How is it that when we are doing our thing that we hear the clear small voice, or maybe that clear loud voice speaking to our soul? You know that voice, it's the one that convicts you/me of our wrong actions. It is amazing to think...I heard that voice when I was a small boy; I remember being 4 or 5 years of age and hearing that voice tell me, show me what was good and bad.
Now, years later...being a Christian I truly understand what or better said who that voice belongs to and what it means to do the right thing. The Father calling to us through the Holy Spirit wooing us to walk humbly with Him...our Father.
Today I have heard the Word...I have read the Word and the Word has changed my life.
James 1:22-27
22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror;
24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.
25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.
26 If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless.
27 Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
Remember who you are without Christ...keep your tongue in praise to Him and be useful. He calls us to minister to others...not self...caring for the orphans and widows in their troubles. Keep yourself unspotted or rather keep from the filth of the world. Cling to Him who is perfect and loose self from the flesh.
Proverbs 3:5-7
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Watch your mouth
Here in James we see him addressing the reader as "beloved brethren" a brother in the Lord. We see him exhorting us in a familiar way as in Proverbs 15:1 “A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.”
In today's text we are told to be swift to hear and slow to speak...which tends to be the exact opposite in how we live our lives. We tend to be quick to speak, we are only interested in what we think and want to express to others our viewpoint. We likewise are told to be slow to wrath along with our speech, to be kind and listen.
James 1:19–21 NKJV
19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;
20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
The Bible is quite clear when it comes to our hearing or listening to others. We therefore need to lay aside all filthiness and overflowing of wickedness. To place or give importance to our actions, to put aside our foul mouth or rotten thoughts towards others which cause us to overflow with sinful disdain.
We can achieve this if and when we walk with God, through our knowledge and relationship in Christ.
Proverbs 17:27–28 NKJV
“He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.”
In today's text we are told to be swift to hear and slow to speak...which tends to be the exact opposite in how we live our lives. We tend to be quick to speak, we are only interested in what we think and want to express to others our viewpoint. We likewise are told to be slow to wrath along with our speech, to be kind and listen.
James 1:19–21 NKJV
19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;
20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
The Bible is quite clear when it comes to our hearing or listening to others. We therefore need to lay aside all filthiness and overflowing of wickedness. To place or give importance to our actions, to put aside our foul mouth or rotten thoughts towards others which cause us to overflow with sinful disdain.
We can achieve this if and when we walk with God, through our knowledge and relationship in Christ.
Proverbs 17:27–28 NKJV
“He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.”
Monday, March 29, 2010
Enticed by the world?
When we look at what entices a person, we need to only look as far as our checkbook or credit card receipts.
Take a look: what were your last few purchases?
What did you buy? Where did you dine out this weekend? How many beverages did you purchase? What did you purchase on-line? What did you watch on-line? What movie did you watch/rent?
How many purchases were to benefit others?
We tempt ourselves, we are concerned only for self...
Turn to God, Look to Jesus. Every good thing is from Him, He died on the cross, and rose from the grave, gave us the Helper/Holy Spirit and sits at God's side interceding for you and me. We only but have to ask for Him to be the King of our lives, for Him to be our Savior.
The Perfect Gift from Heaven, Jesus Christ...what are you going to do with Him?
James 1:13-18
13 Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.
14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
18 Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.
Of His will He brought us forth...by the Word of truth, that we might be one of His. Worthy because we accept His Son and in doing so, we would be able to be a kind of First fruit.
Take a look: what were your last few purchases?
What did you buy? Where did you dine out this weekend? How many beverages did you purchase? What did you purchase on-line? What did you watch on-line? What movie did you watch/rent?
How many purchases were to benefit others?
We tempt ourselves, we are concerned only for self...
Turn to God, Look to Jesus. Every good thing is from Him, He died on the cross, and rose from the grave, gave us the Helper/Holy Spirit and sits at God's side interceding for you and me. We only but have to ask for Him to be the King of our lives, for Him to be our Savior.
The Perfect Gift from Heaven, Jesus Christ...what are you going to do with Him?
James 1:13-18
13 Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.
14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
18 Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.
Of His will He brought us forth...by the Word of truth, that we might be one of His. Worthy because we accept His Son and in doing so, we would be able to be a kind of First fruit.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
We give Him Praise and Him alone
I want to pose a few questions to you.
Who do we praise and why?
Who gets the glory?
What is the ultimate outcome?
James 1:9-11
11 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation,
10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away.
11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.
Here in James we see the lowly or poor brother (Christian) and how he is to glory in the cross of Christ, in the knowledge of his salvation, in the hope and promise from God. But the rich...in his humiliation...burnt up by the sun...who will fade away in his pursuits....in his hunger to make history.
We see in Jeremiah that we would glorify Him because we know Him.
(Jeremiah 9:23-24) Thus says the LORD: "Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the LORD, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight," says the LORD. (NKJV)
Likewise: Psalms 71:8 Let my mouth be filled with Your praise And with Your glory all the day.
Before you read this article...remember that if someone turns away from or is without God, he is a fool: Psalms 14:3 They have all turned aside, They have together become corrupt; There is none who does good, No, not one.
If the President does his job by serving the people to the best of his ability, then good for him. I expect him to do his job...I expect him to persevere, I expect him to be held to a higher standard.
Luke 17:9-10
9 "Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not.
10 "So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do."
Psalm 119:175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise You; And let Your judgments help me.
All praise and glory to God the Father, The One and only Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit! Praise God! Praise God! We Praise God and Him alone!
Who do we praise and why?
Who gets the glory?
What is the ultimate outcome?
James 1:9-11
11 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation,
10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away.
11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.
Here in James we see the lowly or poor brother (Christian) and how he is to glory in the cross of Christ, in the knowledge of his salvation, in the hope and promise from God. But the rich...in his humiliation...burnt up by the sun...who will fade away in his pursuits....in his hunger to make history.
We see in Jeremiah that we would glorify Him because we know Him.
(Jeremiah 9:23-24) Thus says the LORD: "Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the LORD, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight," says the LORD. (NKJV)
Likewise: Psalms 71:8 Let my mouth be filled with Your praise And with Your glory all the day.
Before you read this article...remember that if someone turns away from or is without God, he is a fool: Psalms 14:3 They have all turned aside, They have together become corrupt; There is none who does good, No, not one.
If the President does his job by serving the people to the best of his ability, then good for him. I expect him to do his job...I expect him to persevere, I expect him to be held to a higher standard.
Luke 17:9-10
9 "Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not.
10 "So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do."
Psalm 119:175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise You; And let Your judgments help me.
All praise and glory to God the Father, The One and only Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit! Praise God! Praise God! We Praise God and Him alone!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
James 1:2-12
As we look into the Epistle of James, we see that the writer expressed that we are to stay strong in our faith. He is exhorting us to look to Jesus and not to our situation. It is through trials that we are perfected and completed. We see that if any of us lacks wisdom, (which is Proverbs 2:6, ) all we need to do is ask God for His wisdom and He will give abundantly and without disapproval. If the one who has no knowledge comes to God with no doubts and is honest with God, then God will give all, but if he doubts he cannot expect the blessing.
James 1:2-12
1 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,
3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.
7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
9 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation,
10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away.
11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.
12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
Praise God, Praise God! He has promised the Crown of Life to those who love Him. Endure and Love, Praise and Glorify the Lord. Love Him!
James 1:2-12
1 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,
3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.
7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
9 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation,
10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away.
11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.
12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
Praise God, Praise God! He has promised the Crown of Life to those who love Him. Endure and Love, Praise and Glorify the Lord. Love Him!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Epistle of James
James:
Let us first ask: who is this James? And to whom it is written? Since the name of James is popular because(James is the Greek name for Jacob) here we have 4. We have James the son of Zebedee but he has been put to death by Harod (Acts 12:2) We then have James the son of Alphaeus in (Mark 3:18) We have the Son of Mary, and brother of Christ James (Mark 6:3) and we have James the Less (Mark 15:40)
It is thought that since James the son of Zebedee, John's brother has been put to death by Herod (disqualifies him), that the Son of Mary, James who is referred to as Christ's half brother would be the writer of this book. This James was the The other two James mentioned were not active in the early church. In the text we see that James is a bondservant which is to say that he elected to be the slave of the Lord Jesus Christ. Freely giving Him his life as a living sacrifice in service and love. We also see that this book is directed to the twelve tribes, or the Jewish tribes, scattered as they were.
This book is a call to the tribes and those that have been grafted in to His people. That "a dead faith is worse than no faith at all". Faith is freely given to us. Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. Faith produces separation from the world and submission to god. It give us the ability to resist the Devil and all that he brings to bear. As we read we will see issues of Faith, ethics, suffering, love, mercy, the law, wisdom, sin, being rich, being poor, our human nature and of course...God and Jesus.
No matter what we think in human wisdom, we need to look to God for the truth. No matter what we do, we need to look to God for guidance. We see changes in the acceptance of "lifestyles" and "living styles". We are not to bend the Word of God to these sins. We are to preach God's Word and provide true hope through God's love for the lost. Do Not try to make God's Word fit your situation. DO fit your life to conform with God's Word.
James 1:1 James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings.
Today we have a greeting from James. I want to identify with James in being a Bondservant of Christ. I want to serve Him for His glory.
Let us first ask: who is this James? And to whom it is written? Since the name of James is popular because(James is the Greek name for Jacob) here we have 4. We have James the son of Zebedee but he has been put to death by Harod (Acts 12:2) We then have James the son of Alphaeus in (Mark 3:18) We have the Son of Mary, and brother of Christ James (Mark 6:3) and we have James the Less (Mark 15:40)
It is thought that since James the son of Zebedee, John's brother has been put to death by Herod (disqualifies him), that the Son of Mary, James who is referred to as Christ's half brother would be the writer of this book. This James was the The other two James mentioned were not active in the early church. In the text we see that James is a bondservant which is to say that he elected to be the slave of the Lord Jesus Christ. Freely giving Him his life as a living sacrifice in service and love. We also see that this book is directed to the twelve tribes, or the Jewish tribes, scattered as they were.
This book is a call to the tribes and those that have been grafted in to His people. That "a dead faith is worse than no faith at all". Faith is freely given to us. Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. Faith produces separation from the world and submission to god. It give us the ability to resist the Devil and all that he brings to bear. As we read we will see issues of Faith, ethics, suffering, love, mercy, the law, wisdom, sin, being rich, being poor, our human nature and of course...God and Jesus.
No matter what we think in human wisdom, we need to look to God for the truth. No matter what we do, we need to look to God for guidance. We see changes in the acceptance of "lifestyles" and "living styles". We are not to bend the Word of God to these sins. We are to preach God's Word and provide true hope through God's love for the lost. Do Not try to make God's Word fit your situation. DO fit your life to conform with God's Word.
James 1:1 James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings.
Today we have a greeting from James. I want to identify with James in being a Bondservant of Christ. I want to serve Him for His glory.
Monday, March 15, 2010
I Love you!
We have seen through the book of Hebrews how:
Christ is superior to the Angels,
Christ is superior to Moses,
Christ is superior to Aaron,
We see the superiority of Christ as our High Priest.
We see how we are called to persevere in our faith, enduring and standing strong in our Lord Christ Jesus.
Here we close with the writer blessing us...His Benediction. I pray that each of you would be blessed with the Word of God. In that you would know Him and Love Him. Let us have His peace, being complete in the work of God, through Jesus and let us praise Him forever and ever!
Hebrews 13:20-25
20 Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
21 make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
22 And I appeal to you, brethren, bear with the word of exhortation, for I have written to you in few words.
23 Know that our brother Timothy has been set free, with whom I shall see you if he comes shortly.
24 Greet all those who rule over you, and all the saints. Those from Italy greet you.
25 Grace be with you all. Amen.
Christ is superior to the Angels,
Christ is superior to Moses,
Christ is superior to Aaron,
We see the superiority of Christ as our High Priest.
We see how we are called to persevere in our faith, enduring and standing strong in our Lord Christ Jesus.
Here we close with the writer blessing us...His Benediction. I pray that each of you would be blessed with the Word of God. In that you would know Him and Love Him. Let us have His peace, being complete in the work of God, through Jesus and let us praise Him forever and ever!
Hebrews 13:20-25
20 Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
21 make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
22 And I appeal to you, brethren, bear with the word of exhortation, for I have written to you in few words.
23 Know that our brother Timothy has been set free, with whom I shall see you if he comes shortly.
24 Greet all those who rule over you, and all the saints. Those from Italy greet you.
25 Grace be with you all. Amen.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The US-Israel enduring partnership
I don't know how to start this but to say...
Oh, how I would have liked to have heard what was said by father Biden to a young Joe Biden as they gathered around the family dinner table when he discussed support for Israel. During VP Binden's 30-minute speech at Tel Aviv University; VP Biden referred to his father as being a righteous Christian, and with that being said; I have to wonder if faith might have been a key part to his discussion of why it was proper for the United States of America to support Israel. This Old nation of people (Jews) being brought back to their promised land. see article here
BUT, VP Joe Biden states: "Israel owes this remarkable and yet improbable success, I believe, to your democratic traditions, to its patriotic and pioneering citizens, and as with my own country, to its willingness to welcome the persecuted and the downtrodden from far-flung corners of the globe. All this gives life to Theodor Herzl’s famous slogan, which I was reminded of this week while visiting his grave on this 150th anniversary of his birth. He said, “If you will it, it is no dream.”
Joe (VP Biden) how lost are you? In your own words we see your beliefs. We see that you credit Israel's IMPROBABLE success to: it's democratic traditions, patriotism, pioneering citizens and the ability to be persecuted and downtrodden.
Wow, VP Biden, you see that Israel succeeded only because they were persecuted, downtrodden, patriotic, and pioneers with traditions.
Really? Where has a nation ever been lost and driven from the land as the Jews were and come back, restored to it's land?
Would the answer be Never?
Only by the grace of God did Israel return!
Ezekiel 36:1-37:28
Pray for our leadership, pray for our country, pray for our Military, pray for our loved ones, pray for those who hate us, pray for forgiveness, pray for restoration to Christ Jesus, pray for the saints to be bold in their praise, worship and witness, PRAY!
Oh, how I would have liked to have heard what was said by father Biden to a young Joe Biden as they gathered around the family dinner table when he discussed support for Israel. During VP Binden's 30-minute speech at Tel Aviv University; VP Biden referred to his father as being a righteous Christian, and with that being said; I have to wonder if faith might have been a key part to his discussion of why it was proper for the United States of America to support Israel. This Old nation of people (Jews) being brought back to their promised land. see article here
BUT, VP Joe Biden states: "Israel owes this remarkable and yet improbable success, I believe, to your democratic traditions, to its patriotic and pioneering citizens, and as with my own country, to its willingness to welcome the persecuted and the downtrodden from far-flung corners of the globe. All this gives life to Theodor Herzl’s famous slogan, which I was reminded of this week while visiting his grave on this 150th anniversary of his birth. He said, “If you will it, it is no dream.”
Joe (VP Biden) how lost are you? In your own words we see your beliefs. We see that you credit Israel's IMPROBABLE success to: it's democratic traditions, patriotism, pioneering citizens and the ability to be persecuted and downtrodden.
Wow, VP Biden, you see that Israel succeeded only because they were persecuted, downtrodden, patriotic, and pioneers with traditions.
Really? Where has a nation ever been lost and driven from the land as the Jews were and come back, restored to it's land?
Would the answer be Never?
Only by the grace of God did Israel return!
Ezekiel 36:1-37:28
Pray for our leadership, pray for our country, pray for our Military, pray for our loved ones, pray for those who hate us, pray for forgiveness, pray for restoration to Christ Jesus, pray for the saints to be bold in their praise, worship and witness, PRAY!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Offer Praise and Worship to Him!
Hebrews 13:8-19
8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
9 Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them.
10 We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat.
11 For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp.
12 So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood.
13 Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured.
14 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.
15 Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.
16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
18 Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things.
19 I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.
8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
9 Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them.
10 We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat.
11 For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp.
12 So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood.
13 Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured.
14 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.
15 Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.
16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
18 Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things.
19 I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Live a life of Love
In this last chapter of Hebrews we find Paul exhorting us to love one another, to remember to entertain strangers, to remember the prisoners and to remember those who rule over us.
He is reminding us of to be a true witness of our Faith in Christ by expressing our love in the way that we entertain strangers. Genesis 19:1-3.
We likewise see how we are to remember the prisoners, Colossians 4:18, as if you were chained with them. Notice this is one who is part of the body of Christ, a believer.
He also exhorts us who are married to honor our covenant with our wives, and to conduct ourselves without coveting, being content in our Faith. We need to live in our faith...not thinking of our current situations, not showing care to our position in today's life, but living in Faith, in the promise that we are finished in Christ Jesus. Live in Him, forsake earthly desires, He will not forsake us or leave us!
Lastly, we see how we are to remember those that rule over us, that would be our pastors that lead us, that teach us the Word of God.
Hebrews 13:1-7
1 Let brotherly love continue.
2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.
3 Remember the prisoners as if chained with them--those who are mistreated--since you yourselves are in the body also.
4 Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.
5 Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
6 So we may boldly say: "The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"
7 Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.
He is reminding us of to be a true witness of our Faith in Christ by expressing our love in the way that we entertain strangers. Genesis 19:1-3.
We likewise see how we are to remember the prisoners, Colossians 4:18, as if you were chained with them. Notice this is one who is part of the body of Christ, a believer.
He also exhorts us who are married to honor our covenant with our wives, and to conduct ourselves without coveting, being content in our Faith. We need to live in our faith...not thinking of our current situations, not showing care to our position in today's life, but living in Faith, in the promise that we are finished in Christ Jesus. Live in Him, forsake earthly desires, He will not forsake us or leave us!
Lastly, we see how we are to remember those that rule over us, that would be our pastors that lead us, that teach us the Word of God.
Hebrews 13:1-7
1 Let brotherly love continue.
2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.
3 Remember the prisoners as if chained with them--those who are mistreated--since you yourselves are in the body also.
4 Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.
5 Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
6 So we may boldly say: "The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"
7 Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The American dream
As I look back at the time that I have spent striving to live the American dream I wonder...yes wonder why it took so long for me to realize that to strive for self is not fulfilling.
The widespread aspiration of Americans to live better than their parents did.
See article
Roschelle Nelson wrote that:
The American dream is defined as the faith that through hard work, courage, and determination one can achieve a better life for oneself, usually through financial prosperity. Read more...
I define it as: To get all that You can get at work and play no matter the price. Gain to gain, achieve to achieve, get the most out of whatever, whomever for me.
Yes, I love America and the dreams this great country allows, But the real American dream can be found in the second line of the United States Declaration of Independence: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
If we look to the news we see how many high profile figures (Governors, Representatives, Congressmen, Teachers, Presidents, & staff) that seems to have the world by the (Tiger) tail. Many of these famous people have had their lives shattered by self indulgence and corruption. If I look to my own life (prior to being saved) I see the same issue of selfish desires driving me. Then when our transgressions are found out, our infidelities and actions look ugly and raw and people say..."how could he/she done that?
My pursuit given me by my Creator is not for money or fame. My pursuit is for life...given to my by God, for freedom given me by His Son Jesus and happiness by living a full life through Christ Jesus as my savior. Therefore:
As it says in Hebrews 12:1-29 Therefore I can lay aside every weight and sin which ensnares me and run the race set before me...my life. Looking to Jesus who is the author and finisher of my faith, who joyfully took my sins upon Himself and endured the cross giving me access to God the Father. I can through Christ Jesus obtain happiness through Him and endure all things...even my failures because He is with me, the Holy Spirit is in me and I have a personal relationship with the Father.
If you read Hebrews 12:1-29 you will see that if we accept Jesus, that we still must lay aside our sins. It is our choice to do this, and if we do we still need to walk humbly with our God. So when you have trials we must not be faint of heart, when we sin and we are rebuked; we must not be crushed under our trials, but bear up with faith and perseverance. He will correct and help His sons and daughters, training us in His ways because He like a good Father wants the best for His children.
The widespread aspiration of Americans to live better than their parents did.
See article
Roschelle Nelson wrote that:
The American dream is defined as the faith that through hard work, courage, and determination one can achieve a better life for oneself, usually through financial prosperity. Read more...
I define it as: To get all that You can get at work and play no matter the price. Gain to gain, achieve to achieve, get the most out of whatever, whomever for me.
Yes, I love America and the dreams this great country allows, But the real American dream can be found in the second line of the United States Declaration of Independence: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
If we look to the news we see how many high profile figures (Governors, Representatives, Congressmen, Teachers, Presidents, & staff) that seems to have the world by the (Tiger) tail. Many of these famous people have had their lives shattered by self indulgence and corruption. If I look to my own life (prior to being saved) I see the same issue of selfish desires driving me. Then when our transgressions are found out, our infidelities and actions look ugly and raw and people say..."how could he/she done that?
My pursuit given me by my Creator is not for money or fame. My pursuit is for life...given to my by God, for freedom given me by His Son Jesus and happiness by living a full life through Christ Jesus as my savior. Therefore:
As it says in Hebrews 12:1-29 Therefore I can lay aside every weight and sin which ensnares me and run the race set before me...my life. Looking to Jesus who is the author and finisher of my faith, who joyfully took my sins upon Himself and endured the cross giving me access to God the Father. I can through Christ Jesus obtain happiness through Him and endure all things...even my failures because He is with me, the Holy Spirit is in me and I have a personal relationship with the Father.
If you read Hebrews 12:1-29 you will see that if we accept Jesus, that we still must lay aside our sins. It is our choice to do this, and if we do we still need to walk humbly with our God. So when you have trials we must not be faint of heart, when we sin and we are rebuked; we must not be crushed under our trials, but bear up with faith and perseverance. He will correct and help His sons and daughters, training us in His ways because He like a good Father wants the best for His children.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Let us serve with Grace acceptable to God
Here the writer goes on to engage the professing Jews to perseverance in their Christian course and trials, and not to backslide again into Judaism. He shows how much the Christian church differs from the Jewish synagogue. Both salvation and vengeance are now getting nearer. Therefore let us, receive, willingly and joyful in faith. A kingdom more glorious than we know is at hand. For our God is a consuming fire in the strictness of his justice, and purity of his holiness. Let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
Hebrews 12:18-29 For you have not come to the mountain that may be touched and that burned with fire, and to blackness and darkness and tempest,
19 and the sound of a trumpet and the voice of words, so that those who heard it begged that the word should not be spoken to them anymore.
20 (For they could not endure what was commanded: "And if so much as a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned or shot with an arrow."
21 And so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, "I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.")
22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels,
23 to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect,
24 to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.
25 See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven,
26 whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, "Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven."
27 Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain.
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
29 For our God is a consuming fire.
Hebrews 12:18-29 For you have not come to the mountain that may be touched and that burned with fire, and to blackness and darkness and tempest,
19 and the sound of a trumpet and the voice of words, so that those who heard it begged that the word should not be spoken to them anymore.
20 (For they could not endure what was commanded: "And if so much as a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned or shot with an arrow."
21 And so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, "I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.")
22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels,
23 to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect,
24 to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.
25 See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven,
26 whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, "Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven."
27 Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain.
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
29 For our God is a consuming fire.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Father please train me & teach me.
We should consider our up bringing when we look at our Christians lives. We all have earthly parents, & we all have been chastened or corrected as a child. Why would we think that God; our perfect Heavenly Father would not want to teach and instruct us? As a Father He chastens and exhorts us for our own good. As our God he desires us to have full inheritance and to be His child, the Child of God.
Hebrews 12:4-17
4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.
5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: "My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives."
7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?
8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?
10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness.
11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees,
13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.
14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:
15 looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;
16 lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright.
17 For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears.
Hebrews 12:4-17
4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.
5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: "My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives."
7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?
8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?
10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness.
11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees,
13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.
14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:
15 looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;
16 lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright.
17 For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Let us run with endurance
Today we see that since we are surrounded by so great a multitude of witness, those that having the gift and great power of Faith. Exhorting us to lay aside our SIN, our transgressions that snare us.
Psalm 119:37:
Let us run with endurance, not stopping but looking to the author and finisher of our faith:Jesus.
Hebrews 12:1-3
1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
Psalm 119:37:
Let us run with endurance, not stopping but looking to the author and finisher of our faith:Jesus.
Hebrews 12:1-3
1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
What more shall I say
I love the way verse 32 starts, in how the author just gets to the point..."What more shall I say?" The writer makes the point that there are many more believers that "By Faith" did many works or accomplished great feats. That there are those that died "By Faith" and those that are mocked. By Faith we live...By Faith we die, but By Faith we Know Truth.
Hebrews 11:32-40
32 And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets:
33 who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
34 quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
35 Women received their dead raised to life again. And others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection.
36 Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment.
37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented--
38 of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.
39 And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise,
40 God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.
So what more should have the writer have said? Stay strong in your Faith in Christ Jesus! He is coming for His people.
Hebrews 11:32-40
32 And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets:
33 who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
34 quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
35 Women received their dead raised to life again. And others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection.
36 Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment.
37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented--
38 of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.
39 And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise,
40 God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.
So what more should have the writer have said? Stay strong in your Faith in Christ Jesus! He is coming for His people.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
By this Faith...
By this Faith all of these believers trusted in Him and His promise, and able to call Him as their God!
Heb 11:4-31
4 By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks.
5 By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, "and was not found, because God had taken him"; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a re-warder of those who diligently seek Him.
7 By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.
8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.
9 By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise;
10 for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
11 By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised.
12 Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude--innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore.
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
14 For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland.
15 And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return.
16 But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.
17 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
18 of whom it was said, "In Isaac your seed shall be called,"
19 concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead, from which he also received him in a figurative sense.
20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
21 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff.
22 By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones.
23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king's command.
24 By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter,
25 choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin,
26 esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.
27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.
28 By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, lest he who destroyed the firstborn should touch them.
29 By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land, whereas the Egyptians, attempting to do so, were drowned.
30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days.
31 By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace.
Heb 11:4-31
4 By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks.
5 By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, "and was not found, because God had taken him"; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a re-warder of those who diligently seek Him.
7 By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.
8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.
9 By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise;
10 for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
11 By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised.
12 Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude--innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore.
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
14 For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland.
15 And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return.
16 But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.
17 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
18 of whom it was said, "In Isaac your seed shall be called,"
19 concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead, from which he also received him in a figurative sense.
20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
21 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff.
22 By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones.
23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king's command.
24 By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter,
25 choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin,
26 esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.
27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.
28 By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, lest he who destroyed the firstborn should touch them.
29 By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land, whereas the Egyptians, attempting to do so, were drowned.
30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days.
31 By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace.
Monday, February 22, 2010
By Faith we...
We have been offered/given the gift of faith and like every other gift, we must decide to
receive it or not. What have you done with this gift from God? We see here in Hebrews that faith IS the substance of things hoped for...do you have hope? We see here that faith is evidence of the things not seen...do you see? Faith is how one obtains a good testimony even when every man is not good; the only good One is God. By faith we understand that God created and framed the worlds by His Word, so that we would know that the things that are seen were not created out of themselves.
Hebrews 11:1-3
1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.
3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.
Accept this Faith, this gift from God Himself: Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.
John 20:24-25
24 Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came.
25 The other disciples therefore said to him, "We have seen the Lord." So he said to them, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe."
John 20:29 Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
God blesses and loves those that believe, those who have not seen, yet...believe!
receive it or not. What have you done with this gift from God? We see here in Hebrews that faith IS the substance of things hoped for...do you have hope? We see here that faith is evidence of the things not seen...do you see? Faith is how one obtains a good testimony even when every man is not good; the only good One is God. By faith we understand that God created and framed the worlds by His Word, so that we would know that the things that are seen were not created out of themselves.
Hebrews 11:1-3
1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.
3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.
Accept this Faith, this gift from God Himself: Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.
John 20:24-25
24 Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came.
25 The other disciples therefore said to him, "We have seen the Lord." So he said to them, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe."
John 20:29 Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
God blesses and loves those that believe, those who have not seen, yet...believe!
Friday, February 19, 2010
The just shall live by faith!
Here in Hebrews: we see how as brethren that we have the boldness to enter in because of the blood of Jesus. That in Him (the new and living way that HE consecrated for us, through HIS flesh/blood) we now have a high priest who presides over and is the only way to true and eternal life. It reads here that we are to draw near, that we should have true heart in faith, assured and sprinkled from sin and our bodies washed with pure water(the blood of Christ). Hold fast, hold on with all your strength for His promise is faithful.
Let us stir one another up! Let us put aside our differences and love...love Him and our brethren. Do good to each other and forsake division. Exhort one another as the Day of the Lord is coming.
But
If we willfully sin after we received the knowledge of the truth...there is no longer a sacrifice for sins. We willfully have chosen to turn, we have willfully said with our actions that we want judgment instead of Grace. For by these transgressions we trample the Son of God underfoot. Totally insulting the Spirit of God's Grace.
As this chapter ends...it reads that we are to persevere, with endurance, so that after we HAVE DONE the WILL of God, that we may receive the promise. He is coming! Live by Faith! Be a pleasure in Him!
Hebrews 10:18-39
18 Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin.
19 Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus,
20 by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh,
21 and having a High Priest over the house of God,
22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works,
25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
26 For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,
27 but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.
28 Anyone who has rejected Moses' law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.
29 Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?
30 For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. And again, "The LORD will judge His people."
31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
32 But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings:
33 partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated;
34 for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven.
35 Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward.
36 For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise:
37 "For yet a little while, And He who is coming will come and will not tarry.
38 Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.
Let us stir one another up! Let us put aside our differences and love...love Him and our brethren. Do good to each other and forsake division. Exhort one another as the Day of the Lord is coming.
But
If we willfully sin after we received the knowledge of the truth...there is no longer a sacrifice for sins. We willfully have chosen to turn, we have willfully said with our actions that we want judgment instead of Grace. For by these transgressions we trample the Son of God underfoot. Totally insulting the Spirit of God's Grace.
As this chapter ends...it reads that we are to persevere, with endurance, so that after we HAVE DONE the WILL of God, that we may receive the promise. He is coming! Live by Faith! Be a pleasure in Him!
Hebrews 10:18-39
18 Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin.
19 Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus,
20 by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh,
21 and having a High Priest over the house of God,
22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works,
25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
26 For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,
27 but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.
28 Anyone who has rejected Moses' law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.
29 Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?
30 For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. And again, "The LORD will judge His people."
31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
32 But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings:
33 partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated;
34 for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven.
35 Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward.
36 For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise:
37 "For yet a little while, And He who is coming will come and will not tarry.
38 Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.
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