environment

• They brought sin and death into the world when disobeying God's command

• Likewise, we like sheep have gone astray in sin and are responsible for our actions

• In the middle of curses, God gave hope!

• God promised to destroy Satan's power, for Jesus (seed of Adam) will strike his heel meaning that Satan's plan to reign could not be fulfilled

Genesis 3:15 NIV

[15] And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

RESURRECTION PROMISED LONG AGO

• God always had a plan to deal with this sin and give us life

• Mary gave birth to Jesus who would solve this problem through mankind

• Daniel refers to God protecting those who belong to Him in times of trouble, and Job also knew of this hope

Daniel 12:1-2 NIV

[1] “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people---everyone whose name is found written in the book---will be delivered. [2] Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.

Job 19:25-27 NIV

[25] I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. [26] And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; [27] I myself will see him with my own eyes---I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

HOPE IS REALITY AT EMPTY TOMB

• Until Jesus walked out of the tomb, He was still just another guy

• The resurrection miracle proved He is God and guarantees OUR resurrection when we follow and trust Him

• The rainbow and empty tomb are reminder that God is in control and Jesus promises to intercede for us!

• Given these realities, WE HAVE HOPE

1 Corinthians 15:20-22 NIV

[20] But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. [21] For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. [22] For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

** Offer a steadfast and intentional love toward God

Psalm 101:1-4 NIV

[1] I will sing of your love and justice; to you, Lord, I will sing praise.

** Even though we cannot see God we can trust Him because of His character, power, protection, care and patience <C31>

• Trust in anything but God brings devastation in our lives in an instant

• Nothing, on the other hand, is out of God's control and off His radar

• Review Genesis 1-2 to remind you that nothing existed until God spoke creation into being

1. CHARACTER

- God loves us regardless of anything we've done

- we don't need to earn God's love even when He does not want us to stay the way we are; His love enables us to change

Psalm 115:1 NIV

[1] Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.

2. POWER

- God has no limits, for He is completely sovereign

- He is all-powerful and Creator of all that exists

- we have the responsibility to take care of His creation but we cannot take credit for it; we rely on Him to sustain life

Psalm 115:3,15-16 NIV

[3] Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him. [15] May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. [16] The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind.

3. PROTECTION

- based on His knowledge and power, we can trust Him

- God is our help (watch over, encourage, sustain) and shield (nothing can hurt us when we exist behind His shield)

Psalm 115:9-11 NIV

[9] All you Israelites, trust in the Lord---he is their help and shield. [10] House of Aaron, trust in the Lord---he is their help and shield. [11] You who fear him, trust in the Lord---he is their help and shield.

4. CARE

- God is always aware of our needs; we forget but God does not

- He cares about the small detail as He does for those things we consider great

Psalm 115:12-14 NIV

[12] The Lord remembers us and will bless us: He will bless his people Israel, he will bless the house of Aaron, [13] he will bless those who fear the Lord---small and great alike. [14] May the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children.

5. PATIENCE

- it is appointed for man once to die and then the judgment

- God will not die; we can trust Him with an everlasting trust

- patiently waiting for us to trust Him

Psalm 115:17-18 NIV

[17] It is not the dead who praise the Lord, those who go down to the place of silence; [18] it is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore. Praise the Lord.

Habakkuk 1:12 NIV

[12] Lord, are you not from everlasting? My God, my Holy One, you will never die. You, Lord, have appointed them to execute judgment; you, my Rock, have ordained them to punish.

** Next to praying, there is nothing so important in practical religion as Bible-reading. By reading that Book, we may learn:

• What to believe

• What to be

• What to do

• How to live with comfort, and

• How to die in peace

2 Timothy 3:15 NIV

[15] and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

The Bible alone can:

• Show you the way which leads to Heaven

• Teach you everything you need to know

• Point out everything you need to believe, and

• Explain everything you need to do

It alone can show you:

• What you are, a sinner

• What God is, perfectly holy

• The great giver of pardon, peace, and grace--Jesus Christ

The Bible applied to the heart by the Holy Spirit, is the grand instrument by which souls are converted to God. In this way the Bible has worked moral miracles by thousands! It has made:

• Drunkards become sober

• Immoral people become pure

• Thieves become honest, and

• Violent people become meek!

The Bible has wholly altered the course of men's lives!

• It has caused their old things to pass away and made all their ways new

• It has taught worldly people to seek first the kingdom of God

• It has taught lovers of pleasure to become lovers of God

• It has changed the stream of men's affections to run upwards instead of running downwards

• It has made men think of Heaven instead of always thinking of earth

The Bible can enable a man to:

• Bear afflictions without murmuring and say, "It is well."

• Look down into the grave and say, "I fear no evil."

• Think on judgment and eternity and not feel afraid

All other books in the world, however good and useful in their way, are more or less defective. The more you look at them, the more you see their defects and blemishes. The Bible alone is absolutely perfect. From beginning to end, it is "the Word of God."

A man must make the Bible alone his rule. He must receive nothing and believe nothing which is not according to the Word. He must try all religious teaching by one simple test:

Does it square with the Bible? What do the Scriptures say? <R170>

2 Timothy 3:16 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

** Do not seek happiness but focus on God and He will provide deep-seated happiness and contentment; true happiness is the byproduct of seeking God

• The world is constantly searching for happiness in the next relationship, job, purchase, etc

• The world uses the wrong definition of happiness; Christians also buy into this definition, sometimes overtly and sometimes by default

• We can find true happiness through attitude, action and intent

• Everything we need in life to be happy, everything we need to be fulfilled, is found in a relationship with God, our heavenly Father. <L120>

ATTITUDE

• True happiness is more important than good circumstances

• God’s happiness surpasses the temporal satisfaction of this world

• Circumstances are fleeting; we need a constant peace and joy instead

• The key to happiness has to start with God

Psalm 119:2 NIV

[2] Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart--

• God wants what is best for us

• We, in contrast, do not make the best choices so our dependence on Him is needed

• He knows us, supports us, loves us, disciplines us, and saves us as no one or any thing can

• God’s will for our life opens up through knowing Him; we must focus our attention on KNOWING GOD better in order to know His will

• True happiness is the byproduct of seeking God, much like bubble-wrap — it started as wallpaper but because it flopped ended up revolutionizing the packing industry

ACTION

• We need a lifestyle that reflects obedience to God; attitude has to become action

• God teaches us the best way to live life; He provides us with an Owner's Manual (Bible) so we can do this

• Believe God's ways are always the best ways and choose to make obedience a daily habit

• Applying God's ways can change who we are, our attitude and action

Psalm 119:1 NIV

[1] Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord.

• The focus is still on God, not self

• Obediently walk in HIS ways to please Him because we love Him, not to appease Him so He won't get angry

Psalm 119:3 NIV

[3] they do no wrong but follow his ways.

INTENT

• Lifestyle follows an honest desire to live rightly; we need to want to have a deep longing to know God and please Him

Psalm 119:5 NIV

[5] Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!

• We realize we will always struggle to do what is right because of Satan, but our INTENT should be what God wants of us

• Do we long to develop a passion to consistently and sincerely follow Him?

Psalm 119:6 NIV

[6] Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands.

• God will never let us down, for He will never put us to shame

• God is perfect in understanding, power and love <C31>

** Everything we do should aim toward an upright blameless heart as we stand for what is right with integrity <C31>

• David celebrated God's love and justice

• We should emulate God and also be consistent in love and justice, no matter where we are

• We know our weaknesses so avoid anything destructive

Psalm 101:2-4 NIV

[2] I will be careful to lead a blameless life---when will you come to me? I will conduct the affairs of my house with a blameless heart. [3] I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it. [4] The perverse of heart shall be far from me; I will have nothing to do with what is evil.

** David refused to be close to people who exhibited destructive behavior, such as those who are proud, practice deceit and slander others

• Be careful especially when engaging in close relationships

• Do not be unequally yoked, like two oxen joined by a wooden harness, because the weaker ox will pull back the stronger <C31>

Psalm 101:5,7-8 NIV

[5] Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not tolerate. [7] No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence. [8] Every morning I will put to silence all the wicked in the land; I will cut off every evildoer from the city of the Lord.

** David chose to surround himself with those who faithfully desired to follow God, for they had a positive effect on him

Psalm 101:6 NIV

[6] My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; the one whose walk is blameless will minister to me.

• Likewise, we can provide and benefit from positive influence

• The church is meant to encourage one another in love and good works

• How well do we influence others for good? <C31>

Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV

Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

[22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

** God does not revel in judgment but is in the business of ‘rescue’; God not only sent His Son as the ultimate rescue from our sin but sent the Holy Spirit to help us in trouble and convict us when we go astray <B17>

Galatians 1:4 NIV

[4] who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,

Colossians 1:13 NIV

[13] For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves,

Romans 7:24 NIV

[24] What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?

2 Timothy 4:18 NIV

[18] The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

** When someone hurts you, let it go and let God set everything right in His perfect timing and way

LET GO OF THE PAST

• David recorded his experience of running away from Saul; Saul was jealous of David and wanted to kill him

• David was hiding south of Jerusalem among the Ziphites and they told Saul twice where David was hiding

• David's first response when he was wronged (betrayed by the Ziphites) was to go to God in prayer; David asked God to "vindicate me"

Psalm 54:1-3 NIV

[1] Save me , O God, by your name; vindicate me by your might. [2] Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth. [3] Arrogant foes are attacking me; ruthless people are trying to kill me---people without regard for God.

HOLD ON NOW

• Our natural response to betrayal is to get even but David turned justice over to God and relied on Him in His method and timing

• David realized Saul and entourage was fighting ultimately against God

• The New Testament provides the same principle to leave justice to God

• Our first response to betrayal should also be to go to God in prayer and continue to do what is right even though others do wrong against us;

• David recognized the heart of all sin when we prioritize ourselves before God, wanting what is of benefit to a person rather than that of God

• Remember that Jesus said to expect the world to hate us, as the world hates Him; people do not want to be faced with the truth and God's message

• Never repay evil for evil; we can't let God take control or try to live at peace when trying to get even with someone!

Romans 12:17-19 NIV

[17] Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. [18] If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. [19] Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.

Matthew 10:22 NIV

[22] You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.

LOOK TO THE FUTURE

• David refused to let a person’s betrayal damage his faith and relationship with God

• David continued to worship by placing God above all else

• He considered God's deliverance as already accomplished

• With God there is always hope for a better day; we will face difficult times but God gives us the hope to get through them

• Ultimately God will set everything right in His perfect timing and way, so let Him!

• Keep your focus on God not your problems; continue to do what is right!

• Let go of bitterness of seemingly unfulfilled justice by forgiving <C31>

** We are to prioritize the things of God over what we think is important – over that which is vying for our attention at any given moment

Luke 10:39-42 NIV

[39] She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. [40] But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” [41] “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, [42] but few things are needed---or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

** Stay away from people who are violators of God's commands that is said to increase in the end times

2 Timothy 3:1-5 NIV

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. [2] People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, [3] without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, [4] treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God--- [5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.

** We need to study God’s word in order to identify and stay away from false teaching

Ephesians 5:6-8 NIV

[6] Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. [7] Therefore do not be partners with them. [8] For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light

Matthew 24:4-5 NIV

[4] Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. [5] For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah,' and will deceive many.

** Followers of God’s holy word are to contend (fight) against deceivers who want to “pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality”

• Identifying sinful behavior in the church involves discipline

• Church discipline is NOT to be vindictive or an attempt to punish a wrongdoer, but IS a loving attempt to restore a sinning brother or sister in Christ by showing how sin interrupts the fellowship of believers and with God

• Focus on the believer who openly and persistently engages in practices that Scripture identifies as sin

• Be careful not to use discipline over differences in doctrine, conviction, diverging opinions on procedure or questions about motives <R1795>

Jude 1:3-4 NIV

[3] Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God's holy people. [4] For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.

1 Corinthians 5:12 NIV

[12] What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?

** Recognize there is only one way out of the pit, first recognize God and ask Him to forgive your sin before asking for His help <C31>

• David was in the pit; his sin and failures were overwhelming him

• He could not see any hope but looked to God; the only light he saw was God

• David recognized his sin and asked for God's love and mercy, knowing He alone could help in his time of need

Psalm 40:1-2 NIV

[1] I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. [2] He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

• Likewise, we are all in the pit like David because our sin has separated everyone from God

• We need forgiveness of sin

• God already started to provide this 'relief' for us by coming to earth in the eventual plan of dying to meet our need for salvation

** Unbelievers must acknowledge the existence of God before accepting His offer of salvation

• Patiently pray the Lord will help the blind to see God and recognize their need for salvation

• Pray the unbeliever understands the only way to God the Father is through Christ the Son

• May God carry the work of an individual's salvation to completion

• Accepting Christ's offer of salvation and learning of God's love leads the individual to love God and desire sanctification in return

John 14:6 NIV

[6] Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 6:44-45 NIV [Jesus speaking]

[44] “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day. [45] It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God.' Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me.

** Jesus talked about the hypocrisy of having concern for others' issues while ignoring their own; clean the plank from your own eye first so you can see clearly and help another

Luke 6:41-42 NIV

[41] “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? [42] How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

• Why focus on the faults of your brother when your faults are greater?

• It's hypocritical to pretend having zeal to correct others when having no ambition to correct at the personal level

• Pray for others as you would yourselves

** Draw your strength from God to live a life of integrity, then let others see what's on the inside and make sure it does not differ from what they can see on the outside; live your life free from hypocrisy!

• Henry Heinz (the ketchup king) lived and developed his business with integrity; his clear bottles of product showed everyone, "what you see is what you get"

• Some try to hide what's on the inside by putting a deceitful package on the outside

• Ask God to help set you free FROM hypocrisy in order TO DO other things and remain true to Him

• David was determined to live in integrity so he asked God for help

• David’s strength to live in integrity flowed from God's love and grace

• He chose to view life from God's perspective

• Likewise, we can choose to trust God's power to change our life and walk as needed in integrity — in God's way <C31>

Psalm 26:8,11-12 NIV

[8] Lord, I love the house where you live, the place where your glory dwells. [11] I lead a blameless life; deliver me and be merciful to me. [12] My feet stand on level ground; in the great congregation I will praise the Lord.

Psalm 46:1 NIV

[1] God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Isaiah 45:22 NIV

[22] “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.

** Do not let fear paralyze you; lean on your relationship with God and recall what you know to be true about Him — that He will provide guidance, safety and strength when you ask for His help!

Psalm 27:1 NIV

[1] The Lord is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid?

• David cried for help as he was on the move running from Saul

• He asked God to stay with him when others abandoned him

• He asked God to direct him which way to go

• Likewise, we should pray with faith that God will always answer <C31>

Psalm 27:7 NIV

[7] Hear my voice when I call, Lord; be merciful to me and answer me.

Psalm 27:10 NIV

[10] Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.

** When we let God navigate our lives and remain close to Him, we gain purpose, strength and wisdom

• Like a sailing ship navigated and supported by the wind, so our lives can be strengthened through our relationship with God who directs and sustains us

• Maintaining a relationship with God involves following His word

• When we find our strength in God then our life is maximized and journeys in a positive direction

• Worldly happiness = when we are dependent on circumstances such as the gospel of health, wealth and happiness

• Godly happiness = when we make the choice to depend on God and obey Him

Psalm 1:1 NIV

[1] Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers

PURPOSE

• The person who does not give in to compromise finds a productive life; their tree of life is healthy and fruitful

• Real faith impacts the way we live

• Finding and following God's purpose and living by faith gives our life meaning!

• When we are healthy we can help others, regardless of the variety of fruit our tree produces (apples, oranges, mangos etc)

• A ship is made for a water environment; likewise, we need to plant ourselves next to God and in the environment He made for us to survive

• Do not plant yourselves in the world and its purposes but next to God and His purposes; delight yourselves in the Lord!

Psalm 1:3 NIV

[3] That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither---whatever they do prospers.

STRENGTH

• We can be strong because we are located by and rooted in God's law

• Location is everything; we choose to stay close to God (on an hourly basis sometimes) as a tree is planted by a river which is its source of life

• Roots can go deep — not only to find nutrients but to stabilize the tree when the winds blow on the surface, like difficult circumstances in life

• The Holy Spirit can help us endure challenges

James 4:8 NIV

[8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

WISDOM

• The one who meditates on God's law day and night will grow in wisdom

• God's law is easily accessible and always on our mind, ready to put into action

• Wisdom implies the action or implementation of knowledge

• Use the knowledge of right and wrong as we make daily decisions

Psalm 1:2 NIV

[2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.

• If we don't feel close to God, then ask "who moved?"

• Following the world is like a tree planted in the desert with shallow roots and no sustenance

<C31>

** Understand that we are not, or ever will be, worthy of accepting God’s free gift of salvation because we remain sinners at our core this side of heaven; hence, we are to continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling

Philippians 2:12-13 NIV

[12] Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed---not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence---continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, [13] for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Romans 7:18-20 NIV

[18] For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. [19] For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do---this I keep on doing. [20] Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.

** Caesarea Philippi was the most pagan place in the region where Jesus ministered and the people of that region had an altar they termed ‘the rock’; Jesus did not shy away from evil but confirmed that His church would be built to confront it and “the gates of Hades will not overcome it” <D40>

Matthew 16:13,16-18 NIV

[13] When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” [16] Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” [17] Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. [18] And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.

** I see all the insanity in today’s world and can’t help but think of a teenage analogy. As a school counselor, my mind goes to witnessing kids in their environment.

Let’s say the typical teenage boy thinks he has the world by the tail and is immune from the forces that restrict everyone but him. He is not subject or responsible economically, socially, physically, etc as his poor parents and other adults who are ‘slaves to the system’. So he thinks and acts according to his imaginary existence that he’s created for himself.

Because of his puffed up attitude not based in reality, he makes a mistake one day. When the consequence arrives, he is now faced with the fact that he is part of the common race with the same restrictions as others. This can’t be! So he tries to fix the mistake but only with another mistake. When the consequence of the second mistake comes upon him, he doesn’t come to terms with reality but instead doubles-down and digs himself deeper, telling more lies and believing them all the way! Hence he digs himself into a seemingly impossible situation.

I see the same happening with an arrogant world that belligerently believes it is in control — not God. In fact, it mocks the very Creator that provided life and mocks the boundaries and commands/guidelines He provided so we can survive successfully. Instead of coming to terms with the reality of God, the world continues to dig deeper in its godless pursuits.

Well, one day the teenager matures to realize the realities around him are far beyond even his control. It is not too late for this teenager-turned-man if he accepts the reality of his situation and starts acting responsibly.

Similarly, the world one day WILL realize that God exists — they won’t have a choice because every individual will stand before their Maker, despite all their efforts to ignore and think themselves above this reality. Let’s hope and pray the world will wake up to the reality that God is in charge before it is too late and they can’t turn back! (Nov 2022)

** We prove we belong to God when we reside in Him and allow Him to shine through us; understanding this requires looking to God for salvation and sustenance

CHOSEN

• Our salvation is completely dependent on God who chooses us; He is in control of all things

• God invites us to Him; we have the choice (as with any invitation) to turn Him down

• We start as spiritually dead and God brings us to the point of accepting His invitation of salvation

• Our response to His invitation is the only thing we can do toward salvation; God does everything to get us to this point and beyond

• A changed life is evidence of salvation; we cannot belong to God without change in our heart

• Put in the effort to seek spiritual growth

• This does not involve putting on a spiritual face but true inner growth

• Where do we get our last reserves to make it across the finish line?

CONSISTENT

• Our aim should be to consistently live as God desires us to live

• We can possess an ID that identifies us belonging to a group but it does not prove our effectiveness

• If we honestly live out godly traits then we cannot fall; this does not mean we won't sin but God honors our efforts and will sustain us

• God can provide stability and help us improve

• When we follow Him, we will be less likely to fall into discouragement, fear, and be overwhelmed by life <C31>

2 Peter 1:10-11 NIV

[10] Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, [11] and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

** Like Noah, followers of Christ are to walk daily with God, be obedient and proclaim His truth

Noah walked in a right relationship with God

• Actions, words spoken, behavior, sharing with another, studying etc indicates the extent of a person's walk

• ‘Daily practice’ does not mean putting your relationship with God on a shelf, only to be taken down during times of struggle

• If we do not walk in obedience and truth then we are not walking with God in the Spirit

Genesis 6:9 NIV

This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God.

Noah was obedient to God

• The people of that day never saw rain yet Noah believed and devoted himself to build an ark for 120 years

• Noah was already 600 years old and could have relied on his experience

• Building the impossible IS possible when God directs

• Half-hearted obedience is not obedience; the level of obedience demonstrates a person’s faith

Hebrews 11:7 NIV

By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith.

Noah condemned the world

• Noah was a preacher of righteousness

• The world does not want to be told they are wrong but would rather have their ears tickled

• Noah endured ridicule by a people who did not like his message <C31>

2 Peter 2:5 NIV

if he did not spare the ancient world when he brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others

** Followers of Christ are to remember and hold firmly to the basic beliefs which are essential to faithful living; be intentional about dwelling on these things on a regular basis

• Peter knew his time was limited to encourage other believers because Jesus predicted Peter's death by crucifixion; this happened after Jesus' resurrection when He asked Peter if he loved him

• Peter had a healthy view of death; life here is temporary and our bodies are tents

• We need to have the same perspective to free us to seize opportunities while we can; these opportunities may never come around again

• Peter encourages us to leave a legacy

• After our departure, others should be able to refer back to our time here and the faithful life we lived <C31>

2 Peter 1:12-15 NIV

[12] So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. [13] I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, [14] because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. [15] And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things.

** It is important to know the enemy and how to respond

Who is Satan?

• Angel who chose to rebel against God

• God gave free will to angels as He did man

• God does not focus much on Satan in his Word

• We know he is an enemy of God and of His creation

• He is personal — not an abstract force but an individual who has a purpose for what he does

• He is powerful, but not all-powerful as God; he is no match against God

What does Satan do?

• His workers attempt to shift our belief and focus off God at every turn

• He does not want us to come to know or mature in the living God

• Sometimes works via cults, using Scripture and twisting its meaning; hence it is imperative we go back to Scripture as our plumb-line

• He wants to destroy the faith of Christians and make lives ineffective

• His greatest weapons are temptation and deceit, getting us to focus on what seems fulfilling on the outside but is actually destructive on the inside

• He preys on people who are weak in what they believe, not recognizing truth

What do we do in response?

• Be aware of Satan but not fearful or obsessed — rather focus on God

• Our job is not to focus on Satan as a competitor

• Be alert, sober-minded, vigilant about his purpose and power

• God instructs us to resist his attacks and He gives us the means to do it

• Think of the example when preparing to shoot a gun — we need a proper stance to do so

• Never give up, never give in

• Put on the full armor of God to remain standing

• We do not need to be victorious against the enemy; let God fight the enemy on spiritual terms! <C31>

1 Peter 5:8-9 NIV

Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV

** Paul rebuked the Corinthians for easily accepting a Jesus who differs from the One he taught them

2 Corinthians 11:4 NIV

[4] For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough.

** God will judge everyone based on their ability to discern His truth and conduct their life accordingly; God promises to help those who call on Him toward that end

• Followers of Christ don't have to let the world and false teachers pull us away from God

• We don't have excuses and don't have to be at the mercy of the world's temptation

• We have a part to play: if we don't prepare to encounter false teachers we will end up with difficult situations that could be avoided

• Noah, for instance, raised his family among corruption and God saved Him because He remained faithful

• In the 120 years it took to build the boat, Noah could have been discouraged and given up from all the ridicule and no threat of destruction — no rain, let alone flood!

• If Noah would have given up then he and his family would have been killed

• God does not promise us a life without trials; He will do what is best for us, which may involve keeping us in difficult situations

• We have access to God to help us with our fears in the meantime, for He is a God of grace to help those of us who follow Him

• In the end, God will judge and those who distort God's truth will face a devastating outcome

• If God judges angels in the spiritual world and others throughout history in the mortal world, then we know He will continue to judge — God is consistent throughout history <C31>

2 Peter 2:4-10a NIV

[4] For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them in chains of darkness to be held for judgment; [5] if he did not spare the ancient world when he brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others; [6] if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly; [7] and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the depraved conduct of the lawless [8] (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)--- [9] if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment. [10] This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the flesh and despise authority.

** Scripture charts the course — not only from where we came (history) but where we are (GPS) and where we are going (prophecy)

• Old Testament prophets brought God's message that revealed who God is

• God revealed more of His message through Jesus

• Peter, James and John could give an eyewitness account of Jesus; we don't have that privilege but we have Scripture that is reliable <C31>

2 Peter 1:18-19 NIV

[18] We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain. [19] We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

** God used the prophets to bring the message that we can be saved and fulfill God's plan when recognizing the suffering of the Messiah

• They trusted the message even though they did not see its fulfillment = faith

• They realized the news would benefit numerous generations to come

1 Peter 1:12 NIV

[12] It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.

Today we have opportunity to share the same message but we also have the Holy Spirit and Bible at our disposal

• We can get to 'the top' and find fulfillment through the help of the Holy Spirit and God’s Biblical truth

• If we don't have eternal security then we don't have anything, and all our accomplishments mean nothing at life's end <C31>

** Paul had seen glorious effects produced, by preaching “Christ crucified” elsewhere. He knew that if this doctrine would not win the Corinthians, and bring them back to God — nothing could.

Paul witnessed the glorious effects produced by it:

• The hardened, melted down into penitence and love

• The miserable, made happy

• The sorrowful, filled with comfort

• The guilty, put in possession of pardon

• The filthy, made pure and holy

• The troubled, made calm and peaceful, and

• The cruel, made kind and gentle! <S183>

1 Corinthians 2:2 NIV

[2] For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.

** After the crowds left disgruntled because they didn’t like what Jesus was saying, He did not go after the non-believers but turned around and tested His own disciples to see if they would leave as well; following Christ is not meant to be full of warm and fuzzy feelings but it comes at a cost <D40>

Matthew 16:24 NIV

[24] Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.

** Act and share the word of God, not out of guilt or habit (like paying homage to spirits at spirit houses) but out of a desire to help others

• Share out of a sincere service and from a sincere heart, being a defender of orphans and widows

• Share without compromise

• Emphasize to others that we don't follow a religion, but a relationship

James 1:26-27 NIV

** Receive the word of God properly; consider how we receive and act on His word:

• Seize every opportunity to learn God's word

• If we don't receive it eagerly and accurately, then we won't know how to apply it

• If we stop growing then we are not trying, for His word should challenge and give us every opportunity to grow

• There is nothing wrong with God's seed (word) but the soil that receives it!

• Receive God's word with a prepared heart; put aside all sin to receive His word uninhibited

• Receive God's word with humility; know that we cannot survive or succeed without His guidance

• Be quick to hear and slow to speak; is what you are saying what God wants you to say?

• Be slow to anger; is there resentment to the message of God's word? <C31>

James 1:19-21 NIV

** If we choose, we can live a holy life by preparing our MIND so we are ready when the Lord calls on us

• When the moment comes, we need to be mentally ready so we can deal with problems

• This takes effort on a continual basis to stay clean and be properly prepared for His work

1 Peter 1:13-16 NIV

[13] Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. [14] As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. [15] But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; [16] for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

1 Thessalonians 5:6 NIV

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.

• We need to be spiritually STABLE — calm, clear-headed and not given to excess

Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, [2] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

• Do not be side-tracked with FEAR but remain emotionally hopeful of eternal life with God, which makes our current problems temporary

Romans 8:18 NIV

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

• Remain morally PURE; do not be conformed to the pattern of the world, otherwise we are not holy and controlled by sin

• Don't return to your former ignorance

• Don't let the world determine your attitudes and actions

• It is not a natural process; we need to choose daily to follow Him

• Constantly ask “what kind of example as a follower of Christ am I?” <C31>

Romans 12:2 NIV

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will

** We call a lot of food that is not good for our body "junk food" and often ingest the same junk that is not good for us in our spiritual lives; we need to put more effort into staying away from that which is impure <C31>

Peter provides examples of junk to avoid:

• Malice = wanting something bad to happen to another

• Deceit = trying to trick someone by not telling the truth

• Hypocrisy = presenting yourself as someone you are not

• Envy = wanting something someone else has and consumes your thoughts

• Slander = talk bad about someone you can't stand; what you say may be true but what is your motive?

1 Peter 2:1-3 NIV

Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. [2] Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, [3] now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Galatians 5:16-26 NIV

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. [17] For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. [18] But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. [19] The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; [20] idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions [21] and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. [26] Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

** Put off what is bad in order to mature and gain spiritual growth

1 Peter 2:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.

How do we put off the bad and put on good?

• Daily devotion and repentance

• DO what it takes to prove you mean business

• We can't be right with God and live in habitual sin at the same time

• Choosing and desiring Godly things is a choice and command

• God doesn't force us to make good choices but we need to desire it and act on it

• Making good decisions happens from the inside-out

• Choosing right takes effort, so study Scriptures, pray, and conduct ministry

• God helps us to accomplish this

Matthew 6:21 NIV

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

The process results is spiritual growth:

• God helps us to accomplish ridding ourselves of what is bad and clinging to what is good

• A lack of spiritual growth is abnormal as it would be not if a person did not grow physically

• God does not expect us to grow in the same way as others

• One thing is for sure: we need to rid ourselves of what is considered junk and choose the truth of God; we cannot determine our own standards!

• As a result of following God's truth, we experience genuine growth and salvation

James 2:17 NIV

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

If we don't replace the bad with Christ’s good then a spiritual vacuum occurs:

• Something must go in and Satan is going to make sure it isn't good

• Focus on the fruits of the Spirit <C31>

Luke 3:8 NIV

Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.

** Be transformed by and doers of His word!

• A mirror, like God’s word, helps us look at ourselves with proper examination; an example is Moses who literally collected mirrors to melt and make a basin in front of the temple altar where people could see their reflection as they cleansed themselves with water (Ex 38:8)

• Make reading of God’s word a daily priority so we can consume it in and remember it

• God's word demands action, so act on what we see or read

• We have a responsibility to act on God's word when we hear it; that's why some don't want to know it <C31>

James 1:22-25 NIV

** In Christ, we are given a new birth, promise and hope

New Birth (vs 3)

• God promises us that we will be born again into a completely new life; the effects are seen on a consistent basis through all moments of our life in all circumstances

• Being born again means Christ lives within us to work with us against sin; this changes our perspective on life and, hence, our actions

• Remember the story of Nicodemus (John 3) where Jesus told Him about a spiritual change

New Promise (vs 4)

• A gift of eternal life and all its benefits

• Imperishable (cannot be destroyed or damaged, like fruit that goes bad), undefined (cannot be stained with evil, like polluting our environment), unfading (never losing value, like flowers that fade)

New Hope (vs 5)

• New birth brings with it a new hope everyday of our life; we have a freedom from our past sin and failures

• New hope gives us strength to live God's way

• Our relationship with Christ is eternally guaranteed; it is accomplished by God's grace and protected by His all-consuming power

• We are not talking about those who don't live out according to God's ways; these people were not saved in the first place

• Believers in Christ have a hope that we will never be separated from God! <C31>

1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV

[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, [4] and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, [5] who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

** God is always present with us, is willing to be consulted by us, and will surely attend to us. Our way is likely to be difficult, dark, and perplexing; a way in which we have never traveled before, and in which we are likely to be misled.

The only way to be safe, to walk securely, is to seek Divine direction

• God is willing to give but He will have us ask it of Him

• We are dependents, and we must realize our dependence

• We are but children, and we must feel it, and act as under the impression of it

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

You have His WORD, consult it; make it your counselor, your directory and your guide.

You have His PROMISE, believe it; He says, "I will teach you and instruct you in the way which you shall go, I will guide you with My eye."

You have His THRONE OF GRACE, flee to it, and plead with Him as a man pleads with his friend.

And, while you consult His Word, believe His promise, and pray for direction — watch His hand! Providence is God working; working to accomplish His purposes, to fulfill His promises, and to answer the prayers of His people.

In His Word, He speaks to us;

on His throne, He listens to us,

by His providence, He works for us, and those who keep their eye open, will be sure to see His hand.

While you watch His hand, seek grace to submit to His will. He wills to do you good, the greatest good; and if His will crosses yours, depend upon it, it is just because it is most for your benefit.

Gratefully acknowledge His favors as you receive them. Remember that, as sinful creatures, being criminals and traitors, we have no "rights".

• Consequently, everything short of Hell, is a mercy!

• Everything but eternal punishment, is a favor!

• How many favors and mercies you receive — and how few praises you render!

• How many mercies are given you — and how few acknowledgments you make!

He who habitually…

• consults God's holy Word

• believes His faithful promises

• pleads at His gracious throne for direction

• watches His working hand

• submits to His righteous will, and

• gratefully acknowledges His sovereign favors —

will never be allowed to go far wrong, or to go wrong for long; for "He shall direct your steps!"

<S183>

** I love to meditate on the work of the Holy Spirit to whom we are so much indebted, and from whom we receive such great and invaluable blessings. To Him, I feel that I am indebted for every good thought, and for every good work. How wonderful His patience, that He should bear with me so long; and how wonderful His loving-kindness, that He should confer on me so much! O that I was more deeply sensible of my obligations!

It was the Holy Spirit who QUICKENED me when I was dead in trespasses and sins:

• Imparting a new life

• Infusing new thoughts, and

• Producing new desires in my soul

Having quickened me, He CONQUERED me, subduing:

• The enmity of my heart

• The obstinacy of my will

• The worldliness of my affections

and bringing every thought into subjection to the obedience of Christ

Having quickened and conquered me, He COMFORTED me, assuring me of a saving interest in:

• The love of God

• The perfect work of Jesus

• The precious promises of the Word, and

• The eternal rest which remains for the people of God

Having quickened, conquered, and comforted me, He SANCTIFIED me by:

• Separating me from the world, and

• Setting me apart for my Redeemer's glory and praise

As my Sanctifier, He became my GUIDE:

• Leading me into the truth

• Conducting me out of the paths of danger and

• Directing me into the everlasting way

Not only my guide, but He became my GUARD:

• Preserving me from danger

• Protecting me from foes, and

• Becoming a wall of fire round about me

Whenever I wander, He reproves me; when I willfully go astray, He CORRECTS me and makes me smart for my folly.

The work He began so long ago, He carries on; nor will He withdraw His hand from it, until it is perfected and I am fully fitted for glory.

The work of the Spirit within us, is as necessary as the work of Jesus for us! For if the atonement of Christ entitles us to glory, it is the work of the Holy Spirit that prepares us to possess and enjoy it. We must be washed, justified, and sanctified, in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of God — or we cannot be saved! <S183>

John 14:26 NIV

[26] But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

** Christ healed the lepers, affirming that the leper's faith made them whole; we learn that:

• Jesus always has time for our needs and for everyone

• Jesus has the power to heal from a distance; He doesn't have to be there

• Jesus can solve any problem, so we can go to Him at any time

• He sometimes asks us to do things that don't make sense to us, like telling lepers to go to the priests; likewise we need to walk in faith and obedience even if we don't understand

Luke 17:11-14 NIV

[11] Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. [12] As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance [13] and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” [14] When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.

** God tests whether we will obey His commands regardless if we understand or not; the lepers were healed because they obeyed; they may have wondered why they should see the priests but they went anyway

Luke 17:14 NIV

[14] When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.

** We are to be an Abraham who lived in this world but not of it, compared to Lot who lived in this world and was attached to it; Lot was attached to his way of life to the point of hesitating to leave when God was ready to destroy Sodom <D40>

Genesis 19:15-16 NIV

[15] With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away when the city is punished. ” [16] When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them.

Genesis 19:27-28 NIV

[27] Early the next morning Abraham got up and returned to the place where he had stood before the Lord. [28] He looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah, toward all the land of the plain, and he saw dense smoke rising from the land, like smoke from a furnace.

** God showed His people their sin by giving them the ten commandments; they soon realized the need for God to provide a way of salvation

Throughout the Old Testament, His people were on a journey back to God — from sacrificing animals to providing His Son Jesus Christ as the ultimate sacrifice

Isaiah 46:13 NIV

[13] I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed. I will grant salvation to Zion, my splendor to Israel.

Romans 3:23-25 NIV

[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. [25] God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood---to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished

** Prayer should become a habit with us, then everything would furnish us with matter for prayer. Prayer should mingle with our pleasures and our pains, with our labor and our rest.

• We should never do, what we cannot pray God to bless

• We should never go, where we cannot ask God to go with us

• Tempted Christian — pray, and you will overcome every temptation

• Troubled Christian — pray, and God will deliver you out of every trouble

• Perplexed Christian — pray, and God will make your way plain before your face

• Doubting Christian — pray, and God will disperse your doubts, and chase your fears away

• Trembling Christian — pray, and God will strengthen you with strength in the soul

• Sick Christian — pray, and God will make all your bed in your affliction

• Dying Christian — pray, and death will lose all its terrors, and you will gently fall asleep in Jesus

• Lost sinner — pray, for God who heard the publican and justified him, will hear you and save you

O for the grace of prayer, that we may in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present our requests to God. <S183>

1 Thessalonians 5:17 NIV

[17] pray continually

Colossians 4:2 NIV

[2] Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

** The first object from which our heavenly Father weans his child is from the idol SELF

• Of all idols, ‘self’ is the hardest to abandon

• It is reluctant to relinquish his throne, yielding to the supreme control and sway of another <W211>

Psalm 131:2 NIV

[2] But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content.

** Wisdom apart from God is earthly and foolish; following earthly wisdom produces:

• Jealousy and selfish ambition — doing whatever it takes to get ahead of others

• Arrogance — thinking or justifying why you are better than another; with Godly wisdom we don't need to be arrogant

• Dishonesty — world has its own definition of truth even though God defines truth for us; abiding by God’s truth supports godly wisdom

• Worldliness — following values of the world, which are not from God but supporting life in the here and now

• Demonic wisdom — following wisdom that goes against God's word

James 3:14-16 NIV

[14] But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. [15] Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. [16] For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

** Godly wisdom and faith produces good fruit, such as:

• Good behavior

• Gentle deeds with humble meekness inspired by godly wisdom

• Purity, revealing God's perfect wisdom expressed through good motive and actions

• Peaceful relationships

• Gentleness and kindness expressed to one another

• Reasonable and teachable spirit

• Merciful perspective that withholds just punishment and is quick to hold back

• Bountiful with Godly characteristics

• Unwavering on Scriptural truths; not easily moving after one fad and then another

• Sincerity in discernment and application of wisdom

• Living peacefully with one another; we cannot be right with God if we are not right with one another <C31>

** If we are to emulate Christ, then those who follow Him are not to make this world their home

Matthew 8:20 NIV

Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.”

** Six New Testament tests for believers to discern false prophets:

1. Theological test - do they recognize Jesus Christ and stand against God’s word in Scripture?

1 John 4:1-2 NIV

[1] Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. [2] This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,

2. Gospel test - do they preach Jesus raised from the dead and salvation by faith alone?

Galatians 1:6-9 NIV

[6] I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel--- [7] which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. [8] But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God's curse! [9] As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God's curse!

3. Fruit test - we will know false prophets by their actions and false prophecies

Matthew 7:15-20 NIV

[15] “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. [16] By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? [17] Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. [19] Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. [20] Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

4. Wisdom test - which of the two types of wisdom does the prophet exemplify?

James 3:13-18 NIV

[13] Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. [14] But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. [15] Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. [16] For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. [17] But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. [18] Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

5. Service test - do the prophets build up believers so they will not be tossed to and fro?

Ephesians 4:11-12 NIV

[11] So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, [12] to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up

6. Visions test - do people have to rely on the prophet for the vision & understanding <H83>

Colossians 2:18 NIV

[18] Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind.

** Believers should be able to call on God and depend on the supportive prayer of others in time of need <C31>

Psalm 16:2 NIV

I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.”

Romans 8:38-39 NIV

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Psalm 16:3 NIV

I say of the holy people who are in the land, “They are the noble ones in whom is all my delight.”

Psalm 16:4 NIV

Those who run after other gods will suffer more and more. I will not pour out libations of blood to such gods or take up their names on my lips.

** As Jesus went to the Father in prayer before He faced death on the cross, so we should follow His example in troubled times

Psalm 16:8 NIV

[8] I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Luke 22:39-41 NIV

[39] Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. [40] On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” [41] He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed

** Let’s keep our eyes focused on God alone; take advantage of quiet times to focus on the Lord, our Provider

• Don't simply ‘open your mind’ because evil forces would love to enter; focus on God's word and remain in prayer

• Thank God for His protection

• The more your mind is on God, the less it is on your problems

• Fill your mind with godly thoughts <C31>

Psalm 16:8 NIV

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

** Beloved, we have a heavenly Father.

• He has adopted us into His family

• He not only wears a father's name but he has a father's heart

• He loves every believer with a father's love.

He watches over each of His children with a father's care

• Yes, we have a Father, and He is always near us

• His heart is ever disposed to do us good

• He will not withdraw His eye from us!

He bids us…

• to cast every care upon Him,

• to expect every blessing from Him, and

• to carry everything that troubles us, to Him.

Does providence frown on us, perplex, and trouble us? Let us not fret, complain, or forebode — but go and tell Father!

Does Satan tempt, suggest evil thoughts, or endeavor to mislead us? Let us not parley with him, be alarmed at him, or yield to him — but go at once and tell Father!

Everything, whether painful or pleasant, should lead us to our Father in heaven. He loves to listen to our broken prayers. He loves to sympathize with us. He never chides us for coming too often, or refuses to listen to us.

Happy child, who has such a Father! And wise is that child, who carries everything to his Father, who tells Him all, keeping nothing from Him. When we carry our cares or our troubles to Him, He says, "Leave them with Me. I will manage them. I will settle them."

Christian, run to your Father from every foe, and from every danger!

• Tell your Father everything that vexes, grieves, or troubles you

• Trust your Father to manage all your affairs.

Honor your Father…

• by consulting Him on all matters

• by confiding to Him all your secrets, and

• by making His written Word your daily rule on all points.

"The righteous cry, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles." With childlike simplicity, filial confidence, and honest hearts — they go and tell their Father! <S183>

1 John 3:1 NIV

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

Matthew 6:9 NIV

[9] “This, then, is how you should pray: “ 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,

** We were created to be in fellowship with God and, ultimately, we need to adjust our lives in order to exist in this relationship

How do we live our lives for God?

• We walk in integrity; not only in show but with godly internal motive, for integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching

• We do not plan evil for our neighbor but rejoice and mourn with them through their experiences

• We are not guilty of speaking against someone or going along with slander voiced around us

• We consistently live with integrity throughout all our days, not just on Sundays <C31>

Psalm 15:1-3 NIV

[1] Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [2] The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; [3] whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others

** Those who seek after God will be careful not to invest the majority of time with the ungodly, but rather invest in and encourage those who fear the Lord

• Believers will also keep their commitments no matter what, and not alter their course on a whim

• People should know they are careful of promises made and will follow through on them

Psalm 15:1,4 NIV

[1] Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [4] who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind

** David went to God first thing in the morning in order to help him get through the day; it's the perfect way to start our day!

Psalm 5:3 NIV

[3] In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

** God wants us to come in His presence with a respectful and repentant heart, observing His majesty; we should approach God with a humble heart and request that He help us overcome our sin

Psalm 5:7-8 NIV

[7] But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. [8] Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies---make your way straight before me.

** David asked God to consider his groaning regarding his situation <C31>

• Life's circumstances weighed heavily on David and he had confidence in God's identity as King and Creator of all

• David recognized God as the only One he can go to at all times because others are not trustworthy and cannot be counted on in time of need

• How awesome that believers can turn to God, for He will not forsake those who call on Him

Psalm 5:1-2 NIV

[1] Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. [2] Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray.

Psalm 116:4-5 NIV

[4] Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Lord, save me! ” [5] The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. [6] The Lord protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me

** God serves as a lighthouse, bringing us back on track with the strength and ability to move forward; we gain direction, hope, and everything needed in the moment <C31>

Psalm 5:3 NIV

[3] In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

** A little wisdom eases efforts in life and wise living often produces a good outcome, even if not as expected; in contrast, lack of Scriptural wisdom leaves one unprepared to handle the tough times

Ecclesiastes 10:10 NIV

[10] If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success.

1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

[13] No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

** Solomon encourages people to enjoy life in the face of injustice; he does not condone unbridled indulgence in sin but, rather, to be “rich toward God”

Ecclesiastes 8:14-15 NIV

[14] There is something else meaningless that occurs on earth: the righteous who get what the wicked deserve, and the wicked who get what the righteous deserve. This too, I say, is meaningless. [15] So I commend the enjoyment of life , because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.

Luke 12:16-21 NIV

[16] And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. [17] He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' [18] “Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. [19] And I'll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.” ' [20] “But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?' [21] “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”

** Man has a propensity to sin which leads to death and destruction; this can only be abated through God’s forgiveness, protection and strength

Proverbs 27:20 NIV

[20] Death and Destruction are never satisfied, and neither are human eyes.

Proverbs 30:7-9 NIV

[7] “Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: [8] Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. [9] Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, 'Who is the Lord?' Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

1 John 1:9 NIV

[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

** Know the danger of associating with fools; value rebuke and discipline from the wise

Ecclesiastes 7:4-6 NIV

[4] The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure. [5] It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools. [6] Like the crackling of thorns under the pot, so is the laughter of fools. This too is meaningless.

** A guilty conscience imagines accusers everywhere, while a clear conscience produces a boldness to face everyone

Proverbs 28:1 NIV

[1] The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.

Psalm 53:5 NIV

[5] But there they are, overwhelmed with dread, where there was nothing to dread. God scattered the bones of those who attacked you; you put them to shame, for God despised them.

** Modern day society is being manipulated by subliminal messaging from media, including (but not limited to) movies, music, social media, tv and even utilizing our senses of taste and smell

• If we want to be free from worldly manipulation, we need to be aware of what is happening and unplug!

• Rather than filling your mind with what Satan desires you to think about, get into God’s Word to fill your mind with what honors God <C36>

Colossians 2:8 NIV

[8] See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.

Romans 12:2 NIV

[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

2 Corinthians 10:4-5 NIV

2 Timothy 2:25-26 NIV

[25] Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, [26] and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

** Simon profited as a result of his obedience, even though what Christ was asking did not make sense at the time

Luke 5:4-6 NIV

[4] When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” [5] Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” [6] When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.

** The Bible guides us through life; it lights our way

• We rely on its promises for our hope of eternal life

• Its words give us hope in perilous times and comfort us amid all our affliction

• The Reformers of five hundred years ago summarized the importance of sound Bible interpretation with two principles: Sola Scriptura and Scripture interprets Scripture <B26>

Psalm 119:105 NIV

[105] Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

** Those who are wise desire godly counsel founded on the Word of God, while avoiding counsel from the fool

Proverbs 20:5 NIV

[5] The purposes of a person's heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.

Proverbs 18:4 NIV

[4] The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.

Hebrews 4:12 NIV

Proverbs 26:8-10 NIV

[8] Like tying a stone in a sling is the giving of honor to a fool. [9] Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool. [10] Like an archer who wounds at random is one who hires a fool or any passer-by.

Psalm 111:10 NIV

[10] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

** Proverbs 31 was written by Solomon about his mother Bathsheba’s advice for her son; she obviously had a profound influence on her son, as most godly praying mothers do

• When studying the lineage of our Savior, we note that Jesus came from the lineage of David (an adulterer and murderer) and Bathsheba

• The message is clear: God forgives and redeems

• When God our loving Heavenly Father sees us, He does not see our sin-filled-selves but instead He sees His Son <F60>

Proverbs 31:1 NIV

[1] The sayings of King Lemuel---an inspired utterance his mother taught him.

** Solomon’s mother gave him advice — he would not be able to judge and rule wisely when under the influence of alcohol and entertaining women; Bathsheba encouraged Solomon to judge fairly and defend the poor in need

Proverbs 31:4-7 NIV

[4] It is not for kings, Lemuel---it is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, [5] lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights. [6] Let beer be for those who are perishing, wine for those who are in anguish! [7] Let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.

Proverbs 31:8-9 NIV

[8] Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. [9] Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.

** There is hope for the righteous who stumble, for they desire forgiveness; the wicked, however, stumble because of their hard-heartedness

Proverbs 24:16 NIV

[16] for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes.

Proverbs 28:13 NIV

[13] Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

Proverbs 28:14 NIV

[14] Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble.

Proverbs 29:25 NIV

[25] Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.

** A genuine brother in the Lord will seek out accountability for himself and be willing to hold another brother in the Lord accountable; intellectual and theological discussion is joy for those with sharp minds

Proverbs 27:17 NIV

[17] As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

** Priests, who represented others during sacrifices, had additional requirements to remain holy before God

• Priests were set apart from the community, thus the standards which they lived were higher

• Likewise, as believer-priests, Christians are called to live by the highest standards of holiness

• The only way we can meet and surpass the righteous requirements is to rely on the Holy Spirit <R1795>

Leviticus 21:1-4,6 NIV

[1] The Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the priests, the sons of Aaron, and say to them: ‘A priest must not make himself ceremonially unclean for any of his people who die, [2] except for a close relative, such as his mother or father, his son or daughter, his brother, [3] or an unmarried sister who is dependent on him since she has no husband---for her he may make himself unclean. [4] He must not make himself unclean for people related to him by marriage, and so defile himself. [6] They must be holy to their God and must not profane the name of their God. Because they present the food offerings to the Lord, the food of their God, they are to be holy.

Leviticus 21:10-12 NIV

[10] “ ‘The high priest, the one among his brothers who has had the anointing oil poured on his head and who has been ordained to wear the priestly garments, must not let his hair become unkempt or tear his clothes. [11] He must not enter a place where there is a dead body. He must not make himself unclean, even for his father or mother, [12] nor leave the sanctuary of his God or desecrate it, because he has been dedicated by the anointing oil of his God. I am the Lord.

Leviticus 21:14-15 NIV

[14] He must not marry a widow, a divorced woman, or a woman defiled by prostitution, but only a virgin from his own people, [15] so that he will not defile his offspring among his people. I am the Lord, who makes him holy.’ ”

Romans 8:4 NIV

[4] in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

** Israel is chained with a spiritual bondage when they rebelled against God, that can only be broken when they repent and rely on the Lord as their Redeemer

Psalm 107:13-14 NIV

[13] Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. [14] He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains.

Isaiah 52:2-3 NIV

[2] Shake off your dust; rise up, sit enthroned, Jerusalem. Free yourself from the chains on your neck, Daughter Zion, now a captive. [3] For this is what the Lord says: “You were sold for nothing, and without money you will be redeemed. ”

And HOW was Israel to be saved? Isaiah prophesied it would be through One man!

Isaiah 53:1-5 NIV

[1] Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? [2] He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. [3] He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. [4] Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. [5] But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.

** John relays that God IS light and has no darkness; God defines light and illuminates evil

1 John 1:5 NIV

[5] This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all

** Obedience to God’s commands

Why call me Lord and do not the things I say,

you call me the way and walk me not,

you call me the life and live me not,

you call me master and obey me not,

if I condemn you, blame me not.

You call me bread and eat me not,

you call me truth and believe me not,

you call me Lord and serve me not,

if I condemn you, blame me not. <O157>

Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

It is not enough to know or say the words, but we must put these words into ACTION! Those who practice God's law build their house on solid ground. The storm is the final judgment where they will be tested to determine whether they took their commitment to the Lord seriously and built with faith in Him alone.

Matthew 7:24-27 NIV

[24] “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. [25] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. [26] But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. [27] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

As believers, we must STRIVE to enter through the narrow gate and obey God's commands. It takes effort on our part and is not simply a matter of saying a prayer and living your life the way you want. It is a matter of taking up our cross and following Him daily; it requires a consciencous decision to deny the patterns of this world and

follow God alone.

Luke 13:22-25 NIV

[22] Then Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. [23] Someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, [24] “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. [25] Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, 'Sir, open the door for us.' “But he will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'

Proverbs 30:11-12 NIV

[11] “There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers; [12] those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not cleansed of their filth;

Romans 12:2 NIV

[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Psalm 111:10 NIV

[10] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

** We are called to challenge others who are living in sin and going against God’s law; talk that is unsubstantiated, designed to tear another down, must be avoided because it is malicious and unwholesome

Remedy is available when we grieve the Holy Spirit — by abstaining from known sin and confessing sin that has been committed <H86>

Ephesians 4:25-29 NIV

[25] Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. [26] “In your anger do not sin” : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, [27] and do not give the devil a foothold. [28] Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. [29] Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

1 John 3:7-10 NIV

[7] Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. [8] The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. [9] No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. [10] This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God's child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.

1 John 1:9 NIV

[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

** Everything that does not come from faith is sin

• In the early church, some believers struggled with the issue of compromise with the world, specifically regarding the food they ate

• Paul was “fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself”

• For matters that are clearly defined in Scripture, we should follow the guidance given

• For disputable matters or gray areas, we should live by our convictions, following the principle that whatever is not of faith is sin

• The Living Bible puts it this way: “Anyone who believes that something he wants to do is wrong shouldn’t do it – he sins if he does, for he thinks it is wrong, and so for him it is wrong <G72>

Romans 14:23 NIV

But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.

** Attending Jews affirmed the false accusations coming from the lawyer Tertullus, even though Paul had only been in Jerusalem 12 days and did not have time to break Israeli or Roman law

Acts 24:9-13 NIV

[9] The other Jews joined in the accusation, asserting that these things were true. [10] When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul replied: “I know that for a number of years you have been a judge over this nation; so I gladly make my defense. [11] You can easily verify that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. [12] My accusers did not find me arguing with anyone at the temple, or stirring up a crowd in the synagogues or anywhere else in the city. [13] And they cannot prove to you the charges they are now making against me.

Scripture informs us to stand firm in the faith, to do whatever is necessary to ‘win the cause’ against the wolves that want to devour us

Matthew 10:16 NIV

[16] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.

Acts 24:15-16 NIV

[15] and I [Paul] have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. [16] So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.

Proverbs 26:4-5 NIV

[4] Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. [5] Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.

James 1:5-8 NIV

[5] If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. [6] But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

Psalm 91:7 NIV

[7] A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.

** We need more MEN with conviction in the pulpits to lead their flock into confrontation against the insane evil that surrounds us; women are emotionally-conciliatory by nature and that is not what the church needs to further God’s truth against this evil

What we have today is the vast majority of preachers confronting the flock (YOU) for wanting to confront evil instead of equipping you to confront evil; they are happy to be silent as Drag Queen Story Hour is being held in their parking lot while the church service is going on <D40>

** The rod was used by shepherds to:

• Ward off danger to the sheep, and to

• Help guide the sheep in a certain direction, in addition to

• Discipline when needed

Don’t just think of the rod as a tool of punishment, but the rod can be used for protection and direction as well as a means of discipline for children <W217>

Proverbs 13:24 NIV

[24] Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.

** A perfect reuniting can result when you repent and return to Christ, as happened with the couple when they finally reunited

Song of Songs 6:13 NIV

[13] Come back, come back, O Shulammite; come back, come back, that we may gaze on you! Why would you gaze on the Shulammite as on the dance of Mahanaim?

Sometimes we venture ‘off track’ and distance ourselves from God; sometimes our distancing is because of sin we commit

For instance, Revelation’s letter to the church in Ephesus was written 35 years after the letter Paul wrote to the Ephesians; it appeared the church had done well, except for what the Lord had to say in verse 4 about leaving their first love for Him

Revelation 2:2-4 NIV

[2] I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. [3] You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. [4] Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.

God beckoned the church’s return to Him and was willing to wait for His children with open loving arms; yes, there are consequences when we turn from Christ and when sin is involved, but the Father is overjoyed to receive us back when we repent and return to Him <F60>

Luke 15:20-24 NIV

[20] So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. [21] “The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' [22] “But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. [23] Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. [24] For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.

** The bride doesn’t wait till morning but takes action to look for him; instead of letting fear or bad thoughts from the Enemy enter her mind, or even depend on the watchmen she passes, she takes it upon herself to URGENTLY seek after him

Song of Songs 3:3 NIV

[3] The watchmen found me as they made their rounds in the city. “Have you seen the one my heart loves?”

** We learn so much when reading God's Word and allowing ourselves to remain under Divine instruction

Scripture helps us understand the:

• True nature of sin

• Vanity of the world

• Emptiness of creatures, and

• Fullness and preciousness of Christ <S183>

Psalm 27:11 NIV

[11] Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.

Psalm 32:8 NIV

[8] I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.

** We may feel as if our life is a battlefield. We may be a prisoner in the ongoing war between good and evil. When we turn our life over to God, will he rescue us and keep us safe?

Five hundred years before the birth of Jesus, the prophet Zechariah foretold that Jesus would enter Jerusalem on a donkey. Jesus fulfilled part of these prophecies when he came the first time. He delivered us from death by shedding his own blood to seal our pardon.

Zechariah 9:9-10 NIV

[9] Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. [10] I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.

Matthew 21:1-4 NIV

[1] As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, [2] saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. [3] If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.” [4] This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:

When he comes again as he promised, he will bring peace on earth. For now, we can take refuge in Jesus. When the war is over and Jesus is crowned King of kings, he will repay all those who are his, two mercies for every woe suffered in the war! No matter how terrible the battles we face, we can turn our life over to God and have a sure hope for the future. <L126>

Zechariah 9:14-17 NIV

[14] Then the Lord will appear over them; his arrow will flash like lightning. The Sovereign Lord will sound the trumpet; he will march in the storms of the south, [15] and the Lord Almighty will shield them. They will destroy and overcome with slingstones. They will drink and roar as with wine; they will be full like a bowl used for sprinkling the corners of the altar. [16] The Lord their God will save his people on that day as a shepherd saves his flock. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown. [17] How attractive and beautiful they will be! Grain will make the young men thrive, and new wine the young women.

** ChristIans are expected to encourage and instruct one another in the ways of the Lord

Romans 15:14 NIV

[14] I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.

** What are pastors supposed to be doing in light of Christ’s appearing? Preach the word! And 2/3 of the time those in his audience should be uncomfortable because God’s Word is to be used to correct and rebuke, not just encourage <C36>

2 Timothy 4:1-2 NIV

[1] In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: [2] Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage---with great patience and careful instruction.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, [17] so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 2:15 NIV

[15] Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

** The Lord cares for His children!

• He knows our needs and will supply them

• He knows our foes and will deliver us from them

• He knows our fears and will make us ashamed of them

He is your Father, and His love to you is infinite. You are His delight — His dear child. Will He neglect you? Impossible!

Cast then, your cares upon Him. Tell out all your desires, fears, and troubles to Him; let Him know everything; keep nothing back. And then in the confidence of faith, expect Him to fulfill His Word, and act a Parent's part.

But never for one moment, or under any circumstances, distrust Him! He cannot love you more! He is your ever present help. He will rejoice over you to do you good, with His whole heart and with His whole soul. <S183>

Philippians 4:6 NIV

[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

1 Peter 5:7 NIV

[7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

** Our complete delight should be in the Lord; wine is a metaphor for joy

Our desire should also be drawn away from this world to Christ by our choice, not because we have to; when we draw near to God He will draw near to us

Song of Songs 1:4 NIV

[4] ...We rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine...

Hebrews 10:22 NIV

James 4:8 NIV

[8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

** Paul went away from all human contact for several years, in order to spend time alone with God in the Arabian wilderness.

The newborn soul needs SOLITUDE, that, apart from the strife of tongues and the din of the world, it may meditate on those marvelous things which God has done for it. That it may frame a larger, deeper, more adequate conception of what salvation really is. That its gratitude may become more precise and more profound. That, with nothing and no one to distract, it may dedicate itself quietly and fully to its Lord.

The Bible teacher needs solitude, that he may apprehend the breadth and length and depth and height of that great, majestic, illimitable Book he is to proclaim. That he may seize hold of the truth of God — and that the truth of God may seize hold of him! That the truths of Scripture may become more than ever, his own possession and exceeding joy. And then, out of the abundance of his heart, his mouth will speak.

Every saint needs solitude, that he may shake off the dust and grime of worldliness and sin. That, waiting on the Lord, he may renew his strength. That a fresh unction from the Holy One may make him spiritually wise and strong.

• In Arabia, as he came forth from the cloud, the face of Moses shone.

• In Arabia, the soul of Paul duly took and strongly kept the print of Heaven.

• None of us should dispense with our Arabian wilderness! <S182>

Galatians 1:15-17 NIV

[15] But when God, who set me apart from my mother's womb and called me by his grace, was pleased [16] to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. [17] I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus.

Mark 6:31 NIV

[31] Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

** God knows everything about everyone of us and is involved in our life; what an amazing thought that the righteous can be considered His “treasured possession” when we barely register as a spec on this earth, and the earth barely registers in His universe!

Malachi 3:16 NIV

** God, to the humble heart that leans on Him, is like the mountains which surround Jerusalem.

In the mountain, there is SAFETY. In this dangerous world, I am…

• Pursued and hunted by principalities and powers

• In peril of traps and snares and temptations

• Unable to secure my deliverance

I flee to Him, and I am in a secure dwelling. There is no evil which can befall me now. When I hide myself in the Rock of Ages cleft for me, then who can separate me from the love of Christ? That Rock Himself would have to crumble, before any harm could come to my soul! I am so weak in myself, yet so strong in my Savior!

In the mountain, there is ASSURANCE. I feel that the ground is solid and stable underneath my feet.

My sorrow and sighing should flee away, and my fears should be scattered. The Father and the Son and the Spirit are eternally mine! From all forebodings and anxieties, my Lord means me to be set free.

In the mountain, there is EVERLASTING comfort. My soul is wise when it builds its life-house on the Rock of…

• God's promises

• God's grace

• God's salvation!

The storm will never be able to blow it down, and the gates of Hell will never prevail against it. Through the countless and varied changes of my lot, through death and through the long eternity that lies beyond — it will endure, incorruptible, immovable, abiding! <S182>

Psalm 125:2 NIV

[2] As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121:1-8 NIV

[1] I lift up my eyes to the mountains---where does my help come from? [2] My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. [3] He will not let your foot slip---he who watches over you will not slumber; [4] indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. [5] The Lord watches over you---the Lord is your shade at your right hand; [6] the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. [7] The Lord will keep you from all harm---he will watch over your life; [8] the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

** Did Paul live a depressed and dismayed life, because he was perpetually denying himself out of love for others? Not at all. The very reverse is true. This was how he grew in spiritual strength and nobleness!

The discipline prospered his own soul.

• It gave him wisdom and insight

• It gave him courage and endurance

• It gave him sympathy and considerateness

• It gave him deep restfulness and glowing joy

• By it he gained inward vigor, and the glow of spiritual health, and spiritual life in its fire and force and fullness

And this was how he won the hearts of men and women. They saw that his was a yearning tenderness for them, which made him unconcerned for his own comforts. And so others were conquered, and melted, and led willing prisoners to the Lord Jesus. He drew them by the magnetism of his love for them--and they followed on.

And this was how he learned the secret of fellowship with Jesus. "Even Christ did not please Himself" Romans 15:3. The servant Paul came very close to the Master, and the Master to the servant, just as the servant took up his cross and gloried in it as he carried it in his arms. His little lamp was lighted from the flame around the Savior's sacrifice.

So Paul lived in a noble place because he looked perpetually not on his own interests, but on the interests of others. Let me master this truth. I shall never regret the surrender and sacrifice of my desires and interests. It is for my own good, as well as my Lord's wish and will. <S182>

Philippians 2:3-4 NIV

[3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Romans 15:3 NIV

[3] For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”

** God is our stable foundation who offers truth through His Word in these last days of insanity

Isaiah 33:6 NIV

[6] He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure.

Psalm 31:1-5,14 NIV

[1] In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. [2] Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. [3] Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. [4] Keep me free from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. [5] Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God. [14] But I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my God.”

** Much is said about these stony-ground hearers of the Word which is attractive and hopeful.

Mark 4:5-6 NIV

[5] Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. [6] But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.

So what was the problem? Ah! the heart was wrong, and therefore everything was wrong!

1. The heart was UNBROKEN. The rock had never been penetrated at all, and the seed died soon on its hard and impervious surface.

I wonder whether the stubbornness and the stolidity of my heart have been shattered. Have I been melted…

• into practical concern of soul

• into the sense of spiritual neediness

• into godly sorrow

• into contrite prayer

There can be no new birth and no vital growth, until then!

2. And the heart was SHALLOW and superficial. It had no depth. Immediately beneath the thin layer of top-soil, was that rebellious and intractable adamant; the seed had not a sufficient resting-place and home.

This is the fatal fault of many. They do not stop to think about unseen, eternal, heavenly things. They do not take time to consider their own miserable state of soul, and the grace of Jesus Christ. They nod, and glance, and bustle by.

3. And the heart was DRY. It had none of the moistening, subduing, fructifying influences of the Holy Spirit. If the showers descend upon the rocky soil, there is no loam to retain them and to derive a benefit from them.

Just so, does everything depend on the Spirit's presence and work within me! Apart from His dews and gentle rains, I am helpless, hopeless, dead, damned. For until Almighty God renews me, until His waters quench and enliven my parched and thirsty being, until I receive the outpouring of the grace of God — I have no spiritual life. <S182>

Ezekiel 36:26 NIV

[26] I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

** We can avoid God’s wrath by repenting and seeking righteousness in humility — turning from our sinful ways and asking His forgiveness

Zephaniah 2:1-3 NIV

[1] Gather together, gather yourselves together,

you shameful nation, [2] before the decree takes effect and that day passes like windblown chaff, before the Lord's fierce anger comes upon you, before the day of the Lord's wrath comes upon you. [3] Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord's anger.

** Not being ‘of the world’ entails:

• That I am not to consider myself to be at home in this world

• That every day I must show myself to be a citizen of Heaven

• That there must be an easily-perceived difference between me and those who do not travel beyond the present realm of things.

• That, however friendly I am with others, I must hold aloof from their sinful habits and recreations <S182>

John 17:16 NIV

[16] They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.

** God continues to allow blessing (or plenty) as well as adversity (or want) so we know that nothing is guaranteed; in both situations our dependency needs to remain on the Lord alone so He can direct our ways <F60>

Haggai 1:9-11 NIV

[9] “You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?” declares the Lord Almighty. “Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house. [10] Therefore, because of you the heavens have withheld their dew and the earth its crops. [11] I called for a drought on the fields and the mountains, on the grain, the new wine, the olive oil and everything else the ground produces, on people and livestock, and on all the labor of your hands.”

An example of God blessing His people and holding back the Devourer can be found in the book of Malachi; God challenges them to test Him in this

Malachi 3:10-12 NIV

[10] Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. [11] I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe, ” says the Lord Almighty. [12] “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.

** No word of the Gospel sounds more gladsomely in my ears than this. For the unclean spirits have invaded the citadel of my soul, and asserted their hateful domination over me. I have no strength to drive them out — but, my Lord, You can rescue me from their hideous craft and polluting bondage! Every deadly sin may be defeated by the virtue of Your Cross, and the omnipotence of Your Spirit. <S182>

Mark 1:27 NIV

[27] The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching---and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.”

** Praise ye the Lord! is the suitable end of the book of Psalms inspired by the Spirit of God

We learn that the book of Psalms was a:

• Work of praise

• Book that has supplied the songs of the church for more than 3000 years

• Book that is quoted more frequently by Christ and His apostles

• Book which presents the loftiest ideas of God and His government

• Book fitted to every state of human life

• Book that sets forth every religious experience and

• Book that bears simple and clear marks of its Divine origin <H83>

Psalm 150:6 NIV

[6] Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.

** God deserves praise from everything that has breath for His surpassing glory!

Psalm 150:1-2,6 NIV

[1] Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. [2] Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. [6] Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.

** We can go to the Lord requesting His protection from our enemies; although the enemy may seem overwhelming to us in the moment, nothing happens outside of God’s permission

Psalm 143:3,9,12 NIV

[3] The enemy pursues me, he crushes me to the ground; he makes me dwell in the darkness like those long dead. [9] Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in you. [12] In your unfailing love, silence my enemies; destroy all my foes, for I am your servant.

** Conditional blessings can include God coming near, fulfilling desires and watching over those who call, fear and love Him

Psalm 145:18-20 NIV

[18] The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. [19] He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. [20] The Lord watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.

Psalm 145:1-3 NIV

[1] I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. [2] Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. [3] Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.

** Our Lord is not only mighty, but trustworthy, faithful and compassionate; He knows exactly what each one of us is going through and responds accordingly

Psalm 145:8-9 NIV

[8] The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. [9] The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.

Psalm 145:13b,17 NIV

[13] The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does. [17] The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does.

Psalm 145:14-16 NIV

[14] The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. [15] The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. [16] You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.

** We can call on God to deliver us from those who follow Satan’s schemes and, in response, we recognize and praise Him for this deliverance while experiencing His blessings!

Psalm 144:7-8 NIV

[7] Reach down your hand from on high; deliver me and rescue me from the mighty waters, from the hands of foreigners [8] whose mouths are full of lies, whose right hands are deceitful.

Psalm 144:9-11 NIV

[9] I will sing a new song to you, my God; on the ten-stringed lyre I will make music to you, [10] to the One who gives victory to kings, who delivers his servant David. From the deadly sword [11] deliver me; rescue me from the hands of foreigners whose mouths are full of lies, whose right hands are deceitful.

Psalm 144:1-2 NIV

[1] Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. [2] He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me.

Psalm 144:15 NIV

[15] Blessed is the people of whom this is true; blessed is the people whose God is the Lord.

** It is natural to speak of God working in our lives so generations after us will also know and experience His great power and love

Psalm 145:4-7 NIV

[4] One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. [5] They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty---and I will meditate on your wonderful works. [6] They tell of the power of your awesome works---and I will proclaim your great deeds. [7] They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

Psalm 145:10-13a NIV

[10] All your works praise you, Lord; your faithful people extol you. [11] They tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, [12] so that all people may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. [13] Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.

Psalm 145:1,21 NIV

[1] I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. [21] My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever.

** God is the only One who truly knows our thoughts, motives, struggles, worries, plans, understanding, and every minuscule aspect of every situation; no earthly friend compares!

Psalm 142:4 NIV

[4] Look and see, there is no one at my right hand; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life.

** Who better to be our Confidant than the One who loves, listens, instructs, guides, provides for, calms, assures, disciplines, reveals to, and protects us in perfect fashion and in His perfect timing?

Psalm 143:8,10 NIV

[8] Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. [10] Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

• In turn, we can be a shining witness for Christ when He stands with us

• Others can be equally encouraged!

Psalm 142:7 NIV

[7] Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.

** We live in stirring days, when deeds are everything — when closet work is often neglected for active business, and little time is given to meditation. Yet, with more thought and prayer, wholesome activity would be greater in the end and all our actions more successful.

Time is not lost, which is spent in meditation — in searching wisdom's ways, and seeking out profound realities. There is one who often meditates and yet accomplishes much. There is another who hastens and yet does little. None works so heartily, nor reaps so fully as he whose wits are sharpened by prayer and meditation.

Reading either Scripture or Christian books, apart from meditation, does little good. It is much the same as not digesting what you eat which only starves the soul. How many read the Bible thus!

You say, "I am quite unused to meditate. How shall I begin?" Deal gently with yourself at first. Select your subject — some passage from the Word. Then fix the time you choose to give; say, five minutes at a time. Begin, and think aloud. This makes it easier, and saves the mind from distracted thoughts, the hardest task of all. The sound even of your own voice will help you; it is like speaking to a friend. And what is meditation, but communing with self, that self may be a constant hearer.

But, more than all, make it a time of prayer and communing with God. This helps the matter greatly. Take the words of Scripture, and ask Jesus what they mean. In doing this, the mind is exercised. A glow of thought attends the effort. You honor Jesus; and He will honor you, by pouring out a largeness of capacity, a quicker mind. The interchange of thought between you and Jesus goes on apace, and you are surprised to find how long the exercise has lasted.

Meditation grows, the more it is exercised. It…

• feeds the soul,

• expands the mind,

• increases thought, and,

• best of all, it brings you into fellowship with Jesus. This is the very life and soul of meditation. <M138>

Ecclesiastes 7:25 NIV

[25] So I turned my mind to understand, to investigate and to search out wisdom and the scheme of things and to understand the stupidity of wickedness and the madness of folly.

Joshua 1:8 NIV

[8] Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

Psalm 143:5 NIV

[5] I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done.

Psalm 119:148 NIV

[148] My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises

** The Psalmist understands the deadly traps set by evildoers; he asks God to help him avoid the temptation and snares intended to bring him down

Psalm 141:3-4,9 NIV

[3] Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. [4] Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers; do not let me eat their delicacies. [9] Keep me safe from the traps set by evildoers, from the snares they have laid for me.

** As one deemed righteous, David knew that God was his only ‘rescue’ from evil doers and their plans, for if God is for us who can be against us?

Psalm 141:8 NIV

[8] But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge---do not give me over to death.

Romans 8:31 NIV

[31] What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

** God will pity impotency, but He will punish obstinacy.

• Lord, I see but enlighten my darkness!

• Lord, I hear but cure my deafness!

• Lord, I move but quicken my dullness!

• Lord, I desire but help my unwillingness!

It would be folly, indeed, to think that:

• our fields have no grain in them because there is some chaff around the wheat

• or that the ore had no gold in it because there is some dross mixed among it.

• In Heaven, there is service alone without any sin

• In Hell, there is sin alone without service

• But on earth, there is sin and service in the same man as there is light and shade in the same picture.

• Above us, there is light without any darkness

• Below us, there is darkness without any light

• But in this world, it is neither all day nor all night.

Though the lowest believer is above the power of sin, yet the highest believer is not above the presence of sin! <S180>

Mark 9:21-24 NIV

[21] Jesus asked the boy's father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. [22] “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” [23] “ 'If you can'?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” [24] Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

** The afflictions of the wicked are punishments from God, as an angry Judge. But the afflictions of the godly are chastisements from God, as a gracious Father!

The afflictions of the wicked, moreover, are preludes to their future misery. But the corrections of the godly, are preparations for their future glory! <S181>

Psalm 119:67,71 NIV

[67] Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word. [71] It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.

** The only ‘way out’ was for Jonah to PRAY and repent of his sin, allowing God to set Him on the right path

Contrary to popular opinion, it is good to hit rock bottom because it can point us to God; imagine staying in the digestive system of a fish — God had Jonah's full attention which was in a good place for him to pray and Jonah finally realized that God is in control

How awesome that God is OMNIPRESENT, always available when we need Him, so we know we can pray at any time; may prayer be our FIRST RESPONSE when we are in trouble <C31>

Jonah 2:1-4 NIV

[1] 2 From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. [2] He said: “In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry. [3] You hurled me into the depths, into the very heart of the seas, and the currents swirled about me; all your waves and breakers swept over me. [4] I said, 'I have been banished from your sight; yet I will look again toward your holy temple.'

Psalm 139:7-8 NIV

[7] Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? [8] If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

Psalm 116:2-6 NIV

[2] Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. [3] The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow. [4] Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Lord, save me! ” [5] The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. [6] The Lord protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me.

** God had given Micah the supernatural ability to ‘call it like it is’ and identify leaders who do not stand up for righteousness; those today who have the Holy Spirit within them have the power and ability to proclaim truth

Micah 3:8 NIV

[8] But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.

** Even though Jonah was furious, he still prayed to God and admitted he did not understand; Jonah recognized his need to realign with God and be honest with God in prayer <C31>

Jonah 4:1-2 NIV

[1] But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. [2] He prayed to the Lord, “Isn't this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.

** Make sure you go to God and be honest with your thoughts and feelings; God is not surprised where we are at, for He knows what we are already thinking

In Jonah’s case, God provided an object lesson to illustrate His perspective and asked Jonah if he is really justified in blaming God…?

The Bible provides an added way for today’s believers to understand His ways, so allow Him to walk with you through your struggles and help you understand His ways that outline how best for you to continue <C31>

Jonah 4:5-11 NIV

[5] Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. [6] Then the Lord God provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the plant. [7] But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. [8] When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, “It would be better for me to die than to live.” [9] But God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?” “It is,” he said. “And I'm so angry I wish I were dead.” [10] But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. [11] And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left---and also many animals?”

** Like Micah in the days of old, my hope must remain on the Lord despite the corruption and insanity that surrounds

Micah 7:7 NIV

[7] But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.

** As God disciplines to correct our sinful behavior, He also brings us back to His side into the light to see His righteousness

Micah 7:9 NIV

[9] Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the Lord's wrath, until he pleads my case and upholds my cause. He will bring me out into the light; I will see his righteousness.

Micah 7:18-19 NIV

[18] Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. [19] You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.

** Our God is a God of grace, providing forgiveness and opportunity to restore His followers

• God’s Discipline (storm that stopped Jonah) AND

• God’s Grace (whale that saved him)

are both part of who God is, for His ultimate desire is that everyone turn to Him for forgiveness <C31>

Jonah 3:10 NIV

[10] When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened.

** God is CAPABLE and can provide everything we need; Jonah was in extreme distress being described as in Hell — it couldn't get any worse — because, technically, he should be dead and he knew it but Jonah cried out and God answered

This doesn't mean there aren't consequences when we sin but God still saves and provides what we need at just the right time; the fact that we can call on God is amazing, let alone that He cares for us even when we are disobedient <C31>

Jonah 2:2,10 NIV

[2] He said: “In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry. [10] And the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.

Romans 5:8 NIV

[8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

** Behold, all things have become new!

Our PERCEPTIONS will be new:

• A divine light will break in upon our minds

• The darkness of error, which obscured the truth from our view, will be dissipated

Our PRINCIPLES will be new:

• We shall act from pure, holy, unselfish motives

• Faith working by love will be the grand moving principle

• Self will no longer be the pivot on which we turn, but Jesus will be our all in all

Our PRACTICE will be new:

• We shall live no longer according to the sinful customs of the world, or the powerful solicitations of the flesh

• We will live according to the holy precepts of the everlasting Gospel

• We shall delight in the law of God after the inward man

• It will be our food and drink to do the will of our Father

Our PLANS will be new:

• We shall dedicate ourselves, and all we have and are, to the service of that divine Savior who loved us and gave Himself for us

• We shall not be daily occupied in forming plans for worldly pleasure, or projecting schemes for the acquisition of worldly profit

• We will devise means for carrying on the cause of truth, and for spreading the knowledge of a crucified Redeemer throughout the earth

Our PROSPECTS will be new:

• The darkness being past, and the true light now shining — we shall see the distant radiance of the heavenly Zion, and behold, with the telescopic eye of faith, the land which is very far off!

Our PRIVILEGES will be new:

• God will be our reconciled Father

• Jesus will be our Savior and friend

• The Holy Spirit will be our sanctifier and comforter

• And Heaven will be our eternal home!

Our PORTION will be new:

• All those exceeding great and precious promises, will be ours

• We shall be heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ!

• We shall be the citizens of the New Jerusalem, and inherit that kingdom that is incorruptible and undefiled, prepared for all the new creatures in Christ Jesus, before the foundation of the world!

To sum up all this blessedness, we shall experience in this world a progression in holiness — and in the world to come, a perpetuity of bliss! <R175>

2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV

[17] Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

[17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

** God sets a plumb line for us and we will gain great reward or suffer consequences depending on our obedience to it

Amos 7:7-8 NIV

[7] This is what he showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in his hand. [8] And the Lord asked me, “What do you see, Amos? ” “A plumb line, ” I replied. Then the Lord said, “Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer.

** Believers in Christ cannot simply read His Word without listening to what the Holy Spirit has to say about what they are reading; discernment comes from the Lord, not the act of reading!

• The word for ‘makes judgment’ is anakrino, which is used 10 times in 1 Corinthians

• It means to examine, scrutinize and investigate

• The Holy Spirit confirms and communicates to us the very mind of Christ <R1795>

• We can know God’s will when following the Spirit’s guidance

1 Corinthians 2:14-15 NIV

[14] The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. [15] The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments,

Hosea 14:9 NIV

[9] Who is wise? Let them realize these things. Who is discerning? Let them understand. The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them.

** God’s love is ‘agape love’ which is a non-feeling self-sacrificing love for people who don’t deserve it — anything but ‘subjective love’ based on feelings <H86>

Jude 1:21 NIV

[21] keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV

[4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

** The doctrine which is according to godliness at once defines the nature of Divine doctrine, intimating that its design or end is to inculcate a right temper of mind and deportment of life — it is pure and purifying. It is very much more than a series of intellectual truths intended for the instructing of our brains.

The objects which are revealed in Scripture are not bare abstractions which are to be accepted as true, nor even sublime and lofty concepts to be admired — they are to have a powerful effect upon our daily walk. There is no doctrine revealed in Scripture for a merely speculative knowledge, but all is to exert a powerful influence upon conduct. God's design in all that He has revealed to us, is to the purifying of our affections and the transforming of our characters.

It is absurd to conclude that if my creed is sound, then it matters little how I live. Thus it is possible to deny the Faith by conduct as well as by words. A neglect of performing our duty is as real a repudiation of the Truth, as is an open renunciation of it!

The doctrine of grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts and to live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world (Titus 2:11, 12). By far the greater part of the doctrine taught by Christ consisted not of the explication of mysteries but rather that which corrected men's lusts and reformed their lives. Everything in Scripture has in view the promotion of holiness. <P161>

1 Timothy 6:3 NIV

[3] If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching,

Titus 1:1 NIV

[1] Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness

Titus 2:11-12 NIV

** One of the fruits of the new birth is a faith which not only enables its possessor to overcome the sensual and sinful customs and the carnal maxims and policies by which the profane world is regulated, but also the lying delusions and errors by which the professing world is fatally deceived.

The only thing which will or can ‘overcome the world’ is a God-given, self-exercised faith.

• Faith overcomes the world firstly, by receiving into the heart God's infallible testimony of the world. He declares that "the world" is a corrupt, evanescent, hostile thing which shall soon be destroyed by Him. His Holy Word teaches that the world is "evil" (Galatians 1:4); that "all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — is not of the Father, but is of the world" (1 John 2:16); that "the whole world lies in wickedness" (1 John 5:19) and shall yet be "burned up" (2 Peter 3:10). As faith accepts God's verdict of the world, the mind is spiritually enlightened; and its possessor views it as a worthless, dangerous, and detestable thing!

• Faith overcomes the world secondly, by obeying the Divine commands concerning it. God has bidden us, "Do not be conformed to this world" (Romans 12:2); "Do not love the world, nor the things that are in the world" (1 John 2:15); and warns us that "Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world, becomes an enemy of God." (James 4:4). By heeding the Divine precepts, its magic spell over the heart is broken!

• Faith overcomes the world thirdly, by occupying the soul with more glorious, soul-delighting and satisfying objects. The more the substance of spiritual realities engages the heart--the less hold will the shadows of the world have upon it. "For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God" (Hebrews 11:10).

• Faith overcomes the world fourthly, by drawing out the heart unto Christ. As it was by fleeing to Him for refuge, that the soul was first delivered from the power and thraldom of this world, so it is throughout the Christian life. The more we cultivate real communion with Christ, the less attraction will the baubles of this world have for us! The strength of temptation lies entirely in the bent of our affections, "for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matthew 6:21). While Christ is beheld as "the chief among ten thousand" (Song of Solomon 5:10) and as "altogether lovely" (Song of Solomon 5:16)--the things which charm the poor worldling, will repel us.

The world gains the victory over the unregenerate by captivating their affections and capturing their wills. But the Christian overcomes the world, because his affections are set upon Christ and his will is yielded to Him.

Here then, we have a sure criterion by which we may determine our Christian progress or spiritual growth. If the things of this world have a decreasing power over me, then my faith is becoming stronger. If I am holding more lightly the things most prized by the ungodly, then I must be increasing in an experimental and soul-satisfying knowledge of Christ. If I am less cast down when some of the riches and comforts of this world are taken from me, then that is evidence they have less hold upon me. <P161>

1 John 5:4 NIV

[4] for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.

** The Bible consists of a series of letters from the Heavenly Father to His dear children. Then let us cherish them as such and act accordingly. A few verses that are thoughtfully and prayerfully pondered will advantage us far more than two or three whole chapters merely skimmed through.

That against which we are protesting is the God-dishonoring idea that His Word is merely a piece of literature, which may be "mastered" by a course of "study." We would warn against an undue occupation with the technical aspects of the Bible. God's blessed Word is not for dissection by the knife of cold intellectuality. It is not given for us to display our cleverness and "brilliance" upon, but to be bowed before in true humility. It is not designed for mental entertainment but for the regulation of our daily lives!

Our motive when approaching the Word should be to seek that which will subdue pride and bring us as supplicants to the footstool of Mercy — not to acquire that which will puff us up in our own conceit. Of what value is a knowledge of the original Hebrew and Greek or a thorough acquaintance with the history, geography, and chronology of the Bible if the heart is left cold and hard toward its Author?

I seriously doubt if God has called or requires us merely to 'study' His Word. What we need to do is FEED thereon. How much nourishment would your body derive from a study of the chemical properties of foods or from seeking to ascertain the various sorts of soil in which they are grown or the meaning of their Latin names? None whatever! I am persuaded that much of the modern 'study of the Bible' is equally profitless spiritually!

By all means, "search the Scriptures daily"; slowly ponder each word in every verse. Pray constantly for the guidance and illumination of the Spirit that He may open to you its Divine mysteries. Above all, beg God to write His Word more legibly and fully upon the tablets of your heart that you may put the precepts into practice.

God's Word is the only nutritive food for the soul! This is why the Holy Scriptures are given to us — that we may grow in love and reverence for them and be more and more regulated by them. It is only by feeding on this Heavenly Manna that strength is obtained…

• for our pilgrim walk

• for our warfare with sin and Satan

• for our service unto God and our fellows <P161>

1 Peter 2:2 NIV

[2] Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,

Acts 17:11 NIV

[11] Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.

1 Timothy 4:6 NIV

[6] If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.

** Repentance involves showing God you mean business and are willing to sacrifice in response

Joel 2:12 NIV

[12] “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”

** It is of first importance that we learn to draw a sharp distinction between Divine punishment and Divine chastisement. The distinction is very simple, yet is it often lost sight of.

God's people can never by any possibility be punished for their sins, for God has already punished them at the Cross. The Lord Jesus, our Blessed Substitute, suffered the full penalty of all our guilt; hence it is written "The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin." Neither the justice nor the love of God, will permit Him to again exact payment of what Christ discharged to the full.

Romans 8:3 NIV

[3] For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh

While the believer's sins cannot be punished, yet he may be chastised. The Christian occupies an entirely different position from the non-Christian; he is a member of the Family of God. The relationship which now exists between him and God is that of parent and child; and as a son he must be disciplined for wrongdoing. Folly is bound in the hearts of all God's children, and the rod is necessary to rebuke, to subdue, to humble.

When the believer is smarting under the rod let him not say, "God is now punishing me for my sins!" That can never be! That is most dishonoring to the blood of Christ. God is correcting you in love — not smiting in wrath!

Some of the saintliest of God's people, some of the most obedient of His children have been, and are the greatest sufferers.

Oftentimes, God's chastenings are CORRECTIVE. They are sent to empty us of self-sufficiency and self-righteousness. They are given to discover to us hidden transgressions, and to teach us the plague of our own hearts.

Or again, chastisements are sent to STRENGTHEN our faith, to raise us to higher levels of experience, to bring us into a condition of usefulness.

Still again, Divine chastisement is sent as a PREVENTATIVE, to keep under pride, to save us from being unduly elated over success in God's service.

Remember, your afflictions are among the "all things" which work together for good. Learn, then, to look upon trials as proofs of God's love — purging, pruning, and purifying you. <P161>

Hebrews 12:6 NIV

[6] because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”

Hebrews 12:10 NIV

[10] They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.

** David knew what it meant to personally confront evil and war against it on a constant basis

• As one deemed righteous, David knew that God was his only ‘rescue’ from evil doers and their plans

• Increasingly believers in Christ are expected to do the same as the world gets crazier and war comes to our door

• If God is for us, who can be against us?

Psalm 140:1-2,4 NIV

[1] Rescue me, Lord, from evildoers; protect me from the violent, [2] who devise evil plans in their hearts and stir up war every day. [4] Keep me safe, Lord, from the hands of the wicked; protect me from the violent, who devise ways to trip my feet.

Psalm 140:13 NIV

[13] Surely the righteous will praise your name, and the upright will live in your presence.

Romans 8:31 NIV

[31] What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

** David did not ask God to remove difficulty but help him through it; David knew he still needed to engage in battle

Psalm 140:6-8 NIV

[6] I say to the Lord, “You are my God.” Hear, Lord, my cry for mercy. [7] Sovereign Lord, my strong deliverer, you shield my head in the day of battle. [8] Do not grant the wicked their desires, Lord; do not let their plans succeed.

** If we want to follow God then we should do the following...

ENJOY GOD'S LOVE

• David was overwhelmed by God's creative touch, such as the number of thoughts of God, His knitting him together in the depths of the earth, being with us wherever we go in this world, etc

• Meditating on God's purposes encouraged David love; God working in every person's life should leave us in awe and motivate our love

• David praised God for His amazing consistent love

• Glimpses of God's love should leave us in awe

• There is always more to God which should help us love God in response

Psalm 139:17-18 NIV

[17] How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! [18] Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand---when I awake, I am still with you.

AVOID UNGODLY INFLUENCE

• David realized ungodly people (actively opposed to God) could pull him away and keep him from being what God wanted him to be

• "hate" in English language infers wishing something bad on another which is not what he wanted

• David chose to completely separate himself

• David left judgment and vengeance up to God, asking God to slay the wicked; he did not want that on his plate

Psalm 139:19-22 NIV

[19] If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty! [20] They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name. [21] Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord, and abhor those who are in rebellion against you? [22] I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies.

• We should never be careless about close relationships because it is probable that those who are opposed to God will bring us down

• Devotion to God should guide and permeate every trusting relationship; does the relationship help or hurt our relationship with God?

• At the same time, we need to exercise caution and balance: we are called to be salt and light to be a positive influence teaching others there is a God who loves them!

• Know which relationships are "trusting relationships"

Psalm 139:19 NIV

[19] If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty!

REMOVE ANY HINDRANCE

• David asked God to evaluate the innermost corners of his life, for He has perfect understanding and knowledge to help guide us

• God could see hindrances to his faith that he could not

• We will not grow until we are open to God'a searching love

• The process may be painful as we face and recognize our failures

• God wants to turn our failures into victories!

• God will expose to us anything that holds us back when we ask and are ready for Him to do so

Psalm 139:23-24 NIV

[23] Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. [24] See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

LIVE IT OUT

• What needs to happen in your life so you can enjoy God's love more than you do now?

• God has poured Himself into us before we were even born; what is our response and how (are) we pouring ourself back into Him? <C31> (Nov 2016)

** God prompts us to do what is best and right when He hems us in, confronting us with His wisdom as we face the inevitable; like a city under siege, hemmed inside and protected, even though we are being attacked from all sides, we need His help in order to do what is best and right

Psalm 139:1-5 NIV

[1] You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. [2] You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. [3] You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. [4] Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. [5] You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.

** God is aware of every minute detail, even the details of our troubled lives

Psalm 138:6-7 NIV

[6] Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar. [7] Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me.

** An enemy can become a friend only when there is an acknowledgement and repentance for sin committed; while repentance and forgiveness are accepted, accountability and consequence often awaits those who perpetrated the evil

Christ provided the example for us by dying on the cross for our sins — He did not just ignore our sin but had a plan to pay for it in full with the aim of restoring relationship <D40>

Acts 2:23 NIV

[23] This man was handed over to you by God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.

1 Peter 5:10 NIV

[10] And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

** God pardoned Hosea’s wife and she was allured back to Hosea, as God will allure Israel to back to Himself by accepting her and providing blessings

God WANTS to restore Israel, just like He wants to restore us into good relationship with Him <H87>; amazingly, God still desires to restore His relationship with those who cheat on Him!?

Hosea 2:14-15,19 NIV

[14] “Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her. [15] There I will give her back her vineyards, and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope. There she will respond as in the days of her youth, as in the day she came up out of Egypt. [19] I will betroth you to me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion.

Zechariah 12:10 NIV

[10] “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.

** Let those who have gone from God, be converted to Him through repentance and faith; let us wrestle with Him for promised blessings <H83>

Hosea 12:6 NIV

[6] But you must return to your God; maintain love and justice, and wait for your God always.

** God promises to forgive us our sins when we ask for forgiveness but we will still suffer the consequences of our sin; God is still omniscient and aware of every sin we commit, yet He promises to forget our sin — not hold them against us — when we come to Him with a repentant heart

Hosea 8:13 NIV

[13] Though they offer sacrifices as gifts to me, and though they eat the meat, the Lord is not pleased with them. Now he will remember their wickedness and punish their sins: They will return to Egypt.

Isaiah 43:25 NIV

[25] “I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.

Hosea 7:1-2 NIV

[1] whenever I would heal Israel,

the sins of Ephraim are exposed and the crimes of Samaria revealed. They practice deceit, thieves break into houses, bandits rob in the streets; [2] but they do not realize that I remember all their evil deeds. Their sins engulf them; they are always before me.

Hebrews 8:12 NIV

[12] For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more. ”

Hebrews 10:17 NIV

[17] Then he adds: “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.”

** People will turn to God in their misery; this will still happen to Israel in the end times after having been dispersed across the globe since 70 AD <H87>

Hosea 5:15 NIV

[15] Then I will return to my lair until they have borne their guilt and seek my face---in their misery they will earnestly seek me. ”

Zechariah 12:10 NIV

** Israel was still considered God’s people, despite their sin and punishment God had to serve them; God’s effort was to have her recognize Him once again

Hosea 1:10 NIV

[10] “Yet the Israelites will be like the sand on the seashore, which cannot be measured or counted. In the place where it was said to them, 'You are not my people,' they will be called 'children of the living God.'

Hosea 2:23 NIV

[23] I will plant her for myself in the land; I will show my love to the one I called 'Not my loved one. ' I will say to those called 'Not my people, ' 'You are my people'; and they will say, 'You are my God. ' ”

** There is hope — rescue from the troubled — for those who recognize God and admit the error of their ways

Daniel 12:3 NIV

[3] Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.

Jeremiah 30:10-11 NIV

[10] “ 'So do not be afraid, Jacob my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel,' declares the Lord. 'I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid. [11] I am with you and will save you,' declares the Lord. 'Though I completely destroy all the nations among which I scatter you, I will not completely destroy you. I will discipline you but only in due measure; I will not let you go entirely unpunished.'

** God hears the words of those who earnestly seek Him with a humble heart

Daniel 10:12 NIV

[12] Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.

** Just like the angel giving Daniel strength in his time of need, so God will give us strength when we seek Him

Daniel 10:16-18 NIV

[16] Then one who looked like a man touched my lips, and I opened my mouth and began to speak. I said to the one standing before me, “I am overcome with anguish because of the vision, my lord, and I feel very weak. [17] How can I, your servant, talk with you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe.” [18] Again the one who looked like a man touched me and gave me strength.

** “There must be a standard that comes from beyond and above us. We can not be our own standard. Why? Because we are all tyrants in our hearts, full of sin.” This is why we need the plumb-line of God’s word and need to recognize that we are nobody (without a standard) without God <D40>

** Sola Scriptura people trust the Bible, and don’t trust the Bible in the hands of others <D40>

• Go to the primary source for yourself and don’t rely on the interpretation of others

• Refer to an approved Bible translation as your ‘plum line of truth’

• God’s Word and the Holy Spirit helps us discern our words and actions along with those of others

1 Corinthians 11:29 NIV

[29] For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.

Philippians 1:9-11 NIV

1 Corinthians 2:14-16 NIV

** The pagan food Daniel and others were offered was food for idols and to eat it would have indicated they recognized and honored these idols; instead, Daniel “purposed in his heart” not to compromise his commitment to God

Proverbs 4:23 NIV

[23] Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

Exodus 34:14-15 NIV

[14] Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. [15] “Be careful not to make a treaty with those who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves to their gods and sacrifice to them, they will invite you and you will eat their sacrifices.

Also, foods that God prohibited were items that pagans consumed and offered to their idols; Daniel took a stand against this, as did Moses, and the Psalmist, and Jesus <M130>

Daniel 1:12 NIV

[12] “Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.

Hebrews 11:24-26 NIV

[24] By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. [25] He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. [26] He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.

Psalm 119:115 NIV

[115] Away from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commands of my God!

Hebrews 7:26-27 NIV

[26] Such a high priest truly meets our need---one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. [27] Unlike the other high priests, [Jesus] does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.

** Daniel and friends sought God in their trouble; in turn, God relayed Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in a night vision that Daniel later relayed to the king

Daniel 2:17-19 NIV

[17] Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. [18] He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. [19] During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven

Daniel 2:26-29 NIV

[26] The king asked Daniel (also called Belteshazzar), “Are you able to tell me what I saw in my dream and interpret it?” [27] Daniel replied, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, [28] but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these: [29] “As Your Majesty was lying there, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen.

Daniel 2:36-43 NIV

[36] “This was the dream, and now we will interpret it to the king. [37] Your Majesty, you are the king of kings. The God of heaven has given you dominion and power and might and glory; [38] in your hands he has placed all mankind and the beasts of the field and the birds in the sky. Wherever they live, he has made you ruler over them all. You are that head of gold. [39] “After you, another kingdom will arise, inferior to yours. Next, a third kingdom, one of bronze, will rule over the whole earth. [40] Finally, there will be a fourth kingdom, strong as iron---for iron breaks and smashes everything---and as iron breaks things to pieces, so it will crush and break all the others. [41] Just as you saw that the feet and toes were partly of baked clay and partly of iron, so this will be a divided kingdom; yet it will have some of the strength of iron in it, even as you saw iron mixed with clay. [42] As the toes were partly iron and partly clay, so this kingdom will be partly strong and partly brittle. [43] And just as you saw the iron mixed with baked clay, so the people will be a mixture and will not remain united, any more than iron mixes with clay.

** Daniel and others refused to worship and were reported to the king for their disobedience; Nebuchadnezzar’s challenge that their God could not save them came back to embarrass him

Daniel 3:15-18 NIV

[15] Now when you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, if you are ready to fall down and worship the image I made, very good. But if you do not worship it, you will be thrown immediately into a blazing furnace. Then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?” [16] Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. [17] If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty's hand. [18] But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up. ”

Daniel 3:21-26 NIV

[21] So these men, wearing their robes, trousers, turbans and other clothes, were bound and thrown into the blazing furnace. [22] The king's command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, [23] and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. [24] Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren't there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” [25] He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” [26] Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!” So Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego came out of the fire

** Daniel’s friends were promoted and God was recognized as the all-powerful God because they stood their ground against the king’s edict

Daniel 3:28-30 NIV

[28] Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king's command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. [29] Therefore I decree that the people of any nation or language who say anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble, for no other god can save in this way.” [30] Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the province of Babylon.

** God leaves room for people to repent and acknowledge Him as 'sovereign over all', as indicated in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream

• Nebuchadnezzar decided to glory in his own accomplishments so God immediately humbled him

• As punishment for his pride, Nebuchadnezzar would dwell with the beasts of the field and eat grass like oxen until he knew that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses <D497>

• Nebuchadnezzar later repented after his suffering and was restored to his throne

Daniel 4:24-26 NIV

[24] “This is the interpretation, Your Majesty, and this is the decree the Most High has issued against my lord the king: [25] You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox and be drenched with the dew of heaven. Seven times will pass by for you until you acknowledge that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes. [26] The command to leave the stump of the tree with its roots means that your kingdom will be restored to you when you acknowledge that Heaven rules.

Daniel 4:29-31 NIV

[29] Twelve months later, as the king was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, [30] he said, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” [31] Even as the words were on his lips, a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you.

Daniel 4:34-37 NIV

[34] At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation. [35] All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” [36] At the same time that my sanity was restored, my honor and splendor were returned to me for the glory of my kingdom. My advisers and nobles sought me out, and I was restored to my throne and became even greater than before. [37] Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble.

** We would not have a ‘leg to stand on’ if left to our record of conduct; thank God He forgives our sin and offers us a way to redemption when we ask this if Him

Psalm 130:3 NIV

[3] If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?

Psalm 130:4,7-8 NIV

[4] But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you. [7] Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. [8] He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.

** God hears our heart-felt cries for mercy, but how willing are we to adjust to His ways that may differ from our expectations?

Psalm 130:1-2 NIV

[1] Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord; [2] Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.

** We avoid being moved by false winds of doctrine as we dig into God’s Word and mature in our faith in Christ <M1501>

Ephesians 4:14 NIV

[14] Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.

** Leaning on God often requires waiting, which enables us to mature in our relationship with Him while doing so

Psalm 130:5-6 NIV

[5] I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. [6] I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.

** There are over 3000 promises in God’s word, and each one is God’s word; God has kept every promise — He never has gone back on His word — so why can we not trust Him with our daily lives? <F60>

• WHY trust God?

• Because Jesus is returning to take us to a place He has prepared for us via the Rapture

• What an awesome promise that we will be with Jesus where He is

• So if we trust Him with this huge promise, why can’t we trust Him in our daily lives?

John 14:1-3 NIV

[1] “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God ; believe also in me. [2] My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

• But Jesus has not returned yet, so HOW can we maintain this trust while we wait for the trumpet sound and our departure?

• Regardless of the confusing and terrifying situation we face, we can be calmed — by trusting Him with all our heart and leaning not on our own understanding that propels us to Him

• It’s a reciprocal and conditional promise for us to trust, and He will respond

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

• Maybe the delusion we see around helps us not to lean on our previously-trusted reasoning but to trust God!?

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

** Fathers (Ps 128:1), mothers (Prov 31:30) and children (Ps 34:11) are to fear the Lord; this psalm may have been the basis for Jesus’ parable regarding the two builders (Matt 7:24-27)

Psalm 128:1-4 NIV

[1] Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. [2] You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. [3] Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. [4] Yes, this will be the blessing for the man who fears the Lord.

Proverbs 31:30 NIV

[30] Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Psalm 34:11 NIV

[11] Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.

Matthew 7:24-27 NIV

** "Repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ" always go hand in hand. You cannot have one without the other. This is the only way that sinners obtain eternal salvation. Both are necessary. Both are vital. Both are gifts of God's grace.

Acts 20:20-21 KJV

[20] And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house, [21] Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

True repentance is "toward God." Paul preached "repentance toward God," because there is a repentance that is not toward God. There is a legal repentance that is no more than a sense of guilt, a dread of God's wrath, and a fear of Hell. But repentance toward God is produced by the goodness of God (Rom 2:4), not the wrath of God. It comes from the revelation of redemption by Christ (Zech 12:10), not from the fear of judgment.

Romans 2:4 NIV

[4] Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?

Zechariah 12:10 NIV

Repentance, in its essence, is a change of heart toward God, as illustrated in the prodigal son (Luke 15:14-20), the publican (Luke 18:13), and David (Psa 51:4).

Luke 18:13 NIV

[13] “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.'

Psalm 51:4 NIV

[4] Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge.

Repentance is the honest acknowledgment and confession of sin to God (1John 1:9). It is an acknowledgment by a person that he has offended God by his sin, that his very heart is enmity against God, and that it is right for God to punish him for his sin (Psa 51:4; Rom 8:7).

1 John 1:9 NIV

[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Romans 8:7-8 NIV

[7] The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. [8] Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

Repentance is sitting in judgment with God against yourself, abhorring yourself by reason of your sin, and pleading for mercy on the basis of pure grace through the merits of Christ alone. Only God Himself can cause a person thus to repent (Acts 5:31; Jer 31:18; Lam 5:21). <F67>

Acts 5:31 NIV

[31] God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins.

Jeremiah 31:18 NIV

[18] “I have surely heard Ephraim's moaning: 'You disciplined me like an unruly calf, and I have been disciplined. Restore me, and I will return, because you are the Lord my God.

Lamentations 5:21 NIV

[21] Restore us to yourself, Lord, that we may return; renew our days as of old

** Value God’s redemption and restoration power from sin, not only in the interim but knowing Satan will face God’s wrath one day <H83>

Psalm 126:1-3 NIV

[1] When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. [2] Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” [3] The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

Psalm 126:4-6 NIV

[4] Restore our fortunes, Lord, like streams in the Negev. [5] Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. [6] Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.

Isaiah 1:26-27 NIV

[26] I will restore your leaders as in days of old, your rulers as at the beginning. Afterward you will be called the City of Righteousness, the Faithful City. ” [27] Zion will be delivered with justice, her penitent ones with righteousness.

Revelation 20:1-2 NIV

[1] And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. [2] He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.

** God allows us to undergo difficulty so we recognize His deliverance; besides applying this to any particular deliverance, we should have in our thoughts the great work of redemption by Jesus Christ by which believers were rescued from Satan <H83>

Psalm 124:1-5 NIV

[1] If the Lord had not been on our side---let Israel say--- [2] if the Lord had not been on our side when people attacked us, [3] they would have swallowed us alive when their anger flared against us; [4] the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us, [5] the raging waters would have swept us away.

** May Israel say — the danger was so great, their helplessness so manifest, and the deliverance was so clearly the work of God, that it was proper to say that if this had not occurred, ruin would have been inevitable and entire <C33>

Psalm 124:6-8 NIV

[6] Praise be to the Lord, who has not let us be torn by their teeth. [7] We have escaped like a bird from the fowler's snare; the snare has been broken, and we have escaped. [8] Our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

** I am bound to speak well of my Physician; He treats me with great tenderness, and bids me in due time to expect a perfect cure. I know too much of Him (though I know but little) to doubt either His skill or His promise.

Though His medicines are all beneficial, they are not all pleasant. Now and then He gives me a pleasant cordial; but I have many severe disorders, in which there is a needs-be for my frequently taking His bitter and unpalatable medicines!

We sometimes see published in the newspapers, acknowledgments of cures received. If I were to publish my own case, that it would run something like this:

"I, John Newton, have long labored under a multitude of grievous disorders:

• a fever of ungoverned passions,

• a cancer of pride,

• a frenzy of wild imaginations,

• a severe lethargy, and

• a deadly stroke!

In this deplorable situation, I suffered many things from many physicians, spent every penny I had — yet only grew worse and worse!

In this condition, Jesus, the Physician of souls, found me when I sought Him not. He undertook my recovery freely, without money and without price — these are His terms with all His patients! My fever is now abated, my senses are restored, my faculties are enlivened! In a word, I am a new man! And from His ability, His promise, and the experience of what He has already done, I have the fullest assurance that He will infallibly and perfectly heal me; and that I shall live forever as a monument of His power and grace!" <N150>

1 Peter 2:24 NIV

[24] “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”

** How I love the book of Romans, especially the 8th chapter. Here the Apostle Paul chronicles the blessings and promises of God.

Many will look at their Christian walk and ponder why things don't seem to work out as they envisioned. They grow discouraged and become listless in their daily walk with God. They wonder if God is really on their side. They fail to take hold of the promises of God, grasping it with both hands and endure what they must suffer in this life. <T201>

It’s at times like these we need to read Romans chapter 8 and remember we are His adopted children!

Romans 8:15 NIV

[15] The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”

John 1:12-13 NIV

[12] Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God--- [13] children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

** Instead of making endless lists of resolutions, may we make a moment-by-moment, day-to-day declaration of dependence on the Holy Spirit who dwells inside of us. When we do that, the life of Christ Himself will flow through us. He will produce the fruit in us. He will do the work through us. Our effort should be relentless reliance on Him that leads to complete obedience to Him!

Does this mean that we never make commitments, resolutions or promises to ourselves? Of course not! But, what it does mean, is that we “put no confidence in the flesh” (Phil 3:3) It means the one resolution we must keep is a constant reminder to ourselves to “be filled with the Spirit” (Eph 5:18) and to allow the life of Christ to flow through us. As we learn to do that, the lists will take care of themselves because Jesus will be living through us and He never breaks His promises! <S189>

Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV

[15] Be very careful, then, how you live---not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil

Galatians 2:20 NIV

[20] I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

** Jesus, to whom I have been led to commit myself, has engaged to save me absolutely and from first to last. He has promised not only that He will not depart from me, but that He will put, keep, and maintain His fear in my heart; so that I shall never finally depart from Him!

And if He does not do this for me, I have no security against my turning apostate! For I am so weak, inconsistent, and sinful; I am so encompassed with deadly snares from the world; and I am so liable to such assaults from the subtlety, vigilance and power of Satan — that, unless I am "kept by the power of God," I am sure I cannot endure to the end!

I do believe that the Lord will keep me while I walk humbly and obediently before Him; but, were this all, it would be cold comfort! For I am prone to wander and need a Shepherd whose watchful eye, compassionate heart, and boundless mercy will pity, pardon, and restore my backslidings! <N150>

Jeremiah 32:40 NIV

[40] I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me.

** Immediately look to God when we encounter difficulty for help and strength; like when Peter started to sink when taking his eyes off Jesus; this often goes against our natural inclination to try to resolve situations on our own

Psalm 121:1-2 NIV

I lift up my eyes to the mountains---where does my help come from? [2] My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Matthew 14:28-31 NIV

[28] “Lord, if it's you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” [29] “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” [31] Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

** The Matt 7 ‘judging passage’ that is part of the Sermon on the Mount reveals HOW to judge others and not WHETHER to judge others; in fact, we are CALLED to judge and discern in order to determine wrong from right, false prophets, etc <K110>

But we must not hypocritically judge others with a prejudiced mind — looking at the outer appearance and not what is at the heart of the matter — for we will be held accountable by the same measure

Jesus was not advocating that Christians should not discern every situation but that we should not be hypocritical, holding others to a higher standard than we are willing to live <M130>

Matthew 7:1-2 NIV

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. [2] For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

Matthew 7:12 NIV

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

John 7:24 NIV

[24] Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.”

** God reiterates the duties of the leader-priests, to teach the people what is clean and unclean

Ezekiel 44:23 NIV

[23] They are to teach my people the difference between the holy and the common and show them how to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.

** The Bible seems to be a new book; and though some may have read it before, there is a beauty about it which they never saw before and which they wonder they have not before perceived <B16>

• The whole face of nature seems to them to be changed and they seem to be in a new world – the hills, and valleys, and streams; the sun, the stars, the groves, the forests seem to be new

• A new beauty is spread over them all; they now see them to be the work of God and His glory is spread over them all

• They now say, "My Father made them all!" — the heavens and the earth are filled with new wonders, and all things seem now to speak forth the praise of God!

1. "He is a new creation"

In the conversion of a sinner a change is produced so great as to make it proper to say that he is a new creation of God — a work of Divine power as decided and as glorious as when God created all things out of nothing!

This change is so deep, so clear, so radical, and so abiding, that it is proper to say that he is a new man. He seeks new purposes, and he lives for new ends:

• New views

• New motives

• New principles

• New objects and plans of life

2. "Old things have passed away". There is a deep and radical change on all these subjects — a change which commences at the new birth, carried on by progressive sanctification, and consummated at death and in Heaven:

• Former prejudices, opinions, habits, attachments passes away

• Supreme love of self passes away

• Love of sin passes away

• Love of the world passes away

• Supreme attachment to their earthly friends rather than God passes away

• Love of sin — their sensuality, pride, vanity, levity, ambition passes away

3. "Behold, all things have become new!". The understanding is consecrated to new objects, the body is employed in new service and the heart forms new attachments:

• Purposes of life

• Feelings of the heart

• Principles of action

All is new! There are:

• New views of God, and of Jesus Christ

• New views of this world, and of the world to come

• New views of truth, and of duty, and

• Everything is seen in a new aspect with new feelings

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

[17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV

[17] Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

** ABC of salvation <F60>

ADMIT you are a sinner: this is where Godly sorrow leads to genuine repentance for sinning against a righteous God

Romans 3:10,23 NIV

[10] As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one; [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

BELIEVE Jesus died for your sin, was buried and rise from the grave: this is trusting who Jesus said He was

Romans 5:8 NIV

[8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

CALL upon the name of the Lord: everyone eventually will so we either do it now or later when it’s too late

Romans 10:9 NIV

[9] If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

** 4S of salvation — the essential message of the gospel can be told via Romans (NT) for Gentiles or Isaiah (OT) for Jews; we need to know the bad news first before hearing the gospel good news <G77>

1. SINNERS: we are all sinners in need of redemption so we can spend eternity with Him in heaven

Romans 3:23 NIV

[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

Isaiah 53:6 NIV

[6] We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

2. SEPARATED: sinners are separated from God

Romans 6:23 NIV

[23] For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Isaiah 59:2 NIV

[2] But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.

3. SUBSTITUTE: Christ died for us while we were still sinners, paying the price

Romans 5:8 NIV

[8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Isaiah 53:5 NIV

[5] But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.

4. SALVATION: we can be saved by believing in Christ as our Redeemer

Romans 10:9 NIV

[9] If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Isaiah 49:6 NIV

[6] he says: “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”

** 4R of becoming a Christian — for those who understand they need saving, they can become a follower of Christ <G77>

1. RECOGNIZE: that you are a sinner and need saving

1 John 1:10 NIV

[10] If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

2. REPENT: we need to express sincere regret for our sin; repentance without demonstration of it is dead

Luke 24:45-47 NIV

[45] Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. [46] He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, [47] and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV

[10] Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

Titus 1:16 NIV

[16] They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.

3. RECEIVE: we receive Jesus as a result

John 1:12 NIV

[12] Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God---

4. RESIDE & ABIDE: in Christ because apart from Him we can do nothing

John 8:31 NIV

[31] To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.

** Recognize God and ASK Him to help you understand what needs to be done to have security after this life then follow His ways; those who are unrepentant will not seek Him unless HE opens their eyes; no one can do this on their own so they need GOD’S help

Ezekiel 36:25-26 NIV

[25] I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. [26] I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

Ezekiel 11:19-20 NIV

[19] I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. [20] Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God.

** God will “carve into you” and accomplish His statutes so you keep His commandments; everything is possible with God!

Ezekiel 36:27 NIV

[27] And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.

** A few minutes of the Spirit's teaching will furnish us with more real, useful and experimental knowledge than toiling through whole folios of commentators and expositors! It will be our wisdom to deal less with the streams and be more close in applying to the fountain-head. The Scripture itself, and the Spirit of God are the best and the only sufficient expositors of Scripture.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, [17] so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

John 16:13 NIV

[13] But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

Whatever men have valuable in their writings — they got it from Scripture; and the Scripture is as open to us as to any of them. There is nothing required but a teachable, humble spirit; and academic learning, as it is commonly called, is not necessary in order for this.

"The secret counsel of the LORD is for those who fear Him, and He reveals His covenant to them" (Ps 25:14) — not notionally, but experimentally. We learn more, and more effectually, by one minute's communication with God through the medium of His written Word, than we could from an assembly of divines, or a library of books!

As a minister, I endeavor to avoid all panaceas, singularities, 'hidden truths' and 'new discoveries' in Scripture. I wish to advance nothing which I cannot maintain upon the authority of the Bible in our English language, which I deem sufficient to make us and our hearers wise unto salvation.

The New Testament is a plain book designed for plain people. The gospel is to be preached to the poor and simple, who are just as capable of receiving it as the educated — and in some sense more so. I therefore lay little stress upon any academic learning which depends upon a knowledge of original Greek and Hebrew languages, or requires a larger degree of capacity and genius to be understood. <N150>

2 Timothy 3:15 NIV

[15] and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

"Unless our souls are living in communion with God, the Scriptures will not yield us their strength and nourishment!" <C395>

** God outlines the tenants of salvation in the Old Testament

Ezekiel 33:14-16 NIV

[14] And if I say to a wicked person, 'You will surely die,' but they then turn away from their sin and do what is just and right--- [15] if they give back what they took in pledge for a loan, return what they have stolen, follow the decrees that give life, and do no evil---that person will surely live; they will not die. [16] None of the sins that person has committed will be remembered against them. They have done what is just and right; they will surely live.

** Demonstrating mercy is one way God reveals His glory; the word mercy in Ex 33:19 means “kindness, compassion and forgiveness” and God will show these qualities to anyone He chooses

God’s freedom is absolute; before God, humans have no rights or privileges which is why understanding the concept of God’s mercy is so crucial to sinners <G72>

Exodus 33:18-20 NIV

[18] Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.” [19] And the Lord said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. [20] But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”

Romans 9:15-18 NIV

[15] For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” [16] It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God's mercy. [17] For Scripture says to Pharaoh: “I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” [18] Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden.

** There is only one requirement to be saved: call on the Lord Jesus — believe in Him, commit your life to Him, repent of your sin and God will save you. Whoever trusts in Jesus Christ by believing in Him shall be saved. There’s nothing complicated about the plan of salvation.

The Bible plainly teaches that we don’t have to do any work to be saved (Eph 2:8–9). Calling on the name of the Lord is not an act that saves us. God’s grace saves us through faith. We can’t earn salvation by any means. The grace of God is the source of our salvation, but it is our faith that makes this possible. We only have to call on God in faith to receive His salvation. From then on, we will call on the name of our Lord and Savior as long as we live (Ps 116:2). <G72>

Acts 2:21 NIV

[21] And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'

Acts 16:31 NIV

[31] They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved---you and your household.”

John 3:16-17 NIV

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

[8] For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith---and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--- [9] not by works, so that no one can boast.

Romans 5:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ

Psalm 116:2 NIV

[2] Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.

** God knows that most Israelites and unbelieving Gentiles will need to go through the Tribulation to come to a point of repentance

Ezekiel 20:39,42-43 NIV

[39] “ 'As for you, people of Israel, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Go and serve your idols, every one of you! But afterward you will surely listen to me and no longer profane my holy name with your gifts and idols. [42] Then you will know that I am the Lord, when I bring you into the land of Israel, the land I had sworn with uplifted hand to give to your ancestors. [43] There you will remember your conduct and all the actions by which you have defiled yourselves, and you will loathe yourselves for all the evil you have done.

** It is necessary to read and obey the Bible, not just to know the will of God. If Scripture is not the practice of our life, it is nothing to us.

Its truths are to be applied. If we read the Beatitudes, we are to compare ourselves with their Divine requirements, and seek to be conformed to them. If we come upon a verse that rebukes any habit or sin of ours, we are immediately to make the needed amendment.

• We are to accept its promises, believe them and then act as believing them.

• We are to allow its comforts to enter our hearts and support us in sorrow.

There is nothing written in the Bible merely for ornament or beauty. Every word is practical! There is no truth in Scripture which has not some bearing upon actual living. When we come to it eager to know how to live, and ready to obey its precepts, we shall find it opening its inmost meaning to us! <M136>

John 14:15 NIV

[15] “If you love me, keep my commands.

John 13:17 NIV

[17] Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

** In salvation, the Holy Spirit operates on the human character to produce a new heart and a new life

By this operation the affections and faculties of the man receive a new impulse, his:

• Dark understanding is illuminated

• Rebellious will is subdued

• Irregular desires are rectified

• Warped judgment is informed

• Vile imagination is chastened

• Sinful inclinations are sanctified, and

• Hopes and fears are directed to their true and adequate end

The whole internal frame and constitution receive a nobler bent, his:

• Intents and purposes of the mind acquire a sublimer aim

• Aspirations gain a loftier flight

• Vacillating desires find a fixed object

• Vagrant purposes attain a settled home

• Disappointed heart has a certain refuge

That heart, no longer the worshiper of the world, now struggles to overcome it. <M137>

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

[17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

** Repentance (admitting and turning from sin) is necessary for those who want to live

Ezekiel 18:21-22 NIV

[21] “But if a wicked person turns away from all the sins they have committed and keeps all my decrees and does what is just and right, that person will surely live; they will not die. [22] None of the offenses they have committed will be remembered against them. Because of the righteous things they have done, they will live.

** Today, with the innumerable number of deluded people around us, our job is to use each and every circumstance to plant a single seed of God's truth, trusting God may someday cause spiritual growth. In every situation God allows us as we live our lives on this planet, we should strive to have a Christ-based response in every answer we give. <P168>

1 Corinthians 3:6 NIV

[6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.

** God’s discipline is to encourage His children to return to more-innocent days; restoration will be by grace, not merit

Ezekiel 16:53-55 NIV

[53] “ 'However, I will restore the fortunes of Sodom and her daughters and of Samaria and her daughters, and your fortunes along with them, [54] so that you may bear your disgrace and be ashamed of all you have done in giving them comfort. [55] And your sisters, Sodom with her daughters and Samaria with her daughters, will return to what they were before; and you and your daughters will return to what you were before.

Ezekiel 16:59-60,63 NIV

[59] “ 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will deal with you as you deserve, because you have despised my oath by breaking the covenant. [60] Yet I will remember the covenant I made with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you. [63] Then, when I make atonement for you for all you have done, you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of your humiliation, declares the Sovereign Lord. ' ”

** Repent and God will remove sin in your life — don’t think you have to get rid of sin before you can approach Him

Ezekiel 14:6 NIV

[6] “Therefore say to the people of Israel, 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Repent! Turn from your idols and renounce all your detestable practices!

** Out of compassion, God saved Israel who had been neglected; God gave her life when she was on the verge of death

Ezekiel 16:5-6 NIV

[5] No one looked on you with pity or had compassion enough to do any of these things for you. Rather, you were thrown out into the open field, for on the day you were born you were despised. [6] “ 'Then I passed by and saw you kicking about in your blood, and as you lay there in your blood I said to you, “Live!”

Ezekiel 16:9-13 NIV

[9] “ 'I bathed you with water and washed the blood from you and put ointments on you. [10] I clothed you with an embroidered dress and put sandals of fine leather on you. I dressed you in fine linen and covered you with costly garments. [11] I adorned you with jewelry: I put bracelets on your arms and a necklace around your neck, [12] and I put a ring on your nose, earrings on your ears and a beautiful crown on your head. [13] So you were adorned with gold and silver; your clothes were of fine linen and costly fabric and embroidered cloth. Your food was honey, olive oil and the finest flour. You became very beautiful and rose to be a queen.

** History repeats itself — the question is whether we are listening to what history is telling us?

Ecclesiastes 1:9-10 NIV

[9] What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. [10] Is there anything of which one can say, “Look! This is something new”? It was here already, long ago; it was here before our time.

** Believers are to actively oppose and prophesy against those who encourage others to trust in anything or anyone other than God

Ezekiel 13:17-18 NIV

[17] “Now, son of man, set your face against the daughters of your people who prophesy out of their own imagination. Prophesy against them [18] and say, 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to the women who sew magic charms on all their wrists and make veils of various lengths for their heads in order to ensnare people. Will you ensnare the lives of my people but preserve your own?

** God will set people free from false prophets

Ezekiel 13:20-21,23 NIV

[20] “ 'Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am against your magic charms with which you ensnare people like birds and I will tear them from your arms; I will set free the people that you ensnare like birds. [21] I will tear off your veils and save my people from your hands, and they will no longer fall prey to your power. Then you will know that I am the Lord. [23] therefore you will no longer see false visions or practice divination. I will save my people from your hands. And then you will know that I am the Lord. ' ”

** At any given time during His stay on this earth, Our Savior could have decided we weren’t worth the effort and could have left us to our own resources. That would have guaranteed that Heaven would be empty of human souls, as no one could ever make an acceptable sin sacrifice to our Heavenly Father.

As it is, even at the creation of this earth, God knew He would have to give us a gift that was far more valuable than all the riches this earth holds. One precious drop of our Savior’s blood sealed our pardon. This is for any and all who will receive and accept His gift, and Jesus shed His perfect blood as a “one-time” sacrifice for all of us.

Hebrews 10:4 NIV

[4] It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

Isaiah 53:5 NIV

[5] But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.

For those pre-Calvary, His blood reached back to cover all the saints that had been faithful and in the will of God. From Calvary forward, it has covered and will cover all those who are in Christ and have a relationship with Him. <H91>

** Christ's sheep hear His voice. Christ speaks to us in His Word as truly as ever He spoke to His disciples in the days of His flesh — and it is the delight of all His people to hear and obey His Word. The inspired volume is to them an inexhaustible source of comfort. They

• read it,

• meditate upon it,

• pray over it,

• esteem it more than their necessary food.

When they open it, they look up to their Divine Master and say, "Speak Lord, for Your servant is listening. Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things out of Your law."

Directions, warnings, precepts, promises — are all acceptable to them. Everything that conveys to them the mind and will of their Good Shepherd, is received with implicit faith and unreserved obedience. Christ's sheep follow His steps. <S179>

John 10:27 NIV

[27] My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.

** As a baby (with all the body parts and capabilities) grows into adulthood physically, so Christians are to grow spiritually and become a reflection of our Father

Our spiritual growth is directly tied (fueled) to being filled with the deep divine knowledge of Christ <M130>

2 Corinthians 4:16 NIV

[16] Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

Colossians 1:9 NIV

** Maturing takes time. Whether we’re learning mathematics, science, how to play a musical instrument, cooking or baking, carpentry, or even how to walk, we must start with the basics, then keep adding knowledge upon knowledge until we achieve a goal. There aren’t many of us who can just pick up a guitar and start playing it, but even with the gifted folks, they too must mature a step at a time.

The same is true with the Christian life, but it’s much more than just about aging. Everything ages. The Lord expects us to mature, to grow up, as His child just as we mature under the tutelage of our earthly parents. As each birthday comes around (aging), we “should” be a little more mature than we were the previous year. That is normally the case in our earthly lives, but how do we stack up in our Christian lives?

Far too many Christians are still spiritual teenagers, and we know that most teenagers already know everything. It’s the parents that are stupid. They’re in their own little world of supreme knowledge that adults just don’t get. Christian teenagers need to continue to develop and work at an adult spiritual attitude toward God and others.

And then there are the Christian babies, those who have just been saved, and those who just choose to remain babies. Those who choose to remain Christian babies are the ones who are always whining about something and interested in only their pet desires.

Please understand, I certainly am not claiming to be fully mature. No folks, I’m still ripening on the vine. We are all growing in spiritual maturity, and none of us will reach full maturity upon this earth. The thing is, regardless of our level of spiritual maturity, the Lord expects us to continue to grow and not become stagnant.

An important aspect is that the Holy Spirit not only lives within us and is our guarantee of salvation, but He is also our teacher and guidance counselor. He wants to work through us to make us more like Christ. There is one very important thing that many Christians don’t consider, though, and that is the Holy Spirit is there to help us mature, but He only uses one textbook, the Bible. How can anyone ever expect to grow in Christ and never crack open the only textbook God has ever provided? The Spirit of God guides us through His Word. Those who think they can “wing it” apart from His Word will remain immature in their spiritual growth. They will always be spiritual teens and babies, never maturing into adulthood. <P160>

2 Corinthians 2:15 NIV

[15] For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.

1 Peter 2:2-3 NIV

[2] Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, [3] now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Ephesians 4:15 NIV

[15] Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.

** Look ahead to see if you will encounter evil and plan how to deal with it with God’s help; if you know you will be personally affected by it, then prepare now with a ‘Plan B’ <H86>

Proverbs 22:3 NIV

[3] The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.

** Followers of Christ can find strength to overcome anything this world throws at us by calling on His Name for help and following His example as outlined in Scripture

Matthew 11:28-29 NIV

[28] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

** How do we know what God expects of our behavior? Study Scripture. Don’t wait for your preacher to do a study on sin. Study what Scripture says and don’t twist it’s meaning to show your chosen sin as acceptable.

The Bereans were commended for searching Scripture to be sure what Paul was preaching was God's truth. By the way, it was Old Testament Scripture which they searched. Ultimately, you will be accountable for your own sin, and ignorance isn’t an excuse. The whole Bible, from Genesis through Revelation, is God’s word. Men held the writing instruments, but they wrote according to the direction of the Holy Spirit.

Put away the self-help books and study God’s Holy Bible. That’s how we know God’s truth. We study what Scripture says, then conform to it, rather than making it conform to us. We can all find sins in our life that need to be corrected. <G73>

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, [17] so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

** Eating the scroll in Ezekiel’s vision was akin to fully digesting what the Lord had to say, so it became part of him and he could emulate it to others

Ezekiel 3:1-3 NIV

[1] And he said to me, “Son of man, eat what is before you, eat this scroll; then go and speak to the people of Israel.” [2] So I opened my mouth, and he gave me the scroll to eat. [3] Then he said to me, “Son of man, eat this scroll I am giving you and fill your stomach with it.” So I ate it, and it tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth.

Ezekiel 3:10 NIV

[10] And he said to me, “Son of man, listen carefully and take to heart all the words I speak to you.

** It is not enough to reply, "I belong to the church; I suppose I am a Christian." Thousands of nominal Christians show none of the signs of being born again which the Scriptures have given us in the First Epistle of John.

A person who has been born again, or regenerated, does not habitually commit sin. He no longer sins with his heart and will and whole inclination. There was probably a time when he did not think about whether his actions were sinful or not, and he did not always feel grieved after doing evil. There was no quarrel between him and sin; they were friends.

But the true Christian…

• hates sin,

• flees from sin,

• fights against sin,

• considers sin his greatest plague,

• resents the burden of sin's presence,

• mourns when he falls under sin's influence, and

• longs to be completely delivered from sin.

1 John 3:9 NIV

[9] No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God.

1 John 5:18 NIV

[18] We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.

Sin no longer pleases him, nor is it even a matter of indifference to him; it has become the horrible thing which he hates. However, he cannot eliminate its presence within him.

If he said that he had no sin, he would be lying, 1 John 1:8. But he can say that he hates sin, and that the great desire of his soul is not to commit sin at all. He cannot prevent bad thoughts from entering his mind, or shortcomings, omissions, and defects from appearing in both his words and his actions. But he can truly say in the sight of God, that these things cause him grief and sorrow, and that his whole nature does not consent to them. What would the apostle say about you? Are you born again? <R170>

James 3:2 NIV

[2] We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.

1 John 3:6-7 NIV

[6] No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him. [7] Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous.

** A godly man is a lover of the Word of God. Christ is the fountain of living water, the Word is the golden pipe through which it runs!

A godly man diligently reads the Word of God. The noble Bereans "searched the Scriptures daily" (Acts 17:11). Apollos was mighty in the Scriptures (Acts 18:24). The Word is the field where the Pearl of Great Price is hidden. How we should dig for this pearl! A godly man's heart is the library to hold the Word of God; it dwells richly in him (Colossians 3:16). By diligent conversing with Scripture, we may carry a Bible in our heads!

A godly man frequently meditates on the Word of God. "Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long." (Psalm 119:97). A pious soul meditates on the truth and holiness of the Word. He not only has a few transient thoughts, but leaves his mind steeping in the Scripture. By meditation, he sucks honey from this sweet flower, and ruminates on holy truths in his mind.

A godly man delights in the Word of God. It is his recreation. Never did a man take such delight in a dish that he loved, as the prophet did in the Word. And indeed, how can a saint choose but take great pleasure in the Word? All of his eternal hopes are contained in it. Does not a son take pleasure in reading his father's will and testament, in which he bequeaths his estate to him? "I delight in your commands because I love them! (Psalm 119:47)

Jeremiah 15:16 NIV

[16] When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.

A godly man hides the Word of God. "Your word have I hidden in my heart" (Psalm 119:11) — as one hides a treasure so that it should not be stolen. The Word is the jewel; the heart is the cabinet where it must be locked up. Many hide the Word in their memory but not in their heart. And why would David enclose the Word in his heart? "That I might be kept from sinning against You." As a man would carry an antidote about him when he comes near an infected place, so a godly man carries the Word in his heart as a spiritual antidote to preserve him from the infection of sin. Why have so many been poisoned with error, others with moral vice — because they have not hidden the Word as a holy antidote in their heart!

Do we love the Word?

• When we need direction, do we consult this sacred oracle?

• When we find corruptions strong, do we make use of this "sword of the Spirit" to hew them down?

• When we are disconsolate, do we go to this bottle of the water of life for comfort?

Then we are lovers of the Word! <W210>

Psalm 119:127 NIV

[127] Because I love your commands more than gold, more than pure gold

Psalm 119:97 NIV

[97] Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.

Psalm 19:7-11 NIV

** A true Bible-based perspective of our future beyond this life in order to understand our journey through it. Without such a Scripture-based forward look to the paradise that awaits us, we often err by making this life our destination and eternity but an afterthought.

For those of us securely in Christ, our future millennial reign with Him provides a context into which we can place personal tragedies and other experiences during our short-lived journey this side of eternity.

The Bible gives a picture of eternity that breathes hope into our lives and brings peace amid the turmoil of this life. As the collision of this world with the seven-year Tribulation looms ever so close, it’s essential that we focus on Jesus’ imminent appearing. <B26>

Revelation 21:4 NIV

[4] 'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

** We cannot recall any word we have spoken. It may be a false word or an unkind word — a word which will blast and burn! Instantly after it has been spoken, we may wish it back and may rush after it and try to stop it, but there is no power in the world that can unsay the hurtful word or blot it out of our life!

It is just so with our acts. A moment after we have done a wicked thing, we may bitterly repent it. We may be willing to give all we have in the world to undo it, to make it as though it never had been. But in vain. A deed done takes its place in the universe as a fact, and never can be recalled.

We should be sure before we speak a word or do an act that it is right, that we shall never desire to have it recalled — for when once we have opened our lips, or lifted our hand, there will be no unsaying or undoing possible.

Our words and deeds are irrevocable. We cannot recall anything we have done, neither can we change it. But by other words and deeds, we may in some measure modify the effect of that which we cannot blot out. Paul could not undo his persecutions of Christians, but by a life to devotion to Christ's cause he could in a sense make reparation for the terrible harm he had done.

Just so, we cannot undo the wrong things we have done--but we should strive to set in motion other influences which may at least compensate in some sense for the harm they have wrought. We cannot unsay the sharp word which wounds our friend's heart--but we can by kindness and loyal devotion, yet bring good and blessing to his life. <M136>

Matthew 12:36 NIV

[36] But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.

** In this demoniac we have a sample of the work of Satan when he gets full control in a man. He destroys every beautiful thing in the life, and leaves only ruin! No chains could bind this demoniac. When sin is on the throne, all other influences and constraints become like spiders' threads in comparison! No chain is strong enough to bind the man who has yielded himself to the sway of the evil one! The love of a godly mother is a strong bond, but many a child tears off this holy chain and rushes into wayward and evil paths! Home ties are strong, but these too are broken asunder by the victim of Satan's ungodly rule.

We see that the demoniac cut and gashed himself with stones. This illustrates what in many ways, Satan's captives do. They may not literally go about cutting their flesh with knives or bruising their bodies with stones; but they do gash and bruise their souls! Sin always wounds the life, and one of its fearful consequences is the self-destruction it works. Every sin one commits leaves an ugly scar! We grieve God by our wrongdoing, and we harm others when we sin against them; but we always injure ourselves — by every evil word we speak, by every wrong act we commit, even by the evil thoughts we think in our hearts. The self-hurt of sin is one of its saddest consequences!

Demons find their pleasure in working mischief, and in ruining lives. Godly men count that day lost, in which they have done no act of kindness to another. Demons count the day lost, in which they have stained no pure soul or led no one into sin!

We ought to tear off Satan's mask and show him as he is! Evil comes to us pretending to be a friend. It holds flowers in its hands and whispers entrancing words, promising rich rewards: "Only do this, and it will bring you pleasure, honor, wealth and joy!" That is the way sin talks. But this is all false. Sin is never a friend to man. It never does good to anyone, but always harm. However plausibly Satan may present his temptations under the guise of pleasure, his secret aim is to destroy the soul he tempts. Nothing gives the Evil One so much pleasure, as to see a fair and beautiful life stained and debauched!

It is most comforting to us, to find that Christ is able to dislodge even the most obdurate and persistent demon! No one could bind this demoniac, nor resist his superhuman strength. But at His word, the foul spirit was compelled to leave the man he had possessed for so long. No human hand can break the chains of sinful habits. No mere resolution can free one from Satan's bondage. Only Christ can set the devil's captives free! Those who have long been trying in vain to reform, to break away from evil practices — see in Christ the Friend who alone can deliver them and save them. No demon-power can resist His command. Only Christ can free the poor slaves of Satan, and save them from his terrible sway!

In the swine, under demoniac possession, rushing down the steep cliff and perishing in the lake — we have another illustration of the end of all Satan's ruinous work. It is with men, as it was here with the swine. It never yet has been known that Satan impelled anyone upward to a better life or to anything noble and lofty; he always drives down sin's steep ways, into choking floods. God's ways leads upward, it is always uphill to Christ and to Heaven. But the devil always drives downward. These poor swine, demon-possessed, rushed down the steep bank, into the lake and perished. Just so do human souls, demon-possessed, rush down sin's precipitous course and perish!

It would be well to keep this dreadful picture in our mind when we are tempted in any way by the devil; for if we follow him, this is the way it will surely end with us! <M136>

Mark 5:2-5 NIV

[2] When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. [3] This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. [4] For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. [5] Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones.

Mark 5:11-13 NIV

[11] A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. [12] The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” [13] He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.

Ephesians 6:11-12 NIV

** Jeremiah understood his strength comes from the Lord, and so he waited patiently

Lamentations 3:24-26,28 NIV

[24] I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” [25] The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; [26] it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. [28] Let him sit alone in silence, for the Lord has laid it on him.

Lamentations 3:55-58 NIV

[55] I called on your name, Lord, from the depths of the pit. [56] You heard my plea: “Do not close your ears to my cry for relief.” [57] You came near when I called you, and you said, “Do not fear.” [58] You, Lord, took up my case; you redeemed my life.

** God continues to give His servants strength to accomplish His tasks; the picture of the Holy Spirit helping Ezekiel to his feet is a beautiful visual to reminder how God understands and will provide exactly what we need! <M130>

Ezekiel 2:1-2 NIV

[1] He said to me, “Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you. ” [2] As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me.

Ezekiel 11:5 NIV

[5] Then the Spirit of the Lord came on me, and he told me to say: “This is what the Lord says: That is what you are saying, you leaders in Israel, but I know what is going through your mind.

Ezekiel 37:1 NIV

[1] The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones.

Numbers 24:2 NIV

[2] When Balaam looked out and saw Israel encamped tribe by tribe, the Spirit of God came on him

Judges 6:34 NIV

[34] Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Gideon, and he blew a trumpet, summoning the Abiezrites to follow him.

Luke 4:16-19 NIV

[16] He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, [17] and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: [18] “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, [19] to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”

** Old Testament prophets were called to be watchmen warning people of their sin and God’s impending wrath; they were specifically held accountable if others died in their sin and the prophets did not warn them

Ezekiel 3:17-19 NIV

[17] “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the people of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. [18] When I say to a wicked person, 'You will surely die, ' and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways in order to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. [19] But if you do warn the wicked person and they do not turn from their wickedness or from their evil ways, they will die for their sin; but you will have saved yourself.

Israel’s spiritual watchmen bore a heavy responsibility before the Lord. If a prophet failed to warn others as God had appointed him to do, his own life was in danger, and he would be held accountable for the people’s sin

Ezekiel 33:2-6 NIV

[2] “Son of man, speak to your people and say to them: 'When I bring the sword against a land, and the people of the land choose one of their men and make him their watchman, [3] and he sees the sword coming against the land and blows the trumpet to warn the people, [4] then if anyone hears the trumpet but does not heed the warning and the sword comes and takes their life, their blood will be on their own head. [5] Since they heard the sound of the trumpet but did not heed the warning, their blood will be on their own head. If they had heeded the warning, they would have saved themselves. [6] But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes someone's life, that person's life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood.'

A watchman who was blind or disobedient to the Lord’s Word left the people he was called to protect open to danger and suffering. Obedience is the only course of action for a true watchman.

Isaiah 56:10 NIV

[10] Israel's watchmen are blind, they all lack knowledge; they are all mute dogs, they cannot bark; they lie around and dream, they love to sleep.

Ezekiel 33:9 NIV

[9] But if you do warn the wicked person to turn from their ways and they do not do so, they will die for their sin, though you yourself will be saved.

The role of spiritual watchman continues in the New Testament in the form of church leaders.

Hebrews 13:17 NIV

[17] Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

In another sense, God calls not just leaders, but all Christians to be watchmen. Jesus told His disciples to “watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mark 14:38). We should be ready and waiting for the Lord’s return. <G72>

Luke 12:35-40 NIV

[35] “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, [36] like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. [37] It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. [38] It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the middle of the night or toward daybreak. [39] But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. [40] You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”

** Sin makes the cup of affliction a bitter cup but we can always find strength in the Lord to overcome; because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed!

Lamentations 3:19-22 NIV

[19] I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. [20] I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. [21] Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: [22] Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.

** All of Christian life is a school. "Learn from Me," said the Master. We are only beginners when we first become Christians and enter Christ's school. We begin at the lowest grade. We do not have to wait until we know a great deal before we begin to attend school. School is not for finished scholars but for the most ignorant. We may come to Christ when we know almost nothing. He is the teacher and all believers are learners.

Matthew 11:29 NIV

[29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

** Stop evaluating people by what is seen at the surface level, as the world does, but rather be concerned about what is on the inside; as the saying goes, “beauty is skin deep”

• The Pharisees in Jesus’ day were in the pursuit of righteousness and wanted to be recognized by their works, but when True Righteousness came to live among them they did not submit to His righteousness and killed Him <S193>

• If we looked at Christ from the world’s view – by what we see and observe – then He would seem a failure

• Paul said Christians are to look at their fellow believer from God’s point of view and recognize they are a new creation

• Regardless of what a believer may be now, one day they will become a living example of the triumph of God’s saving grace <R1795>

2 Corinthians 5:16 NIV

[16] So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.

Matthew 23:25-26 NIV

[25] “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. [26] Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.

Mark 7:15 NIV

[15] Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”

** Common sense is really the imprint of God’s hand on the soundness of our minds. As believers in the one true God, we should be able to discern right from wrong, danger from safety, and behave accordingly. We, as Christians indwelled by the Holy Spirit, should have a thirst for the truth, not for making the truth what we want to believe. Let us have a burning desire for freedom in Truth—Christ, who makes us free. <W212>

2 Timothy 4:3-5 NIV

[3] For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. [4] They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. [5] But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

** Trust in God, not rumors

Jeremiah 51:46 NIV

[46] Do not lose heart or be afraid when rumors are heard in the land; one rumor comes this year, another the next, rumors of violence in the land and of ruler against ruler.

** God, the Creator of all things, is our strength; through Him we can do all things!

Jeremiah 51:19-23 NIV

[19] He who is the Portion of Jacob is not like these, for he is the Maker of all things, including the people of his inheritance---the Lord Almighty is his name. [20] “You are my war club, my weapon for battle---with you I shatter nations, with you I destroy kingdoms, [21] with you I shatter horse and rider, with you I shatter chariot and driver, [22] with you I shatter man and woman, with you I shatter old man and youth, with you I shatter young man and young woman, [23] with you I shatter shepherd and flock, with you I shatter farmer and oxen, with you I shatter governors and officials.

Philippians 4:13 NIV

[13] I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

** Where do people go who do not have the Lord to lean on?

Lamentations 1:16-17 NIV

[16] “This is why I weep and my eyes overflow with tears. No one is near to comfort me, no one to restore my spirit. My children are destitute because the enemy has prevailed.” [17] Zion stretches out her hands, but there is no one to comfort her. The Lord has decreed for Jacob that his neighbors become his foes; Jerusalem has become an unclean thing among them.

Lamentations 1:21a NIV

[21] “People have heard my groaning, but there is no one to comfort me. All my enemies have heard of my distress; they rejoice at what you have done.

Psalm 91:1-3 NIV

[1] Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. [2] I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” [3] Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence.

** God’s help can be seen as a shield that surrounds us

2 Samuel 22:36 NIV

[36] You make your saving help my shield; your help has made me great.

** We are always at school in this world, for God is teaching us the things we need to learn <M136>

People sometimes think that salvation imparts:

• Godly virtues

• Fine qualities of Christian character

• Lovely traits of disposition, and

• Elements of spiritual beauty — without any cost or effort to the believer himself!

Christ's followers are transformed: old things pass away, and all things become new. Those who believe in Him, are fashioned into His image. But these blessings do not come easily. The heavenly graces are not put into our life, as one might hang up lovely pictures on the walls to adorn a home! They must be wrought into our life in a sense, by our own hands. We must work out our own salvation — although it is God who works in us, both to will and to work.

For example, patience is not put into anyone's life, as one brings in a piece of new furniture. You cannot merely receive patience as a gift from God. Patience is a lesson to be learned, through long and watchful self-discipline. Christ is the teacher, but you are the student, and it is the student who must learn the lesson! Not even Christ will learn it for you, to spare you the effort. Nor can it be made an easy lesson for you. It costs to grow patient, and you must pay the price yourself!

The same is true of all the elements of a godly and worthy character. We are always at school in this world. God is teaching us the things we need to learn. The lessons are not easy, sometimes they are very hard! But the hardest lessons are the best, for they bring out in us the finest qualities, if only we learn them well.

Those, therefore, who find themselves in what may seem adverse conditions, compelled to face hardship, endure opposition, and pass through struggle — should quietly accept the responsibility; and, trusting in Christ for guidance and strength, go firmly and courageously forward — conscious that they have now an opportunity to grow strong, and develop in themselves the qualities of worthy and noble character!

Philippians 2:12-13 NIV

** Even though they initially inquired through prayer, the remnant Jews really didn’t want to follow God’s counsel because His answer was not what they desired; they were again warned of God’s wrath if they went against His guidance

Jeremiah 42:19-22 NIV

[19] “Remnant of Judah, the Lord has told you, 'Do not go to Egypt.' Be sure of this: I warn you today [20] that you made a fatal mistake when you sent me to the Lord your God and said, 'Pray to the Lord our God for us; tell us everything he says and we will do it.' [21] I have told you today, but you still have not obeyed the Lord your God in all he sent me to tell you. [22] So now, be sure of this: You will die by the sword, famine and plague in the place where you want to go to settle.”

** Behold the creeping worm, for its:

• Bred in corruption

• Crawls on the ground

• Food is the coarsest fare

But in time, it undergoes its wonderful metamorphosis. The wriggling caterpillar becomes a winged and painted butterfly! And at this change, along with its old skin, it casts off its old habits and instincts.

Now, it has a will as well as wings to fly. Now its:

• Bed is the bosom of a flower

• Food is the honeyed nectar

• Home is the sunny air

• New instincts animate its frame

The change within, corresponds to the change without. It now spurns the ground and — as you may gather from its merry, mazy dance — the creature is happy and delights in the new duties which it is called to perform.

Just so it is in that change which grace works in sinners! Their nature is now so accommodated to their:

• Redeemed state

• Wishes are so fitted to their wants

• Hopes are so fitted to their prospects

• Aspirations are so fitted to their honors,

• Will is so fitted to their work —

that they would be less content to return to their old polluted pleasures — than the beautiful butterfly would desire to be stripped of its silken wings, and condemned to pass its days amid the old, foul garbage, its former food! <G75>

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

[17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

Romans 7:6 NIV

[6] But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.

** Do fathers know how VITAL their role is in the home, especially with the development of their sons?

• Issue: boys need to be affirmed of their physical, emotional, spiritual growth by their fathers

• This requires a Biblical family unit with fathers who have a firm moral foundation & directive from Christ

• Numerous current-day societal agendas are working against this type of support at full throttle, saying we need to discourage boys to become men

• It’s to the point of condoning changing their gender when they have questions!?

• How awesome that we can find direction and confirmation in Christ when our fathers don’t fulfill their duty

Proverbs 4:4 NIV

[4] Then he taught me, and he said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live.

Ephesians 6:4 NIV

[4] Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord

** Zedekiah valued Jeremiah’s connection with God, even though he and his people did not follow God’s ways; Zedekiah asked Jeremiah to pray for them, as many non-Christians will ask of Christians today

Jeremiah 37:2-3 NIV

[2] Neither he nor his attendants nor the people of the land paid any attention to the words the Lord had spoken through Jeremiah the prophet. [3] King Zedekiah, however, sent Jehukal son of Shelemiah with the priest Zephaniah son of Maaseiah to Jeremiah the prophet with this message: “Please pray to the Lord our God for us.”

** The descendants of Jehonadab relayed the instructions they were given by their forefather and obeyed — to live in tents and not drink wine

To keep a low profile with these conditions enabled them to continue in the land where they were strangers; humility and contentment are always the best policy, and men’s surest protection against unlawful pleasures <H83>

Jeremiah 35:3-7 NIV

[3] So I went to get Jaazaniah son of Jeremiah, the son of Habazziniah, and his brothers and all his sons---the whole family of the Rekabites. [4] I brought them into the house of the Lord, into the room of the sons of Hanan son of Igdaliah the man of God. It was next to the room of the officials, which was over that of Maaseiah son of Shallum the doorkeeper. [5] Then I set bowls full of wine and some cups before the Rekabites and said to them, “Drink some wine.” [6] But they replied, “We do not drink wine, because our forefather Jehonadab son of Rekab gave us this command: 'Neither you nor your descendants must ever drink wine. [7] Also you must never build houses, sow seed or plant vineyards; you must never have any of these things, but must always live in tents. Then you will live a long time in the land where you are nomads.'

Jeremiah 35:8-10 NIV

[8] We have obeyed everything our forefather Jehonadab son of Rekab commanded us. Neither we nor our wives nor our sons and daughters have ever drunk wine [9] or built houses to live in or had vineyards, fields or crops. [10] We have lived in tents and have fully obeyed everything our forefather Jehonadab commanded us.

** The Lord used the example of Jehonadab and his obedient descendants as an example of what it looked like to obey, wondering why the Israelites couldn’t follow their example?

Jeremiah 35:12-15 NIV

[12] Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah, saying: [13] “This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Go and tell the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, 'Will you not learn a lesson and obey my words?' declares the Lord. [14] 'Jehonadab son of Rekab ordered his descendants not to drink wine and this command has been kept. To this day they do not drink wine, because they obey their forefather's command. But I have spoken to you again and again, yet you have not obeyed me. [15] Again and again I sent all my servants the prophets to you. They said, “Each of you must turn from your wicked ways and reform your actions; do not follow other gods to serve them. Then you will live in the land I have given to you and your ancestors.” But you have not paid attention or listened to me.

** Our Christian life demonstrated through our faith is a muscle like others in our body that need to be used & tested in order to grow

• We lose muscles we don’t use and the same will happen to our faith if we don’t exercise it

• Put into action your belief in God, that He hears you, loves you, wants what is best for you, is sovereign above all else… and then leave the results to Him

2 Corinthians 1:24 NIV

[24] Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.

1 Thessalonians 1:3 NIV

[3] We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

James 2:22-24 NIV

[22] You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. [23] And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God's friend. [24] You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.

** The patience and goodness of God to this remnant group of ancient people was remarkable; he did not even leave them in their rebellion but continued to communicate through His prophet warning them of the sin that brought disaster on them <C34>

Jeremiah 44:4-5 NIV

[4] Again and again I sent my servants the prophets, who said, 'Do not do this detestable thing that I hate!' [5] But they did not listen or pay attention; they did not turn from their wickedness or stop burning incense to other gods but were in blatant defiance against God

Jeremiah 44:15-17 NIV

[15] Then all the men who knew that their wives were burning incense to other gods, along with all the women who were present---a large assembly---and all the people living in Lower and Upper Egypt, said to Jeremiah, [16] “We will not listen to the message you have spoken to us in the name of the Lord! [17] We will certainly do everything we said we would: We will burn incense to the Queen of Heaven and will pour out drink offerings to her just as we and our ancestors, our kings and our officials did in the towns of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem. At that time we had plenty of food and were well off and suffered no harm.

** God continues to provide the only truth that will set all men free from the bondage of sin; this scares those who want to control our lives so every effort is made to squash God’s truth, just like the Pharisees (Jews) with whom Jesus communicated in His day

John 14:6 NIV

[6] Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 18:37 NIV

True genuine disciples are recognized because they continue in God’s truth — His word; false faith often starts with a selfish motive (such as alleviating fear and guilt, attaining success, getting direction in life, healing, joining a social club, etc) but ends with serious eternal consequences

John 8:31-36 NIV

Matthew 7:24-27 NIV

Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

True genuine faith requires total allegiance to Jesus Christ and persisting through the hard times, obeying God’s commands even though life is tough — perseverance and sanctification in truth <M130>

Luke 12:8-9 NIV

[8] “I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. [9] But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God.

James 2:17 NIV

[17] In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

Luke 14:26-27 NIV

[26] “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters---yes, even their own life---such a person cannot be my disciple. [27] And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

Hebrews 12:14 NIV

[14] Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

** Jesus raised a widow's son from the dead; the crowd was filled with awe and thought Jesus’ primary purpose was to help the Jewish people

• Jesus’ act convinced the onlookers that Christ was a prophet, undoubtedly reminding them of Elijah who performed the same miracle centuries before

• Obviously Jesus is more than a prophet and His touch is still able to make the dead live

• We can experience His life-giving and life-changing power as we trust Him each day <R1795>

Luke 7:14-15 NIV

[14] Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” [15] The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.

Luke 7:16 NIV

[16] They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.”

** In the morning the thief was OUT of Christ:

• far from God and far from righteousness,

• the helpless captive of sin,

• the child of despair and death.

At noon the thief was IN Christ:

• remembered graciously by the Savior of the lost,

• redeemed with an everlasting redemption,

• endowed with the new heart,

• and freely and perfectly justified.

In the evening the thief was WITH Christ:

• gazing on the glories of paradise,

• safe at home with his good Shepherd and adorable Redeemer.

What a crowded and memorable day this was in his history! So much was pressed into these few hours. Such a glorious and unprecedented transition they brought, from the cruel cross — to Heaven's glory! <S182>

Luke 23:42-43 NIV

[42] Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. ” [43] Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

** Those who expect comforts and forgiveness from God must call upon Him; in turn, God may choose to provide and promises to graciously forgive those who committed sin against Him <H83>

Jeremiah 33:6-8 NIV

[6] “ 'Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security. [7] I will bring Judah and Israel back from captivity and will rebuild them as they were before. [8] I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against me.

** God can reveal to us what is deemed ‘unsearchable’, similar to God willingly providing wisdom in time of need when we ASK Him

Jeremiah 33:3 NIV

[3] 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'

Romans 11:33 NIV

[33] Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!

Luke 21:15 NIV

[15] For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.

James 1:5 NIV

[5] If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

** We are apt to forget that the aim of God with us, is…

• not to flood us with tenderness all the time,

• not to keep our path always strewn with flowers,

• not to continually give us everything we want,

• not to save us from all manner of suffering.

No! God's aim with us, is…

• to make something of us,

• to build up strong and noble character in us,

• to mature qualities of grace and beauty in us,

• to make us more like Christ!

To do this, He must ofttimes deny us what we ask for and must seem indifferent to our cries. "Jesus did not answer her a word!"

There are 'sentimental ideas of God' prevalent which are dishonoring to Him. There are those who imagine that God's love means tenderness that cannot cause pain. They think that He cannot look a moment on suffering without relieving it; that He must instantly hear and answer every cry for the removal of trouble.

Not such a God, is the God of the Bible! When suffering is the best thing for us, He is not too sympathetic to let us suffer until the work of suffering is accomplished in us. He is not too kind to be silent to our prayers when it is better that He should be silent for a time to allow…

• faith to grow strong,

• self-confidence to be swept away, and

• the evil in us to be burned out in the furnace of pain!

There is a danger with all of us — our tenderness lacks strength. We cannot tolerate to see people suffer and so we hasten to give relief before the ministry of suffering is accomplished. We think of our mission to others as being only 'to make life easier for them'. We are continually lifting away burdens, which it were better to have left resting longer on our friend's shoulder! We are eager to make life easy for our children when it were better if it had been left hard.

We must learn that God does not deal with us in this 'sentimental' way. He is not too tender to see us suffer, if more suffering is needed to work in us the discipline that will make us like Christ! Here we have the key of many of the 'mysteries of Providence'.

Life is not easy for us — and God does not intend it to be easy!

Suppose for a moment, that God immediately gave us everything we ask for and immediately removed every little pain, trouble, difficulty, and hardness that we seek to have removed. What would be the result on us? How selfish it would make us! We would become weak — unable to endure suffering, to bear trial, to carry burdens, or to struggle. We would be only children always, and would never rise into manly strength. God's over-kindness to us would pamper in us all the worst elements of our nature and would make us only poor drivelling creatures!

On the other hand, however, God's wise and firm treatment of us teaches us the great lessons which make us strong with the strength of Christ Himself.

• He teaches us to yield our own will to Him.

• He develops in us patience, faith, love, hope and peace.

• He trains us to endure hardness, that we may grow heroic, courageous and strong. <M136>

Matthew 15:22-23 NIV

[22] A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.” [23] Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.”

Hebrews 12:6-10 NIV

[6] because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” [7] Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? [8] If you are not disciplined---and everyone undergoes discipline---then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. [9] Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! [10] They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.

** We must be always turning toward the Light, to keep our life true and according to God's commandments.

There are some flowers which always turn toward the sun. There was a little potted rose-bush in a sick-room which I visited. It sat by the window. One day I noticed that the one rose on the bush was looking toward the light. I referred to it, and the sick woman said that her daughter had turned the rose around several times toward the darkness of the room — but that each time the little flower had twisted itself back, until again its face was toward the light. It would not look into the darkness.

The rose taught me a lesson: never to allow myself to look toward any evil, but instantly to turn from it. Not a moment should we permit our eyes to be inclined toward anything sinful. To yield to one moment's sinful act, is to defile the soul. One of the main messages of the Bible is, "Turn from the wrong, the base, the crude, the unworthy, to the right, the pure, the noble, the godlike!" We should not allow even an unholy thought to stay a moment in our mind but should turn from its very first suggestion, with face fully toward Christ, the Holy One. <M136>

Psalm 101:3 NIV

[3] I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.

Philippians 4:8 NIV

[8] Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable---if anything is excellent or praiseworthy---think about such things.

Psalm 119:37 NIV

[37] Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.

** Jesus did not come immediately when He saw the disciples struggling in the boat in the storm; indeed, it was almost morning when He came, and the disciples had been struggling all night in the storm.

Yet He had not been indifferent to them meanwhile. From the mountainside where He was praying, He kept His eye upon them. "He saw that they were in serious trouble." All that dark night, He kept a watch upon that little boat that bore His disciples in the midst of the waves.

There is something very suggestive in the narrative. This 'boat in the storm', is a picture of 'Christ's friends in this world, in the storms of life'. Sometimes we think we are forgotten — but from His place in glory, Christ's eye is always on us! He sees us struggling, battling with the waves, beaten, and distressed. He has full sympathy with us in all our struggles. It ought to be a great strength and comfort to us in trial, to know this. Jesus intercedes for us in our distresses!

It may not be best always to deliver us immediately but His prayer continually ascends, that our faith may not fail in the struggle. This also should encourage us. Then, He always comes in time. He may delay long, but it is never too long. If we call upon Him in trouble, we may be sure that He hears and sees us, and knows just how hard it is for us to endure; that He prays for us that we may not fail, and that He will come at the right time for our deliverance! <M136>

Mark 6:45-48 NIV

[45] Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. [46] After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. [47] Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. [48] He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them

** False prophets continue today with their claims of “having a dream” and speaking words from God that He did not speak; followers of Christ must discern and test every message against God’s Word in Scripture

Jeremiah 23:25-29 NIV

[25] “I have heard what the prophets say who prophesy lies in my name. They say, 'I had a dream! I had a dream!' [26] How long will this continue in the hearts of these lying prophets, who prophesy the delusions of their own minds? [27] They think the dreams they tell one another will make my people forget my name, just as their ancestors forgot my name through Baal worship. [28] Let the prophet who has a dream recount the dream, but let the one who has my word speak it faithfully. For what has straw to do with grain?” declares the Lord. [29] “Is not my word like fire,” declares the Lord, “and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?

** We rely on God’s truth and to speak this truth to set people free, especially in these last days

Psalm 43:3 NIV

[3] Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.

Romans 1:18 NIV

[18] The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness

Ephesians 6:11-14 NIV

[11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. [14] Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place

Zechariah 8:16 NIV

[16] These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts

John 8:32 NIV

[32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

** We can find God and know that He hears us when we earnestly seek Him

Jeremiah 29:12-14 NIV

[12] Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. [13] You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. [14] I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”

** It should be the aim for every believer to acquire the beautiful qualities of Christian character <M136>

Paul told us we ought to have the:

• Same spirit as Jesus

• Same temper and disposition as Jesus

• Same principles as Jesus

The life of Christ must be the pattern of our lives!

We can learn what were the qualities of Christ's life by a study of the Gospels. These precious books not only tell us about Christ, of the facts of His life, the works He did, the words He spoke; they also show us:

• His sympathy

• His kindness

• His helpfulness

• How He lived

• How He interacted with people

• How He bore enmity, unkindness and persecution!

Perhaps we do not think enough of Christ's beauty of character and disposition in forming our conception of Christian life

• It is one thing to profess to be a Christian, and another thing to grow into the loveliness of Christ

• One may be altogether sincere in confessing Christ, and yet be full of faults

• Only a beginner, having everything of Christian duty yet to learn and all the beautiful qualities of Christian character yet to acquire

1 John 2:6 NIV

[6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.

Philippians 2:5 NIV

[5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus

** There is a similar quietness and calm and steadiness as He deals with my soul. So it is when He first saves me. For the most part, there is no stir when Christ revolutionizes my heart. Yet, as quiet and inexplicable as the work is — it is thoroughly done.

• My mind is illuminated

• My conscience convinces me of my sin

• My heart is enlivened

• My will is subdued

• I awake, a new man in a new world of light and love, from which I shall never leave!

In the same way, my practical sanctification progresses gradually, rather than by leaps and bounds. My ascent up the straight and narrow way to the Celestial City is slower and more agonizing than I had dreamed. My day has cold in it, and tempest, and tears — as well as sunshine and warmth.

Yet He is ruling within me as the:

• Teacher of my ignorance

• Finisher of my faith

• Gardener who matures my spiritual life, even if my growth takes time and my lot is troubled <S182>

Mark 4:28 NIV

[28] All by itself the soil produces grain---first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head.

Proverbs 4:18 NIV

[18] The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.

Psalm 37:23-24 NIV

[23] The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; [24] though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

Philippians 1:6 NIV

[6] being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

** Life is a 'school'. All its experiences are 'lessons'. We are all in 'Christ's school' and He is always educating us.

• Disciples are 'learners' and all true Christians are disciples.

• We enter the lowest grade when we begin to be Christians.

• We have everything to learn.

• Each new experience, is a new lesson set for us by the great Teacher.

The business of noble Christian living, is learning. We know nothing when we begin. Learning is not confined to what we get from reading books. All of life is a school. 'Christ's books' are ever being put into our hands, and 'lessons' are set for us continually. <M136>

Philippians 4:11-12 NIV

** Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord

Jeremiah 17:7-8 NIV

[7] “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. [8] They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

Jeremiah 17:14 NIV

[14] Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.

** God will search our hearts for motive and reward us accordingly

Jeremiah 17:9-10 NIV

[9] The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? [10] “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”

** Why does evil exist?

• God ordained evil for His own glory

• God is made infinitely more glorious because evil exists

• We praise Him because of what He has done to overcome evil!

“What was on display at the cross was the righteousness of God, in necessity of pouring out infinite punishment on an infinite Person who therefore had an infinite capacity to absorb all of humanity's sin in 3 hours”

• We would not know God's righteousness and we wouldn't know His mercy if He did not allow sin <M130>

• Doesn't God have the right to demonstrate His wrath as He does any other virtue?

• God puts his righteousness on display by the way He deals with evil.

Romans 3:5 NIV [God demonstrates His righteousness]

[5] But if our unrighteousness brings out God's righteousness more clearly, what shall we say? That God is unjust in bringing his wrath on us? (I am using a human argument.)

Romans 5:8 NIV [God demonstrates His love toward us]

[8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 9:22 NIV [God demonstrates His wrath and mercy]

[22] What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath---prepared for destruction?

** God responded to Jeremiah’s complaint by telling him that if he grew faint in these lesser trials and felt like quitting, what would he do when the battle got harder? <M130>

“Our grief that there should be so much evil is often mixed with peevishness on account of the trials it occasions us” <H83>

Jeremiah 12:5 NIV

[5] “If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses? If you stumble in safe country, how will you manage in the thickets by the Jordan?

** God’s command is simple: follow and obey God and it will go well for you

Jeremiah 7:23 NIV

[23] I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in obedience to all I command you, that it may go well with you.

** Our decisions, whether successful or not, have consequences

Jeremiah 6:12 NIV

[12] Their houses will be turned over to others, together with their fields and their wives, when I stretch out my hand against those who live in the land,” declares the Lord.

Jeremiah 6:17-19 NIV

[17] I appointed watchmen over you and said, 'Listen to the sound of the trumpet!' But you said, 'We will not listen.' [18] Therefore hear, you nations; you who are witnesses, observe what will happen to them. [19] Hear, you earth: I am bringing disaster on this people, the fruit of their schemes, because they have not listened to my words and have rejected my law.

King Josiah had choices before him and Jeremiah stood by his side when encouraging others to turn back to God; the decisions of both Josiah and Jeremiah helped bring the nation back to God

2 Chronicles 34:1-3 NIV

[1] Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. [2] He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left. [3] In the eighth year of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David. In his twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of high places, Asherah poles and idols.

** The Lord will punish, without distinction, all the ungodly and unrighteous Jews and Gentiles; they can avoid this vengeance from God by quitting their idolatries and superstitious practices like the Gentile nations <C34>

Jeremiah 10:10-11 NIV

[10] But the Lord is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King. When he is angry, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath. [11] “Tell them this: 'These gods, who did not make the heavens and the earth, will perish from the earth and from under the heavens.' ”

** The Lord gave the people under King Zedekiah an ‘out’ if they wanted to save their life; they would still be punished, but not with their life

Jeremiah 21:8-9 NIV

[8] “Furthermore, tell the people, 'This is what the Lord says: See, I am setting before you the way of life and the way of death. [9] Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine or plague. But whoever goes out and surrenders to the Babylonians who are besieging you will live; they will escape with their lives.

** We must always turn to God’s word for wisdom and truth in order to obey; finding the Book of the Law under King Josiah was a huge discovery to understand how to follow God

Jeremiah 6:16 NIV

[16] This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls...'

How do we make the right choice? We need the combination of God's word and the Holy Spirit (interpretation, direction and motivation) because we can confuse our own voice with God's voice; the Holy Spirit will help confirm what we hear

God's way may be difficult but it is the only path to peace and rest; consequently, we will not be able to rest if we do not follow God's way

Matthew 11:28-30 NIV

God helps us face difficulties in life when we follow Him but we need to stop and make right choices

2 Chronicles 34:31 NIV

[31] The king stood by his pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord---to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, and to obey the words of the covenant written in this book.

** Beware of false prophets and their “lying pen”as were the priests and prophets in Jeremiah’s day who led Judah into ruin; this is a call for all of God’s followers to be a Berean — to test what is heard against Scripture and treat the Word of God accurately

Jeremiah 8:8-9 NIV

[8] “ 'How can you say, “We are wise, for we have the law of the Lord,” when actually the lying pen of the scribes has handled it falsely? [9] The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the Lord, what kind of wisdom do they have?

** False teachers have no shame; do not be duped but, rather, discern their words against God’s written word

Jeremiah 8:11-12 NIV

[11] They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. “Peace, peace,” they say, when there is no peace. [12] Are they ashamed of their detestable conduct? No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. So they will fall among the fallen; they will be brought down when they are punished, says the Lord.

** God leads His people via His own appointed shepherds

Jeremiah 3:15 NIV

[15] Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.

** Regardless of our guilt when caught in sin and attempts to get clean, we will not succeed unless we repent of our sin and ask God for forgiveness

Jeremiah 2:22 NIV

[22] Although you wash yourself with soap and use an abundance of cleansing powder, the stain of your guilt is still before me,” declares the Sovereign Lord.

Jeremiah 2:26 NIV

[26] “As a thief is disgraced when he is caught, so the people of Israel are disgraced---they, their kings and their officials, their priests and their prophets.

** Appealing to God to withhold His wrath is as simple as recognizing sin in your life and wholeheartedly turning to God to be cleansed of this sin

Jeremiah 4:14 NIV

[14] Jerusalem, wash the evil from your heart and be saved. How long will you harbor wicked thoughts?

Jeremiah 4:18 NIV

[18] “Your own conduct and actions have brought this on you. This is your punishment. How bitter it is! How it pierces to the heart!”

** God pictured His covenant relationship with Israel as a marriage and pleaded with mercy for Judah to repent and return, for He will take her back; God will restore if we will repent!

Jeremiah 3:20,22-23 NIV

[20] But like a woman unfaithful to her husband, so you, Israel, have been unfaithful to me,” declares the Lord. [22] “Return, faithless people; I will cure you of backsliding.” “Yes, we will come to you, for you are the Lord our God. [23] Surely the idolatrous commotion on the hills and mountains is a deception; surely in the Lord our God is the salvation of Israel.

Jeremiah 3:14 NIV

[14] “Return, faithless people,” declares the Lord, “for I am your husband. I will choose you---one from a town and two from a clan---and bring you to Zion.

Jeremiah 3:12-13 NIV

[12] Go, proclaim this message toward the north: “ 'Return, faithless Israel,' declares the Lord, 'I will frown on you no longer, for I am faithful,' declares the Lord, 'I will not be angry forever. [13] Only acknowledge your guilt---you have rebelled against the Lord your God, you have scattered your favors to foreign gods under every spreading tree, and have not obeyed me,' ” declares the Lord.

** Jeremiah complained about his appointment because he did not know how to speak or preach the message but God encouraged him and promised to help

Jeremiah 1:6-8 NIV

[6] “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.” [7] But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, 'I am too young.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. [8] Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.

** Jeremiah was told to be courageous because God would be with him when he was fearful; likewise, God does not give us a spirit of fear when life is not easy but we can move ahead with yet courage and confidence He provides us

Jeremiah 1:8-9 NIV

[8] Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord. [9] Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “I have put my words in your mouth.

** It will help us greatly in our Christian life, if we will train ourselves to the habit of reporting to Christ continually, all that we do and say. We may come every evening to His feet, and tell Him all about the work and the life of our day.

Each day is a miniature life. Each morning we are sent out by our Master, commissioned by Him to do certain tasks, to touch certain lives, to leave certain blessings in the world, to endure certain temptations, to suffer or rejoice, as the case my be. At the close of the day — we come back to make report in our evening prayer, of all that we have done, not only the good and beautiful things including the obedience, the kindnesses, the victories over temptation, the things which have been helpful to others; but also the foolish things, the disobediences, the defeats, the neglects of duty.

If we remember as we go through the day that everything we do or say, and everything we fail to do or say must be reported to our Master, it would make us more careful as the moments pass, of what we do and what we fail to do. We would not do the things which would shame us to look into Christ's face, and tell Him what we did. We would learn to do only what would give us pleasure to report to Him. <M136>

Mark 6:30 NIV

[30] The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught.

** The experience of temptation is universal. Every life must grow up amid unfriendly and opposing influences. Some of them are subtle and insidious, like a pestilence in the air. Some of them fierce and wild, like the blast of storm, or the rush of battle.

The question in life is not how to escape temptation, but how to pass through it so as not to be harmed by it. Christ's way of helping us, is not by keeping us out of the conflicts. This would leave us forever weak, untried, and undisciplined. The price of spiritual attainment and culture, is struggle. Jesus Himself was made perfect through suffering.

All the best things in life, the only things worth obtaining, lie beyond fields of battle--and we can get them only by overcoming. It would be no kindness to us, were God to withdraw us into some sheltered spot whenever there is danger; or if He were to fight our battles for us, thus freeing us from all necessity to struggle.

Yet there is a way of so living in this world, as not to suffer harm in even the fiercest temptations--to pass through them and not be damaged by them. There is even a way of so meeting temptations as to get benefit and blessing from them! "Blessed is the man who endures temptation--for when he has been approved, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to those who love Him."

Rightly meeting and victoriously resisting temptation, puts new fiber into the soul. The Indians say that when a warrior kills a foe--the spirit of the vanquished enemy enters the victor's heart and adds to his own strength. This is true in spiritual warfare. We grow stronger through our struggles and victories! Each lust conquered, each evil subdued--adds to the strength of our soul.

The question, then, is how to meet temptation so as to overcome it, and thus win the blessing there is in it. We must remember, first of all, that we are not able in ourselves successfully to fight our battles. If we think we are, and go forth in our own name and strength, we shall utterly fail. Life is too large, and its struggles and conflicts are too great--for the strongest human, unaided by divine power.

We must settle it once for all--that we can conquer only in the name and by the help of the strong Son of God. We may come off the field more than conquerors--but only through him who loved us. We can pass safely through all the fierce dangers of this world and be kept unspotted amid its sin and foulness--but only if we have with us, Him who is able to keep us from stumbling, and set us before the presence of His glory without blemish in exceeding joy. Self-confidence in our own ability to overcome temptation, is fatal folly!

Men and devils may tempt us, but men and devils cannot force us to yield! Others may seek to influence us, they may plead, entreat and persuade--but they cannot compel us.

We cannot avoid being tempted, but we ought to avoid yielding to temptation. Luther used to say, "We cannot keep the birds from flying over our heads, but we can prevent them from building their nests in our hair!" Just so, we cannot keep temptations away from our ears, nor prevent them whispering their seductive words close to us--but we can hinder them from making their nests in our hearts! <M136>

1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

** A broken heart, a contrite spirit, and a subdued will are rare things, especially in this age in which men everywhere are taught to demand their rights; and the church has become a place where man is exalted and enshrined as though he were God. Self-esteem, self-worth, and self-promotion are the cry of the day. Every man does that which is right in his own eyes. All men by nature are exceedingly proud, selfish people.

Preachers today, knowing man's natural pride, have capitalized upon it. They have developed a flesh-pleasing theology of pride. Our forefathers exalted the dignity, the majesty, and the supremacy of the eternal God. But the smooth-tongued preachers of deceit in our day have set themselves to exalt the dignity, majesty, and supremacy of puny man! It seems that religion today is dedicated not to the honor of God, but to the honor of man. Its purpose is to make man feel good about himself. Therefore we hear little about brokenness of heart, contrition of the soul, and the subduing of man's will.

God will have broken hearts with which to build His kingdom. Sooner or later, the Lord God will bring us to nothingness before His presence. God's people, all of God's people are broken people. <F67>

Isaiah 66:2 NIV

[2] Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.

Psalm 51:17 NIV

[17] My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.

** How can we learn contentment? One step toward contentment is patient submission to unavoidable ills and hardships. No earthly lot is perfect. No mortal ever yet in this world, has found a set of circumstances without some drawback.

There are:

• Trials which we cannot change into blessings

• Burdens which we cannot lay down

• Crosses which we must continue to carry

• Thorns in the flesh which must remain with their rankling pain

When we have such trials, why should we not sweetly accept them as part of God's best way with us? One who accepts with patience, that which he cannot change--has learned one secret of victorious living.

Another part of the lesson is that we can learn to moderate our desires. "Having food and clothing," says Paul again, "let us be content with these." Very much of our discontent arises from envy of those who seem to be more favored than ourselves. Many people lose most of the comfort out of their own lot--in coveting the finer, more luxurious things which some neighbor has. Yet if they knew the whole story of the life they envy for its greater prosperity, they probably would not exchange for it their own lower life with its more humble circumstances. Or if they could make the exchange, it is not likely they would find half so much real happiness in the other position, as they would have enjoyed on their own.

Contentment does not dwell so often in palaces--as in the homes of the humble. The tall peaks rise higher and are more conspicuous--but the winds smite them more fiercely than they do the quiet valleys. And surely, the lot in life which God makes for us, is always the best which could be made for us for the time. He knows better than we do, what our true needs are.

The real cause of our discontent is not in our circumstances; if it were, a change of circumstances might cure it. It is in ourselves, and wherever we go--we shall carry our discontent heart with us. The only cure which will affect anything, must be the curing of the fever of discontent in us.

A fine secret of contentment, lies in finding and extracting all the pleasure we can get from the things we have--the common, everyday things; while we enter upon no mad, vain chase after impossible dreams. In whatever state we are in, we may find therein enough for our needs.

No earthly misfortune can touch the wealth which a Christian holds in the divine promises and hopes. Just in the measure, therefore, in which we learn to live for spiritual and unseen eternal realities--do we find contentment amid earth's trials and losses. If we would live to please God, to build up Christlike character in ourselves, and to lay up treasure in Heaven--we shall not depend for happiness, on the way things go with us here on earth, nor on the measure of temporal goods we have. The earthly desires are crowded out by the higher and spiritual desires. We can do without childhood's toys--when we have manhood's better possessions. We desire the toys of this world less, as we get more of God and Heaven into our hearts.

Paul knew this secret. He cheerfully gave up all that this world had for him. Money had no power over him. He knew how to live in plenty; but he did not fret when poverty came instead. He was content in any trial, because earth meant so little--and Christ meant so much to him. He did not need the things he did not have. He was not made poor by the things he lost. He was not vexed by the sufferings he had to endure--because the sources of his life were in Heaven and could not be touched by earthly experiences of pain or loss.

These are hints of the way we may learn to be content in whatever circumstances. Surely the lesson is worth learning! One year of sweet contentment, amid earth's troublous scenes--is better than a whole lifetime of vexed, restless discontent! The lesson can be learned, too, by anyone who is truly Christ's disciple; for did not the Master say, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you." <M136>

Philippians 4:11-13 NIV

** God is not looking for a temple of stone, since as the Creator of all things, the whole universe is His dwelling place; Stephen cited this passage before the Sanhedrin to point out the limiting of God to a temple made with hands

On the contrary, God is looking for a heart to dwell in, a heart that is tender and broken, not one that is concerned with externalities of religion; God is looking to dwell in the heart of a person who takes His Word seriously <M130>

Isaiah 66:1-2 NIV

[1] This is what the Lord says:

“Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Where is the house you will build for me? Where will my resting place be? [2] Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.

** There is a blessing in weakness because it nourishes dependence on God. When we are strong, or deem ourselves strong, we are really weak because we trust in ourselves and do not seek Divine help.

But when we are consciously weak, knowing ourselves unequal to our duties and struggles, we are strong because then we turn to Christ and get His strength.

Too many people think that their weakness a barrier to their usefulness or make it an excuse for doing little with their life. Instead of this, however, if we give it to Christ — He will transform our weakness into strength. He says that His power is made perfect in weakness, for what is lacking in human strength, He fills and makes up with divine strength. Paul had learned this when he said that he now gloried in his weaknesses because on account of them, the strength of Christ rested upon him. When he was weak, then he was strong — strong with Divine strength.

We need only to make sure of one thing: that we do indeed bring our weakness to Christ and lean on Him in simple faith. This is the vital link in getting the blessing.

Weakness itself is a burden... it is like chains upon our limbs. If we try to carry it alone, we shall only fail. But if we lay it on the strong Son of God and let Him carry us and our burden, going on quietly and firmly in the way of duty, He will make our very weakness a secret source of strength.

He will not take the weakness from us — that is not His promise, but He will so fill us with His own power that we shall be strong — more than conquerors, able to do all things through Christ who strengthens us!

This is the blessed secret of having our burdening weakness, transformed into vital strength. The secret can be found only in Christ. And in Him, it can be found by every humble, trusting disciple. <M136>

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV

[9] But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. [10] That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

** When a penitent sinner recognizes he can’t achieve his own righteousness by works and repents and calls on the mercy of God, the Lord covers him with His own divine righteousness by grace through his faith <M130>

Isaiah 61:10 NIV

[10] I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

Romans 3:19-22 NIV

[19] Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. [20] Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin. [21] But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. [22] This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile,

2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

[21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Philippians 3:8-9 NIV

[8] What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ [9] and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ---the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.

** God is willing to forgive past sin when His children believe in Him then respect and obey His Word

Isaiah 65:16 NIV

[16] Whoever invokes a blessing in the land will do so by the one true God; whoever takes an oath in the land will swear by the one true God. For the past troubles will be forgotten and hidden from my eyes.

** All who have the Spirit are taught by Him. He is called in Scripture, "The Spirit of wisdom and revelation." It was the promise of the Lord Jesus, "He shall teach you all things." "He shall guide you into all truth."

We are all by nature ignorant of spiritual truth. "The natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God — they are foolishness to him." Our eyes are blinded. We neither know God, nor Christ, nor ourselves, nor the world, nor sin, nor Heaven, nor Hell as we ought. We see everything under false colors.

The Spirit alters entirely this state of things. He opens the eyes of our understandings. He illumines us. He calls us out of darkness into marvelous light. He takes away the veil. He shines into our hearts, and makes us see things as they really are!

No wonder that all true Christians are so remarkably agreed upon the essentials of true religion! The reason is, that they have all learned in one school — the school of the Holy Spirit. No wonder that true Christians can understand each other at once, and find common ground of fellowship! They have been taught the same language, by One whose lessons are never forgotten! <R170>

John 16:13 NIV

[13] But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

1 Corinthians 1:18 NIV

[18] For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

John 14:25-26 NIV

** Believers are separated from the world by the effectual working of the Holy Spirit <R170>

The Spirit calls followers of Christ out from the world, and separates them as effectively as if a wall were built between them and it. He puts in believers new hearts, minds, tastes, desires, sorrows, joys, wishes, pleasures and longings. And He gives them new eyes, ears, affections, and opinions.

The Holy Spirit makes believers new creatures who are born again -- and with a new birth they begin a new existence. Mighty indeed is the transforming power of the Spirit!

Romans 1:7 NIV

[7] To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

** Paul tells us that his "thorn" was given to him to keep him humble, and save him from spiritual peril. Without it, he would have been exalted above measure and would have lost his spirituality. We do not know how much of his deep insight into the things of God, and his power in service for his Master, was owed to Paul’s torturing "thorn". It seemed to hinder him, and it caused him incessant suffering but it detained him in the low valley of humility, made him ever conscious of his own weakness and insufficiency, and thus kept him near to Christ whose home is with the humble.

There are few people who do not have some "thorn" rankling in their flesh. Who has not his thorn?

We should never forget that in one sense, our thorn is a "messenger of Satan" who desires to:

• Hurt our life

• Mar our peace

• Spoil the divine beauty in us, and

• Break our communion with Christ

On the other hand, however, Christ Himself has a loving design in our "thorn." He wants it to be a blessing to us. He would have it keep us humble and save us from becoming vain. Or He means it to soften our hearts and make us more gentle. He would have the uncongenial things in our environment to discipline us into heavenly-mindedness, give us greater self-control, and help us to keep our hearts loving and sweet. He would have our pain teach us endurance and patience; and our sorrow and loss teach us faith.

Thus, our thorn may either be a choice blessing to us — or it may do us irreparable harm. <M136>

2 Corinthians 12:7 NIV

[7] or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.

** When we align with Christ we are expected to suffer at the hands of those who do not believe — all for our ultimate good to become more Christlike, the will of God and God’s glory

• Our faith is tested by our suffering while God turns our anxious prayers into comfort

• Maintain a joy-filled perspective in all circumstances and look beyond the temporary suffering to the positive result that ultimately awaits

1 Peter 4:1-2 NIV

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. [2] As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

1 Peter 4:3-5 NIV

For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do---living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. [4] They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. [5] But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

Romans 8:18 NIV

[18] I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

** God, in His mercy, redeemed Israel until they rebelled against Him and He became their enemy; when they changed from their rebellious ways, God again forgave them... and so continues the cycle of God’s mercy

Isaiah 63:8-11a NIV

[8] He said, “Surely they are my people, children who will be true to me”; and so he became their Savior. [9] In all their distress he too was distressed, and the angel of his presence saved them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old. [10] Yet they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit. So he turned and became their enemy and he himself fought against them. [11] Then his people recalled the days of old, the days of Moses and his people---

** The Israelites questioned why God was not responding to their prayers and fasting; God informed them of their half-hearted effort

Fasting involves more than just an outward ritual and mock repentance — it should involve penitence for sin and a resultant humility, disconnecting from sin and oppression of others, feeding the hungry, and acting humanely toward those in need <M130>

Isaiah 58:3-5 NIV

[3] 'Why have we fasted,' they say, 'and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?' “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. [4] Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high. [5] Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?

Isaiah 58:6-7 NIV

[6] “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? [7] Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter---when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

** Genuine fasting enables us to shine like the sun when outwardly responding to God’s Word; in response, He is certain to hear our prayers and guide us as needed!

Isaiah 58:8-11 NIV

[8] Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. [9] Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. “If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, [10] and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. [11] The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

** No weapon forged (previously by a blacksmith) against us will prevail when we have God on our side!

Isaiah 54:17 NIV

[17] no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord.

[God talking to those who plan to go against Israel in the last days]

Ezekiel 38:9-12 NIV

[9] You and all your troops and the many nations with you will go up, advancing like a storm; you will be like a cloud covering the land. [10] “ 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: On that day thoughts will come into your mind and you will devise an evil scheme. [11] You will say, “I will invade a land of unwalled villages; I will attack a peaceful and unsuspecting people---all of them living without walls and without gates and bars. [12] I will plunder and loot and turn my hand against the resettled ruins and the people gathered from the nations, rich in livestock and goods, living at the center of the land. ”

[God’s response to those attacking]

Ezekiel 38:21-23 NIV

[21] I will summon a sword against Gog on all my mountains, declares the Sovereign Lord. Every man's sword will be against his brother. [22] I will execute judgment on him with plague and bloodshed; I will pour down torrents of rain, hailstones and burning sulfur on him and on his troops and on the many nations with him. [23] And so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord. '

** Isaiah prophesied the Lord would send a righteous man to intervene and deliver His people; he would repay wrath on His enemies and retribution on His foes

Isaiah 59:16-18 NIV

[16] He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so his own arm achieved salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him. [17] He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak. [18] According to what they have done, so will he repay wrath to his enemies and retribution to his foes; he will repay the islands their due.

** We are to look to our Creator when pursuing righteousness, for who knows us better than He?

Isaiah 51:1 NIV

[1] “Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness and who seek the Lord: Look to the rock from which you were cut and to the quarry from which you were hewn

Isaiah 51:16 NIV

[16] I have put my words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand---I who set the heavens in place, who laid the foundations of the earth, and who say to Zion, 'You are my people. ' ”

** The business of the prophets was to preach and pray; in this light, God commissioned Isaiah to remind His people of the great things He would do after their return out of captivity — including dawning of righteousness, glory, new name and being a triumphant establishment of Zion by God <S192>

Isaiah 62:2-3,11-12 NIV

[2] The nations will see your vindication, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow. [3] You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord's hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God. [11] The Lord has made proclamation to the ends of the earth: “Say to Daughter Zion, 'See, your Savior comes! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.' ” [12] They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the Lord; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted.

Isaiah 65:15 NIV

[15] You will leave your name for my chosen ones to use in their curses; the Sovereign Lord will put you to death, but to his servants he will give another name.

Jeremiah 33:16 NIV

[16] In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The Lord Our Righteous Savior.'

** Bible knowledge alone, does not make one a godly Christian. One might know all the great facts and doctrines of the Word of God, might be a profound Bible scholar and a wise theologian and yet not be an advanced, or even a growing Christian. We are to learn to 'live Christ' — as well as to know the truths about Christ.

Jesus in His teachings, makes a great deal of obedience, "You are My friends if you do what I command you." John 15:14. We are to learn to be patient, meek, gentle, compassionate. We are to learn to be humble, kind, unselfish, truthful, sincere. We enter Christ's school to be trained in all the qualities which make up the true Christian life. Jesus is not only the teacher — His life is the textbook which we are to study!

We are to look to His life to learn...

• just how to live,

• the kind of character we are to seek to have, and

• the meaning of the lessons which His words set for us.

We are in the school of Christ to be trained in all Christian life and duty. The lessons which the Bible sets for us, we are to live out in common life.

For example, it is not enough to learn from the Beatitudes, that certain qualities are praised by the great Teacher; we are to get the Beatitudes into our own life as quickly and as perfectly as we can. Likewise for all the teachings of Christ, they are not for merely knowing as one learns the fine sayings of favorite literary writers; they are for living! They are to become lamps to our feet and lights to our path, and to be wrought into the web of our character.

We are not to expect perfection in the school of Christ but we have a right to expect an increasing knowledge of spiritual things, and also spiritual growth in all the qualities which belong to Christian character. We should become more patient, more loving, more unselfish — more like Christ! <M136>

1 John 2:6 NIV

[6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.

John 15:14 NIV

[14] You are my friends if you do what I command.

** The furnace of affliction! It is God's meeting place with His people. "I have chosen you," says He, "in the furnace of affliction. I will keep you there, until the purifying process is complete; and if need be, in a 'chariot of fire' I will carry you to heaven!"

Some fires are for destruction, but the furnace of affliction is for purification. He, the Refiner, is sitting by the furnace regulating the flames, tempering the heat; not the least filing of the gold but what is precious to Him! The bush is burning with fire, but He is in the middle of it; a living God in a bush; a living Savior in the furnace!

And has this not been the method of His dealing with His redeemed people in every age.

• First, trial — then blessing.

• First, difficulties — then deliverances.

• First, Egyptian plagues, darkness, brick kilns, the Red Sea, forty years of desert privations — then Canaan!

• First, the burning fiery furnace — then the vision of "one like the Son of God!"

• Or, as with Elijah on Carmel, the answer is first by fire — and then by rain.

• First, the fiery trial — then the gentle descent of the Spirit's influences, coming down like "rain upon the mown grass, and as showers that water the earth."

Believer! be it yours to ask, "Are my trials sanctified?" Are they making me holier, purer, better, more meek, more gentle, more heavenly-minded, more Savior-like? Seek to "glorify God in the fires." <M129>

Isaiah 48:10 NIV

[10] See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.

** Dear Sir,

I received your letter, and dare not say that I am sorry for your fall, nor indeed for any afflictions that God lays on His children; they are tokens of His fatherly love, and needful medicine for us. Rather would I pray that while God keeps you in the furnace--you may be still, and feel your dross and tin being purged away.

The Lord Jesus gives me a dose of this medicine most days; and I am never so well as when I am taking it, though I frequently make a crooked face at it. If your heart is as my heart, it will need many a bitter potion to cleanse and strengthen it! Afflictions have been to me some of my greatest mercies.

No lasting gain do I get, but in a furnace. Comforts of every kind make me either light or lofty, and swell me, though unperceivably, with self-sufficiency. Indeed, so much dross, native and acquired, is found in my heart, that I have constant need of a furnace. Jesus has selected a suitable furnace for me, not a hot and hasty one, which seems likely to harden and consume me--but one with a gentle and lingering heat, which melts my heart gradually, and lets out some of its dross. Though I cannot love the furnace, yet the longer I live, the more I see of its need and its use. A believer seldom walks steadily and brightly, unless he is well-furnaced...

For His sake, I am your servant,

John Berridge, 1761

Isaiah 48:10 NIV

[10] See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.

** An enduring servant must look to God for purpose and strength, while remaining obedient even when provoked to rebel against excessively vile treatment; Jesus fulfilled this prophecy by remaining submissive to the Father’s will <M130>

Isaiah 50:5-7 NIV

[5] The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears; I have not been rebellious, I have not turned away. [6] I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting. [7] Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.

Isaiah 50:9 NIV

[9] It is the Sovereign Lord who helps me. Who will condemn me? They will all wear out like a garment; the moths will eat them up.

Matthew 26:67 NIV

[67] Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him

Matthew 27:26,30-31 NIV

[26] Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. [30] They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. [31] After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.

Mark 14:65 NIV

[65] Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took him and beat him.

Luke 22:63-65 NIV

[63] The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him. [64] They blindfolded him and demanded, “Prophesy! Who hit you?” [65] And they said many other insulting things to him.

John 18:22 NIV

[22] When Jesus said this, one of the officials nearby slapped him in the face. “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” he demanded.

** So sure was He of the Lord God’s help that He resolutely determined to remain unswayed by whatever hardship might await Him; Jesus demonstrated this determination in setting His face to go to Jerusalem to be crucified <M130>

Isaiah 50:7 NIV

[7] Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.

Ezekiel 3:8-9 NIV

[8] But I will make you as unyielding and hardened as they are. [9] I will make your forehead like the hardest stone, harder than flint. Do not be afraid of them or terrified by them, though they are a rebellious people. ”

Luke 9:51 NIV

[51] As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.

** God continues to provide for us to though His Word and involvement in our lives; He desires to teach and direct us in the way we should go; blessings await us when we follow His lead and we are denied His peace when we do not

Isaiah 48:17 NIV

[17] This is what the Lord says---your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.

Isaiah 48:18-19 NIV

[18] If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves of the sea. [19] Your descendants would have been like the sand, your children like its numberless grains; their name would never be blotted out nor destroyed from before me.”

Isaiah 48:22 NIV

[22] “There is no peace,” says the Lord, “for the wicked.”

** We are to look to God and trust in His name; those who do not trust in God but in their own devices will suffer torment in the end

Isaiah 50:10-11 NIV

[10] Who among you fears the Lord and obeys the word of his servant? Let the one who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord and rely on their God. [11] But now, all you who light fires and provide yourselves with flaming torches, go, walk in the light of your fires and of the torches you have set ablaze. This is what you shall receive from my hand: You will lie down in torment.

** The Jewish concept of “peace” is “shalom” (from Hebrew origins) which is vastly different than our normative concept in today’s society

Peace is not just the absence of all conflict but also the presence of everything good; peace is not neutral — we are not to be satisfied with the absence of conflict but we are to actively bring the Gospel message and hope we have

Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we CAN offer hope to others that God will remove their sin and they can also become righteous before Him

If we want to be peacemakers in today’s insane world:

a) keep Gospel convictions because bringing peace is not joining the latest cultural movement or to strive for unity between warring factions — we need to tell God’s truth in love to a hurting world

b) keep having Gospel conversations with those who are not like us in our non-Christian world; we can no longer assume the other person knows the basics of Christianity

c) if we follow the first two steps we can enjoy Gospel reconciliation, for peace can pass understanding with God’s help; we have no hope of living out the beatitudes without God to show us the way and enable us to do so <J104>

Matthew 5:9 NIV

[9] Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Ephesians 4:15 NIV

[15] Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.

** All plenitude is in Christ, to answer all the needs of His people. In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, that out of His fullness I may receive all spiritual blessings!

• Have I destroyed myself by sin?

I have deliverance from Him who is mighty to save from sin and wrath!

• Is my foolish mind darkened; am I a guilty, polluted and ruined wretch?

Jesus is my wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption!

• Is my life fleeting and passing away like a shadow?

Jesus is the Ancient of days, and endures forevermore!

• Are my days short-lived and full of trouble?

Jesus is my life, the length of my days, and the joy of my heart!

• Am I exposed to contempt?

Jesus shall be my crown of glory, and diadem of beauty!

• Am I traveling through the wilderness?

Jesus is my staff, and on Him I lean all the way!

• Am I on my last journey to my long home?

Jesus is my leader, and my rewarder!

• Am I a sheep?

Jesus is my pasture, and my green pasture too!

• Am I hungry and thirsty?

Jesus is my heavenly manna, and gives me to drink of the water of life!

• Am I weary?

Jesus is my rest and refreshing!

• Am I weak?

Jesus is my strength!

• Am I oppressed and wronged?

Jesus is my judge and my avenger!

• Am I reproached?

The reproach of His people, Jesus will wipe away!

• Am I a soldier?

Jesus is my Captain and shield!

• Must I fight in the field of battle?

Jesus is my armor in the day of war!

• Do I sit in darkness?

Jesus is my light!

• Do I have doubts?

Jesus is my counselor!

• Am I ignorant?

Jesus is my wisdom!

• Am I guilty?

Jesus is my justification!

• Am I filthy?

Jesus is my sanctification!

• Am I dead in sin?

Jesus is my life, and quickens those who are dead in trespasses and sins!

• Am I poor?

Jesus is the pearl of great price, and has immeasurable riches!

• Am I blind?

Jesus, and none but He can open the eyes of one born blind!

• Am I naked?

Jesus has white clothing to cover the shame of my nakedness!

• Am I in the very utmost necessity?

Jesus is a very present help in time of trouble!

• Am I exposed to the hurricanes of adversity?

Jesus is a refuge from the storm, a shelter from the blast, rivers of water in a desert, the shadow of a great rock in a weary land!

• Am I afraid of being left alone?

Jesus will never leave me, nor forsake me!

• Do friends and brethren prove false?

Jesus is the friend who sticks closer than a brother!

• Am I in danger from disease and death or from sin and Satan?

My life is hidden with Christ in God! When He shall appear, I shall appear with Him--immortal in my body, and glorious in my soul!

• Is my case considered in the court of Heaven?

There Jesus is my Advocate!

• Do I offend the Father?

Jesus is my Intercessor!

• Do I suffer in my body, and am I grieved in my mind?

Jesus bore my infirmities, and carried my griefs!

• Is my mind disquieted, and my soul debarred from peace?

Jesus is my sympathetic High Priest! He was tempted in all points, and knows how to support those who are tempted!

• Am I poor in my circumstances?

Jesus is the heir of all things! Though He was rich, yet for my sake He became poor--that I through His poverty might be made rich!

• Do I suffer in my character?

Jesus was numbered with transgressors, called a Samaritan, a glutton, a drunkard, and a devil!

• Am I bereaved or alone?

Jesus in the fatal night was left alone; all the disciples forsook Him and fled. Jesus, my only friend, can never die!

• Must I undergo death and be laid in the grave?

Jesus has taken away the sting of death, and robbed the grave of its victory!

• Must I rot in the grave?

Jesus shall be my resurrection, and raise me to immortality and bliss!

• Would I go to God and to glory?

Jesus is my way, and must admit me into the palace of the great King, where I shall abide forever!

In summary, Jesus is my Brother, my Physician, my Prophet, my Priest, my King, my Father, my Head, my Husband. In eternity when I shall dwell in the land of bliss, in the city of God--Jesus will be the light thereof. And since I am to worship there forever, He will be temple of all the redeemed. <M134>

** The prophet Isaiah cannot bear to leave Israel under a ban but proceeded to give God’s endeared “chosen” ultimate hope

Isaiah 44:1-3 NIV

[1] “But now listen, Jacob, my servant, Israel, whom I have chosen. [2] This is what the Lord says---he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid, Jacob, my servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. [3] For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.

Isaiah 44:6 NIV

[6] “This is what the Lord says---Israel's King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.

Isaiah 41:8 NIV

[8] “But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend

** Our integrity and virtue are the result of the divine upholding. We would fall, and blunder and spoil all — if left to ourselves. The Lord should be praised every day, if we are preserved from gross sin. When others sin, they show us what we would do but for the preserving grace of God. <S185>

Isaiah 41:10,13 NIV

[10] So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. [13] For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

Psalm 119:117 NIV

[117] Uphold me, and I will be delivered; I will always have regard for your decrees.

Psalm 94:18 NIV

[18] When I said, “My foot is slipping, ” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me.

** Afflictions tend to purify us. Before some of the vessels of the temple could be used for sacred purposes, they had to be put into the fire.

Just so, before we are prepared for the Master's use, it is needful that we pass through the furnace of affliction.

The human heart, like the soil of the earth, has to be torn up by the ploughshare of tribulation, before it will produce much fruit of holiness. <T204>

Isaiah 48:10 NIV

[10] See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.

Job 23:10 NIV

[10] But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

** The Lord provides for those in need for His glory

Isaiah 41:17-20 NIV

[17] “The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the Lord will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them. [18] I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs. [19] I will put in the desert the cedar and the acacia, the myrtle and the olive. I will set junipers in the wasteland, the fir and the cypress together, [20] so that people may see and know, may consider and understand, that the hand of the Lord has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it.

** Overcoming sin means the realization that people excuse themselves of the consequences of their sin but then blame God at the same time — why weren’t you there for me? — when things go wrong as a result of their freedom of choice

In society, likeminded thinking happens when many like-minded people excuse their actions — called victim mentality — where everyone feels they are deserving of some form of vindication; this falls in line exactly with what Satan also wants — to prove God wrong

God does not promise vindication of sin (thus approving of our selfish egotistical sin solution to our problem) but VICTORY over our circumstances through Him, requiring faith in Him to work all things out <D40>

** God places great importance on fulfilling vows; we are to follow His lead, the One whose promises are true and everlasting

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 NIV

[4] When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. [5] It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.

Proverbs 20:25 NIV

[25] It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one's vows.

Isaiah 38:7 NIV

[7] “This is the Lord's sign to you that the Lord will do what he has promised...”

** God is spirit and all-powerful against the mortal flesh who do evil; God, once again, promised to help Israel if they would turn from their wicked ways

Isaiah 31:2-3 NIV

[2] Yet he too is wise and can bring disaster; he does not take back his words. He will rise up against that wicked nation, against those who help evildoers. [3] But the Egyptians are mere mortals and not God; their horses are flesh and not spirit. When the Lord stretches out his hand, those who help will stumble, those who are helped will fall; all will perish together.

Isaiah 31:7-9 NIV

[7] For in that day every one of you will reject the idols of silver and gold your sinful hands have made. [8] “Assyria will fall by no human sword; a sword, not of mortals, will devour them. They will flee before the sword and their young men will be put to forced labor. [9] Their stronghold will fall because of terror; at the sight of the battle standard their commanders will panic, ” declares the Lord, whose fire is in Zion, whose furnace is in Jerusalem.

Isaiah 31:5-6 NIV

[5] Like birds hovering overhead, the Lord Almighty will shield Jerusalem; he will shield it and deliver it, he will 'pass over' it and will rescue it.” [6] Return, you Israelites, to the One you have so greatly revolted against.

Hosea 11:9 NIV

[9] I will not carry out my fierce anger, nor will I devastate Ephraim again. For I am God, and not a man---the Holy One among you. I will not come against their cities.

Amos 5:4 NIV

[4] This is what the Lord says to Israel: “Seek me and live;

Isaiah 10:17 NIV

[17] The Light of Israel will become a fire, their Holy One a flame; in a single day it will burn and consume his thorns and his briers.

Ezekiel 29:16 NIV

[16] Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for the people of Israel but will be a reminder of their sin in turning to her for help. Then they will know that I am the Sovereign Lord' ”

Jeremiah 37:7 NIV

[7] “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of me, 'Pharaoh's army, which has marched out to support you, will go back to its own land, to Egypt.

** Isaiah again conveys warnings to those who think they have the upper hand; the Lord will respond and save Zion in His good time; His people are to continue to seek Him every morning in the meantime

Isaiah 33:1 NIV

[1] Woe to you, destroyer,

you who have not been destroyed! Woe to you, betrayer, you who have not been betrayed! When you stop destroying, you will be destroyed; when you stop betraying, you will be betrayed.

Isaiah 33:2 NIV

[2] Lord, be gracious to us; we long for you. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of distress.

Isaiah 33:20-22 NIV

[20] Look on Zion, the city of our festivals; your eyes will see Jerusalem, a peaceful abode, a tent that will not be moved; its stakes will never be pulled up, nor any of its ropes broken. [21] There the Lord will be our Mighty One. It will be like a place of broad rivers and streams. No galley with oars will ride them, no mighty ship will sail them. [22] For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; it is he who will save us.

** Followers of Christ can always turn to Him in hope and in our human frailty, for God will sustain us!

Isaiah 40:29-31 NIV

** Even during times of adversity, God can reveal His ways and teach us the way to go; Isaiah confirms that God WILL lead us as a “voice behind you” instructing us when to turn to the left and right!

Isaiah 30:20-21 NIV

[20] Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. [21] Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

Psalm 25:8-9 NIV

[8] Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. [9] He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.

Proverbs 3:5-7 NIV

[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. [7] Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.

Isaiah 42:16 NIV

Isaiah 48:17-18 NIV

[17] This is what the Lord says---your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. [18] If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves of the sea.

** Do not many of you read the Bible in a very hurried way — just a little bit, and off you go! Do you not soon forget what you have read, and lose what little effect it seemed to have?

How few of you are resolved to get at its soul, its juice, its life, its essence, and to drink in its meaning. Well, if you do not do that then your reading is miserable reading, dead reading, unprofitable reading; it is not reading at all, the name would be misapplied. May the blessed Spirit give you repentance concerning this thing.

Meditation and careful thought, exercise us and strengthen the soul for the reception of the yet more lofty truths.

We must meditate, brethren. These grapes will yield no wine until we tread upon them. These olives must be put under the wheel, and pressed again and again so the oil may flow therefrom. <S185>

Psalm 1:2 NIV

[2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.

Joshua 1:8 NIV

[8] Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

** Liberty and freedom cannot be accomplished via human efforts alone — we need to seek God to bring it about and rely on the power of His Word to direct us, otherwise we get entangled and stumble

• If any Christian turns to legalism, represented here by circumcision, and struggles to live a good life by self-effort, his union with Jesus will be of no value

• In essence, Paul is saying that Christians who rely on self-effort being guided by the Law, ‘turns off’ Christ who lives within

• Those who do not rely on Jesus get nothing accomplished! <R1795>

Galatians 5:1 NIV

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

• God wants us to live in freedom

• Don't let Satan steal this joy from you

• Do you notice that those who hate freedom most often hate God? <K110>

Galatians 5:7-8 NIV

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? [8] That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you.

** There will be no injustice in God’s kingdom, for men will see God’s truth with eyes that see and ears that hear

Isaiah 32:3-5 NIV

[3] Then the eyes of those who see will no longer be closed, and the ears of those who hear will listen. [4] The fearful heart will know and understand, and the stammering tongue will be fluent and clear. [5] No longer will the fool be called noble nor the scoundrel be highly respected.

Isaiah 29:17-19 NIV

[17] In a very short time, will not Lebanon be turned into a fertile field and the fertile field seem like a forest? [18] In that day the deaf will hear the words of the scroll, and out of gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind will see. [19] Once more the humble will rejoice in the Lord; the needy will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

Isaiah 35:5 NIV

[5] Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.

Isaiah 42:14,16 NIV

[14] “For a long time I have kept silent, I have been quiet and held myself back. But now, like a woman in childbirth, I cry out, I gasp and pant. [16] I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.

** The Bible is a book which calls not so much for the exertion of our intellect, as it does for the exercise of our affections, conscience and will.

God has given His Word to us not for our entertainment, but for our education to make known what He requires from us. It is to be the traveler's guide as he journeys through the maze of this world, and the mariner's chart as he sails the sea of life.

Therefore, whenever we open the Bible, the all-important consideration for each of us to keep before him is asking:

• What is here for me today?

• What bearing does the passage now before me have upon my present case and circumstances – what warning, what encouragement, what information?

Ask what instruction there is to:

• Direct me in the management of my business?

• Guide me in the ordering of my domestic and social affairs?

• Promote a closer walking with God?

We should see ourselves addressed in every precept and included in every promise. But it is greatly to be feared that, through failure to appropriate God's Word unto our own case and circumstances, there is much Bible reading and study which is of little or no real benefit to the soul.

Nothing else will:

• Secure us from the pollutions of this world

• Deliver from the temptations of Satan

• Be so effectual a preservative from sin – as the Word of God received into our affections

Psalm 37:31 NIV

[31] The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.

We are kept from falling into open sin as long as the Word is:

• Actually working in us

• Influencing us in a practical way

• Loved and revered by us

• Stirring the conscience

It can only be said of the one who has made personal appropriation of the Word, and is able to say they have hidden God’s Word in their heart. And only for those who personally go out and daily gather their portion of manna, and feed upon the same, will there be strength provided for the performing of duty and the bringing forth of fruit to the glory of God. <P161>

Psalm 119:11 NIV

[11] I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

** God's Book is a book of wonders! It is a wonderful record of:

• God's power in creation

• His wisdom in providence, and

• His grace in redemption

It has the stamp of infinity upon it. We cannot penetrate its heights, fathom its depths, or traverse its lengths and breadths unless we are taught of God. The Holy Spirit, who composed it and inspired holy men to write it, must unfold and reveal it to our minds, or we shall never:

• See its glory

• Be impressed with its majesty

• Rejoice in its divine truths

Never let us read any portion of God's Word without looking up for divine teaching. Never let us imagine that we know all that is contained in any one verse of God's blessed Book — for there is a fullness in the holy Scriptures not to be found anywhere else.

O may we be given grace to:

• Understand the sublime doctrines

• Believe the precious promises, and

• Practice the holy precepts of His blessed Word!

Lord, may we hide the Word in our hearts, that we may not sin against You. O that we would:

• Catch the meaning

• Taste the sweetness

• Feel the power

of Your holy truth! O Lord, open our eyes, and unfold the truth to us this night! O Lord, soften our hearts, and bring home Your Word with power! <S183>

Psalm 119:18 NIV

[18] Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.

Luke 24:45 NIV

[45] Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.

Job 36:22 NIV

[22] “God is exalted in his power. Who is a teacher like him?

** Jesus was resurrected on the third day after Passover, on Sunday, the 17th day of Nisan, in the year AD 33. This monumental event is referred to as Resurrection Sunday.

1 Corinthians 15:20 NIV

[20] But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

Matthew 27:52-53 NIV

[52] and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. [53] They came out of the tombs after Jesus' resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people.

Jesus also resurrected others from death during this time. Although there have been several resurrections of dead people before Jesus, they all died again. Jesus is the only one that has been raised from the dead and is living now in heaven with a resurrected body that is made for eternity. He is the first of his kind in this regard with many more to follow Him in the near future.

By resurrecting many of the Old Testament saints on this Feast of Firstfruits, Christ proved that His power over death was not limited to Himself alone. Many ancient Christian writers refer to this miraculous resurrection of the dead. This event, together with more than five hundred eyewitnesses to the risen Christ, assisted in the rapid spread of the Christian faith… as per 1 Corinthians 15:4-6. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Feast of Firstfruits. <N154>

1 Corinthians 15:4-6 NIV

[4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, [5] and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. [6] After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.

** The Feast of Pentecost is very significant to Christians as well as to Jews. Pentecost celebrated the beginning of the wheat grain harvest, during the early summer months. But of course, what Pentecost is most remembered for is the giving of the Holy Spirit to Jesus’ disciples. Precisely 50 days after the Feast of Firstfruits, 120 of His disciples gathered together in one place to await the promise of Christ.

Acts 1:8 NIV

[8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

On the 7th day of Sivan on the Hebrew calendar, in A.D.33, the Holy Spirit manifested Himself, and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.

‘Those ordinary people, His disciples, were transformed on that day into men of extraordinary spiritual power who would challenge their world of abject paganism with a dynamic Christian movement that not even the might of Rome could stop.

John 14:26 NIV

[26] But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

Within a few days, over three thousand Jews became believers. Reliable reports suggest that despite horrible persecutions, tortures, and massive executions, within 70 years over 10 million believers had joined the underground Christian Church throughout the Roman Empire. Jesus fulfilled his prophecy to his disciples, and God baptized them with his Holy Spirit. The feast of Pentecost began the Dispensation of Grace, and the Church was born. It consisted of Jewish and Gentile believers in Jesus as the Son of God and the Savior of mankind.’ {Randy Nettles)

** The best way to fight Satan (who can only try to trick and mislead us) is to trust in God and follow His Word; all aspects of the armor of God rely on God’s Word that opposes the values of the Babylonian system and counteracts Satan’s agenda, for the truth in God’s Word offsets the lies coming from Satan!

The Babylonians wanted unity at all costs WITHOUT the truth which is the mantra today; valuing individual accomplishment/ability is replaced by unity and opportunity of outcome where everyone receives the same; this in anti-Scriptural where Jesus talks about different individual abilities and outcomes via the parable of the minas

Followers of Christ don’t need to buy into the peace and security advocated by the world (such WEF, WHO, UN etc) — we have genuine peace through Christ our Lord! <H86>

Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. [14] Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, [15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. [16] In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. [17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Genesis 11:4 NIV

[4] Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole earth.”

Luke 19:12-22 NIV

[12] He said: “A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. [13] So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. 'Put this money to work,' he said, 'until I come back.' [14] “But his subjects hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, 'We don't want this man to be our king.' [15] “He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. [16] “The first one came and said, 'Sir, your mina has earned ten more.' [17] “ 'Well done, my good servant!' his master replied. 'Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.' [18] “The second came and said, 'Sir, your mina has earned five more.' [19] “His master answered, 'You take charge of five cities.' [20] “Then another servant came and said, 'Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. [21] I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.' [22] “His master replied, 'I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow?

** It is through FAITH that God can save us by grace

Ephesians 2:8 NIV

[8] For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith---and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God---

** How does God promise to teach and to guide? Not in the way that we would like to go —not in the way of our own choosing — but "the way which you shall go." Often we would decide on pursuing the sunny highway. But God says, 'the rough mountain-track is best for you!' Often we would, like Israel, take the near and smooth road to Canaan. But God's pillar-cloud decides otherwise, and takes us by a circuitous route "by the way of the wilderness." Often we would prefer, like the disciples at sea of Tiberias, the safe path by the seashore, so as to avoid the gathering storm, "for the wind is contrary." But God says, "No!" He constrains us to get into the boat!

The gardener has occasionally to subject his plants to apparently rough treatment — cutting, lopping, mutilating; reducing them to unsightly shapes — before they burst into flower. Summer, however, before long, vindicates the wisdom of his treatment, in its clusters of varied fragrance and beauty. So also, at times, does our heavenly Gardener see fit to use His pruning-knife! But be assured that there is not one superfluous or redundant lopping. We shall understand and acknowledge an infinitely wise necessity for all, when the plant has unfolded itself into the full flower, bathed in the tints and diffusing the fragrance of Heaven. <M129>

Psalm 32:8 NIV

[8] I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.

** The Moabites would have had recourse from destruction if they would give up their idols; men in trouble seldom go to God in earnest prayer but rather depend on public displays of grief

Isaiah 15:3 NIV

[3] In the streets they wear sackcloth; on the roofs and in the public squares they all wail, prostrate with weeping.

** SIN is the origin of death. "By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for all have sinned."

Sin locks earth's offspring in its foul embrace, and so consigns them to the arms of death.

Sin changed fair Eden into a wilderness of thorns, and blackened angels into fiends of Hell!

Never give truce to such a foe. Cry for the Spirit's help to drive it from each corner of your heart.

Unless you slay it, it will be your ruin.

Nail it to the Savior's cross!

It will fight hard, and struggle long; but cease not the encounter. Take courage. Play the man. The believer can do all things through Christ who strengthens him. Grace will expand, while, thus abhorring sin, you steel your heart in earnest opposition. <L121>

** Christ followers are to emulate our Savior who became a slave [servant] to God, even to the point of death

Philippians 2:6-8 NIV

[6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; [7] rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death---even death on a cross!

** Do not quarrel over words, for Satan can influence Christians to do his dirty work — to steal, kill and destroy — robbing the Church of our joy, stealing our strength and killing our witness/integrity; cling to Christ who provides us with abundant life!

2 Timothy 2:14 NIV

Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.

2 Timothy 2:16-18 NIV

Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. [17] Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, [18] who have departed from the truth. They say that the resurrection has already taken place, and they destroy the faith of some.

2 Timothy 2:23-24 NIV

Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. [24] And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.

2 Timothy 2:25-26 NIV

Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, [26] and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

John 10:10 NIV

[10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

John 13:34-35 NIV

[34] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

** God offers to be part of our life and reward us when we ACT and invite Him to do so

Revelation 3:20-21 NIV

[20] Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. [21] To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.

** Isaiah chapter 12 outlines lyrics to a song about God making level the hilly terrain, or leveling mountainous difficult terrain to easily navigable flat plains that gives us hope when wanting relief from our problems

Isaiah 12:1 NIV

[1] In that day you will say: “I will praise you, Lord. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me.

** Their world, in effect, changed overnight. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were Jews who had been ripped away from their family and friends and carried away captive to Babylon. And they found themselves in an environment that was hostile to their faith.

It is not unlike many Christians today, whether they’re students in a hostile environment on a college campus or employees in a workplace where people have no interest in the things of God.

King Nebuchadnezzar wanted the brightest and best of Israel to school in the ways of Babylon and use to influence other Jews. He basically wanted to turn these young Hebrew men into Babylonian men who knew the ways of the Babylonian world.

In some ways, it was a great honor that the king summoned them to the palace. But in another way, they were exposed to great temptation. Yet in Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we see young men who were resolute. They wouldn’t compromise and eat from the king’s table.

We don’t know exactly why they refused, but it was a big enough reason to make a stand. And there was a real intimidation factor to take this stand with Nebuchadnezzar because he was a cruel and powerful man.

Yet the Bible tells us that “Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank” (Daniel 1:8 NKJV). Daniel didn’t want to do anything that could hinder his fellowship with God.

Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood their ground in a seemingly small area, which I believe enabled them to stand their ground in a much larger area later in their lives.

We all have temptations to compromise. That’s why, like Daniel, we need purpose and resolution because if we compromise now, we’ll regret it later. <L120>

Daniel 1:8 NIV

[8] But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.

** This chapter in Isaiah clearly outlines reason for God’s wrath and a Hope (way out) for His people at the same time

Isaiah 9:11-12 NIV

[11] But the Lord has strengthened Rezin's foes against [Israel] and has spurred their enemies on. [12] Arameans from the east and Philistines from the west have devoured Israel with open mouth. Yet for all this, his anger is not turned away, his hand is still upraised.

Isaiah 9:19-20 NIV

[19] By the wrath of the Lord Almighty the land will be scorched and the people will be fuel for the fire; they will not spare one another. [20] On the right they will devour, but still be hungry; on the left they will eat, but not be satisfied. Each will feed on the flesh of their own offspring :

Isaiah 9:1-2 NIV

[1] Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan--- [2] The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.

** Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, our Kinsman Redeemer who saves us from sin when we recognize this gift

John 4:42 NIV

[42] They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”

Job 19:25 NIV

[25] I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth.

Acts 4:11-12 NIV

[11] Jesus is “ 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.' [12] Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

Romans 10:9-11 NIV

Luke 19:9-10 NIV

[9] Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

John 1:29 NIV

[29] The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

** Trust in God, not man who only lasts as long as he has breath

Isaiah 2:22 NIV

[22] Stop trusting in mere humans, who have but a breath in their nostrils. Why hold them in esteem?

** More than any other book in the Old Testament, Isaiah focuses on the salvation that will come through the Messiah. The Messiah will one day rule in justice and righteousness (Isaiah 9:7; 32:1). The reign of the Messiah will bring peace and safety to Israel (Isaiah 11:6-9). Through the Messiah, Israel will be a light to all the nations (Isaiah 42:6; 55:4-5). The Messiah’s kingdom on earth (Isaiah chapters 65-66) is the goal toward which all of the book of Isaiah points. It is during the reign of the Messiah that God’s righteousness will be fully revealed to the world.

In a seeming paradox, the book of Isaiah also presents the Messiah as one who will suffer. Isaiah chapter 53 vividly describes the Messiah suffering for sin. It is through His wounds that healing is achieved. It is through His suffering that our iniquities are taken away. This apparent contradiction is solved in the Person of Jesus Christ. In His first advent, Jesus was the suffering servant of Isaiah chapter 53. In His second advent, Jesus will be the conquering and ruling King, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

** Our integrity and virtue are the result of the divine upholding. We would fall, and blunder and spoil all if left to ourselves. The Lord should be praised every day, if we are preserved from gross sin. When others sin, they show us what we would do but for preserving grace. <S185>

Psalm 119:117 NIV

[117] Uphold me, and I will be delivered; I will always have regard for your decrees.

Psalm 94:18 NIV

[18] When I said, “My foot is slipping, ” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me.

Isaiah 41:10 NIV

[10] So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Psalm 119:154,156 NIV

[154] Defend my cause and redeem me; preserve my life according to your promise. [156] Your compassion, Lord, is great; preserve my life according to your laws.

** God’s word will help us in difficult situations and steer us in the right direction

Psalm 119:28-29 NIV

[28] My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word. [29] Keep me from deceitful ways; be gracious to me and teach me your law.

Psalm 119:50 NIV

[50] My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.

Psalm 119:67 NIV

[67] Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word.

Psalm 119:133-134 NIV

[133] Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. [134] Redeem me from human oppression, that I may obey your precepts.

Psalm 119:173,176 NIV

[173] May your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts. [176] I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands.

** Part of the armor of God is the belt of truth which is referenced in Isaiah

Isaiah 11:5 NIV

[5] Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist; truth is based on the Word of God and presupposes that the Christian KNOW and APPLY His word

The belt is bound around the waist for 3 reasons:

a) gives you freedom because the truth sets you free

b) truth is both an offensive and defensive weapon

c) displays things outwardly just like the truth should be made public; truth must be spoken and not silenced <H86>

Ephesians 6:10-14 NIV

** He who has an inward delight in anything will not stop thinking about it for very long. Just as the miser returns often to look on his treasure, so the devout believer, by frequent meditation, turns over the priceless wealth that He has discovered in the Book of the Lord. No spiritual exercise is more profitable to the soul than that of devout meditation! <S185>

Psalm 119:14-16 NIV

[14] I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. [15] I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. [16] I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.

Psalm 119:20,23-24 NIV

[20] My soul is consumed with longing for your laws at all times. [23] Though rulers sit together and slander me, your servant will meditate on your decrees. [24] Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors.

Psalm 1:2 NIV

[2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.

Joshua 1:8 NIV

[8] Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

Psalm 119:138 NIV

[138] The statutes you have laid down are righteous; they are fully trustworthy.

** The habit of laying up a text of Scripture in the morning, to be meditated upon while engaged in the business of this world through the day, is both profitable and delightful. It is as a refreshing draught to a weary traveler!

Nothing is more helpful and practical in Christian living, than the habit of getting a verse or phrase of Scripture into the mind and heart in the morning. Its influence stays through the day, weaving itself into all the day's thoughts and words and experiences.

Every verse in the Bible is meant to help us to live, and a good devotional book opens up the precious teachings which are folded up in its words.

A devotional book which takes a Scripture text, and so opens it for us in the morning, that all day long it helps us to live, becoming a true lamp to our feet, and a staff to lean upon when the way is rough--is the very best devotional help we can possibly have. What we need in a devotional book which will bless our lives, is the application of the great teachings of Scripture to common, daily, practical life. <M136>

Psalm 119:15 NIV

[15] I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways.

Psalm 119:20,23-24 NIV

** God gave us His Word and commands for us to obey; we will experience His blessings when we obey and also lead exemplary lives

Psalm 119:4 NIV

[4] You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed.

Psalm 119:2-3 NIV

[2] Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart--- [3] they do no wrong but follow his ways.

Psalm 119:9 NIV

[9] How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.

Psalm 119:40 NIV

[40] How I long for your precepts! In your righteousness preserve my life.

** David asked how he can repay the Lord for His goodness expressed to him; we should ask the same and fulfill our vows to the Lord as we call on Him and serve Him

Psalm 116:12-14 NIV

[12] What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me? [13] I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. [14] I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.

Psalm 116:17-19 NIV

[17] I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the Lord. [18] I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people, [19] in the courts of the house of the Lord---in your midst, Jerusalem. Praise the Lord.

Psalm 116:15-16 NIV

[15] Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. [16] Truly I am your servant, Lord; I serve you just as my mother did; you have freed me from my chains.

** What a gracious stoop of love! He frequently lifts the lowest of mankind out of their poverty and degradation, and adopts them into His family.

His gracious Spirit is continually visiting the down-trodden, giving beauty for ashes to those who are cast down, and elevating the hearts of His mourners until they shout for joy.

These upliftings of grace are here ascribed directly to the divine hand, and truly those who have experienced them will not doubt the fact that it is the Lord alone who brings His people up from the dust of sorrow and death. When no hand but His can help, He interposes and the work is done.

"And lifts the needy from the dunghill" whereon they lay like worthless refuse, cast off and cast out--left as they thought, to rot into destruction, and to be everlastingly forgotten.

How great a stoop from the height of His throne, to a dunghill! How wonderful is that power which occupies itself in lifting up beggars, all befouled with the filthiness in which they lay! For He lifts them out of the dunghill, not disdaining to search them out from amidst the base things of the earth--that He may bring to nothing the great ones, and pour contempt upon all human glorying.

What a dunghill was that upon which we lay by nature! What a mass of corruption is our original estate! What a heap of loathsomeness we have accumulated by our sinful lives! We could never have risen out of this corruption by our own efforts--we were dead men rotting in a dunghill of sin!

Almighty were the arms which lifted us, which are still lifting us, and will lift us into the perfection of Heaven itself! <S185>

Psalm 113:4-8 NIV

[4] The Lord is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens. [5] Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on high, [6] who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth? [7] He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; [8] he seats them with princes, with the princes of his people.

** God looks for acknowledged sinners who repent and preach about Him (sovereign, powerful & holy) to a dying world; He expects we continue to share until the earth is no more! <M130>

Isaiah 6:8-13 NIV

[8] Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? ” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” [9] He said, “Go and tell this people: “ 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' [10] Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.” [11] Then I said, “For how long, Lord?” And he answered: “Until the cities lie ruined and without inhabitant, until the houses are left deserted and the fields ruined and ravaged, [12] until the Lord has sent everyone far away and the land is utterly forsaken. [13] And though a tenth remains in the land, it will again be laid waste. But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when they are cut down, so the holy seed will be the stump in the land.”

Matthew 24:14 NIV

[14] And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.

** There is a remnant — one tenth of believers — who acknowledge God and bring the gospel (holy seed) to this world

Isaiah 6:13 NIV

[13] And though a tenth remains in the land, it will again be laid waste. But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when they are cut down, so the holy seed will be the stump in the land.”

** Sin is removed from the sinner and placed on the Sinless! Their curse is rolled on Him and He endures it until no more remains! Their debt is placed to His account. His riches pay the full amount.

Jesus is His people's...

• substitute,

• burden-bearer,

• sin-remover,

• guilt-sustainer.

To redeem poor sinners, Jesus...

• came down from Heaven,

• put on the rags of our mortality,

• agonized,

• bled,

• died.

God deals with Jesus as the guilty one! <L121>

Romans 5:6-8 NIV

** The condition of the sinner may be likened to that of a condemned criminal shut up in prison and infected with a deadly plague! What he needs, is both the cure of his plague and the reversal of his sentence. Neither alone, will meet his case. If he is only pardoned, he will die of the plague. If he is only cured of the plague, he will suffer the just sentence of the law.

So it is with fallen man — he is both depraved and condemned! If he is only pardoned, his depravity will be his misery. If he could by any means be reformed, he is still under sentence of death.

The glory and completeness of the gospel scheme is that it provides a cure for the diseases of the soul in sanctification; as well as a pardon from the condemnation of the law in justification! <J101>

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

James 4:7-10 NIV

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. [9] Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. [10] Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Matthew 12:10,13 NIV

[10] and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Looking for a reason to bring charges against Jesus, they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” [13] Then he said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” So he stretched it out and it was completely restored, just as sound as the other.

** The Lord hears our prayers and shelters us

Psalm 118:5 NIV

[5] When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place.

Psalm 118:21 NIV

[21] I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation.

Psalm 118:23-25 NIV

[23] the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. [24] The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. [25] Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!

** The Lord provides for His children for His glory; we are to pray for others and give glory to God for His faithfulness and being trustworthy in answering our prayers, remembering that God always knows BEST how to respond to our prayers

Psalm 111:4-8 NIV

[4] He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate. [5] He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever. [6] He has shown his people the power of his works, giving them the lands of other nations. [7] The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. [8] They are established for ever and ever, enacted in faithfulness and uprightness.

** David understood the concept of redemption in the Old Testament times, perhaps reflecting on how God redeemed His people out of Egypt

This concept of redemption was certain foreshadowing of Christ coming to die on the cross — once and for all — taking the punishment for our sin and redeeming all those who recognize Him and call on His name!

Psalm 111:9 NIV

[9] He provided redemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever---holy and awesome is his name.

** Obedience to God’s commands

Why call me Lord and do not the things I say,

you call me the way and walk me not,

you call me the life and live me not,

you call me master and obey me not,

if I condemn you, blame me not.

You call me bread and eat me not,

you call me truth and believe me not,

you call me Lord and serve me not,

if I condemn you, blame me not. <O157>

Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

Matthew 7:24-27 NIV

follow God alone.

Luke 13:22-25 NIV

Proverbs 30:11-12 NIV

[11] “There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers; [12] those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not cleansed of their filth;

Romans 12:2 NIV

[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

** Why are we so determined to carry our own burdens, when we have proved countless times that we are utterly insufficient for the task? Is it not due to our sinful flesh, carnal pride, and foolish self-sufficiency? We often mope about in sadness and depression with heavy hearts because we foolishly, ignorantly, and obstinately refuse to cast our burden on the LORD.

The Lord Jesus has proven Himself fully capable and willing to carry our heaviest burdens. The heaviest load that has ever been carried was carried by Him, for "the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all!" (Isaiah 53:6). It was the tremendous weight of our sins which laid Him low in the garden of Gethsemane and pressed His blood through the pores of His skin. In infinite mercy and grace, He bore our sins, our guilt, and our shame in His own body on the cruel tree, and was made a curse for us — that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. He not only carried our sins to Calvary's cross, He took them away forever by the sacrifice of Himself. "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us!" (Psalm 103:12).

Children of God, let us forever cease from fleshly self-dependence and cast every burden on our mighty Savior. It doesn't matter what the burden is, or how heavy the load is — the Lord Jesus is ready, able, and willing to bear it for us. We need not bear it even for a moment. It is our glorious right and God-given privilege as the beloved children of God, to cast every care and every burden on our Savior.

Are you struggling to carry a burden of guilt and sin? Struggle no longer and stumble no more. Cast your sin and guilt on Him! He will...

• sustain you,

• forgive you,

• receive you,

• and embrace you!

Are your responsibilities stressful and overwhelming your soul? Do not neglect them, but do not presume that you are sufficient to do anything on your own. Cast them on Him, seek His grace, depend on His mighty arm and He will sustain you! Is your heart laid low with heavy cares and secret troubles? Cast them all on Christ!

In love, grace, and wisdom, your Savior gave you these cares and troubles — not to see how far you could carry them on your own, but to bring you to the end of yourself. He gave you these cares to show you your inability, your weakness, and your need of Him that you would cease from your carnal self-confidence and find your all in Him:

• full salvation,

• infinite strength,

• unceasing aid,

• everlasting sufficiency,

• and perfect help.

His power and grace are sufficient for us in all things...

• in every trial,

• in every circumstance,

• and in every temptation.

He will sustain us to the end. He will never allow His righteous ones to be moved. He loves them with an everlasting immutable love! They will never be utterly forsaken or cast down. He...

• keeps them,

• protects them,

• helps them,

• preserves them,

• provides for their souls, and

• sustains them freely forever by His almighty grace!

No two things fit more perfectly together, than an all-sufficient Savior and a needy sinner!

Psalm 55:22 NIV

[22] Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV

[6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

** What is man that God should even look in his direction? Who am I that the infinite, glorious, triune God should glance my way--much less be mindful of me?

Beloved in Christ, understand that your God is without a doubt ever-mindful of you. He...

• numbered every hair on your precious head,

• appointed the bounds of your habitation,

• determined the very second of your death

• bottles your every tear,

• knows your every sorrow,

• records your every work, and

• remembers every cup of cold water given in His name.

God is deeply concerned for your immortal soul, has purposed to do you good, and has staked His glory on your everlasting salvation. Your God is more mindful of you, your soul, your life, and your welfare than you will ever understand in this life. Though all are equally sinful, equally guilty, and equally deserving of everlasting torment, God has been pleased to save some for no other reason than His own glory. <H81>

Psalm 8:4 NIV

[4] what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?

1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV

[10] But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them---yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.

** This present age of grace began with the entry of Jesus Christ into the world to give up His life as the Son of Man as payment for the sins of all mankind, that whosoever believes on Him will not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). This era has now spanned over 2,000 years, and still counting. It is the age of grace, that unmerited favor of God whose arm is not shortened that He cannot save. What then is yet to happen before this age comes to an end? <L127>

John 3:16-17 NIV

** We must obtain the proper understanding of sin and fear of God: we must see every sin as an offense and rebellious attack on our Righteous God and must understand that God’s punishment for us is just; God is the law-giver and consequences are waiting for those who either follow or disregard His law

Sin is not some social issue or personal failure but should be measured against the yardstick of God’s total holiness; God is not a “super psychologist” aiming to fix your problems but is there to help in your relationship with Him

Man seems to fear everything these days except the One who can destroy body and soul in Hell; instead, in many churches today, followers are taught that God is their Friend while forgetting the other side of the equation (the conditional part)

Psalm 115:13 NIV

[13] he will bless those who fear the Lord---small and great alike.

Proverbs 1:7 NIV

[7] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Romans 3:18 NIV

[18] “There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

Instead, we constantly ask God to bless us without fearing Him or fully understanding why He came to die for us; remember that Christ died for our sins to help reconcile us to God — this is the best news a world of sinners could hear!

John 3:16 NIV

[16] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

1 Peter 3:18 NIV

[18] For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.

1 Peter 2:24 NIV

[24] “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”

Hebrews 2:10 NIV

[10] In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through what he suffered.

Consequently, God is an enemy to those who do not believe and accept the saving knowledge of Christ’s death on a cross <M130>

** Better to enjoy tranquility in this life than a meaningless chase after success; why toil so hard with no successor?

Ecclesiastes 4:6 NIV

[6] Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.

Ecclesiastes 4:8 NIV

[8] There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless---a miserable business!

• brokenness of heart,

• contrition of the soul, and

• the subduing of man's will.

God will have broken hearts with which to build His kingdom. Sooner or later, the Lord God will bring us to nothingness before His presence. God's people, all of God's people are a broken people. <F67>

Isaiah 66:2 NIV

Psalm 51:17 NIV

[17] My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.

** When Job saw himself in the presence of his three miserable friends, he vindicated himself. But when he stood in the presence of God, he was a broken man; and he spoke as a broken man. He saw himself in all the hideousness of his sin; and he saw God in all the holiness of His glorious majesty. Then he said, "Behold I am vile! I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; but now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes!" There is no pride and egotism here, no haughtiness, no self-vindication. Once Job had seen the Lord--he was broken, he loathed himself and blamed himself. Once Job saw the Lord--he honored God and vindicated Him. The truly broken heart will always vindicate God, no matter the cost.

This brokenness can be produced in proud, stubborn, sinful men and women--only by the saving revelation of Christ in our hearts. Brokenness is found at the cross--only at the cross. Have you been to the cross? Have you had the crucified Christ revealed in your heart? Has your heart been broken by the knowledge of the Lord? O Lord, evermore break our hearts before You! <F67>

Job 42:4-6 NIV

[4] “You said, 'Listen now, and I will speak; I will question you, and you shall answer me.' [5] My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. [6] Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.”

Psalm 51:17 NIV

[17] My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.

** David pleaded, once again, for God to save His people so they can give thanks to His Holy Name; the Lord has since gathered His people from the nations in 1948 and we are told that “all Israel will be saved” one day

Psalm 106:47 NIV

[47] Save us, Lord our God, and gather us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise.

Romans 11:25-26 NIV

[25] I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, [26] and in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: “The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.

** God often saves and delivers those He loves; David realized “human help is worthless” but with God they can gain victory over their enemies

Psalm 108:6 NIV

[6] Save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered.

Psalm 108:12-13 NIV

[12] Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless. [13] With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies.

** Man’s existence in this world and his accomplishments are not remembered, so why place so much value in them?

Ecclesiastes 1:3-4 NIV

[3] What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun? [4] Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever.

** It is impossible to contemplate the character of Jesus, with serious and devout attention and not be charmed with it. We see in Him, all the human virtues in the highest perfection. His joys were grave, his griefs were just; his gentleness and his severity, his holiness and his humanity were in perfect harmony with each other. He manifested great tenderness, and genuine affection, and sensibility to human woe on all occasions.

As He did no sin — so, on the other hand, every shining virtue was exemplified in Him to highest degree.

• His humility and meekness;

• His contempt of the world;

• His heavenly temper;

• His love to the Father, and zeal for His honor;

• His activity and diligence in doing good;

• His submission to the Father's will;

• His patience amidst the heaviest and severest sufferings;

• His constancy in the exercises of retired devotion; and

• His praying for His enemies who spilt His blood can never be sufficiently admired.

When you are tempted to any vanity — set the blessed Redeemer before you, consider His example, and ask yourself, "How would Jesus, my Lord and Master, have acted in such a case? Would He have spent His time upon such trifles? Would He have spoken such and such; or done this or the other thing, which I am solicited to do? And shall I give way to that which would be a manifest deviation from His example? God forbid!"

O Christians, fix your eyes intensely on the great exemplar! Thus you will, through Divine grace, daily grow in love with meekness, patience, and lowliness of heart. <F62>

1 John 2:6 NIV

[6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.

** Learn humility, from Christ's humility. For lack of humility, some angels became devils. When men glory in their pride, God stains the pride of their glory. The most lowly Christian, is the most lovely Christian. <D42>

Matthew 11:29 NIV

[29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Isaiah 23:9 NIV

[9] The Lord Almighty planned it, to bring down her pride in all her splendor and to humble all who are renowned on the earth.

1 Peter 5:5 NIV

[5] In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

James 4:16 NIV

[16] As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil.

Proverbs 8:13 NIV

[13] To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

Daniel 4:37 NIV

[37] Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble.

** The Word of God is the Christian's rule and the Spirit of God is the Christian's guide.

Most people walk by false rules:

• Some walk by popular opinions

• Some walk by worldly customs

• Some walk by providence

• Some walk by conscience

• Some walk by their own reason

• Some walk by other men's examples

• Some walk by their own lusts

Walk by none of these false rules, but keep close to the Word and Spirit of God.

• The Scripture is a rule outside of us to show us where we must go. The Spirit is a guide inside of us to enable us to walk according to the direction of that Word.

• The Word of God is a compass, by which we must direct our course. The Spirit is the great pilot, who steers us in this course.

• By the Word of God, we know the mind of the Spirit of God. And by the efficacy of the Spirit, we feel the power of the Word.

• The Word of God shows us the way. And the Spirit of God leads us in that way which the Word points out.

• The Word is God's counsel, to reveal the path in which we are to walk. The Spirit is God's Counselor, who teaches us to walk in that path.

The Spirit of God is able to expound the Word of God, and to make it plain to our understanding.

• We have no eyes to see the Word, until the Spirit enlightens them.

• We have no ears to hear the Word, until the Spirit opens them.

• We have no hearts to obey the Word, until the Spirit bows and inclines them.

• The Holy Spirit is the Christian's interpreter; He gives the Scriptures, and He alone can reveal unto us the sense and meaning of the Scriptures.

• If God had not put His Spirit into our hearts, as well as His Word into our heads, we would never have arrived at the fair haven of peace.

The Scriptures reveal the very heart of God. God Almighty has, in the sacred Scriptures, as it were, manifested Himself; unfolded all His counsel to the creatures, as far as is necessary to be known for their direction and guidance to everlasting life. <D42>

2 Timothy 3:16 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness

John 16:13 NIV

[13] But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

** Fearing the Lord is a sign of wisdom and helps one walk uprightly

Proverbs 14:2 NIV

[2] Whoever fears the Lord walks uprightly, but those who despise him are devious in their ways.

Proverbs 14:27 NIV

[27] The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.

** The Lord will provide individuals understanding of situation and words for defense when asked

Proverbs 16:1 NIV

[1] To humans belong the plans of the heart,

but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.

** God encourages the enemies of His children to make peace with them; why are Christians not relying on God to mend social discord than putting hope in the latest social agenda?

Proverbs 16:7 NIV

[7] When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone's way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.

** Nothing stops the current of His blessings so much as pride. He resists the proud! He is at war with them. A futile war! A proud sinner fighting against a holy God! Who do you think will conquer?

Oh, beware of all high thoughts of yourself and your doings. Take heed of admiring your own greatness or goodness. Self-delight is a very pleasing sin, but more odious to a jealous God than the gross sins of the flesh. I am sure that the more we love Him, the less we shall admire ourselves.

Proverbs 8:13 NIV

[13] To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

Proverbs 16:5 NIV

[5] The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

** We are to have a good work ethic and work to provide for ourselves

Proverbs 12:11 NIV

[11] Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

Proverbs 12:14 NIV

[14] From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward.

Proverbs 12:24,27 NIV

[24] Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor. [27] The lazy do not roast any game, but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.

** If we want to know God, we MUST study the Bible; those with the Spirit understand the message

1 Corinthians 1:26-31 NIV

[26] Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. [27] But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. [28] God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things---and the things that are not---to nullify the things that are, [29] so that no one may boast before him. [30] It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God---that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. [31] Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”

1 Corinthians 2:14-16 NIV

** A believer follows the Lamb TRULY, without hypocrisy. Many follow the Lamb, as beggars follow a rich man only for his money. They prize the wages of religion above the works of religion! Oh, beloved, God abhors a hypocrite more than a Sodomite!

John 6:26 NIV

[26] Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.

Revelation 14:4b NIV

[4] They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They were purchased from among mankind and offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb.

My beloved, following the Lamb FULLY is to have the heart fixed and resolved for God. He does not follow the Lamb wherever He goes, who follows the Lamb in some things and the beast in other things!

2 Kings 17:33 NIV

[33] They worshiped the Lord, but they also served their own gods in accordance with the customs of the nations from which they had been brought.

Psalm 63:8 NIV

[8] I cling to you; your right hand upholds me.

Psalm 42:1-2 NIV

[1] As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. [2] My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?

A believer follows the Lamb CONSTANTLY, without apostasy. A true believer never stops following the Lamb. He does not follow the Lamb wherever He goes, who follows the Lamb earnestly for a while but afterwards forsakes Him when the storm arises!

Matthew 13:21 NIV

[21] But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.

Follow the Lamb wherever He goes:

• Speedily

• Sincerely

• Whole-heartedly

• Zealously

• Humbly

• Cheerfully

• Diligently

• Constantly

• Faithfully

• Supremely

Those who follow the Lamb ABIDE in the Lamb, and cleave to the Lamb, and continue constantly in the Lamb's ways, unto the end of their days. <D42>

Job 17:9 NIV

[9] Nevertheless, the righteous will hold to their ways, and those with clean hands will grow stronger.

Hosea 6:3 NIV

[3] Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.”

** Keep good company if you want to be rewarded with good things; there is a power of association that helps a person build character <M130>

Proverbs 13:20-21 NIV

[20] Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. [21] Trouble pursues the sinner, but the righteous are rewarded with good things.

Proverbs 16:29 NIV

[29] A violent person entices their neighbor and leads them down a path that is not good.

Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV

[24] Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, [25] or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.

Proverbs 23:20-21 NIV

[20] Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, [21] for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.

Proverbs 28:7 NIV

[7] A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.

** “Humble” is a rare word in Scripture that appears in Micah 6:8 to “walk humbly with your God”; this humble and teachable spirit is first of all directed toward God <M130>

Proverbs 11:2 NIV

[2] When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

Micah 6:8 NIV

[8] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Proverbs 15:33 NIV

[33] Wisdom's instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.

Proverbs 16:18-19 NIV

[18] Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. [19] Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.

Proverbs 18:12 NIV

[12] Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.

Proverbs 22:4 NIV

[4] Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.

** Nations rise and fall based on their willingness to accept wise advice

Proverbs 11:14 NIV

[14] For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.

** Parents should guide their children so they have light/direction in their lives

Proverbs 6:20-23 NIV

[20] My son, keep your father's command and do not forsake your mother's teaching. [21] Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. [22] When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. [23] For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and correction and instruction are the way to life

** Early childhood teaching requires both parental discipline, including corporal punishment and balanced kindness and love. There is great hope that the use of “divine ordinance” of the rod will produce godly virtue and parental joy.

Proverbs 13:24 NIV

[24] Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.

Proverbs 10:13 NIV

[13] Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense.

Proverbs 19:18 NIV

[18] Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.

Proverbs 23:13-16,24-25 NIV

[13] Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die. [14] Punish them with the rod and save them from death. [15] My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad indeed; [16] my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right. [24] The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. [25] May your father and mother rejoice; may she who gave you birth be joyful!

Such discipline must have the right motivation and appropriate severity. One who has genuine affection for the child but withholds corporal punishment will produce the same kind of child as a parent who hates his offspring. <M130>

Hebrews 12:5-11 NIV

[5] And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, [6] because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” [7] Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? [8] If you are not disciplined---and everyone undergoes discipline---then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. [9] Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! [10] They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. [11] No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Ephesians 6:4 NIV

[4] Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

** Wisdom gives hope and can be found by the foolish and simple

Proverbs 8:1,5 NIV

[1] Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? [5] You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it.

Proverbs 8:17 NIV

[17] I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.

Proverbs 8:34-35 NIV

[34] Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. [35] For those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord.

** Wisdom and prudence dwell together, providing sound counsel and judgment

Proverbs 8:12,14 NIV

[12] “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. [14] Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power.

Proverbs 8:20 NIV

[20] I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice,

** Christians are to set all Christ's moral actions before them as a pattern for their imitation. In Christ's life, a Christian may behold the picture or lineaments of all virtues — and accordingly he ought to order his life in this world.

To walk as Christ walked is to walk...

• humbly,

• holily,

• justly,

• meekly,

• lovingly,

• fruitfully,

• faithfully,

• uprightly.

To walk as Christ walked is to...

• slight the world,

• despise the world,

• make a footstool of the world,

• to live above the world,

• and to triumph over the world as Christ did.

To walk as Christ walked is...

• to love those who hate us,

• to pray for those who persecute us,

• to bless those who curse us,

• and to do good to those who do evil to us.

To walk as Christ walked is to be patient, and silent, and submissive, and thankful under...

• the vilest reproaches,

• the heaviest afflictions,

• and the greatest sufferings. <B24>

1 John 2:6 NIV

[6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.

1 Peter 2:21 NIV

[21] To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

** Now this is to follow the Lamb wherever He goes <D42>

• In His COMMANDS

Oh, beloved, we cannot follow the Lamb wherever He goes, unless we follow Him in His commandments! True Christians take as much delight in those precepts that enjoin holiness as in those promises that assure happiness.

John 14:15 NIV

[15] “If you love me, keep my commands.

John 15:14 NIV

[14] You are my friends if you do what I command.

• In His TEACHING

John 10:5,27 NIV

[5] But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice.” [27] My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.

• In His PROVIDENCES

Through all afflictions, all straits, all discouragements and sorrows whatever, though it is the way of death! We must forsake all to follow a crucified Christ, a condemned Christ, in bloody paths of sufferings--if He calls us to it.

Matthew 19:17 NIV

[17] “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.”

• In His EXAMPLES

To follow in Christ's steps is to take Him for our example. We must not follow wicked men's example, who walk in the broad way that leads to death, for "They are the children of their father the Devil, and they love to do the evil things he does!" (John 8:44) but we must follow our head Christ, who went about doing good.

John 13:15 NIV

[15] I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

1 Peter 2:21 NIV

[21] To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

** The world clamors for peace and long life which its inhabitants could attain if only recognizing and abiding by God’s commands

Proverbs 3:1-2 NIV

[1] My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, [2] for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.

Proverbs 3:13-18 NIV

[13] Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, [14] for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. [15] She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. [16] Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. [17] Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. [18] She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.

Proverbs 3:21-26 NIV

[21] My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; [22] they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. [23] Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. [24] When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. [25] Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, [26] for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.

Proverbs 4:20-22 NIV

[20] My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. [21] Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; [22] for they are life to those who find them and health to one's whole body.

** Stay away from sexual sin at all costs not only for personal reasons but because you cannot hide from God

Proverbs 5:8 NIV

[8] Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house

Proverbs 5:15-18 NIV

[15] Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. [16] Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? [17] Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers. [18] May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.

1 Corinthians 6:18 NIV

[18] Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.

Proverbs 5:21 NIV

[21] For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all your paths.

** The book of Revelation is without doubt the least read book in the Bible, but it is the only one that promises a blessing by doing so.

Revelation 1:3 NIV

[3] Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

If you want to know what the future holds, there it is. It's all packed into that one book ... Revelation. But that's not all; there are several books within the Bible that tells us future things, and the more we read them, the better we understand Revelation.

People often get discouraged when reading the Bible, saying they just can't understand it. Hey, no one, and I mean NO ONE understands it all. Think about it. God, specifically Jesus Christ, wrote it (John 1:1-5), so no one is going to completely understand God. He is the Creator. We are the created. That would be like me trying to explain how a computer works to a grasshopper. BUT ... God wants us to understand it. Otherwise, there would be no need for Him to write it.

The only way to really understand the Bible as a Christian is to allow the Spirit of God, who we call the Holy Spirit, to teach us as we read. He is the best and only teacher we need.

If we are a Christian, we have the Spirit of God living within us. He is the pledge with which God has sealed us as a guarantee, promising we always belong to Him.

2 Corinthians 1:21-22 NIV

[21] Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, [22] set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

Many Christians are missing so many blessings by not being faithful readers of the Bible. Many try to get their spiritual 'kicks' from emotional genuflecting, instead of the real thing. <P160>

** Proverbs contains the words of Solomon regarding how we are to live our lives; the prologue provides a summary of this book and how readers can be helped:

• for learning

• for insight

• for guidance of behavior

• to perform justly

• to give prudence to the naive

• to provide discretion for the young

• to increase learning for the older

• to understand wisdom

• to enhance the fear of the Lord (reverence and hate evil) through knowledge, and

• to reduce the folly of the foolish when despising wisdom and instruction

Proverbs 1:1-7 NIV

[1] The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: [2] for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; [3] for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; [4] for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young--- [5] let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance--- [6] for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. [7] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

** We are to be proactive and seek out wisdom and apply it to our lives if we want to know God and find His knowledge

Solomon made God’s law his own by faith, obedience and teaching; the wisdom of God’s words are available to those who understand its value above all else <M130>

Proverbs 2:1-6 NIV

[1] My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, [2] turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding — [3] indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, [4] and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, [5] then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. [6] For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

** Solomon instructs his son to listen to his elders and beware of the greedy — those who want to take advantage of others — for they are ruthless and only end up destroying themselves

Proverbs 1:8,10,15-16,18-19 NIV

[8] Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. [10] My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them. [15] my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; [16] for their feet rush into evil, they are swift to shed blood. [18] These men lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush only themselves! [19] Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the life of those who get it.

** God provides a condition that He will make known His teachings when people change from their mocking simple unbelieving ways

Proverbs 1:22-23 NIV

[22] “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? [23] Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you, I will make known to you my teachings.

Proverbs 1:24-31 NIV

[24] But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, [25] since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke, [26] I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you--- [27] when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. [28] “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, [29] since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. [30] Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, [31] they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.

Proverbs 1:32-33 NIV

[32] For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; [33] but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.”

** The advice from Eliphaz would be good IF Job was suffering from unrepentant sin but we know from the first two chapters that thus advice was wrong

Job 22:21-22 NIV

[21] “Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you. [22] Accept instruction from his mouth and lay up his words in your heart.

Job 22:23-27 NIV

[23] If you return to the Almighty, you will be restored: If you remove wickedness far from your tent [24] and assign your nuggets to the dust, your gold of Ophir to the rocks in the ravines, [25] then the Almighty will be your gold, the choicest silver for you. [26] Surely then you will find delight in the Almighty and will lift up your face to God. [27] You will pray to him, and he will hear you, and you will fulfill your vows.

** God uses His creation to draw man’s attention to Himself and discipline him to the right path during times of trouble

Job 38:22-23 NIV

[22] “Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail, [23] which I reserve for times of trouble, for days of war and battle?

** We have a responsibility to work with others, to warn, encourage, and help those we can help; for the trouble-makers, warn them a few times, then have nothing to do with them because they have proven themselves self-condemned (warped and sinful)

1. Go to them alone

2. Go to them with a couple witnesses

3. Take it to the church leadership

4. If they still do not listen, treat them as a pagan so they will be ashamed, come to their senses and repent

Proverbs 6:12-19 NIV

[12] A troublemaker and a villain, who goes about with a corrupt mouth, [13] who winks maliciously with his eye, signals with his feet and motions with his fingers, [14] who plots evil with deceit in his heart---he always stirs up conflict. [15] Therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed---without remedy. [16] There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: [17] haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, [18] a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, [19] a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.

1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 NIV

[10] He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. [11] Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:14 NIV

And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

Titus 3:10-11 NIV

[10] Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. [11] You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.

Matthew 18:15-17 NIV

This passage is a good example for our all-inclusive everything’s-ok church of today, speaking the truth in love like a doctor who tells his patient he has cancer...

1 Corinthians 5:1-5 NIV

[1] It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that even pagans do not tolerate: A man is sleeping with his father's wife. [2] And you are proud! Shouldn't you rather have gone into mourning and have put out of your fellowship the man who has been doing this? [3] For my part, even though I am not physically present, I am with you in spirit. As one who is present with you in this way, I have already passed judgment in the name of our Lord Jesus on the one who has been doing this. [4] So when you are assembled and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present, [5] hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord.

Then forgive the sinner and receive him back after he repents...

2 Corinthians 2:5-8 NIV

[5] If anyone has caused grief, he has not so much grieved me as he has grieved all of you to some extent---not to put it too severely. [6] The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. [7] Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. [8] I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him.

Matthew 22:37-39 NIV

[37] Jesus replied: “ 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

God hates this troublesome behavior because it hurts the ones He loves <F60>

** Understand the implications. Grace is a free gift of mercy. It produces a new creature, one prone to good works and living as Jesus did, without sin as humanly possible. Living a righteous life following Jesus produces good fruit, good works, NOT the other way around. No matter of works can save you, but it is the evidence that you believed and accepted His gift of grace and are a changed person, dead to the lusts of this world.

Dead to this world, and raised to newness of life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let each of us live like it, as Jesus is coming soon...be ready! <T201>

John 3:16-19 NIV

[16] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. [17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. [18] Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. [19] This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

Romans 10:8-13 NIV

[8] But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim: [9] If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. [11] As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” [12] For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile---the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, [13] for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

** Job is willing to take responsibility for his mistake if the accusations were true

Job 19:4 NIV

[4] If it is true that I have gone astray, my error remains my concern alone.

** The fiery deluge of divine vengeance, which has been gathering and swelling for thousands of years; but has been, as it were, restrained and kept within bounds by divine patience — shall then rise so high as to burst through all restraints, and overwhelm the guilty globe, and turn it into a universal ocean of liquid fire! This resistless torrent shall sweep away all the refuges of lies, and those who trusted in them — into the gulf of remediless destruction!

Well my friends, where shall we find a support to bear us up in this tremendous day? Where shall we find a rock to build upon, that we may be able to stand the shock, and remain safe and unmoved — in the wreck of dissolving worlds? What can uphold us--when this vast machine of our world, formed with so much skill and strength by the hands of a divine Architect, shall be broken up and fall to pieces?

Now, now is the time for us to find the refuge; it will be too late when all created supports are swept away, and this solid globe itself is dissolved beneath our feet into a sea of fire!

And where will you look? Where will you turn? This earth, and all its riches, honors, and pleasures — will prove to be but a quicksand in that day! Your friends and relations, were they ever so great or powerful — can then afford you no support! Therefore, think — where shall you find a rock on which you may build a happiness that will stand the shock in that dreadful day?

Everything else besides Christ...

• is sliding sand,

• is yielding air,

• is a breaking bubble!

In that dread day...

• wealth will prove to be a vain shadow,

• honor will prove to be an empty breath,

• pleasure will prove to be a delusive dream,

• your own righteousness will prove to be a spider's web!

If we rely on these, disappointment and doom are inevitable! <D43>

2 Peter 3:7,10 NIV

[7] By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly. [10] But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.

Psalm 62:2 NIV

[2] Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

** The Scriptures give us sufficient instructions what we should believe. They are a sufficient rule of faith. The Holy Scriptures give us complete directions in matters of practice. They are a sufficient rule of life.

In short, in the sacred writings manifests the only worthy principles and vigorous springs of a suitable conduct...

• towards God,

• towards one another,

• and towards ourselves.

And whence do you think could this godlike religion proceed? Does not its nature prove its origin to be divine? Does it not evidently bear the lineaments of its heavenly Author? Can you ever imagine that such a pure, such a holy, such a perfect system — could be the contrivance of wicked, infernal spirits, of selfish, artful priests, or politicians, or of a group of daring impostors, or wild enthusiasts? <D43>

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, [17] so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Psalm 19:7-11 NIV

** In the cross of Christ, God's hatred to sin is manifested in the most striking light — and the evil of sin is exposed in the most dreadful colors! Now it appears, that such is the divine hatred against all sin, that God can by no means forgive sin, without punishment; and that all the infinite benevolence of His nature towards His creatures cannot prevail upon Him to pardon the least sin — without an adequate atonement.

What can more strongly expose the evil of sin than the cross of Christ? Sin is such an intolerably malignant and abominable thing, that even a God of infinite mercy and grace cannot let the least instance of it pass unpunished!

It was not a small thing which could arm God's justice against the Son of His love. Though He was perfectly innocent in Himself, yet when He was made sin for us, God spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up unto death--the shameful, tormenting, and accursed death of the cross! <D43>

Romans 5:6 NIV

[6] You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.

** What does it mean to be a Christian?

1. To be a Christian--is to depart from iniquity.

To this, the name obliges us; and without this we have no right to the name. "Let every one who names the name of Christ, depart from iniquity!" (2 Tim 2:19). That is, let him depart from iniquity, or not even dare to take that sacred name!

Christ was perfectly free from sin. He was "holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners." His followers also shall be perfectly free from sin, in a little time! Before long, they will enter into the pure regions of perfect holiness, and will drop all their sins, along with their mortal bodies--into the grave!

To depart from iniquity, is essential to Christianity--and without it there can be no such thing as a Christian!

There was nothing that Christ was so remote from--as sin! And therefore, for those that indulge themselves in sin--and yet to wear His name, is just as absurd and ridiculous as for an illiterate dunce to call himself a university professor!

Therefore, if you will not renounce iniquity--then renounce the Christian name! You cannot consistently retain both!

2. To be a Christian--is to deny yourselves, and take up the cross, and follow Christ.

These are the terms of discipleship fixed by Christ Himself and is the essential character of every true Christian.

Luke 9:23 NIV

[23] Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.

To DENY ourselves, is to abstain from the pleasures of sin, to moderate our sensual appetites, to deny our own interest for the sake of Christ. In short, it is to sacrifice everything inconsistent with our duty to Him, when these come in competition.

To take up our CROSS, is to bear sufferings, to encounter difficulties, and break through them all--in imitation of Jesus Christ, and for His sake.

To FOLLOW Christ, is to trace His steps, and imitate His example--whatever it costs us.

3. To be a Christian--is to be a follower or imitator of Christ.

Paul tells us that believers will be conformed to His image, Romans 8:29; and that the same mind must be in us, which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5

Christ's heart glowed with love to His Father! He delighted in universal obedience to Him; it was His food and drink to do the Father's will, even in the most painful and self-denying instances! He abounded in devotion, in prayer, meditation and every pious duty.

He was also full of every grace and virtue towards mankind! He was...

• meek and humble,

• kind and benevolent,

• just and charitable,

• merciful and compassionate,

towards all. Beneficence to the souls and bodies of men was the business of His life, for He went about doing good.

Acts 10:38 NIV

[38] how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

1 Peter 2:21 NIV

[21] To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

Does your Christianity, my friends, stand this test? May one know that you belong to Christ--by your living like Him, and manifesting the same temper and spirit?

If you claim the name of Christ, then where is...

• that ardent devotion,

• that affectionate love to God,

• that zeal for His glory,

• that alacrity in His service,

• that resignation to His will,

• that generous benevolence to mankind,

• that zeal to promote their best interests,

• that meekness and forbearance under ill usage,

• that unwearied activity in doing good to all,

• that self-denial and heavenly-mindedness

which shone so conspicuous in Christ, whose holy name you bear? <D43>

1 John 2:6 NIV

[6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.

** Pagans believe they have within them what it takes to solve the world’s problems while many churches today want to apply God’s law to fix the world.

As followers of Christ, however, we can apply His truth and realize His transforming power but understand the end result: THE WORLD WILL NOT BE FIXED OR IMPROVED IN ORDER TO WELCOME CHRIST BUT WE NEED TO BE READY FOR CHRIST TO RETURN TO JUDGE AND USHER IN A NEW WORLD!!

The world will NEVER be right until it is under God’s control and His sovereign rule — then we will have freedom from sin, righteous justice meted out, God ruling with a rod of iron, man-advancing rebellion ends, the Lord torches the world system to smoldering ash, union with our Savior at the marriage supper (text borrowed from Deut 32) — and the response in heaven is continual “hallelujah”!!

1 John 2:15-17 NIV

[15] Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. [16] For everything in the world---the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life---comes not from the Father but from the world. [17] The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

John 12:25 NIV

[25] Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

Galatians 1:3-5 NIV

[3] Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, [4] who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, [5] to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

• Be careful not to fall for kingdom-now theology when listening to Christians who want to improve the world

• Scripture reminds us that our battle is not against the physical flesh and blood but against spiritual principalities, so look at the world events through that lens

• Do we believe what God has planned for this earth as outlined in Scripture, including His plan of salvation?

• There must be a literal understanding of the Bible... Why would God want to trip-us-up by having riddles that most cannot solve?... Look at God’s word and fulfillment of literal prophecy during Old Testament days, such as His first coming as an infant... If we can allegorize eschatology (which comprises of 1/4 of the Bible) then what is stopping us from allegorizing the rest?... The church is crumbling because attendees don’t believe the Bible anymore... We either believe Scripture is His God-directed word and the Holy Spirit can illuminate its message or we don’t...

Is there hope? YES

Titus 2:11-14 NIV

Isaiah 41:13 NIV

[13] For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

Psalm 121:1-8 NIV

** Harvesting is an urgent and time-sensitive matter; it is with this urgency that Christ reminds us to go out and gather the souls for salvation, some of the harvest that others have sown — both sower and reaper rejoices together! <F60>

John 4:35-38 NIV

[35] Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. [36] Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. [37] Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. [38] I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.”

** Job was concerned that his sons may have sinned in their hearts so he regularly performed a cleansing ceremony asking God to forgive their sin

Job 1:5 NIV

[5] When a period of feasting had run its course, Job would make arrangements for them to be purified. Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” This was Job's regular custom.

** King Manasseh, son of Hezekiah, was the most evil king in Israel, performing idol worship, sacrificing children and witchcraft, but later Manasseh repented and God was moved to forgive; Manasseh proved his repentant heart through action

2 Chronicles 33:2-3 NIV

[2] He did evil in the eyes of the Lord, following the detestable practices of the nations the Lord had driven out before the Israelites. [3] He rebuilt the high places his father Hezekiah had demolished; he also erected altars to the Baals and made Asherah poles. He bowed down to all the starry hosts and worshiped them.

2 Chronicles 33:4-6 NIV

[4] He built altars in the temple of the Lord, of which the Lord had said, “My Name will remain in Jerusalem forever.” [5] In both courts of the temple of the Lord, he built altars to all the starry hosts. [6] He sacrificed his children in the fire in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, practiced divination and witchcraft, sought omens, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the eyes of the Lord, arousing his anger.

2 Chronicles 33:10-13 NIV

[10] The Lord spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. [11] So the Lord brought against them the army commanders of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh prisoner, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon. [12] In his distress he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his ancestors. [13] And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God.

2 Chronicles 33:15-16 NIV

[15] [Then Manasseh] got rid of the foreign gods and removed the image from the temple of the Lord, as well as all the altars he had built on the temple hill and in Jerusalem; and he threw them out of the city. [16] Then he restored the altar of the Lord and sacrificed fellowship offerings and thank offerings on it, and told Judah to serve the Lord, the God of Israel.

** The glorious Gospel of the blessed God is the only effectual means for reforming mankind. To the man who possesses and knows the use of this grand, this wonderful machine, if I may be allowed the comparison — what is otherwise impossible becomes easy.

The Gospel removes difficulties insurmountable to human power.

• It causes the blind to see,

• it causes the deaf to hear;

• it softens the heart of stone, and

• raises the dead in trespasses and sins, to a life of righteousness.

No force but that of the Gospel is sufficient..,

• to remove the mountainous load of guilt from an awakened conscience,

• to calm the violence of tumultuous passions,

• to raise an earthly soul from groveling in the mire of sensuality or avarice — to a spiritual and divine life, a life of communion with God.

No system but the Gospel can communicate motives, encouragements, and prospects — sufficient to withstand and counteract all the snares and temptations with which the spirit of this world, by its frowns or its smiles, will endeavor either to intimidate or to bribe us from the path of duty.

But the Gospel, rightly understood and cordially embraced, will inspire the slothful with energy and the fearful with courage. It will...

• make the miser generous,

• melt the grouch into kindness,

• tame the raging tiger in the bosom, and,

• in a word, expand the narrow selfish heart and fill it with a spirit of love to God, cheerful unreserved obedience to His will, and benevolence to mankind. <N150>

** The salvation of sinners by the substitutionary death of Christ, gives the brightest display of the perfections of God; and particularly of those which belong to Him as the Supreme Ruler of the moral world.

Justice and mercy, duly tempered, and exercised with wisdom--is a summary of those virtues which belong to a good ruler. Now these are most illustriously displayed in a happy union, in Christ crucified.

Justice shines brighter in the cross--than if every sin had been punished upon offenders, without any mercy! Mercy shines brighter in the cross--than if every sin had been pardoned, and every sinner made happy, without any execution of justice.

Mercy appears in turning the divine heart with such a strong propensity upon the salvation of sinners! Justice appears in that when the heart of God was so much set upon it, yet He would not save them without a complete satisfaction to His justice.

Mercy appears in forgiving sin! Justice appears in not forgiving so much as one sin--without a sufficient atonement!

Mercy, rich, free mercy--towards the sinner!

Justice, strict, inexorable justice--towards the Surety!

In short--mercy and justice, as it were, walk hand in hand through every step of this amazing scheme of salvation by the substitutionary atonement of Christ! God pardons and saves the sinner--and yet condemns and punishes his sin! <D43>

Psalm 85:10 NIV

[10] Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.

** If you truly love the Lord Jesus Christ — then you earnestly study and endeavor to please Him by a life of universal obedience. Love is always desirous to please the person beloved; and it will naturally lead to a conduct that is pleasing. This, then, you may be sure of, that if you truly love Jesus — then it is the labor of your life to please Him.

The only way to please Jesus, and the best test of your love to Him — is obedience to His commandments. This is made the decisive mark by Christ Himself: "If anyone loves Me — he will obey My teaching. He who does not love Me — will not obey My teaching." John 14:23, 24

Jesus repeats this theme over and over in different forms: "Whoever has My commands and obeys them — he is the one who loves Me," verse 21. "If you love Me — you will obey what I command," verse 15. "You are My friends — if you do what I command." John 15:14. "This is love for God," says John; that is, it is the surest evidence, and the natural, inseparable effect of our love to God, "that we obey His commands. And His commands are not burdensome." 1 John 5:3; that is, they will not seem grievous to one who obeys them from the principle of sincere love.

Here, then, you who profess to love the Lord Jesus — here is an infallible test for your love! Do you make it the great aim of your life to keep His commandments? Do you honestly endeavor to perform every duty which He has required — and that because He has commanded it? And do you vigorously resist and struggle against every sin, however constitutional, however fashionable, however gainful — because He forbids it? And is the way of obedience pleasant to you? Would you choose this holy way to Heaven, rather than any other — if it were left to your choice? <D43>

1 Corinthians 16:22 NIV

[22] If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Come, Lord!

** The Israelites were rebuked by a prophet for enslaving their fellow Israelites from Judah when they were guilty of the same sin; the Israelites complied

2 Chronicles 28:9-11 NIV

[9] But a prophet of the Lord named Oded was there, and he went out to meet the army when it returned to Samaria. He said to them, “Because the Lord, the God of your ancestors, was angry with Judah, he gave them into your hand. But you have slaughtered them in a rage that reaches to heaven. [10] And now you intend to make the men and women of Judah and Jerusalem your slaves. But aren't you also guilty of sins against the Lord your God? [11] Now listen to me! Send back your fellow Israelites you have taken as prisoners, for the Lord's fierce anger rests on you.”

2 Chronicles 28:14-15 NIV

[14] So the soldiers gave up the prisoners and plunder in the presence of the officials and all the assembly. [15] The men designated by name took the prisoners, and from the plunder they clothed all who were naked. They provided them with clothes and sandals, food and drink, and healing balm. All those who were weak they put on donkeys. So they took them back to their fellow Israelites at Jericho, the City of Palms, and returned to Samaria.

** But God knew that man's pride would not want to submit to God's offer of grace and mercy. God knew that only a remnant down through the ages would accept this free offer, which is a gift that none of us can do anything to receive it, but by faith believing.

I can only imagine the shock that must have filled the angelic host who gasped in disbelief of the refusal of mankind to return to what was lost, and that is a relationship with God who created them and Paradise lost. The Angelic host see how "one little sin" in the Garden of Eden, has thus far brought mankind to the point it is in today. God has allowed mankind to earn the wages of his own willful pride and the sins he commits. <T201>

Even though mankind is steeped in sin from the days in the Garden, Christ came to offer us a way to redeem ourselves. We have the option to accept God’s offer of grace and mercy, by accepting His offer of salvation!

1 Corinthians 15:34 NIV

[34] Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God---I say this to your shame.

** Hezekiah repented of his pride and the Lord withdrew His wrath from the king and nation

2 Chronicles 32:24-26 NIV

[24] In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. He prayed to the Lord, who answered him and gave him a miraculous sign. [25] But Hezekiah's heart was proud and he did not respond to the kindness shown him; therefore the Lord's wrath was on him and on Judah and Jerusalem. [26] Then Hezekiah repented of the pride of his heart, as did the people of Jerusalem; therefore the Lord's wrath did not come on them during the days of Hezekiah.

** If there was obedience on the part of the [Israelite] nation, the kingdom would be established and they would have a “man as ruler”; their disobedience was legendary and so was the destruction of their kingdom and their dispersion

When Israel is saved and people turn to Christ, then their King Messiah will set up this glorious millennial kingdom! <M130>

2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV

2 Chronicles 7:17-20 NIV

[17] “As for you, if you walk before me faithfully as David your father did, and do all I command, and observe my decrees and laws, [18] I will establish your royal throne, as I covenanted with David your father when I said, 'You shall never fail to have a successor to rule over Israel.' [19] “But if you turn away and forsake the decrees and commands I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, [20] then I will uproot Israel from my land, which I have given them, and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name. I will make it a byword and an object of ridicule among all peoples.

Romans 11:25-27 NIV

Revelation 20:6 NIV

[6] Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.

** What if by God's chastening rod...

• your wandering, gadding heart shall be whipped home to God

• your neglected duties are revived

• your decayed communion with God is restored

• a spiritual, heavenly frame of heart is recovered?

Surely you will bless that merciful hand which removed these obstructions, and adore the Divine wisdom and goodness, that by such an affliction as this, He has recovered you to Himself. Now you can pray more constantly, more spiritually, more affectionately than before. O blessed rod, which buds and blossoms with such fruits as these! Let this be written among your best mercies, for you shall have cause to adore and bless God eternally for this beneficial affliction. <F63>

Micah 6:9 NIV

[9] Listen! The Lord is calling to the city---and to fear your name is wisdom---“Heed the rod and the One who appointed it.

** My friend, let nothing keep you from Jesus. Whatever you need, whatever you feel is wrong with you--may it bring you to the Savior's fullness! Oh, that all things may help forward your acquaintance with Him--I except nothing, neither sin nor sorrow! I would carry all to Him as one great lump of sin--and receive all from Him, as the only storehouse of good for wretched sinners. <R172>

** Ezra continued to fast in mourning response to the severity of the Israelite sin

Ezra 10:6 NIV

[6] Then Ezra withdrew from before the house of God and went to the room of Jehohanan son of Eliashib. While he was there, he ate no food and drank no water, because he continued to mourn over the unfaithfulness of the exiles.

** What if you had committed the sins of a million worlds? Christ's righteousness will cover, and Christ's blood will cleanse you from the guilt of all! <W219>

Romans 5:6-8,10 NIV

[6] You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. [7] Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. [8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. [10] For if, while we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!

** The Israelites recognized God who forgave their ancestors even after their flagrant obstinance against the One who rescued them

Nehemiah 9:16-19 NIV

[16] “But they, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands. [17] They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them, [18] even when they cast for themselves an image of a calf and said, 'This is your god, who brought you up out of Egypt,' or when they committed awful blasphemies. [19] “Because of your great compassion you did not abandon them in the wilderness. By day the pillar of cloud did not fail to guide them on their path, nor the pillar of fire by night to shine on the way they were to take.

Nehemiah 9:26-27 NIV

[26] [after they entered the land] “They were disobedient and rebelled against you; they turned their backs on your law. They killed your prophets, who had warned them in order to turn them back to you; they committed awful blasphemies. [27] So you delivered them into the hands of their enemies, who oppressed them. But when they were oppressed they cried out to you. From heaven you heard them, and in your great compassion you gave them deliverers, who rescued them from the hand of their enemies.

Nehemiah 9:28,30-31 NIV

[28] “But as soon as they were at rest, they again did what was evil in your sight. Then you abandoned them to the hand of their enemies so that they ruled over them. And when they cried out to you again, you heard from heaven, and in your compassion you delivered them time after time. [30] For many years you were patient with them. By your Spirit you warned them through your prophets. Yet they paid no attention, so you gave them into the hands of the neighboring peoples. [31] But in your great mercy you did not put an end to them or abandon them, for you are a gracious and merciful God.

** King Josiah ordered the destruction of all idols and priests who led the worship at these high places but he left the remains of a former man of God

2 Kings 23:4-7,12 NIV

[4] The king ordered Hilkiah the high priest, the priests next in rank and the doorkeepers to remove from the temple of the Lord all the articles made for Baal and Asherah and all the starry hosts. He burned them outside Jerusalem in the fields of the Kidron Valley and took the ashes to Bethel. [5] He did away with the idolatrous priests appointed by the kings of Judah to burn incense on the high places of the towns of Judah and on those around Jerusalem---those who burned incense to Baal, to the sun and moon, to the constellations and to all the starry hosts. [6] He took the Asherah pole from the temple of the Lord to the Kidron Valley outside Jerusalem and burned it there. He ground it to powder and scattered the dust over the graves of the common people. [7] He also tore down the quarters of the male shrine prostitutes that were in the temple of the Lord, the quarters where women did weaving for Asherah. [12] He pulled down the altars the kings of Judah had erected on the roof near the upper room of Ahaz, and the altars Manasseh had built in the two courts of the temple of the Lord. He removed them from there, smashed them to pieces and threw the rubble into the Kidron Valley.

2 Kings 23:20 NIV

[20] Josiah slaughtered all the priests of those high places on the altars and burned human bones on them. Then he went back to Jerusalem.

2 Kings 23:16-18 NIV

[16] Then Josiah looked around, and when he saw the tombs that were there on the hillside, he had the bones removed from them and burned on the altar to defile it, in accordance with the word of the Lord proclaimed by the man of God who foretold these things. [17] The king asked, “What is that tombstone I see?” The people of the city said, “It marks the tomb of the man of God who came from Judah and pronounced against the altar of Bethel the very things you have done to it.” [18] “Leave it alone,” he said. “Don't let anyone disturb his bones .” So they spared his bones and those of the prophet who had come from Samaria.

** Christ worked miracles when He walked the earth to authenticate Himself; the typical response when we are suffering today is not to remove the problem but force us to go through the problem and lean on Him the whole way, for God will give us the needed tools <H86>

2 Corinthians 12:7-10 NIV

[7] or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. [8] Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. [9] But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. [10] That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

** In essence: when Christ died, we died. When Christ rose from the dead, we rose and were given the Holy Spirit! This is why death cannot hold us down any longer — we have an eternal hope through Christ our Lord!

Romans 8:11 NIV

[11] And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

1 Corinthians 15:54-55 NIV

[54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” [55] “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”

Isaiah 63:1 NIV

[1] Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah, with his garments stained crimson? Who is this, robed in splendor, striding forward in the greatness of his strength? “It is I, proclaiming victory, mighty to save.”

Isaiah 25:8-9 NIV

[8] he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people's disgrace from all the earth. The Lord has spoken. [9] In that day they will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the Lord, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”

Isaiah 57:2 NIV

[2] Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death.

** Elisha instructed Naaman to wash himself seven times in the Jordan River but Naaman went away angry because he envisioned a different response based on his logic — thinking there are ‘cleaner rivers’ than the Jordan

2 Kings 5:10-12 NIV

[10] Elisha sent a messenger to say to him, “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” [11] But Naaman went away angry and said, “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. [12] Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Couldn't I wash in them and be cleansed?” So he turned and went off in a rage.

** Naaman’s servants encouraged him to follow Elisha’s instruction and, after he did, was healed of his leprosy; as a result, Naaman knew there was no God greater than the God of Israel

2 Kings 5:13-15 NIV

[13] Naaman's servants went to him and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, 'Wash and be cleansed'!” [14] So he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him, and his flesh was restored and became clean like that of a young boy. [15] Then Naaman and all his attendants went back to the man of God . He stood before him and said, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel. So please accept a gift from your servant.”

** God confirms with Solomon that he will receive long life if he follows God's decrees and commands

1 Kings 3:14 NIV

[14] And if you walk in obedience to me and keep my decrees and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.”

** We know of a place in England still existing, where a dole of bread is served to every passerby who chooses to ask for it. Whoever the traveler may be, he has but to knock at the door of St. Cross Hospital and there is the dole of bread for him.

In the same way, Jesus so loves sinners that He has built a St. Cross Hospital, so that whenever a sinner is hungry, he has but to knock and have his needs supplied.

Nay, He has done better; He has attached to this Hospital of the Cross--a BATH. Whenever a soul is black and filthy, it has but to go there and be washed. The fountain is always full, always effectual. No sinner ever went into it and found that it could not wash away his stains. Sins which were scarlet and crimson--have all disappeared, and the sinner has been made whiter than snow!

As if this were not enough, there is attached to this Hospital of the Cross--a WARDROBE, and a sinner making application simply as a sinner, may be clothed from head to foot! Nothing that is good for him shall be denied him. He shall have spending-money (grace) as long as he lives, and he shall have an eternal heritage of glorious treasure when he enters into the joy of his Lord.

If all these things are to be had by merely knocking at mercy's door, O my soul, knock hard, and ask great things from your generous Lord.

No bashfulness need retard us when Jesus invites.

No unbelief should hinder us when Jesus promises.

No cold-heartedness should restrain us when such blessings are to be obtained! <S185>

Matthew 7:7-8 NIV

[7] “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. [8] For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

Hebrews 4:16 NIV

[16] Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

** David realized the need for one to have a conditional committed relationship with the Lord in order for God to act on their behalf

2 Samuel 23:2-5 NIV

[2] “The Spirit of the Lord spoke through me; his word was on my tongue. [3] The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me: ‘When one rules over people in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, [4] he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings grass from the earth.’ [5] “If my house were not right with God, surely he would not have made with me an everlasting covenant, arranged and secured in every part; surely he would not bring to fruition my salvation and grant me my every desire.

** David reminds Solomon of the sins/actions of those who opposed David and encourages retribution

1 Kings 2:5,8-9 NIV

[5] “Now you yourself know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me---what he did to the two commanders of Israel’s armies, Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether. He killed them, shedding their blood in peacetime as if in battle, and with that blood he stained the belt around his waist and the sandals on his feet. [8] “And remember, you have with you Shimei son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim, who called down bitter curses on me the day I went to Mahanaim. When he came down to meet me at the Jordan, I swore to him by the Lord: ‘I will not put you to death by the sword.’ [9] But now, do not consider him innocent. You are a man of wisdom; you will know what to do to him. Bring his gray head down to the grave in blood.”

** Prayer is the Christian's never-failing resort in every case, in every plight. When you cannot use your sword--you may take to the weapon of all-prayer. Your gun-powder may be damp, your bow-string may be broken--but the weapon of all-prayer need never be out of order. Leviathan laughs at the javelin--but he trembles at prayer. Sword and spear need furbishing--but prayer never rusts; and when we think it most blunt--it cuts the best.

Prayer is an open door which none can shut! Devils may surround you on all sides--but the way upward is always open, and as long as that road is unobstructed, you will not fall into the enemy's hand. We can never be taken by force or storm--so long as heavenly help comes down to us to support us in the time of our necessities.

Prayer is never out of season--in summer and in winter its merchandise is precious. Prayer gains an audience with God--in the dead of night, in the midst of business, in the heat of noonday, in the shadows of evening. In every condition, whether of poverty, or sickness, or obscurity, or slander, or sin--your covenant God will welcome your prayer and answer it from His holy place.

Nor is prayer ever futile. True prayer is evermore true power. You may not always get what you ask--but you shall always have your real needs supplied. When God does not answer His children according to the letter--He does so according to the spirit. If you ask for coarse meal--will you be angered because He gives you the finest flour? If you seek bodily health, should you complain if instead thereof--He makes your sickness turn to the healing of spiritual maladies? Is it not better to have the affliction sanctified, than removed? My soul, do not forget to offer your petition and request, for the Lord is ready to grant you your desires! <S185>

Philippians 4:6 NIV

[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Hebrews 4:16 NIV

[16] Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

** The Lord's word is flawless

2 Samuel 22:31 NIV

[31] “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.

** David kept his oath with Jonathan and did not hand over his son to the Gibeonites

2 Samuel 21:7 NIV

[7] The king spared Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, because of the oath before the Lord between David and Jonathan son of Saul.

** David fasted and pleaded with the Lord while his son was alive, but God took his son from him for the sin he committed with Bathsheba

2 Samuel 12:15-16,18a NIV

[15] After Nathan had gone home, the Lord struck the child that Uriah’s wife had borne to David, and he became ill. [16] David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and spent the nights lying in sackcloth on the ground. [18] On the seventh day the child died.

2 Samuel 12:19-23 NIV

[19] David noticed that his attendants were whispering among themselves, and he realized the child was dead. “Is the child dead?” he asked. “Yes,” they replied, “he is dead.” [20] Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate. [21] His attendants asked him, “Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!” [22] He answered, “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, ‘Who knows? The Lord may be gracious to me and let the child live.’ [23] But now that he is dead, why should I go on fasting? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me.”

** Our response to difficult situations should be like that of David who worshipped God even after He allowed his son to die

2 Samuel 12:20 NIV

[20] Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate.

** David did not want to sacrifice anything to the Lord that did not cost him; he pays Araunah for his threshing floor

2 Samuel 24:21-24 NIV

[21] Araunah said, “Why has my lord the king come to his servant?” “To buy your threshing floor,” David answered, “so I can build an altar to the Lord, that the plague on the people may be stopped.” [22] Araunah said to David, “Let my lord the king take whatever he wishes and offer it up. Here are oxen for the burnt offering, and here are threshing sledges and ox yokes for the wood. [23] Your Majesty, Araunah gives all this to the king.” Araunah also said to him, “May the Lord your God accept you.” [24] But the king replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen and paid fifty shekels of silver for them.

** David praises God for all His benefits and delivering us from the pit, providing and renewing us with what is good

Psalm 103:2-5 NIV

[2] Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits--- [3] who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, [4] who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, [5] who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

** David built an altar and prayed to God who, in turn, limited the amount of punishment by telling the Angel of the Lord to withdraw from punishing Jerusalem

2 Samuel 24:16 NIV

[16] When the angel stretched out his hand to destroy Jerusalem, the Lord relented concerning the disaster and said to the angel who was afflicting the people, “Enough! Withdraw your hand.” The angel of the Lord was then at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.

2 Samuel 24:25 NIV

[25] David built an altar to the Lord there and sacrificed burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. Then the Lord answered his prayer in behalf of the land, and the plague on Israel was stopped.

** A person can not overcome sin without genuine repentance; there are two types of repentance — worldly sorrow and godly sorrow

A) Worldly Sorrow is like a guilty conscience and not wanting to experience consequences from sin; if there were no consequences and chance of getting caught, the person would continue in sin

B) Godly Sorrow is a work of God enabling us to recognize that our sin hurts/grieves Him; we become sensitive to the Holy Spirit illuminating truth as we delve into God’s Word in the pursuit of sanctification

2 Corinthians 7:9-11 NIV

[9] yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful AS GOD INTENDED and so were not harmed in any way by us. [10] GODLY SORROW brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but WORLDLY SORROW brings death. [11] See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.

** There is a common, worldly kind of Christianity in this day, which many have, and think they have enough--a cheap Christianity which offends nobody, and requires no sacrifice--which costs nothing, and is worth nothing!

The standard of the world, and the standard of the Lord Jesus--are indeed widely different. They are more than different--they are flatly contradictory one to the other. Never be satisfied with the world's standard of Christianity!

A crucified Savior will never be content to have a self-pleasing, self-indulging, worldly-minded people!

It costs something to be a true Christian. It will cost us our sins, our self-righteousness, our ease and our worldliness!

The ways, and fashions, and amusements, and recreations of the world--have a continually decreasing place in the heart of a growing Christian. He does not condemn them as downright sinful, nor say that those who have anything to do with them are going to Hell.

He only feels they have a constantly diminishing hold on his own affections, and gradually seem smaller and more trifling in his eyes. <R170>

1 John 5:4-5 NIV

** The Holy Spirit quickens the sinner with new spiritual life. He is thus born again. It is a work complete at once, and one in which the sinner is completely passive. This is REGENERATION.

The sinner knows not that he is born again, but by the results which are manifested in the mind, heart and life.

His MIND is enlightened. He becomes deeply conscious of his personal relationship to God's holiness, to eternity, and to the judgment to come. These are to him realities such as they had never been before. He sees himself to be guilty before God, and deserving of eternal condemnation. This is REPENTANCE.

His HEART becomes restless in consequence of his change of mind. He is weary and burdened under a consciousness of guilt. He looks to Jesus dying on the cross as the sinner's substitute. He trusts in Him as his only hope of salvation, and thus with the heart he believes and is saved. This is FAITH.

His LIFE is now changed. The mind and heart being thus affected, the whole current of his outer life is altered. The man turns from the ways of sin and turns to God. He becomes a true disciple and follower of the Lord Jesus. This is CONVERSION.

In other words:

I. REGENERATION is the impartation of a new nature, and is in Scripture termed "being born again." It is an instantaneous work of the Holy Spirit, complete at once, though capable of increase in vigor and manifestation.

II. REPENTANCE is a change of mind about our relationship to God, whereby we become conscious that however moral or religious we may have been--we are really without God, and without hope in the world. We deeply sense that we are guilty before God and deserving eternal condemnation.

III. FAITH is the trust of the heart in Christ crucified, as the way of deliverance from guilt and deserved condemnation.

IV. CONVERSION is the change of the outward life. Having received Christ as his Savior, the believer now serves and follows Him as his Lord and Master. <M141>

** The Bible says the just will live by faith. It does not say the just shall live by feelings. In fact, our feelings can mislead us. We can have all kinds of emotional reactions to all kinds of things.

I think sometimes we come to church and want to have a breakthrough moment. We think we need an emotional touch. No, we don't. We just need to worship God whether we feel like it or not. We need to understand that the Christian life is a walk of faith. <L120>

Romans 1:17 NIV

[17] For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed---a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

** Samuel encourages the Israelites to turn from their idols if, indeed, they are turning back to God

1 Samuel 7:3 NIV

[3] So Samuel said to all the Israelites, “If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the Lord and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.”

** Those who love God are to hate evil; God rewards those who align with Him!

Psalm 97:10-11 NIV

[10] Let those who love the Lord hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked. [11] Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart.

** The people fasted and confessed their sins; pouring of water before the Lord was a sign of repentance but the genuine heart superseded the importance or righteousness of the ritual <M130>

1 Samuel 7:6 NIV

[6] When they had assembled at Mizpah, they drew water and poured it out before the Lord. On that day they fasted and there they confessed, “We have sinned against the Lord.” Now Samuel was serving as leader of Israel at Mizpah.

2 Samuel 23:16 NIV

[16] So the three mighty warriors broke through the Philistine lines, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem and carried it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out before the Lord.

** David humbly asks God to teach him so his faith will grow and he will fear the Lord

Psalm 86:11 NIV

[11] Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.

** David understands that righteousness and justice are the foundations of God’s throne, thus enabling His followers to exhibit true love and faithfulness as they turn to Him and celebrate His righteousness

Psalm 89:14-15 NIV

[14] Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you. [15] Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord.

Psalm 89:16-18 NIV

[16] They rejoice in your name all day long; they celebrate your righteousness. [17] For you are their glory and strength, and by your favor you exalt our horn. [18] Indeed, our shield belongs to the Lord, our king to the Holy One of Israel.

** As believers in God we can call on Him at any time

Psalm 88:1-2 NIV

[1] Lord, you are the God who saves me; day and night I cry out to you. [2] May my prayer come before you; turn your ear to my cry.

** Blessed are those who find their strength in the Lord for they will be upheld time and again

Psalm 84:5-7 NIV

[5] Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. [6] As they pass through the Valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. [7] They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.

** No good thing does God withhold for those who trust and believe in Him

Psalm 84:11-12 NIV

[11] For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. [12] Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.

** God intended for men to work; even in the Garden, Adam was given work: Genesis 2:15. Even in the Garden, before sin came, man had to work. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10, we are told that if a man is not willing to work, he should not eat. This has nothing to do with the sick, infirmed or crippled. But if an able-bodied man is not willing to work, he should not eat. Don't feed him and feed his laziness. Why? Read verse 11; they have undisciplined lives and are accomplishing nothing. This one verse here would save us billions on our Welfare system <G791>

2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 NIV

[10] For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” [11] We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. [12] Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat.

** David was tempted to envy the wicked until he remembered who they were

Psalm 73:2-5 NIV

[2] But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. [3] For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. [4] They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. [5] They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills.

Psalm 73:6-9 NIV

[6] Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. [7] From their callous hearts comes iniquity ; their evil imaginations have no limits. [8] They scoff, and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. [9] Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth.

** David experienced afflictions which led him (briefly) to think His remaining in God was in vain, until he encountered God and remembered the punishment of the wicked

Psalm 73:13-14 NIV

[13] Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure and have washed my hands in innocence. [14] All day long I have been afflicted, and every morning brings new punishments.

Psalm 73:15-17 NIV

[15] If I had spoken out like that, I would have betrayed your children. [16] When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply [17] till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.

Psalm 73:18-20 NIV

[18] Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin. [19] How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors! [20] They are like a dream when one awakes; when you arise, Lord, you will despise them as fantasies.

** Observing others who live in sin should help us from doing similar practices; we cannot live in sin and expect God's blessing!

Deuteronomy 29:16-18 NIV

[16] You yourselves know how we lived in Egypt and how we passed through the countries on the way here. [17] You saw among them their detestable images and idols of wood and stone, of silver and gold. [18] Make sure there is no man or woman, clan or tribe among you today whose heart turns away from the Lord our God to go and worship the gods of those nations; make sure there is no root among you that produces such bitter poison.

Deuteronomy 29:19 NIV

[19] When such a person hears the words of this oath and they invoke a blessing on themselves, thinking, “I will be safe, even though I persist in going my own way,” they will bring disaster on the watered land as well as the dry.

** The author of Judges reiterated that Israel did what they wanted since there was no ruler

Judges 21:24-25 NIV

[24] At that time the Israelites left that place and went home to their tribes and clans, each to his own inheritance. [25] In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.

Judges 19:1a NIV

[1] In those days Israel had no king...

** We need Laws, we need the rules because we are sinners, born that way and living that way: Romans 3:10, 3:23. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us that the "heart of man is deceitfully wicked." A man/woman should never follow their hearts; they should only follow the expressed written word of God in obedience to it. <G791>

Romans 3:10,23 NIV

[10] As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one; [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

Jeremiah 17:9 NIV

[9] The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?

** God commanded the purging of evil from the Israelite community; there should remain a degree of accountability in the Christian community today based on testimony from two or three witnesses

Deuteronomy 17:2-5 NIV

[2] If a man or woman living among you in one of the towns the Lord gives you is found doing evil in the eyes of the Lord your God in violation of his covenant, [3] and contrary to my command has worshiped other gods, bowing down to them or to the sun or the moon or the stars in the sky, [4] and this has been brought to your attention, then you must investigate it thoroughly. If it is true and it has been proved that this detestable thing has been done in Israel, [5] take the man or woman who has done this evil deed to your city gate and stone that person to death.

Deuteronomy 17:6-7 NIV

[6] On the testimony of two or three witnesses a person is to be put to death, but no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only one witness. [7] The hands of the witnesses must be the first in putting that person to death, and then the hands of all the people. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 19:15 NIV

[15] One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.

** Moses called the Israelites to cut away the sin in their hearts as circumcision cuts away skin; this would leave them with a clean relationship with God <M130>

Deuteronomy 10:16 NIV

[16] Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer.

Deuteronomy 30:6 NIV

[6] The Lord your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live.

Leviticus 26:40-42 NIV

[40] “ ‘But if they will confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors---their unfaithfulness and their hostility toward me, [41] which made me hostile toward them so that I sent them into the land of their enemies---then when their uncircumcised hearts are humbled and they pay for their sin, [42] I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land.

Romans 2:28-29 NIV

[28] A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. [29] No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God.

** The Israelites recognize their disobedience and offer sacrifices to God

Judges 2:1-5 NIV

[1] The angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bokim and said, “I brought you up out of Egypt and led you into the land I swore to give to your ancestors. I said, ‘I will never break my covenant with you, [2] and you shall not make a covenant with the people of this land, but you shall break down their altars. ’ Yet you have disobeyed me. Why have you done this? [3] And I have also said, ‘I will not drive them out before you; they will become traps for you, and their gods will become snares to you.’ ” [4] When the angel of the Lord had spoken these things to all the Israelites, the people wept aloud, [5] and they called that place Bokim. There they offered sacrifices to the Lord.

** God introduced procedures for Israelites to follow that were separate from the surrounding culture; God designated a place of worship for the Israelites entering the new land with provision for practical difficulties

Deuteronomy 12:8 NIV

[8] You are not to do as we do here today, everyone doing as they see fit,

Deuteronomy 12:11-14 NIV

[11] Then to the place the Lord your God will choose as a dwelling for his Name---there you are to bring everything I command you: your burnt offerings and sacrifices, your tithes and special gifts, and all the choice possessions you have vowed to the Lord. [12] And there rejoice before the Lord your God---you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levites from your towns who have no allotment or inheritance of their own. [13] Be careful not to sacrifice your burnt offerings anywhere you please. [14] Offer them only at the place the Lord will choose in one of your tribes, and there observe everything I command you.

Deuteronomy 12:21 NIV

[21] If the place where the Lord your God chooses to put his Name is too far away from you, you may slaughter animals from the herds and flocks the Lord has given you, as I have commanded you, and in your own towns you may eat as much of them as you want.

** We must actively place our trust in God through both good and difficult times if we want Him to be our refuge

Psalm 62:8 NIV

[8] Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 66:9 NIV

[9] he has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping.

** The Israelites were not to follow their own prophet or dreamer but purge (destroy) the evil from among them -- even friends, family and entire towns trying to entice others away from God; today’s Christian also must be willing to prioritize God, even above family, and not follow any other god

Deuteronomy 13:1-4 NIV

[1] If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a sign or wonder, [2] and if the sign or wonder spoken of takes place, and the prophet says, “Let us follow other gods” (gods you have not known) “and let us worship them,” [3] you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul. [4] It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.

Deuteronomy 5:7 NIV

[7] “You shall have no other gods before me.

Deuteronomy 13:5 NIV

[5] That prophet or dreamer must be put to death for inciting rebellion against the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. That prophet or dreamer tried to turn you from the way the Lord your God commanded you to follow. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 13:6-10 NIV

[6] If your very own brother, or your son or daughter, or the wife you love, or your closest friend secretly entices you, saying, “Let us go and worship other gods” (gods that neither you nor your ancestors have known, [7] gods of the peoples around you, whether near or far, from one end of the land to the other), [8] do not yield to them or listen to them. Show them no pity. Do not spare them or shield them. [9] You must certainly put them to death. Your hand must be the first in putting them to death, and then the hands of all the people. [10] Stone them to death, because they tried to turn you away from the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

Deuteronomy 13:14-15 NIV

[14] then you must inquire, probe and investigate it thoroughly. And if it is true and it has been proved that this detestable thing has been done among you, [15] you must certainly put to the sword all who live in that town. You must destroy it completely, both its people and its livestock.

** God outlines the behavior He expects of His people for the covenant, including sacrifice and rest on the Sabbath

Exodus 34:27 NIV

[27] Then the Lord said to Moses, “Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.”

Exodus 34:19 NIV

[19] “The first offspring of every womb belongs to me, including all the firstborn males of your livestock, whether from herd or flock.

Exodus 34:21 NIV

[21] “Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest; even during the plowing season and harvest you must rest.

** Christians are to vigilantly distance themselves from sin and what is detestable to God

Deuteronomy 7:25-26 NIV

[25] The images of their gods you are to burn in the fire. Do not covet the silver and gold on them, and do not take it for yourselves, or you will be ensnared by it, for it is detestable to the Lord your God. [26] Do not bring a detestable thing into your house or you, like it, will be set apart for destruction. Regard it as vile and utterly detest it, for it is set apart for destruction.

** Vows were to be fulfilled as promised and be part of what was offered to the Lord

Numbers 30:2 NIV

[2] When a man makes a vow to the Lord or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said.

Numbers 29:39 NIV

[39] “ ‘In addition to what you vow and your freewill offerings, offer these to the Lord at your appointed festivals: your burnt offerings, grain offerings, drink offerings and fellowship offerings. ’ ”

** When the creature failed, he flew to the Creator! by Charles Spurgeon

"Help, Lord! For the godly are no more." Psalm 12:1

The prayer itself is remarkable, for it is short, seasonable, pithy, and suggestive. David mourned the fewness of godly men, and therefore lifted up his heart in supplication. When the creature failed, he flew to the Creator! He evidently felt his own weakness—or he would not have cried for help.

There is much of directness, clearness of perception, and distinctness of utterance in this petition of two words; much more, indeed, than in the long rambling outpourings of certain professors. The Psalmist runs straight-forward to his God, with a well-considered prayer; he knows what he is seeking, and where to seek it. Lord, teach us to pray in the same blessed manner.

The occasions for the use of this prayer are frequent:

In providential afflictions, how suitable it is for tried believers who find all helpers failing them.

In doctrinal difficulties, may often obtain aid by lifting up this cry of "Help, Lord!" to the Holy Spirit, the great Teacher.

Spiritual warriors in inward conflicts may send to the throne for reinforcements, and this will be a model for their request.

Workers in heavenly labor may thus obtain grace in time of need.

Seeking sinners, in doubts and alarms, may offer up the same weighty supplication.

In fact, in all cases, times, and places, this prayer will serve the turn of needy souls.

"Help, Lord!" will suit us . . .

living and dying,

suffering or laboring,

rejoicing or sorrowing.

In Him our help is found—let us not be slack to cry to Him.

The answer to the prayer is certain, if it is sincerely offered through Jesus. The Lord's character assures us that He will not leave His redeemed people; His gift of Jesus is a pledge of every good thing. His promise stands sure, "Fear not—I will help you!" Isaiah 41:13

"I cry to you for help, O Lord; in the morning my prayer comes before you!" Psalm 88:13

** I have reason to praise Him for my trials, for most probably I would have been ruined without them! <N150>

** The concept of restitution was understood by the Israelite community

Leviticus 24:17-21 NIV

[17] “ ‘Anyone who takes the life of a human being is to be put to death. [18] Anyone who takes the life of someone’s animal must make restitution---life for life. [19] Anyone who injures their neighbor is to be injured in the same manner: [20] fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth. The one who has inflicted the injury must suffer the same injury. [21] Whoever kills an animal must make restitution, but whoever kills a human being is to be put to death.

** Location of sacrifice was very important; God wanted the sacrifice at the Tent of Meeting so their focus would remain on Him and not other idols

Leviticus 17:3-5 NIV

[3] Any Israelite who sacrifices an ox, a lamb or a goat in the camp or outside of it [4] instead of bringing it to the entrance to the tent of meeting to present it as an offering to the Lord in front of the tabernacle of the Lord---that person shall be considered guilty of bloodshed; they have shed blood and must be cut off from their people. [5] This is so the Israelites will bring to the Lord the sacrifices they are now making in the open fields. They must bring them to the priest, that is, to the Lord, at the entrance to the tent of meeting and sacrifice them as fellowship offerings.

Leviticus 17:7 NIV

[7] They must no longer offer any of their sacrifices to the goat idols to whom they prostitute themselves. This is to be a lasting ordinance for them and for the generations to come.’

** FOLLOWING DELUSION

June 12 2019

If I want to get agitated in a relatively short time, all I need to do is listen to the myriad of false prophets today pushing blatant apostasy - even to the point of using the same lie that Satan used in the garden, that man can become a god! Their thoughts and words control not only the things around them (like weather, finances, etc) but God Himself! I am surprised God does not obliterate some of these false teachers because they influence so many to blindly follow them.

Today I got to asking why so many people follow this teaching when it is so blatantly non-Christian. I said to myself, “all you have to do is read the Bible to know it is false teaching” and then the answer was staring me in the face. The vast majority of those who say they follow Christ either don’t open their Bible and/or don’t put Scriptural verses in context. They rely on these preachers to tell them what Scripture says and blindly agree. How can they then spot errant references to God and the Christian walk if they never go to the primary source of God’s Word?

It really doesn’t take long to recognize a false teacher when you hear one. How sad when those who say they want to follow Christ don’t invest in their relationship with Him by communicating via scripture and prayer throughout every day. Not prioritizing God is a fast indicator of how serious they are about their Christian walk.

** The Old Testament records a time of repentance, God's forgiveness and resultant consequence for sin

Exodus 32:30-34 NIV

[30] The next day Moses said to the people, “You have committed a great sin. But now I will go up to the Lord; perhaps I can make atonement for your sin.” [31] So Moses went back to the Lord and said, “Oh, what a great sin these people have committed! They have made themselves gods of gold. [32] But now, please forgive their sin---but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.” [33] The Lord replied to Moses, “Whoever has sinned against me I will blot out of my book. [34] Now go, lead the people to the place I spoke of, and my angel will go before you. However, when the time comes for me to punish, I will punish them for their sin.”

Exodus 34:5-9 NIV

[5] Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the Lord. [6] And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, [7] maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.” [8] Moses bowed to the ground at once and worshiped. [9] “Lord,” he said, “if I have found favor in your eyes, then let the Lord go with us. Although this is a stiff-necked people, forgive our wickedness and our sin, and take us as your inheritance.”

** We are to maintain a righteous fear of God, knowing He punishes those who sin in disobedience; followers are to revere God for He is the Holy of Holies; fear can help prevent us from sinning

Exodus 20:18-20 NIV

[18] When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance [19] and said to Moses, “Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die.” [20] Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.”

** A person’s life will be ‘in control’ when Jesus is at the center of their life; Jesus may be their Savior but is He Lord over their life? Jesus, who created the universe and holds it together, certainly has the ability to hold our lives together and help us overcome any concern or issue <F60> (2019)

Colossians 1:15-23 NIV

[15] The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. [16] For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. [17] He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. [18] And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. [19] For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, [20] and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. [21] Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. [22] But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation--- [23] if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

Hebrews 1:3a NIV

[3] The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.

** Depend on the Holy Spirit for response to accusations; don't depend on personal wit and ability to fabricate a defense

Luke 12:11-12 NIV

[11] “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, [12] for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.”

** The Lord hears our voice and knows our motive; do we seek to know Him and find favor with Him?

Exodus 33:12-13 NIV

[12] Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ [13] If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”

** God justifies the ungodly who have faith

Romans 6:5 NIV

[5] For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.

** God provides those who fear Him with a spiritual defense against His wrath that no human defense can match

Psalm 60:4 NIV

[4] But for those who fear you, you have raised a banner to be unfurled against the bow.

Psalm 60:9-12 NIV

[9] Who will bring me to the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom? [10] Is it not you, God, you who have now rejected us and no longer go out with our armies? [11] Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless. [12] With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies.

** Schedule reminders to celebrate the power and goodness of God, like Gentile fasting or Jewish festivals; sometimes God has very specific instructions on how the celebration should be performed

Exodus 12:17-20ff NIV

[17] “Celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of Egypt. Celebrate this day as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. [18] In the first month you are to eat bread made without yeast, from the evening of the fourteenth day until the evening of the twenty-first day. [19] For seven days no yeast is to be found in your houses. And anyone, whether foreigner or native-born, who eats anything with yeast in it must be cut off from the community of Israel. [20] Eat nothing made with yeast. Wherever you live, you must eat unleavened bread.”

Exodus 12:24-27 NIV

[24] “Obey these instructions as a lasting ordinance for you and your descendants. [25] When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony. [26] And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ [27] then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’ ” Then the people bowed down and worshiped.

Exodus 12:42 NIV

[42] Because the Lord kept vigil that night to bring them out of Egypt, on this night all the Israelites are to keep vigil to honor the Lord for the generations to come.

Exodus 12:43ff NIV

[43] The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “These are the regulations for the Passover meal: “No foreigner may eat it.

** Our God is full of compassion, even to the point of forgiving our sin and working with us in areas of struggle and weakness when we call on Him

Psalm 51:1-2 NIV

[1] Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. [2] Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

Psalm 51:11 NIV

[11] Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.

** God heard and answered our cry for mercy with an offer of salvation; Paul implores the Corinthians to see that NOW is the time to accept this offer and share this message with others

There is a time in God’s economy when He listens to sinners and responds to those who are repentant; that time was and is NOW but there will be an end to this offer of salvation, which is why Paul passionately urges his Corinthians audience to act <M130>

2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV

[2] For [God] says,

“In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.

Isaiah 49:8 NIV

[8] This is what the Lord says: “In the time of my favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you; I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land and to reassign its desolate inheritances,

Hebrews 3:7-8 NIV

[7] So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice, [8] do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness

Psalm 116:1-2 NIV

[1] I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. [2] Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.

John 9:4 NIV

[4] As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.

** David knows he can go to God with his plea because God cares enough to listen and answer His children; we can go to Him all the days of our life!

Psalm 55:1-2 NIV

[1] Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea; [2] hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught

Psalm 55:22 NIV

[22] Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

Psalm 116:1-2 NIV

[1] I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. [2] Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.

** While the world lives and judges by world standards, typically in what they see, Christians know the battle is in the unseen spiritual world and can be overcome only through God’s power

The forces of hell can only be demolished by spiritual weapons wielded by godly believers; New Testament Christians are commissioned to assault or battle error with truth <M130>

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 NIV

2 Corinthians 10:7a NIV

[7] You are judging by appearances.

Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. [14] Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, [15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. [16] In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. [17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.

** Repentance is a non-negotiable requirement for one wanting to obtain salvation for, as Paul states, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation"

2 Corinthians 7:10-11 NIV

[10] Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. [11] See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.

** Believers can be transformed into the likeness of Christ through the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit

2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV

[18] And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

** Apart from the Holy Spirit, the Bible cannot quicken, nor sanctify, nor comfort. It may be . . .

read constantly,

and searched deeply,

and known accurately,

and understood partially,

and quoted appropriately.

Yet, left to its own unassisted power, it comes but in word only, producing no hallowing, no abiding, no saving results.

Unaccompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit, the Bible is inactive and inoperative--a mere dead letter! <W211>

1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 NIV

For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, [5] because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.

** God's people are to hold each other accountable to God's law otherwise share in the abuser's guilt

Leviticus 19:17 NIV

[17] “ ‘Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.

** God tends to our needs and protects us when we recognize Him

Psalm 34:5-7 NIV

[5] Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. [6] This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. [7] The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.

** Paul issues a warning to followers of Christ to be careful, for those who think they are standing firm may fall if they allow temptation to overcome them; God always provides a way for Christians to endure and overcome temptation!

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 NIV

[12] So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! [13] No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

** David realizes those who think they are strong in their own might will be brought to everlasting ruin

Psalm 52:5-7 NIV

[5] Surely God will bring you down to everlasting ruin: He will snatch you up and pluck you from your tent; he will uproot you from the land of the living. [6] The righteous will see and fear; they will laugh at you, saying, [7] “Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others!”

Psalm 55:23 NIV

[23] But you, God, will bring down the wicked into the pit of decay; the bloodthirsty and deceitful will not live out half their days. But as for me, I trust in you.

** The one who trusts in God’s unfailing love and His works can be productive and secure like an olive tree

Psalm 52:8-9 NIV

[8] But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever. [9] For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.

** God wants our heart that is in love and desires Him alone, not a checklist of good deeds or what we deem as sacrifices

Psalm 51:16-17 NIV

[16] You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. [17] My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.

** God alone provides for us and enables us in all ways, so if you are going to boast then boast in the Lord

2 Corinthians 10:17-18 NIV

[17] But, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” [18] For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

2 Corinthians 11:30 NIV

[30] If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.

** May our actions meet up with our words; impressive talk is not valued as much as the written word and actions

2 Corinthians 10:10-11 NIV

[10] For some say, “His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing.” [11] Such people should realize that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present.

** If Christians want to remain with God their Father, they are to avoid joining forces with unbelievers because the two have nothing in common and can not mix, like oil and water

2 Corinthians 6:14-16a NIV

[14] Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? [15] What harmony is there between Christ and Belial ? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? [16] What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?

2 Corinthians 6:17 NIV

[17] Therefore, “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”

** Christians must read and follow God’s Word to not only know our Lord but also what He expects of us

1 Corinthians 4:6 NIV

[6] Now, brothers and sisters, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, “Do not go beyond what is written.” Then you will not be puffed up in being a follower of one of us over against the other.

** Paul informs us what it is like to be an apostle of Christ — enduring great difficulty with joy; Christians are to follow suit responding to opposition in love

1 Corinthians 4:11-13 NIV

[11] To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. [12] We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; [13] when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world---right up to this moment.

** Paul sends a leader to the Corinthians to remind them how they should behave; he encourages all Christians to follow his example

1 Corinthians 4:16 NIV

[16] Therefore I urge you to imitate me.

1 Corinthians 4:17 NIV

[17] For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.

** The message of the gospel in its entirety is foolishness to those in the world, those perishing and in need of salvation

1 Corinthians 1:18 NIV

[18] For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

Romans 8:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus

1 Corinthians 3:18-20 NIV

[18] Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. [19] For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God's sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness”; [20] and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.”

** God is the source of all wisdom and gives us enough to understand His offer of salvation; those who think they are wise are, indeed, fools for their source of wisdom is limited to that which God has given them from the beginningp!

1 Corinthians 1:19-20 NIV

[19] For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.” [20] Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?

1 Corinthians 1:21 NIV

[21] For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.

1 Corinthians 1:25 NIV

[25] For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.

** Look to God for true wisdom, not man-made signs and logic, such as proof in science

1 Corinthians 1:22-25 NIV

[22] Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, [23] but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, [24] but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. [25] For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.

** Ask God to help increase and make evident the fruits of the Spirit

2 Peter 1:5-9 NIV

[5] For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; [6] and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; [7] and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. [8] For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.

** Jethro recognized a problem with Moses' method of administration and offered a wise suggestion, showing the importance of elder counsel

Woven into Jethro's advice were statements about God and virtues of godly men that cause one to respect this man as having his newfound faith integrated into his thinking. Indeed, Jethro recognized that Moses needed divine permission to enact his advice (vs 23) <M130>

Exodus 18:13-16 NIV

[13] The next day Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. [14] When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, “What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as judge, while all these people stand around you from morning till evening?” [15] Moses answered him, “Because the people come to me to seek God’s will. [16] Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me, and I decide between the parties and inform them of God’s decrees and instructions.”

Exodus 18:17-23 NIV

[17] Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good. [18] You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. [19] Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their disputes to him. [20] Teach them his decrees and instructions, and show them the way they are to live and how they are to behave. [21] But select capable men from all the people---men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain---and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. [22] Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. [23] If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.”

** The Lord came and stood before Samuel in a vision, or a divine revelation mediated through an auditory or visual experience; Samuel indicated his willingness to listen! <M130>

• When Samuel told God ‘your servant is listening’, he expressed his willingness to respond to everything God said

• The author brings out the contrast between Samuel and Eli’s sons who did not listen to Eli’s rebuke and did not demonstrate their interest in listening to God

• It was the willingness of Samuel to listen that made him suitable to be God’s instrument in a critical period of sacred history <R1795>

1 Samuel 3:10 NIV

[10] The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel! ” Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”

** Moses provides us a good example of leadership willing to listen to godly advice

Exodus 18:24-26 NIV

[24] Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. [25] He chose capable men from all Israel and made them leaders of the people, officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. [26] They served as judges for the people at all times. The difficult cases they brought to Moses, but the simple ones they decided themselves.

** We live by faith and knowledge of God’s truth, not by sight

Faith is believing God, to receive His righteousness with an open hand; Charles Spurgeon wrote, "Faith is not a blind thing, for faith begins with knowledge. It is not a speculative thing, for faith believes facts of which it is sure. It is not an unpractical, dreamy thing, for faith trusts and stakes its destiny upon the truth of revelation. Faith is the EYE which looks, the HAND which grasps, the MOUTH which feeds upon Christ."

2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV

[7] For we live by faith, not by sight.

2 Peter 1:5-8 NIV

1 John 3:3 NIV

[3] All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

** Anyone who is built into the Christian faith will be tested at some point and the materials used will either survive or burn to ashes; make sure what is built will survive the test!

1 Corinthians 3:12-15 NIV

[12] If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, [13] their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person's work. [14] If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. [15] If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved---even though only as one escaping through the flames.

** Jesus works on us inwardly via the Holy Spirit and uses our outward obedience to accomplish our Father's will; if we choose to live the way God intended, then we will experience true freedom

John 8:41,47 NIV

[41] You are doing the works of your own father.” “We are not illegitimate children,” they protested. “The only Father we have is God himself.” [47] Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

John 8:12 NIV

[12] When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

** We can experience true joy and peace when we trust in God, for the Holy Spirit will then fill us with hope!

Romans 15:13 NIV

[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

** Much of what is required in following God involves our positive proactive action-attitude-love toward others

Romans 13:8-10 NIV

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. [9] The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [10] Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

Romans 15:2 NIV

Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.

Psalm 15:1,3,5 NIV

[1] Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [3] [His] whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; [5] who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.

** Those who have been transformed by faith will put on the image of God and turn from selfish desires

Romans 13:13-14 NIV

[13] Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. [14] Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.

** Christians are to remain vigilant with their faith in God, putting aside deeds of darkness and exhibiting behaviour conducive of Christ followers

Romans 13:11-12 NIV

[11] And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. [12] The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.

** It is by faith we stand firm

2 Corinthians 1:24 NIV

[24] Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.

** Despite Israel’s disobedience, God did not reject those He foreknew; again, salvation is not based on works but by God’s grace

Romans 11:1-6 NIV

[1] I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. [2] God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew. Don't you know what Scripture says in the passage about Elijah---how he appealed to God against Israel: [3] “Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me” ? [4] And what was God's answer to him? “I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” [5] So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. [6] And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.

Isaiah 49:14-15 NIV

[14] But Zion said, “The Lord has forsaken me, the Lord has forgotten me.” [15] “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!

** God’s holy and good law defines sin and consequently judges us to death when we live in it; thankfully the saving grace of Christ saves us from such a fate

Romans 7:7 NIV

[7] What shall we say, then? Is the law sinful? Certainly not! Nevertheless, I would not have known what sin was had it not been for the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.”

Romans 7:9-10 NIV

[9] Once I was alive apart from the law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died. [10] I found that the very commandment that was intended to bring life actually brought death.

** We need saving from our sin nature; thanks to God for redeeming us when we offer our lives to Him and trust Him completely

Romans 7:24-25a NIV

[24] What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? [25] Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!

Romans 8:1-4 NIV

[1] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, [2] because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. [3] For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, [4] in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

** Followers of Christ realize that Christ took on our punishment and died for us when we were absolutely helpless

God justifies the ungodly who have faith

Romans 5:6-8 NIV

Mark 2:15-17 NIV

[15] While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. [16] When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” [17] On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

** Strive for full restoration through repentance, be of one mind and encourage one another while living in peace; in turn, the God of love and peace will be with us!

2 Corinthians 13:11 NIV

[11] Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

** Paul expresses his concern for the Israelites that their zeal may be founded in what is true, not based on their limited intellect and knowledge

Romans 10:1-2 NIV

[1] Brothers and sisters, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved. [2] For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge.

** Once we realize the cost Christ endured at the cross and how our sin hurts the One who loves us beyond measure, we should not want to continue in our sin; instead we should feast and strive to obey the commands as outlined by Spirit of God in His Word

Romans 6:1-2 NIV

[1] What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? [2] By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?

Romans 6:15 NIV

[15] What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? By no means!

Romans 6:12-13 NIV

[12] Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. [13] Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.

Romans 8:5-6 NIV

[5] Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. [6] The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.

** Since God is master over death, sin does not have power over us and we can enjoy eternal life with Him

Romans 6:9-11 NIV

[9] For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. [10] The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. [11] In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Romans 6:14 NIV

[14] For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.

Romans 6:22-23 NIV

Romans 8:10-11 NIV

[10] But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. [11] And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

** Christians should no longer be slaves to sin but follow God’s teaching and pledge their allegiance to God alone

Romans 6:16-18 NIV

[16] Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey---whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? [17] But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. [18] You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

Romans 6:19 NIV

[19] I am using an example from everyday life because of your human limitations. Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness.

** As Christ followers, our hope is not based on following God’s law but our hope lies in being bound to Christ alone; in this way we are free from the penalties evoked from not following His law perfectly

Romans 7:4-6 NIV

[4] So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God. [5] For when we were in the realm of the flesh, the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in us, so that we bore fruit for death. [6] But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.

** Those who pursue God’s law as a way of righteousness will not obtain their goal for righteousness comes by faith

Romans 9:29-32 NIV

[29] It is just as Isaiah said previously: “Unless the Lord Almighty had left us descendants, we would have become like Sodom, we would have been like Gomorrah.” [30] What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; [31] but the people of Israel, who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. [32] Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone.

** Everyone experiences death through one man Adam, while Christ provides life to all

Romans 5:18-19 NIV

[18] Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. [19] For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.

** All of God's sinful followers, Jew and Gentile alike, have opportunity to be redeemed through Christ (seen as righteous by God) when believing in His death, resurrection and power over sin

We are all a bunch of lost sheep without direction unless we follow our Shepherd while the world strives to gain peace and love; we know accomplishing anything is impossible apart from Christ and the righteous instruction He imparts to us

Romans 3:22-24 NIV

[22] This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

[21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

** We cannot obtain righteousness by simply following His law but can through faith in Jesus Christ; after we proclaim our belief in God, He puts His law on our hearts so we can know Him and further receive the power to obey His law

Romans 3:27-28 NIV

[27] Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. Because of what law? The law that requires works? No, because of the law that requires faith. [28] For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.

Genesis 15:6 NIV

[6] Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.

Jeremiah 31:33-34 NIV

[33] “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. [34] No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Ezekiel 36:26-27 NIV

[26] I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.

** Through Abraham we learn that we must have faith (and hope) in God because we can not be justified through works or the law

Romans 4:18 NIV

[18] Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.”

Romans 4:2-3 NIV

[2] If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about---but not before God. [3] What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”

Romans 4:4-5 NIV

[4] Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. [5] However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness.

Romans 4:10 NIV

[10] Under what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before!

** Performing works and following God’s law is not what brings about justification in the eyes of God

Romans 4:13-14 NIV

[13] It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. [14] For if those who depend on the law are heirs, faith means nothing and the promise is worthless

** Salvation comes by grace to all of Abraham’s descendants who follow God's law and have faith in God

Romans 4:16 NIV

[16] Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring---not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all.

** We should consider ourselves blessed when our sins are forgiven and do not count against us

Romans 4:7-8 NIV

[7] “Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. [8] Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them.”

** The ultimate purpose of God's law is to help us identify sin, point us to Jesus and lead healthy God-honoring lives

Romans 3:20 NIV

[20] Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.

** Everyone is driven by impulses that come from our natural human sinful nature; only Jesus can set us free from our sinful nature to obey Him

John 8:34 NIV

[34] Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.

John 8:36 NIV

[36] So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

** Paul through the book of Romans gives us the hope of the gospel; we too can receive the saving grace and apostleship to call the Gentiles

Romans 1:5-6 NIV

[5] Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name’s sake. [6] And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.

Romans 1:16-17 NIV

[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. [17] For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed---a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

** Understand the amazing sacrifice Christ endured to deal with our sin; in thanks, we should obey His commands and live as He has shown us

1 John 4:9 NIV

[9] This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

1 John 4:12 NIV

[12] No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

** Christian conduct is not simply a matter of following the rules of law but must comprise of intentional learning and obeying of God’s law in a person’s heart; conduct, therefore, is a product of the heart and evidence of allegiance to God

Romans 2:25 NIV

[25] Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, you have become as though you had not been circumcised.

Romans 2:14-15 NIV

[14] (Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law. [15] They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.)

Hebrews 8:10 NIV

[10] This is the covenant I will establish with the people of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

** Scripture is clear that we are to love our enemies and leave judgment and consequences to God; live in complete contrast to how the world operates

Romans 12:14,17,19 NIV

[14] Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. [17] Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. [19] Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.

Romans 12:20 NIV

[20] On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

** Live at peace with everyone and do not buy into (or live by) the world’s hierarchy of social status

Romans 12:16,18 NIV

[16] Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. [18] If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

** Care for one another by recognizing and empathizing with their situation

Romans 12:15 NIV

[15] Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

** Paul makes it clear that anyone wanting to be saved must believe in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 20:31) and His atonement for sin (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)

Acts 16:30-31 NIV

[30] He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” [31] They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved---you and your household.”

John 20:31 NIV

[31] But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 NIV

[3] For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures

** Obedience comes from faith; obedience cannot create or replace faith

Romans 1:5-6 NIV

** Paul did not say the gospel is ABOUT God's power or a SOURCE of power we can obtain, but the gospel ITSELF is the power by which God accomplishes salvation in everyone who believes, something all of Rome could not do!

Where the good news of salvation by God's grace alone through faith in God's Son is preached, the Spirit of God is at work transforming lives from the slavery of sin; God provides salvation through the gospel!

Romans 1:16 NIV

[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.

** We can experience control over sin, power over the evil one and gain understanding/truth when we know God and believe in Him

1. We have control over sin

1 John 5:18 NIV

[18] We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.

2. We have power over the evil one

1 John 5:19 NIV

[19] We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.

3. God gives us understanding and we can know truth

1 John 5:20 NIV

[20] We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.

** God's plan for mankind was that we would inhabit the earth, find Him, repent and reach out to others

Acts 17:26-27 NIV

[26] From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. [27] God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.

Acts 17:30-31 NIV

[30] In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. [31] For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”

** Repentance involves actively turning from one's way, sometimes in a public manner

Acts 19:18-19 NIV

[18] Many of those who believed now came and openly confessed what they had done. [19] A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas.

** Repentance is a crucial part of the salvation plan and we rely on God's mercy to heal us from our sin; this debunks the thinking that a person must 'get better' before coming to God

Psalm 41:4 NIV

[4] I said, “Have mercy on me, Lord; heal me, for I have sinned against you.”

** Baptism and repentance was the message John preached to the crowds when preparing them for Christ's arrival

Acts 13:24 NIV

[24] Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel.

** We do not receive because we do not ask and our joy is not complete; true hope and peace reside completely in God alone

John 16:23-24 NIV

[23] In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. [24] Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

John 16:33 NIV

[33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

** We do not have to succumb to depression because the Lord promises to be a refuge for those who believe in Him; we can completely put our trust and hope in God

Psalm 43:5 NIV

[5] Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

** As believers in Christ we are to fulfill our vows to God who will, in turn, deliver us from our troubles and sorrows

Psalm 50:23 NIV

[23] "... Those who sacrifice thank offerings honor me, and to the blameless I will show my salvation.”

Psalm 50:14-15 NIV

[14] “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, [15] and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”

Psalm 116:3-6 NIV

Psalm 116:12-14 NIV

** Praise and worship of God’s righteousness are natural responses from those who have been delivered from guilt of sin

Psalm 51:14-15 NIV

[14] Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, you who are God my Savior, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. [15] Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise.

** Jesus is the light of the world; light manifests God's glory such as holiness, truth, and splendor; God's glory is revealed from the beginning of creation to the final days in Revelation when God's presence will replace the sin

John 8:12 NIV

[12] When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Genesis 1:3-4 NIV

[3] And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. [4] God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness.

Revelation 21:23-24 NIV

[23] The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. [24] The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.

** We can have complete peace in any situation for we know our life here on earth is temporary; Christ will return and take us to a better place!

John 14:2-3 NIV

[2] My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Thessalonians 4:16,18 NIV

[16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. [18] Therefore encourage one another with these words.

1 John 3:2-3 NIV

[2] Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. [3] All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

Revelation 22:7 NIV

[7] “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”

** Why do we look to the nations for exemplary behavior when they follow evil; these nations will only temporarily reign on the earth until the return of Christ

Psalm 58:1-2 NIV

[1] Do you rulers indeed speak justly? Do you judge people with equity? [2] No, in your heart you devise injustice, and your hands mete out violence on the earth.

** Jesus makes it clear He is the only One through whom people can find salvation; this involves deliverance from evil, and provides security in both current existence and life after death (eternity)

John 10:9-10 NIV

John 12:46 NIV

[46] I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.

** Jesus' death fulfilled prophecy and the symbolism of the ultimate Passover Lamb at the time of the Jewish Passover, shedding of His blood as the perfect sacrifice so we would not have to endure punishment for our sin

John 19:31-37 NIV

[31] Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jewish leaders did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. [32] The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. [33] But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. [34] Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. [35] The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. [36] These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” [37] and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.”

Exodus 12:13 NIV

[13] The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.

Numbers 9:9-12 NIV

[9] Then the Lord said to Moses, [10] “Tell the Israelites: ‘When any of you or your descendants are unclean because of a dead body or are away on a journey, they are still to celebrate the Lord’s Passover, [11] but they are to do it on the fourteenth day of the second month at twilight. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. [12] They must not leave any of it till morning or break any of its bones. When they celebrate the Passover, they must follow all the regulations.

** The tomb fulfills Scriptural prophecy and now symbolizes eternal freedom in that no tomb can contain those who believe; we can claim that we have been crucified with Christ through dying, being buried and finally rising from the dead!

John 19:41-42 NIV

[41] At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. [42] Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

Psalm 16:10 NIV

[10] because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.

Isaiah 53:9,11 NIV

[9] He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. [11] After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied ; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.

** The True Shepherd provides for His sheep, including laying down His life for His sheep, looking after, rescuing, healing and placing them in safety; those who accept their position as sheep in need of a Shepherd can be secure in their existence and purpose, while those who do not believe will perish which falls in line with the Ezekiel text

John 10:14-15 NIV

[14] “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me--- [15] just as the Father knows me and I know the Father---and I lay down my life for the sheep.

Ezekiel 34:11-16 NIV

[11] “ ‘For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. [12] As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. [13] I will bring them out from the nations and gather them from the countries, and I will bring them into their own land. I will pasture them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines and in all the settlements in the land. [14] I will tend them in a good pasture, and the mountain heights of Israel will be their grazing land. There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. [15] I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord. [16] I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.

** Light makes truth clear and exposes falsehood; some do not like this light, like the Pharisees who did not like Jesus' claim as Son of God or His exposure of their hypocrisy; do we want the Light to reveal truth?

John 8:37-38 NIV

[37] I know that you are Abraham’s descendants. Yet you are looking for a way to kill me, because you have no room for my word. [38] I am telling you what I have seen in the Father’s presence, and you are doing what you have heard from your father. ”

** To receive this bread of life we must believe we have sinned, fallen short of the glory of God and that by grace we can be saved through Christ

Romans 3:23-24 NIV

[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

** Those who recognize the authority of Jesus and admit their need for Him can receive His light, which opens their eyes to spiritual knowledge and insight

John 9:39 NIV

[39] Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”

** Avoid those who deceive with their flattery and preach a message contrary to the gospel of Jesus Christ

Romans 16:17-18 NIV

[17] I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. [18] For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.

** Paul encourages the saints to be wise about good and innocent of evil, as Christ encouraged His disciples

Romans 16:19 NIV

[19] Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.

Matthew 10:16 NIV

[16] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.

** Jesus knew He was to fulfill His purpose by dying on the cross in order to conquer death (resurrect) and live in the hearts of His believers giving them strength, direction and hope to overcome sin

John 12:27 NIV

[27] “Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour.

John 12:31-33 NIV

[31] Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out. [32] And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” [33] He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die.

** Even though Jesus was to leave His disciples, He promised them the Holy Spirit or "power from on high"

Luke 24:49 NIV

[49] I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Acts 1:4-5 NIV

[4] On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. [5] For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

Luke 24:51 NIV

[51] While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven.

** We can take great comfort in the words of Jesus when He said, "whoever comes to me I will never drive away"; this verse confirms that Jesus is willing to accept anyone who comes and believes in Him

John 6:37 NIV

[37] All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.

John 6:40 NIV

[40] For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.”

- when we choose to believe, the Holy Spirit gives us assurance that we are saved

- Jesus is the source of all satisfaction

- personally, we can enjoy the eternal gift of life and satisfaction by:

a) having a hope that life has purpose as we live day-by-day

b) having a change in perspective that we are not only around for 70 years but our existence is for a different reason -- not to live it up because this is our "one time around" but because we live to glorify God through our lives on earth

** The Lord can vindicate us and plead our case against our foes

Psalm 43:1,3a NIV

[1] Vindicate me, my God, and plead my cause against an unfaithful nation. Rescue me from those who are deceitful and wicked. [3] Send me your light and your faithful care

** Believers in Christ do not need to be anxious about anything because our Savior promises to be an advocate for us at all times, even into eternity

• An advocate is a person who comes to a person's aid or pleads their case to a judge, offering support, strength, and counsel when needed <G72>

• God sends every believer the Advocate Holy Spirit to help while living their earthly life

• Jesus will then stand as an Advocate between those who have repentant hearts and the Righteous Judge, His Father

• Jesus can be the believer's Advocate because:

1. He knows whether their heart is genuinely in love with God, and

2. He has paid their sin debt in full when He died on the cross

• Believers in Christ will, therefore, receive consistent help and avoid eternal condemnation

John 14:15-16 NIV

[15] “If you love me, keep my commands. [16] And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever---

Matthew 24:35 NIV

[35] Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

Revelation 3:10 NIV

[10] Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

Romans 8:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,

** The Holy Spirit will testify about the truth of Christ and what is to come; we can confirm this truth since we are followers of Christ

John 16:13-14 NIV

[13] But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. [14] He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you.

John 15:26-27 NIV

[26] “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father---the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father---he will testify about me. [27] And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.

** Many societies places emphasis on what people see (proof of independence, youth, beauty, wealth, status, etc), all of which are temporal and will end when life on this earth does; rather, believe in God who offers us true values that last beyond our few years here!

John 4:48-50 NIV

[48] “Unless you people see signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe.” [49] The royal official said, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” [50] “Go,” Jesus replied, “your son will live.” The man took Jesus at his word and departed.

Jeremiah 2:13 NIV

[13] “My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water."

** Jesus offers a Living Water that will satisfy forever; we need to recognize our mortality, our sin, our need for eternal salvation and then go to God and His word

Repentance should occur when we become convicted of our sin and then maturing of faith will happen through continued efforts to be obedient to God's commands on a daily basis

1 John 1:8-10 NIV

[8] If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. [10] If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

- the Samaritan woman remembered there was to be a Messiah, and Jesus informs her of who He is

- woman is first example of Gentile turning to Christ

- her eyes are opened; we know this because she goes to others and shares the news

John 4:28-29 NIV

[28] Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, [29] “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?”

** The Samaritan women's sin confused her understanding of God and she needed to see Jesus as more than simply a good teacher; Jesus introduces the need for confession and allowing God to control all aspects of a person's life

John 4:19 NIV

[19] “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet."

John 4:24 NIV

[24] God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

** Recipients of the first Gospel message were cut to the heart and wondered what their response should be; Peter instructs them to repent of their sin and be baptized in order to receive the Holy Spirit

Acts 2:37-38 NIV

[37] When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” [38] Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:40-41 NIV

[40] With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” [41] Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

** The story of Nicodemus is a good example of a changed life, a new life that involved a new focus in Christ

John 3:4-5 NIV

[4] “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” [5] Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit."

** We can experience God through Scripture (His desire and commands) and nature (grace and truth through Jesus)

John 1:17 NIV

[17] For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 3:4,6 NIV

For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. [6] But Christ is faithful as the Son over God’s house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory.

** God came into the world through Jesus Christ to save us, although the world did not recognize Him

John 1:9-12 NIV

[9] The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. [10] He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. [11] He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. [12] Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God---

- God outlines what is truth and boundaries to live, like an owner's manual regarding what is created

- we cannot understand or accomplish what is required without His Helper in Jesus providing wisdom and grace

- the challenge is to live life to the full, possible only by having complete faith in Him

- understand that God can work through our meager actions to accomplish His will

** False prophets who operate with the power of Satan can come to believe in Christ them self, as did Simon the Gnostic; there is hope for everyone!

Acts 8:9,13 NIV

[9] Now for some time a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great... [13] Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.

** The ruler believed he kept all the commandments in order to make a good disciple, but Jesus knew his weakness as a wealthy individual and pointed it out

• The rich young ruler represents those who rely on the morality and decency to gain eternal life

• First century Jews who were rich were thought to have the inside track on pleasing God

• Since this ruler relied on his wealth, Jesus told him to abandon his wealth and follow Him; this is not a universal command but given to a specific individual who grew to depend on his own resources

• Christians do well to ‘psychologically abandon’ all our possessions so that we might rely on God and respond freely to His will <R1795>

Luke 18:20-21 NIV

[20] You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.’ ” [21] “All these I have kept since I was a boy,” he said.

Luke 18:22-23 NIV

[22] When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” [23] When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy.

Luke 18:24-25 NIV

[24] Jesus looked at him and said, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! [25] Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

** Jesus emphasizes that man cannot find salvation on his own but only through God; this follows the account of the rich young ruler trying to win his salvation by good deeds

Luke 18:27 NIV

[27] Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”

** Jesus sometimes works in miraculous ways to get our attention and turn us from our current direction; this must involve some form of repentance/action on our part for the change to take hold in our life

Acts 9:3-5 NIV

[3] As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. [4] He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” [5] “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied.

Acts 9:20-22 NIV

[20] At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. [21] All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” [22] Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.

** Turning from our current path may involve following God's direction and include a dismal future if the Lord wills

Acts 9:6,8-9,17-18 NIV

[6] “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” [8] Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. [9] For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything. [17] Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord---Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here---has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” [18] Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,

Acts 9:15-16 NIV

[15] But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. [16] I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”

** Phillip was obedient to every step of God's call and was able to participate as God converted a man

Acts 8:26-31 NIV

[26] Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road---the desert road---that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” [27] So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, [28] and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. [29] The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.” [30] Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. [31] “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.

Acts 8:36,38 NIV

[36] As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” [38] And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.

** Others may not believe the change God has performed in our life until we demonstrate the effects and/or someone explains the life-changing event; salvation is evident by fruit, as seen in the parable of the sower

Acts 9:26-28 NIV

[26] When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. [27] But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. [28] So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.

Matthew 13:23 NIV

[23] But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

** I resonate with this Psalm because there are times, despite my efforts in dealing with our sin condition, I feel overwhelmed by the sin around me and can at times automatically feel defeated and give up, which certainly doesn't help the situation or reduce my anxiety

Psalm 39:1-2 NIV

[1] I said, “I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth while in the presence of the wicked.” [2] So I remained utterly silent, not even saying anything good. But my anguish increased

** We can be healed when we come to God and believe

Luke 8:43-48 NIV

[43] And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. [44] She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. [45] “Who touched me?” Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.” [46] But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” [47] Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. [48] Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”

** God can resolve any problem that faces us regardless of the factors involved when we go to Him asking for help

Luke 8:23-24 NIV

[23] As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. [24] The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm.

** We should have a healthy fear of the Lord's scourge against evil and our participation in sin; at the same time, we can ask God to have compassion on us and be patient with us as we deal with sin and He often willingly obliges

Psalm 39:8,10 NIV

[8] Save me from all my transgressions; do not make me the scorn of fools. [10] Remove your scourge from me; I am overcome by the blow of your hand.

Psalm 39:12-13 NIV

[12] “Hear my prayer, Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping. I dwell with you as a foreigner, a stranger, as all my ancestors were. [13] Look away from me, that I may enjoy life again before I depart and am no more.”

** Absalom killed Amnon during a family gathering; the report got back to David and Absalom fled

• Because Amnon would not accept responsibility for his sin, he was murdered

• Tamar was also unable to find peace because of Amnon’s response

• The only healthy was to deal with sin is to acknowledge our sin, accept responsibility for it and trust God to forgive us and then undo the harm we have done to others <R1795>

2 Samuel 13:28-29 NIV

[28] Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be afraid. Haven’t I given you this order? Be strong and brave. ” [29] So Absalom’s men did to Amnon what Absalom had ordered. Then all the king’s sons got up, mounted their mules and fled.

** Our sin should bother us to the point of repentance

Psalm 38:18 NIV

[18] I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin.

** Notice how quickly the father responds in giving his son his inheritance when demanded, even though he could guess that his son would squander it; similarly God often gives us what we ask in order to hopefully teach a lesson

Luke 15:12-13 NIV

[12] The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. [13] “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living.

** The righteous can call on the name of the Lord and He will hear us and be our refuge from all troublesome situations, to an eternal end!

Psalm 34:15 NIV

[15] The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry

Psalm 34:4,6,8 NIV

[4] I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. [6] This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. [8] Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

Psalm 34:7 NIV

[7] The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.

Psalm 34:17-20 NIV

[17] The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. [18] The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. [19] The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; [20] he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.

Psalm 34:22 NIV

[22] The Lord will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.

** The early church father John Chrysostom said this is prayer: “The potency of prayer hath subdued the strength of fire, it hath bridled the rage of lions, hushed anarchy to rest; extinguished wars, appeased the elements, expelled demons, burst the chains of death, expanded the gates of heaven, assuaged diseases, repelled frauds, rescued cities from destruction, stayed the sun in its course, and arrested the progress of the thunderbolt. Prayer is an all-sufficient panoply, a treasure undiminished, a mine which is never exhausted, a sky unobscured by the clouds, a heaven unruffled by the storm. It is the root, the fountain, the mother of a thousand blessings.” <Z220>

** Jesus ministered to the 'elements of society' that many others wanted to avoid, including prostitutes and tax collectors; Jesus wanted to offer a way of salvation for those who needed it most

Luke 5:27-31 NIV

[27] After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. “Follow me,” Jesus said to him, [28] and Levi got up, left everything and followed him. [29] Then Levi held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them. [30] But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” [31] Jesus answered them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.

** Jesus healed a woman without her asking whereas at other times He waited for them to specifically request healing

Luke 13:10-13 NIV

[10] On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, [11] and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. [12] When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” [13] Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.

** It is not enough to rid yourself of sin and evil spirits but must invite Christ in to reside and take over

Luke 11:24-26 NIV

[24] “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ [25] When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. [26] Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.”

** John the Baptist gives specific examples of producing fruit as a result of repe; the sum of it is "cease to do evil and learn to do well" according to MacArthur

Luke 3:11-14 NIV

[11] John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.” [12] Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” [13] “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them. [14] Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely---be content with your pay.”

** David realizes what will happen if God does not hear his cry; only God can save us from going down into the pit

Psalm 28:1 NIV

[1] To you, Lord, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit.

Psalm 28:8-9 NIV

[8] The Lord is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one. [9] Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.

** David makes numerous references to going down to the depths/pit which we infer as near-death experience; God is the unique Healer who can bring someone from such a place

Psalm 30:1,3 NIV

[1] I will exalt you, Lord, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. [3] You, Lord, brought me up from the realm of the dead; you spared me from going down to the pit.

Psalm 30:2 NIV

[2] Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.

** We may think we have it all together but soon realize it is only God who gives us the strength to stand firm

Psalm 30:6-7 NIV

[6] When I felt secure, I said, “I will never be shaken.” [7] Lord, when you favored me, you made my royal mountain stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed.

** God's help is conditional: David's words "my heart trusts in him, and he helps me" indicates that we often need to act first before God responds, not the other way around

Psalm 28:7 NIV

[7] The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.

** Calling on God for help is conditional

• God responds positively to those who seek Him and are motivated to keep His ways, yet shows Himself shrewd to those who are devious and will bring down the haughty

• God will cross the unrighteous and walk contrary to him <M130>

Psalm 18:24-27 NIV

[24] The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight. [25] To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless, [26] to the pure you show yourself pure, but to the devious you show yourself shrewd. [27] You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty.

Psalm 18:41 NIV

[41] They cried for help, but there was no one to save them---to the Lord, but he did not answer.

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NIV

[19] This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live [20] and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

** We can try to reason around it, but Jesus makes it plain that everyone needs to REPENT in order to be saved

Luke 13:2-5 NIV

[2] Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? [3] I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. [4] Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them---do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? [5] I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”

** Those in David's company who were unanimous in prayer were focused on God, confident in victory, anxious to lift their banners glorifying God and rejoicing with their neighbor

Psalm 20:5a NIV

[5] May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God.

** David made it his life practice to prayerfully approach God and trust Him above all else

Psalm 20:1-2 NIV

[1] May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. [2] May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion.

Psalm 20:7-8 NIV

[7] Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. [8] They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.

** In order to understand Jesus teachings we must believe Him, then obey and devote ourselves to Him

Luke 8:10 NIV

[10] He said, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that, “ ‘though seeing, they may not see; though hearing, they may not understand.’

** Jesus has the power to forgive sins, as demonstrated through the miracle of healing

• A delegation of Pharisees from around the region were sent to evaluate whether Jesus was a ‘proper’ teacher of the law

• In their presence, Jesus told the paralytic that his sins were forgiven

• The Pharisees were aghast at His proclamation so Jesus decided to prove He had power by healing the paralytic

• Healing the paralytic meant that God was working through Him and He, indeed, had the power to forgive sin

• Believers today need to be cautious when evaluating effective ministries based on ‘official recognition’; evidence of God’s call should be seen in the transforming results of an individual’s ministry to others rather than a degree hanging on the wall <R1795>

Luke 5:17 NIV

One day Jesus was teaching, and Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there. They had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick.

Luke 5:24b-26 NIV

So he said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” [25] Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. [26] Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today.”

Mark 2:3-5 NIV

[3] Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. [4] Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. [5] When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

** David understands that he has a responsibility in his relationship with God, to fulfill his vows to the Lord

Psalm 22:25 NIV

[25] From you comes the theme of my praise in the great assembly; before those who fear you I will fulfill my vows.

** David asks a rhetorical question; those who SEEK God may approach Him and receive His blessings

Psalm 24:3 NIV

[3] Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place?

Psalm 24:4,6 NIV

[4] The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god. [6] Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, God of Jacob.

Psalm 24:5 NIV

[5] They will receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God their Savior.

** It is repeated in Psalm 24 that WE have a responsibility to open our hearts and souls for His reception, so that the Lord may come in

Psalm 24:7,9 NIV

[7] Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. [9] Lift up your heads, you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in.

** The Lord directs and counsels us; He is not one to 'wind up the world and let it go' but desires we should seek His counsel in every aspect of our lives; those who follow His counsel will not fail

Psalm 16:7-8 NIV

[7] I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. [8] I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

** God can help us hold to the straight and narrow path as outlined by God, regardless of the temptation to do otherwise

Psalm 17:4-5 NIV

[4] Though people tried to bribe me, I have kept myself from the ways of the violent through what your lips have commanded. [5] My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not stumbled.

** Even though we encounter perilous situations throughout our life, God does not always remove us but uses rod and staff to protect and direct us respectively

Psalm 23:4 NIV

[4] Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

** The Lord hears our prayers and often blesses us by giving us what we request

Psalm 21:1-2 NIV

[1] The king rejoices in your strength, Lord. How great is his joy in the victories you give! [2] You have granted him his heart’s desire and have not withheld the request of his lips.

Psalm 21:3-6 NIV

[3] You came to greet him with rich blessings and placed a crown of pure gold on his head. [4] He asked you for life, and you gave it to him---length of days, for ever and ever. [5] Through the victories you gave, his glory is great; you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty. [6] Surely you have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence.

** Once believers are born again, or invite the Holy Spirit into their lives, the Holy Spirit helps them die to themselves on a daily basis

** Jesus goes directly to Scripture to refute Satan's attempts to get Jesus to give Satan ultimate power and follow him; Jesus shows us the way we should deal with Satan's attempts at temptation

Luke 4:3-11 NIV

[3] The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” [4] Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’ ” [5] The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. [6] And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. [7] If you worship me, it will all be yours.” [8] Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’ ” [9] The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here. [10] For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; [11] they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’ ”

** Christians are to despise ungodly vile persons, but view those who follow and uphold God in high esteem

Psalm 15:1,4 NIV

[1] Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [4] who despises a vile person but honors those who fear The Lord

** David recognizes that the Lord hears the cries of those in need and He will come to their aid

Psalm 12:5,7 NIV

[5] “Because the poor are plundered and the needy groan, I will now arise, ” says the Lord. “I will protect them from those who malign them.” [7] You, Lord, will keep the needy safe and will protect us forever from the wicked

** God protects us like a shield around me; envision Satan’s tactics that cannot come near or inflict pain on us!

• Yet despite the stress and anxiety, David found a way to relieve the stress and restore inner peace

• He focused his thoughts on God and remembered who He is

• When we consider who God is, and all He has done for us, we can lift the burden from our back and place it on His <R1795>

Psalm 3:3 NIV

[3] But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.

** There are times when God seems silent, when we wonder whether He hears us and will attend to us; we can feel alone

Psalm 13:1-2 NIV

[1] How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? [2] How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?

** It can seem as though our foes will rejoice over our discouragement; don't worry about that because God will eventually deal with those who oppose Him

Psalm 13:4 NIV

[4] and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him, ” and my foes will rejoice when I fall.

** David realizes that only God has the solution and ultimate purpose for your situation, whether that is evident to you at the time or not

Psalm 13:3 NIV

[3] Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death

** Praise and trust God regardless whether you feel He has heard or answered you!

Psalm 13:5-6 NIV

[5] But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. [6] I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me.

** The Lord in His boundless love and mercy can deliver sinners from their sin debt

Psalm 6:2,4 NIV

[2] Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. [4] Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.

** The power of prayer allows humans to access the power of God to cast out demons!

Mark 9:28-29 NIV

[28] After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” [29] He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”

** God blesses those who aim to do what He expects of His followers: to constantly love/serve God, to love their neighbor, and to not only operate in word but in action that reflects His truth

Psalm 15:1-3 NIV

** Jesus cursed a fig tree as a warning about unfruitfulness, and His disciples were amazed that the tree withered from the roots; Christ encourages that if have faith through God then it WILL be accomplished

Mark 11:12-14,19-23 NIV

[12] The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. [13] Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. [14] Then he said to the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard him say it. [19] When evening came, Jesus and his disciples went out of the city. [20] In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. [21] Peter remembered and said to Jesus, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!” [22] “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. [23] “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them.

** Effective prayer to receive whatever you ask involves forgiving others, and being "without wrath and doubt" <M130>

Mark 11:24-25 NIV

[24] Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. [25] And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”

Matthew 21:22 NIV

[22] If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

** One who has faith and does not doubt will receive what they ask in prayer, when it is in accordance to God's will

Matthew 21:19-22 NIV

Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” Immediately the tree withered. [20] When the disciples saw this, they were amazed. “How did the fig tree wither so quickly?” they asked. [21] Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. [22] If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

** Stay away from those who are idle and work contrary to the Lord's commands for they can influence you; do not regard them as an enemy but warn them about their action/inaction

2 Thessalonians 3:6 NIV

In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.

2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 NIV

Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. [15] Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.

** Do not walk with the wicked for they will wither away and be destroyed; the Lord blesses, watches over and prospers those who delight in His law

Psalm 1:1-3 NIV

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, [2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. [3] That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither---whatever they do prospers.

Psalm 1:6 NIV

For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

** As followers of Christ we have a responsibility to not only be a good model but make sure we are not the reason another stumbles; the consequences are horrific

Mark 9:42 NIV

[42] “If anyone causes one of these little ones---those who believe in me---to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.

** Remove yourself from WHOever or WHATever causes you to fall or sin, even if they are as useful as a hand, foot or eye; MacArthur believes this passage refers first to removing yourself from people who lead you astray, and second to remove anything that hinders

Mark 9:43,45,47 NIV

[43] If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. [45] And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two feet and be thrown into hell. [47] And if your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell,

** We have access to the eternal Word of God to help us through this life and into the next; the end of the world will come but God's words will last forever

Mark 13:31 NIV

[31] Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

** Teach sound doctrine and lead by example

Titus 2:1 NIV

You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.

Titus 2:7-8 NIV

In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness [8] and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.

** God does not only provide for us physically but also provides for our spiritual well-being

Mark 9:20-27 NIV

[20] So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. [21] Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. [22] “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” [23] “ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” [24] Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” [25] When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the impure spirit. “You deaf and mute spirit,” he said, “I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” [26] The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, “He’s dead.” [27] But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up.

** God Himself works with us to help accomplish every good deed

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 NIV

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, [17] encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

** When we put our needs aside (or what we think we need) and exhibit strong faith in God, then He can work uninhibited

Mark 7:26-30 NIV

[26] The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter. [27] “First let the children eat all they want,” he told her, “for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” [28] “Lord,” she replied, “even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” [29] Then he told her, “For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.” [30] She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.

** Followers of Christ must be willing to give up everything in this life, including life itself; Christ challenges a follower to give up the thing that he valued and depended on most in this life -- his riches

Mark 10:17,19-21 NIV

[17] As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” [19] You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’ ” [20] “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.” [21] Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

** There is great reward in the present and future for those who prioritize God; we must be willing to give up family and field and endure persecution for Him

Mark 10:28-31 NIV

[28] Then Peter spoke up, “We have left everything to follow you!” [29] “Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel [30] will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields---along with persecutions---and in the age to come eternal life. [31] But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

** To what extent do we consider God's involvement when analyzing a problem and looking for a solution?

• More than not, we look at the logistics of a problem or situation and don't consider God's miraculous ability in the equation

• Going to God in prayer is often our 'last resort' when 'there's nothing else we can do' when it should be our first response before considering other options

Mark 8:9a NIV

[9] About four thousand were present.

Mark 8:4 NIV

[4] His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?”

** Do you believe God can do anything He desires? How do you approach God... with a doubting spirit or one who believes it is possible for God to accomplish anything?

Mark 9:17-19 NIV

[17] A man in the crowd answered, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. [18] Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not.” [19] “You unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.”

Mark 9:20-24 NIV

** Trust God who will provide for us

Mark 8:7-8 NIV

They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. [8] The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.

** The Lord hears the cry of His children when they take refuge in Him in the shadow of His wings

Psalm 17:6-9 NIV

[6] I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer. [7] Show me the wonders of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes. [8] Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings [9] from the wicked who are out to destroy me, from my mortal enemies who surround me.

** Jesus heals a blind man in response to the man calling to Him in faith, believing Jesus has the power to heal; Jesus said the man's faith healed him!

Mark 10:46-52 NIV

[46] Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means “son of Timaeus”), was sitting by the roadside begging. [47] When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” [48] Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” [49] Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So they called to the blind man, “Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.” [50] Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus. [51] “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” [52] “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

** God saved us by His mercy so, by example, we know how to interact with others

Titus 3:2-8 NIV

to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. [3] At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. [4] But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, [5] he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, [6] whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, [7] so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. [8] This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

** Actively pray for protection against the enemy and his legions

2 Thessalonians 3:2-3 NIV

And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. [3] But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

** God helps those who are weak yet rely on Him for strength; they do not deny His Name

Revelation 3:8 NIV

I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.

** Our lives should be a witness for Christ as we reflect His goodness and power; He enables us to do so

1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 NIV

Rejoice always, [17] pray continually, [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. [19] Do not quench the Spirit.

1 Thessalonians 5:24 NIV

The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.

Titus 2:6 NIV

Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled.

** Through the blood of Christ we can have our sins forgiven

Revelation 1:5b NIV

To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood,

** God disciplines those He loves; He also gives us opportunity to repent

Revelation 3:19 NIV

Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.

Revelation 3:20 NIV

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

** God gives time for sinners to repent; punishes those who don't

Revelation 2:21-22 NIV

** Pergamum is to repent; their action will determine their outcome

Revelation 2:16-17 NIV

** Focus on what is true and good, so we can grow in God's goodness, experience His peace and gain help in overcoming sin in our lives

Philippians 4:8-9 NIV

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable---if anything is excellent or praiseworthy---think about such things. [9] Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me---put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

** Live to please God increasingly, day by day

1 Thessalonians 4:1 NIV

As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.

2 Thessalonians 3:13 NIV

And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.

** God will reward those who do not follow false teaching

Revelation 2:24-25 NIV

Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets, ‘I will not impose any other burden on you, [25] except to hold on to what you have until I come.’

Revelation 2:26-28 NIV

To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations--- [27] that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’ ---just as I have received authority from my Father. [28] I will also give that one the morning star.

** There is relief from our suffering and troubles

2 Thessalonians 1:6-7 NIV

God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you [7] and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels.

** Sometimes God spares us sorrow

Philippians 2:27 NIV

Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow.

** We have a responsibility to ACT on our beliefs; if we do then God will be with us; it is conditional!

James 4:7-10 NIV

** We have a responsibility to actively guard the faith; lean on God and His word to help

Jude 1:3 NIV

Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.

** Be on guard against false spirits; be able to test them

1 Thessalonians 5:20-22 NIV

Do not treat prophecies with contempt [21] but test them all; hold on to what is good, [22] reject every kind of evil.

** Ask God for wisdom, to make clear that which you question or find difficult to believe or follow from Scripture

Philippians 3:15 NIV

All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.

** Sometimes it's as simple as this: we do not have because we do not ask God. Instead we plan and struggle on our own, often resorting to evil to accomplish what we desire and what we THINK is best for us. When we ask God with proper motives and rely on His answer in His timing, we are GUARANTEED the answer is for our own good and we don't have to compromise ourselves to get there!

James 4:2 NIV

You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.

** We can experience contentment in any situation when our focus remains on God, and not our surrounding circumstances; God is consistent, unlike our lives

Philippians 4:11-13 NIV

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [12] I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. [13] I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

** The power of prayer: answers of a righteous man and healing after confessing sin

James 5:16 NIV

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

James 5:17-18 NIV

Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. [18] Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

James 5:13-15 NIV

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. [14] Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. [15] And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.

** With what motives do you ask something of God? Are we concerned about what God wants us to do or how we are to spend His resources and energy? We often do not receive from God because we ask with selfish motive.

James 4:3 NIV

When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

James 4:6 NIV

But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

James 4:16 NIV

As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil.

** We are filled with inner conflict which affects our actions including how we treat each other; we do not overcome because we do not ask God

James 4:1-2 NIV

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? [2] You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.

** Satan can block our way from doing something good.

1 Thessalonians 2:18 NIV

For we wanted to come to you---certainly I, Paul, did, again and again---but Satan blocked our way.

** Always be mindful of God's gift of fellow brothers and sisters in Christ who can mutually encourage; likewise we can encourage others to a better life in Christ

Philemon 1:4-5 NIV

I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, [5] because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus.

Philemon 1:6-7 NIV

I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. [7] Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.

Philemon 1:20-21 NIV

I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. [21] Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.

** We are not to keep the rewards of our salvation in Christ to ourselves but share how others can experience the same through the practical living as a Christian

Philippians 2:1-2 NIV

** Pray that you and others will experience increased discernment; be filled with joy for those who share in the Gospel and the example you can be for one another

Philippians 1:3-6 NIV

I thank my God every time I remember you. [4] In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy [5] because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, [6] being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 1:9-11 NIV

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, [10] so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, [11] filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ---to the glory and praise of God.

Philippians 2:2 NIV

then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

** Lives can change as a result of the power of God; results can be a desire to serve Christ and witness to others about the change

Mark 5:15 NIV

When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid.

Mark 5:20 NIV

So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.

** Look to Godly models as examples and divert your eyes from the sinful influences of this world

Philippians 3:17 NIV

Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.

Philippians 3:18-20 NIV

For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. [19] Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. [20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,

Philippians 4:8-9 NIV

** God desires to give us wisdom; believe the wisdom you receive as long as it is backed or confirmed by Scripture

James 1:5-8 NIV

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. [6] But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

** No lack of confidence or trust in God diminishes the power of prayer, giving us the ability to overcome sin

James 1:6-8 NIV

But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

** Power of God gives us a message of hope because God will judge and deliver us and have victory over evil; pray that God show us His love and power around us now in our lives here on earth

Habakkuk 3:16,18-19 NIV

I heard and my heart pounded, my lips quivered at the sound; decay crept into my bones, and my legs trembled. Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us. [18] yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. [19] The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.

** We get into trouble and do not have access to God's power when we take our eyes off of Him, when we focus on the situation around us rather than God's all-encompassing knowledge and power

Matthew 14:30-31 NIV

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” [31] Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

** May we experience perfection -- far from just the absence from sin -- and be filled with the fullness of God, including His light, wisdom, holiness, power, glory and immeasurable love for us; may we comprehend God's love (as much as our human minds are capable) its breadth (of all mankind), length (from everlasting to everlasting), depth (not to be fathomed by any creature) and height (not to be reached by any enemy)

Ephesians 3:16-19 NIV

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, [17] so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, [18] may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, [19] and to know this love that surpasses knowledge---that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

** When a sudden storm threatens to sink the boat, the disciples who were experienced fishermen were afraid; Jesus shows His divinity and that God is available ALL the time and willing to help ALL the time; the disciples forgot this

Mark 4:38 NIV

Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”

Mark 4:39,41 NIV

He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. [41] They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”

** People are typically afraid of powerful spirits; they saw how Christ over-powered the evil spirits

Mark 5:15-17 NIV

When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. [16] Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man---and told about the pigs as well. [17] Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region.

** Jesus came to save the needy and sick; He met with those who needed help, much like the Shepherd going after the one lost sheep and leaving the 99 behind

Mark 2:14-17 NIV

[14] As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him. [15] While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. [16] When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” [17] On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

** People realized the power of Jesus and went to great lengths (such as enlarging opening in roofs) to get near Him and bring those wanting healing

Mark 2:3-5 NIV

** Jesus did not turn away those in need even though He was exhausted; He looked in their hearts and souls; we should likewise put our compassion for others into action

Mark 6:33-34 NIV

But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. [34] When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.

** We live in a spiritual world with great powers; God can provide spiritual protection against evil spirits, such as when Jesus restores a possessed man

Mark 5:2 NIV

When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him.

Mark 5:12-13 NIV

The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” [13] He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.

** Jesus is all-powerful; demons immediately recognized Jesus as God and have no authority

Mark 5:6-7 NIV

When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. [7] He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!”

Mark 5:12-13 NIV

** A suffering woman understands how Jesus' power can heal her; she is healed when simply touching His cloak

Mark 5:25-34 NIV

[25] And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. [26] She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. [27] When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, [28] because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” [29] Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. [30] At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” [31] “You see the people crowding against you,” his disciples answered, “and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?’ ” [32] But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. [33] Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. [34] He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”

** Jesus demonstrates that He is Lord over death by raising a child from death

Mark 5:38-42 NIV

[38] When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. [39] He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” [40] But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. [41] He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). [42] Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished.

** Elements of the ABC of Difficult Situations apply when dealing with sin

Accept difficulty (Hab 3:16) - accept the challenge

- Habakkuk was terrified of the Babylonians

- in human terms there was no way out, no solution

- all Hab had was God's promise of deliverance;,he was left with a choice to trust or not

- he knew and trusted that God is love and cannot be stopped; Hab chose to wait for God to judge the Babylonians

- difficulty is part of life; we have a choice

Be at peace (17-18) - know you are not alone in the process

- despite the difficult circumstances Hab chose to be at peace and rejoice

- his focus was on God not the circumstances

- when we focus on s problem, it gets bigger and grows out of perspective; we don't see God at work around us

- he could lose everything and still be at peace because God will save

- rest on His promises in Scripture

Cling to God (19) as your hope and strength to overcome the obstacle before you

- like a mountain goat can cling to surfaces beyond our reason, we can stand sure-footed in God

- see God as the source of strength

- God tests us so WE find out how we can be confident in God

- trusting on God allows is to live on the heights

- God will give us wisdom to move on

** David who could face Goliath melts into tears as he remembers his sin and impending Divine judgment

Psalm 6:1,3,6 NIV

[1] Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath. [3] My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord, how long? [6] I am worn out from my groaning. All night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears.

** The Lord in His boundless love and mercy can deliver sinners from their sin debt

Psalm 6:2,4 NIV

[2] Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. [4] Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.

** May we spur each other on to pure and holy living

1 Thessalonians 3:13 NIV

May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.

** Sometimes we are called to actively confront those who are rebellious and speaking lies; motive is to prevent others from following lies

Titus 1:10-11 NIV

For there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision group. [11] They must be silenced, because they are disrupting whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach---and that for the sake of dishonest gain.

Titus 1:14 NIV

and will pay no attention to Jewish myths or to the merely human commands of those who reject the truth.

** Parables of the mustard seed and yeast can remind us that God is in the details and He is not limited by size, growing mature spiritual followers from a small seed/start; also reveals that God works in and affects all areas of life; in reference to the kingdom of God, the doctrine of Christ will spread as can Christ in the soul of man

Mark 4:30-32 NIV

** These verses debunk the notion that God does not care whether His creation respect Him and follow Him; we need to realize God hates sin (David uses words such as not welcome, cannot stand, hate, destroy, detest) and does not offer 'all grace all the time'

Psalm 5:4-6 NIV

[4] For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; with you, evil people are not welcome. [5] The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong; [6] you destroy those who tell lies. The bloodthirsty and deceitful you, Lord, detest.

** Judas had remorse for his sin and could have asked for forgiveness, but instead ended his life

Matthew 27:3-5 NIV

[3] When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. [4] “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.” “What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.” [5] So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.

** After Jesus' death, God signaled the opening of the holy place to everyone including Gentiles (not just Jewish priests) through the removing of curtain

Matthew 27:50-51 NIV

[50] And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. [51] At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split

** Jesus Christ endured a full and complete death with the full powers of evil against Him; He knew exactly what He was enduring so we can have victory over sin!

Matthew 27:46,50 NIV

[46] About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). [50] And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.

** Sin results when we don't watch and pray to guard against evil and temptation

Matthew 26:41 NIV

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

** The small but mighty tongue guides our direction, the course of our life

James 3:3-6 NIV

When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. [4] Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. [5] Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. [6] The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

** The tongue is considered evil, full of deadly poison; we need to recognize this and constantly beware of how we use our tongue since it cannot be tamed

James 3:8 NIV

but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

James 3:9-12 NIV

With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. [10] Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. [11] Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? [12] My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

** Pergamum is to repent; their action will determine their outcome

Revelation 2:16-17 NIV

** Those deciding to follow Christ repented, confessed their sin and were baptized

Mark 1:4-5 NIV

[4] And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. [5] The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.

** Wine and wealth promises good but in the end produces nothing. Getting drunk actually makes you wonder why you took it the night before when you have a hangover; wine deceives.

Likewise, how many people of wealth have satisfying lives? It distorts our vision and makes us want to have more and more. It does not give us purpose.

** After spending time in the crowd performing miracles, Jesus goes to a solitary place to spend time with His Father and pray

Mark 6:46 NIV

[46] After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.

** “Praise the Lord” or “Hallelujah” is reserved when praising God for the deliverance from the wicked; it appears mainly in the Old Testament (Psalms 103-118) and one chapter of the New Testament (Revelation 19)

Psalm 103:1 NIV

[1] Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.

Psalm 104:35 NIV

[35] But may sinners vanish from the earth and the wicked be no more. Praise the Lord, my soul. Praise the Lord.

The world will never be right until it is under God’s control and His sovereign rule — freedom from sin, righteous justice meted out, God ruling with a rod of iron, man-advancing rebellion ends, the Lord torches the world system to smoldering ash (text borrowed from Deut 32) — and the response in heaven is continual “hallelujah” <M130>

Revelation 19:1-3 NIV [John’s vision of heaven]

[1] After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting:

“Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, [2] for true and just are his judgments. He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. He has avenged on her the blood of his servants.” [3] And again they shouted: “Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up for ever and ever.”

A9.

ScripturalJournal.org