Psalm 34:4 ... I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.
Hebrews 13:5-6 ... Let your conversation be without
covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath
said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly
say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto
me.
Proverbs 6:16-19 ... These six things doth the LORD
hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17 A proud look, a lying
tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 18 An heart that deviseth
wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, 19 A
false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among
brethren.
Proverbs 16:7 ... When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Psalm 121:1-8 ... I will lift up mine eyes unto the
hills, from whence cometh my help. 2 My help cometh from the LORD, which
made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he
that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel
shall neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is
thy shade upon thy right hand. 6 The sun shall not smite thee by day,
nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he
shall preserve thy soul. 8 The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy
coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.
(Providing daily encouragement for the body of Christ by the Spirit of God to help the church in the end times.)
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Trusting in God for help
Pam Padgett ... teacher
When Haman, who was above the princes of king Ahasuerus, knew that Mordecai, a Jew, did not bow down and reverence him, he sought to destroy not only Mordecai, but all the Jews in the kingdom ...
Esther 3:5 And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full of wrath. 6 And he thought scorn to lay hands on Mordecai alone; for they had shewed him the people of Mordecai: wherefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai.
Haman told the king there were people who did not keep the king's laws and suggested they be destroyed. The king gave Haman authority to do what seemed good to him, and Haman set about to destroy the Jews.
Esther 3:8 And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws are diverse from all people; neither keep they the king's laws: therefore it is not for the king's profit to suffer them. 9 If it please the king, let it be written that they may be destroyed: and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver to the hands of those that have the charge of the business, to bring it into the king's treasuries. 10 And the king took his ring from his hand, and gave it unto Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the Jews' enemy. 11 And the king said unto Haman, The silver is given to thee, the people also, to do with them as it seemeth good to thee. 12 Then were the king's scribes called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and there was written according to all that Haman had commanded unto the king's lieutenants, and to the governors that were over every province, and to the rulers of every people of every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language; in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's ring. 13 And the letters were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey.
When Mordecai knew this, he did not try to appease Haman by going along with him and starting to worship him. Instead, he humbled himself before God, as did many of the other Jews when they heard ...
Esther 4:When Mordecai perceived all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a loud and a bitter cry; 2 And came even before the king's gate: for none might enter into the king's gate clothed with sackcloth. 3 And in every province, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Jews, and fasting, and weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.
When considering these things, I was reminded of ...
Isaiah 8:11 For the LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, 12 Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. 13 Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.
We hold God above all in our lives, not going along with evil, but fearing HIM, dreading doing what is evil in HIS sight. In each problem we face, God is our hope for help, not people ...
Psalm 121:2 My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. 6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. 8 The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.
Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe. 26 Many seek the ruler's favour; but every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.
When Haman, who was above the princes of king Ahasuerus, knew that Mordecai, a Jew, did not bow down and reverence him, he sought to destroy not only Mordecai, but all the Jews in the kingdom ...
Esther 3:5 And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full of wrath. 6 And he thought scorn to lay hands on Mordecai alone; for they had shewed him the people of Mordecai: wherefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai.
Haman told the king there were people who did not keep the king's laws and suggested they be destroyed. The king gave Haman authority to do what seemed good to him, and Haman set about to destroy the Jews.
Esther 3:8 And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws are diverse from all people; neither keep they the king's laws: therefore it is not for the king's profit to suffer them. 9 If it please the king, let it be written that they may be destroyed: and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver to the hands of those that have the charge of the business, to bring it into the king's treasuries. 10 And the king took his ring from his hand, and gave it unto Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the Jews' enemy. 11 And the king said unto Haman, The silver is given to thee, the people also, to do with them as it seemeth good to thee. 12 Then were the king's scribes called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and there was written according to all that Haman had commanded unto the king's lieutenants, and to the governors that were over every province, and to the rulers of every people of every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language; in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's ring. 13 And the letters were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey.
When Mordecai knew this, he did not try to appease Haman by going along with him and starting to worship him. Instead, he humbled himself before God, as did many of the other Jews when they heard ...
Esther 4:When Mordecai perceived all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a loud and a bitter cry; 2 And came even before the king's gate: for none might enter into the king's gate clothed with sackcloth. 3 And in every province, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Jews, and fasting, and weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.
When considering these things, I was reminded of ...
Isaiah 8:11 For the LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, 12 Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. 13 Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.
We hold God above all in our lives, not going along with evil, but fearing HIM, dreading doing what is evil in HIS sight. In each problem we face, God is our hope for help, not people ...
Psalm 121:2 My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. 6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. 8 The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.
Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe. 26 Many seek the ruler's favour; but every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.
The second death
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Jesus speaks of a second death in Revelation 2:11 ... He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
What is "the second death"?
The first death happens when we are born again and is described in Romans 6 ...Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
The second death is likely the end of life when one leaves this present earth.
Recently, I had a dream where the highway ended all of a sudden and the car was going out over a cliff. I was shocked at the situation but I noticed the beautiful cliff on the other side and was talking to God about that. Then the car plunged down, nose first, into the bottom of the canyon. There were tall pine trees with ground around the trees. I awoke.
When I awoke I was really shaken and cried out to God asking what that dream means. I heard the following words in the form of a thought: "Nothing shall by any means hurt you."
I felt God was showing me that I would not be hurt by the "second death".
Jesus speaks of a second death in Revelation 2:11 ... He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
What is "the second death"?
The first death happens when we are born again and is described in Romans 6 ...Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
The second death is likely the end of life when one leaves this present earth.
Recently, I had a dream where the highway ended all of a sudden and the car was going out over a cliff. I was shocked at the situation but I noticed the beautiful cliff on the other side and was talking to God about that. Then the car plunged down, nose first, into the bottom of the canyon. There were tall pine trees with ground around the trees. I awoke.
When I awoke I was really shaken and cried out to God asking what that dream means. I heard the following words in the form of a thought: "Nothing shall by any means hurt you."
I felt God was showing me that I would not be hurt by the "second death".
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 125:1-2 ... They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion,
which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. 2 As the mountains are
round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from
henceforth even for ever.
Proverbs 3:5-8 ... Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. 8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.
Proverbs 3:5-8 ... Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. 8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.
Worshiping only God
Pam Padgett ... teacher
In the Shushan palace of king Ahasuerus was a Jew named Mordecai who had been carried away captive from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar ....
Esther 2:5 Now in Shushan the palace there was a certain Jew, whose name was Mordecai, the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, a Benjamite; 6 Who had been carried away from Jerusalem with the captivity which had been carried away with Jeconiah king of Judah, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away. 7 And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter.
Mordecai did what was good toward king Ahasuerus, giving warning when two of his chamberlains planned to kill him ....
Esther 2:21 In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus. 22 And the thing was known to Mordecai, who told it unto Esther the queen; and Esther certified the king thereof in Mordecai's name. 23 And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out; therefore they were both hanged on a tree: and it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king.
But when the king commanded the people to bow down and reverence Haman, who was above all the princes, Mordecai would not do this ...
Esther 3:1 After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him. 2 And all the king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence. 3 Then the king's servants, which were in the king's gate, said unto Mordecai, Why transgressest thou the king's commandment? 4 Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew.
People often want us to worship them or the works they are doing. The worship they seek is often more subtle than physically bowing down to them as Haman required. We are often faced with those wanting us to bow down to them in our hearts by compromising in some way, such as going along with their lies or staying quiet when we see the evil they do.
As Christians, when we are in a position to help or warn someone, we do this. And we obey the laws of the land and the instructions of those in authority over us, unless to do so would go against the ways of God. But God should be above all else in our hearts, and we should fear God, seeking to do what is right in His eyes and upholding His word over anyone and anything else. We are to hold God above all, worshiping Him alone.
While considering these things, I was reminded of when Jesus was tempted by the devil in the wilderness. The devil promised Jesus kingdoms of the world and the glory of them if He would fall down and worship him, but Jesus didn't do this ...
Matthew 4:8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
In the Shushan palace of king Ahasuerus was a Jew named Mordecai who had been carried away captive from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar ....
Esther 2:5 Now in Shushan the palace there was a certain Jew, whose name was Mordecai, the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, a Benjamite; 6 Who had been carried away from Jerusalem with the captivity which had been carried away with Jeconiah king of Judah, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away. 7 And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter.
Mordecai did what was good toward king Ahasuerus, giving warning when two of his chamberlains planned to kill him ....
Esther 2:21 In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus. 22 And the thing was known to Mordecai, who told it unto Esther the queen; and Esther certified the king thereof in Mordecai's name. 23 And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out; therefore they were both hanged on a tree: and it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king.
But when the king commanded the people to bow down and reverence Haman, who was above all the princes, Mordecai would not do this ...
Esther 3:1 After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him. 2 And all the king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence. 3 Then the king's servants, which were in the king's gate, said unto Mordecai, Why transgressest thou the king's commandment? 4 Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew.
People often want us to worship them or the works they are doing. The worship they seek is often more subtle than physically bowing down to them as Haman required. We are often faced with those wanting us to bow down to them in our hearts by compromising in some way, such as going along with their lies or staying quiet when we see the evil they do.
As Christians, when we are in a position to help or warn someone, we do this. And we obey the laws of the land and the instructions of those in authority over us, unless to do so would go against the ways of God. But God should be above all else in our hearts, and we should fear God, seeking to do what is right in His eyes and upholding His word over anyone and anything else. We are to hold God above all, worshiping Him alone.
While considering these things, I was reminded of when Jesus was tempted by the devil in the wilderness. The devil promised Jesus kingdoms of the world and the glory of them if He would fall down and worship him, but Jesus didn't do this ...
Matthew 4:8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
The time comes when money is of no value
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
People often desire the "blessing of God" thinking in terms of possessions on this present earth. But the time comes when they cast their silver and gold into the streets. They see that such is of no value at all.
When the heavens and the earth start to pass away money will be of no value. No matter how much money a person has, he will be bound to the situation God has done.
Rev. 6 ... And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: 17For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
When you die money will be of no value. Everything changes then.
I Tim. 6 ... But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
I look upon the blessings of God as follows: I am thrilled that God looks over HIS people and guides HIS people. This is a great blessing. I rejoice that God shows us what to do as we live on this present earth. I rejoice that God's way is never wrong.
And I greatly rejoice that God gives HIS people HIS spirit to guide us into all truth, to teach us all things, to remind us of all that Jesus has said, and to show us things to come. (Jn. 14:26 & Jn. 16:13)
People often desire the "blessing of God" thinking in terms of possessions on this present earth. But the time comes when they cast their silver and gold into the streets. They see that such is of no value at all.
When the heavens and the earth start to pass away money will be of no value. No matter how much money a person has, he will be bound to the situation God has done.
Rev. 6 ... And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: 17For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
When you die money will be of no value. Everything changes then.
I Tim. 6 ... But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
I look upon the blessings of God as follows: I am thrilled that God looks over HIS people and guides HIS people. This is a great blessing. I rejoice that God shows us what to do as we live on this present earth. I rejoice that God's way is never wrong.
And I greatly rejoice that God gives HIS people HIS spirit to guide us into all truth, to teach us all things, to remind us of all that Jesus has said, and to show us things to come. (Jn. 14:26 & Jn. 16:13)
Monday, October 29, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Romans 1:16-17 ... For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it
is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the
Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of
God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live
by faith.
Psalm 121:2-4 ... 2 My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
Psalm 121:2-4 ... 2 My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
David didn't try to make himself look good
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
I was reading in I Chron. 28 ... it is about David. I noticed how David didn't try to protect his own flesh and make himself look good in the eyes of others. He just reported what happened and reported it truthfully leaving nothing out.
I Chron 28 ... And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem. 2Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: As for me, I had in mine heart to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building: 3But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou hast been a man of war, and hast shed blood.
4Howbeit the LORD God of Israel chose me before all the house of my father to be king over Israel for ever: for he hath chosen Judah to be the ruler; and of the house of Judah, the house of my father; and among the sons of my father he liked me to make me king over all Israel: 5And of all my sons, (for the LORD hath given me many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel. 6And he said unto me, Solomon thy son, he shall build my house and my courts: for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. 7Moreover I will establish his kingdom for ever, if he be constant to do my commandments and my judgments, as at this day.
I thought of the following scripture: James 5:16 ... Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
I was reading in I Chron. 28 ... it is about David. I noticed how David didn't try to protect his own flesh and make himself look good in the eyes of others. He just reported what happened and reported it truthfully leaving nothing out.
I Chron 28 ... And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem. 2Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: As for me, I had in mine heart to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building: 3But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou hast been a man of war, and hast shed blood.
4Howbeit the LORD God of Israel chose me before all the house of my father to be king over Israel for ever: for he hath chosen Judah to be the ruler; and of the house of Judah, the house of my father; and among the sons of my father he liked me to make me king over all Israel: 5And of all my sons, (for the LORD hath given me many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel. 6And he said unto me, Solomon thy son, he shall build my house and my courts: for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. 7Moreover I will establish his kingdom for ever, if he be constant to do my commandments and my judgments, as at this day.
I thought of the following scripture: James 5:16 ... Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
There are times we simply humble ourselves.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 33:10-11 ... 10 The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to
nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. 11 The
counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all
generations.
John 15:18-21 ... If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. 20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
Psalm 119:160-162 ... Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. 161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word. 162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.
Proverbs 14:12 ... There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
John 15:18-21 ... If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. 20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
Psalm 119:160-162 ... Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. 161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word. 162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.
Proverbs 14:12 ... There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
The almost nuclear war of 1983
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
No matter how much power man has on this earth, God is in charge.
Psalm 33:10 ... The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. 11The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
In 1983, we almost had a nuclear war with Russia. Most people were unaware of this. Even our own leaders (president & congress) didn't know how close war was until after the threat ended.
This is an amazing story which I saw recently on TV documentary on Military Channel TV. All the time I was watching this, I was thinking of how God was in charge and stopped this from happening. Man is not in charge. God is in charge even in such things as this.
In 1983, Russia had over 300 nuclear rockets aimed at United States and key cities in Europe. United States had hundreds of missiles aimed at Russia and United States had just new a new type of nuclear rocket which they sent several to key cities in Europe so they could attack Russia even in outer regions. All over Europe people were protesting by the thousands. They did not want these nuclear weapons on their soil. But USA put them there anyway.
Then a remarkable thing happened to trigger events. A TV movie called "The day after" was aired. Ronald Reagan asked for private viewing of this TV show. After seeing this movie, Reagan gave a speech where he called Russia "The Evil Empire." Russia was furious at this and by this they were convinced USA was planning a nuclear attack on Russia. Russia had been victim of surprise attack from Germany in WWII and they vowed they would never again have such a surprise come against them. So after Reagan's speech, they increased their awareness and prepared to retaliate against an attack.
During all this, there was a 7 day war games exercise performed in Europe by NATO. Although they repeated announced all this was simply an exercise, Russia thought it was a coverup for pending USA attack on Russia. High alert was set by Russia. They were prepared to launch their weapons.
One night, the alarms went on in the Soviet war room. This showed USA had launched rockets against Russia. The man in charge was ill and a substitute was placed in authority of the room at the time. He was afraid the launch might be a false warning so he held back and didn't launch the Russian weapons. It turned out the warning which looked like rocket attack was actually caused by cloud cover which cleared momentarily.
After all this was over, Reagan and high up USA officials found out how close they came to nuclear war. This changed the entire approach taken by USA. Reagan made trip to Moscow to meet with Russian leaders. While he was there, a TV reporter asked, "Do you still think Russia is an evil empire?" Reagan smiled and replied, "No."
We had several decades of fear of nuclear war between USA and Russia. From 1950's to mid-1990's this hung over the world.
Now it is ended. We have threat of terrorists but it is nothing like that period when all those nuclear rockets were aimed at major cities of the world.
I thought of the scripture in I Thess. 5 and wondered if we have come into the "peace and safety" cited by this scripture.
But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. 2For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 3For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 5Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. I Thess. 5
The end of this world and the coming of Jesus will not be triggered by events of man. Only God can cause the things to happen that are described in II Peter 3.
But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
8But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
We are currently in a time of world peace (compared with the decades from 1950-mid 90's) The evil is flaunted in humans to greater degree now than it was in previous decades with open homosexuals and sexual sins.
These signs should show us growing closer to the return of Jesus and the events described in II Peter 3 and Mt. 24 where the heavens pass away and the stars fall and the sun in blackened. But only God can do this!
We are told to be alert and hold fast to ways of God even as the iniquity increases. And then when these signs do happen in the sky, look up for your redemption draweth nigh. Lk. 21
No matter how much power man has on this earth, God is in charge.
Psalm 33:10 ... The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. 11The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
In 1983, we almost had a nuclear war with Russia. Most people were unaware of this. Even our own leaders (president & congress) didn't know how close war was until after the threat ended.
This is an amazing story which I saw recently on TV documentary on Military Channel TV. All the time I was watching this, I was thinking of how God was in charge and stopped this from happening. Man is not in charge. God is in charge even in such things as this.
In 1983, Russia had over 300 nuclear rockets aimed at United States and key cities in Europe. United States had hundreds of missiles aimed at Russia and United States had just new a new type of nuclear rocket which they sent several to key cities in Europe so they could attack Russia even in outer regions. All over Europe people were protesting by the thousands. They did not want these nuclear weapons on their soil. But USA put them there anyway.
Then a remarkable thing happened to trigger events. A TV movie called "The day after" was aired. Ronald Reagan asked for private viewing of this TV show. After seeing this movie, Reagan gave a speech where he called Russia "The Evil Empire." Russia was furious at this and by this they were convinced USA was planning a nuclear attack on Russia. Russia had been victim of surprise attack from Germany in WWII and they vowed they would never again have such a surprise come against them. So after Reagan's speech, they increased their awareness and prepared to retaliate against an attack.
During all this, there was a 7 day war games exercise performed in Europe by NATO. Although they repeated announced all this was simply an exercise, Russia thought it was a coverup for pending USA attack on Russia. High alert was set by Russia. They were prepared to launch their weapons.
One night, the alarms went on in the Soviet war room. This showed USA had launched rockets against Russia. The man in charge was ill and a substitute was placed in authority of the room at the time. He was afraid the launch might be a false warning so he held back and didn't launch the Russian weapons. It turned out the warning which looked like rocket attack was actually caused by cloud cover which cleared momentarily.
After all this was over, Reagan and high up USA officials found out how close they came to nuclear war. This changed the entire approach taken by USA. Reagan made trip to Moscow to meet with Russian leaders. While he was there, a TV reporter asked, "Do you still think Russia is an evil empire?" Reagan smiled and replied, "No."
We had several decades of fear of nuclear war between USA and Russia. From 1950's to mid-1990's this hung over the world.
Now it is ended. We have threat of terrorists but it is nothing like that period when all those nuclear rockets were aimed at major cities of the world.
I thought of the scripture in I Thess. 5 and wondered if we have come into the "peace and safety" cited by this scripture.
But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. 2For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 3For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 5Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. I Thess. 5
The end of this world and the coming of Jesus will not be triggered by events of man. Only God can cause the things to happen that are described in II Peter 3.
But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
8But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
We are currently in a time of world peace (compared with the decades from 1950-mid 90's) The evil is flaunted in humans to greater degree now than it was in previous decades with open homosexuals and sexual sins.
These signs should show us growing closer to the return of Jesus and the events described in II Peter 3 and Mt. 24 where the heavens pass away and the stars fall and the sun in blackened. But only God can do this!
We are told to be alert and hold fast to ways of God even as the iniquity increases. And then when these signs do happen in the sky, look up for your redemption draweth nigh. Lk. 21
God leads His people
Pam Padgett ... teacher
When the Levites were recounting before the congregation many of the things God has done, they spoke of how God brought the children of Israel out of Egypt and led them in the wilderness ...
Nehemiah 9:9 And didst see the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heardest their cry by the Red sea; 10 And shewedst signs and wonders upon Pharaoh, and on all his servants, and on all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they dealt proudly against them. So didst thou get thee a name, as it is this day. 11 And thou didst divide the sea before them, so that they went through the midst of the sea on the dry land; and their persecutors thou threwest into the deeps, as a stone into the mighty waters. 12 Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go.
God showed them the way to go in the wilderness by a pillar of a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The pillar of a cloud would be very visible by day, and the pillar of fire would be easily seen by night. God led them in a way they could see and recognize.
While thinking about this, I thought of how God leads us in a way we can recognize. God knows everything about each of us, including what we have experienced in the past, and is able to "reach" us in a way we can understand to show us the way we are to go.
Many years ago when I was working at FedEx we were allowed to ride in the cockpit of some of the cargo planes. On one trip the co-pilot was landing the plane and was descending too quickly. An automated siren sounded and then a recorded voice said "Pull up! Pull up!", giving a very strong warning of danger ahead if adjustments weren't made. The co-pilot made necessary adjustments and landed the plane safely, but this made a strong impression on me.
Several months ago I had allowed my mind to start dwelling on past failures and sins, one thing leading to another. Feelings of condemnation and hopelessness started weighing me down, almost paralyzing me. Then a thought came ... "Pull up! Pull up!". Because of my past experience, I immediately realized this was a strong warning. I was also reminded of what Paul said ...
Philipppians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Although the thought "Pull up! Pull up!" would have meant nothing to many people, it very clearly showed me that I needed to make adjustments quickly. By that thought and being reminded of Philippians 3:13-14, it was clear to me that I needed to immediately stop dwelling on the past and to turn to God and ask Him to direct my thoughts so I could move forward in His way for me.
God knows how to lead each of us in a way we can understand.
When the Levites were recounting before the congregation many of the things God has done, they spoke of how God brought the children of Israel out of Egypt and led them in the wilderness ...
Nehemiah 9:9 And didst see the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heardest their cry by the Red sea; 10 And shewedst signs and wonders upon Pharaoh, and on all his servants, and on all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they dealt proudly against them. So didst thou get thee a name, as it is this day. 11 And thou didst divide the sea before them, so that they went through the midst of the sea on the dry land; and their persecutors thou threwest into the deeps, as a stone into the mighty waters. 12 Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go.
God showed them the way to go in the wilderness by a pillar of a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The pillar of a cloud would be very visible by day, and the pillar of fire would be easily seen by night. God led them in a way they could see and recognize.
While thinking about this, I thought of how God leads us in a way we can recognize. God knows everything about each of us, including what we have experienced in the past, and is able to "reach" us in a way we can understand to show us the way we are to go.
Many years ago when I was working at FedEx we were allowed to ride in the cockpit of some of the cargo planes. On one trip the co-pilot was landing the plane and was descending too quickly. An automated siren sounded and then a recorded voice said "Pull up! Pull up!", giving a very strong warning of danger ahead if adjustments weren't made. The co-pilot made necessary adjustments and landed the plane safely, but this made a strong impression on me.
Several months ago I had allowed my mind to start dwelling on past failures and sins, one thing leading to another. Feelings of condemnation and hopelessness started weighing me down, almost paralyzing me. Then a thought came ... "Pull up! Pull up!". Because of my past experience, I immediately realized this was a strong warning. I was also reminded of what Paul said ...
Philipppians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Although the thought "Pull up! Pull up!" would have meant nothing to many people, it very clearly showed me that I needed to make adjustments quickly. By that thought and being reminded of Philippians 3:13-14, it was clear to me that I needed to immediately stop dwelling on the past and to turn to God and ask Him to direct my thoughts so I could move forward in His way for me.
God knows how to lead each of us in a way we can understand.
Taking thoughts captive
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; II Cor. 10
Negative thoughts come to all persons. These thoughts are destructive. In the world, people often drink to stop thinking about the "bad" things. Some women go shopping to lift their spirits. Some clean out closets.
But there is a spiritual way for us to deal with destructive (negative) thoughts. And we must take each thought captive through God when it is a destructive thought.
The way we do this is to turn to God with the thought. We pray, asking God: "What about this?"
Usually after I pray, I will be reminded of a scripture ... and when I look at the scripture I see that the negative thought is exalting itself against that scripture, against the knowledge of God. Therefore I bring that thought into captivity by believing the scripture brought to me by the Holy Spirit. I fight with that scripture. This is what Paul is speaking in II Cor. 10:4-5.
At one time in my life, I even took a notebook and wrote down the negative thought ... then after talking to God about it and hearing from the Holy Spirit on the issue, I would write that down under that negative thought. It was very powerful warfare!
These thoughts sometimes come into our mind so quickly. And they flee almost before we know we have had such. But when we can really focus on the negative thought and take it to God in prayer and then focus on that which the Spirit of God speaks, we see such a power of God and it can become a way of life for us because the devil departed from Jesus "for a season"(Lk 4:13)... and it is that way with us also. As long as we live on this earth, the devil will speak that which is opposite to the word God speaks on the issue at hand. It is up to us to take the negative thought captive and bring that negative thought into obedience of Christ.
If we fail to do so, the negative thought can be a seed which rises at will to harm us.
So it is very important to do what Paul said and take every thought captive bringing that thought to obedience of Christ.
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; II Cor. 10
Negative thoughts come to all persons. These thoughts are destructive. In the world, people often drink to stop thinking about the "bad" things. Some women go shopping to lift their spirits. Some clean out closets.
But there is a spiritual way for us to deal with destructive (negative) thoughts. And we must take each thought captive through God when it is a destructive thought.
The way we do this is to turn to God with the thought. We pray, asking God: "What about this?"
Usually after I pray, I will be reminded of a scripture ... and when I look at the scripture I see that the negative thought is exalting itself against that scripture, against the knowledge of God. Therefore I bring that thought into captivity by believing the scripture brought to me by the Holy Spirit. I fight with that scripture. This is what Paul is speaking in II Cor. 10:4-5.
At one time in my life, I even took a notebook and wrote down the negative thought ... then after talking to God about it and hearing from the Holy Spirit on the issue, I would write that down under that negative thought. It was very powerful warfare!
These thoughts sometimes come into our mind so quickly. And they flee almost before we know we have had such. But when we can really focus on the negative thought and take it to God in prayer and then focus on that which the Spirit of God speaks, we see such a power of God and it can become a way of life for us because the devil departed from Jesus "for a season"(Lk 4:13)... and it is that way with us also. As long as we live on this earth, the devil will speak that which is opposite to the word God speaks on the issue at hand. It is up to us to take the negative thought captive and bring that negative thought into obedience of Christ.
If we fail to do so, the negative thought can be a seed which rises at will to harm us.
So it is very important to do what Paul said and take every thought captive bringing that thought to obedience of Christ.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Matthew 6:31-34 ... Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we
eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32
(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly
Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye
first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things
shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow:
for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient
unto the day is the evil thereof.
Proverbs 3:5-8 ... Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. 8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.
Psalm 33:4-11 ... For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth. 5 He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD. 6 By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. 7 He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. 8 Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. 9 For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. 10 The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. 11 The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
Psalm 37:7-9 ... Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. 8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. 9 F or evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.
Isaiah 56:1-5 ... Thus saith the LORD, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. 2 Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil. 3 Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree. 4 For thus saith the LORD unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant; 5 Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.
Proverbs 3:5-8 ... Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. 8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.
Psalm 33:4-11 ... For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth. 5 He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD. 6 By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. 7 He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. 8 Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. 9 For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. 10 The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. 11 The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
Psalm 37:7-9 ... Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. 8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. 9 F or evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.
Isaiah 56:1-5 ... Thus saith the LORD, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. 2 Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil. 3 Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree. 4 For thus saith the LORD unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant; 5 Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.
When ministers want you to pay for their works
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Recently a man in India asked me to send him $10,000. He said he started to build a church building and he had spent everything he had and his congregation had spent everything they had and they could not complete the building.
I told him this is very sad.
The reason it is sad to me is it was obvious to me that this was not something God told him to do but something he thought to do. It created a terrible burden on himself and to everyone in his church group.
I explained to him that the early church did not have church buildings. The believers just met in houses.
I've seen this happen so many times when ministers put needless burdens on their congregations and on other people. They build buildings. They go on radio or TV and have to beg for money to pay the bills. They build orphanages and go past their ability to pay for the work. Usually all these works are done because the human feels it should be done. But for it to actually work without being a burden, the work must be authored by God and not by the flesh of man.
I was born again in 1975. One of the first things God taught me was to get out of debt and to stay out of debt. When God would tell me to do a work, I would ask HIM how I should pay for the work. Each time HE instructed me and the money for the work was there before the work was started. And if I didn't have the money, I waited until the money was there before doing the work. Consequently, for the past 30+ years, I have lived debt free and have not had to beg church people for money.
Luke 14 ... Jesus said ... For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? 29Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.
Faith is not based on what you want to do.
Faith is based on that which God instructs you to do.
Jesus said... Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Mt. 7
One preacher wrote to me asking me to send Bibles for his congregation. This really pulls at me. But I do not believe his request is from God. At the end of his form type letter, he said, "Jesus never fails." But he was asking me to do his works. I did not respond to his letter. But I was greatly troubled by him.
Faith is turning to God ... trusting God to show you the way ... and waiting on God rather than reaching out to other flesh.
But so many preachers are not really of God and their works are not really of God and when they have to beg me to pay for their works I know they are not following God.
Recently a man in India asked me to send him $10,000. He said he started to build a church building and he had spent everything he had and his congregation had spent everything they had and they could not complete the building.
I told him this is very sad.
The reason it is sad to me is it was obvious to me that this was not something God told him to do but something he thought to do. It created a terrible burden on himself and to everyone in his church group.
I explained to him that the early church did not have church buildings. The believers just met in houses.
I've seen this happen so many times when ministers put needless burdens on their congregations and on other people. They build buildings. They go on radio or TV and have to beg for money to pay the bills. They build orphanages and go past their ability to pay for the work. Usually all these works are done because the human feels it should be done. But for it to actually work without being a burden, the work must be authored by God and not by the flesh of man.
I was born again in 1975. One of the first things God taught me was to get out of debt and to stay out of debt. When God would tell me to do a work, I would ask HIM how I should pay for the work. Each time HE instructed me and the money for the work was there before the work was started. And if I didn't have the money, I waited until the money was there before doing the work. Consequently, for the past 30+ years, I have lived debt free and have not had to beg church people for money.
Luke 14 ... Jesus said ... For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? 29Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.
Faith is not based on what you want to do.
Faith is based on that which God instructs you to do.
Jesus said... Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Mt. 7
One preacher wrote to me asking me to send Bibles for his congregation. This really pulls at me. But I do not believe his request is from God. At the end of his form type letter, he said, "Jesus never fails." But he was asking me to do his works. I did not respond to his letter. But I was greatly troubled by him.
Faith is turning to God ... trusting God to show you the way ... and waiting on God rather than reaching out to other flesh.
But so many preachers are not really of God and their works are not really of God and when they have to beg me to pay for their works I know they are not following God.
Hearing and doing the word
Pam Padgett ... teacher
In Nehemiah chapter 8 we have an account of people seeking to know what God wanted them to do and then doing what they heard.
The people asked Ezra to bring the book of the law which God had given to Moses. The book of the law was read distinctly and the people were helped to understand what was read ...
Nehemiah 8:1 And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel. 2 And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law. 4 And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam. 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up: 6 And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground. 7 Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place. 8 So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.
When they heard something they were not doing, they didn't take it lightly. Instead, they set about to do what they heard ...
Nehemiah 8:13 And on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers of all the people, the priests, and the Levites, unto Ezra the scribe, even to understand the words of the law. 14 And they found written in the law which the LORD had commanded by Moses, that the children of Israel should dwell in booths in the feast of the seventh month: 15 And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written.
16 So the people went forth, and brought them, and made themselves booths, every one upon the roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the street of the water gate, and in the street of the gate of Ephraim. 17 And all the congregation of them that were come again out of the captivity made booths, and sat under the booths: for since the days of Jeshua the son of Nun unto that day had not the children of Israel done so. And there was very great gladness.
While considering this account, I thought of how the Holy Spirit leads us as we read the Bible, bringing to our attention what we need to carefully consider, giving us understanding of what God is speaking to us, and leading us in what to do. The Holy Spirit may also speak to us in other ways, such as bringing a thought to us and giving us dreams. Whenever we hear what God speaks to us through the Holy Spirit, its important to not take it lightly, but to conform ourselves to that word, doing what we are shown to do, going in the way shown by that word.
James warned us that we deceive ourselves if we hear but don't do the word we hear. He exhorted us to look into the word, going in the way shown by the word, and continue doing it ...
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
In Nehemiah chapter 8 we have an account of people seeking to know what God wanted them to do and then doing what they heard.
The people asked Ezra to bring the book of the law which God had given to Moses. The book of the law was read distinctly and the people were helped to understand what was read ...
Nehemiah 8:1 And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel. 2 And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law. 4 And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam. 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up: 6 And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground. 7 Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place. 8 So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.
When they heard something they were not doing, they didn't take it lightly. Instead, they set about to do what they heard ...
Nehemiah 8:13 And on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers of all the people, the priests, and the Levites, unto Ezra the scribe, even to understand the words of the law. 14 And they found written in the law which the LORD had commanded by Moses, that the children of Israel should dwell in booths in the feast of the seventh month: 15 And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written.
16 So the people went forth, and brought them, and made themselves booths, every one upon the roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the street of the water gate, and in the street of the gate of Ephraim. 17 And all the congregation of them that were come again out of the captivity made booths, and sat under the booths: for since the days of Jeshua the son of Nun unto that day had not the children of Israel done so. And there was very great gladness.
While considering this account, I thought of how the Holy Spirit leads us as we read the Bible, bringing to our attention what we need to carefully consider, giving us understanding of what God is speaking to us, and leading us in what to do. The Holy Spirit may also speak to us in other ways, such as bringing a thought to us and giving us dreams. Whenever we hear what God speaks to us through the Holy Spirit, its important to not take it lightly, but to conform ourselves to that word, doing what we are shown to do, going in the way shown by that word.
James warned us that we deceive ourselves if we hear but don't do the word we hear. He exhorted us to look into the word, going in the way shown by the word, and continue doing it ...
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
The Lord's Supper
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
God recreates us in HIS image when we hear, by HIS Spirit, a word and stop and look into that Word and then adjust our action in a way appropriate to that word.
This is partaking of the Lord's supper ...
The Lord's supper is not eating of crackers and drinking of grape juice. Crackers and grape juice have no power. Doing this is simply church groups setting up things by their fleshly eyes.
The LORD"s supper is the Word of God from the spirit of God.
By that word we "examine ourselves" ...
If we correctly eat and drink the word by the Spirit, we will allow our path in life to be corrected. We make changes according to the information given by that word, by the Spirit. There is life and great power in doing this.
Jn. 6 ... 53Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. 57As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.
Eat the flesh of Jesus (THE WORD) ... Drink the blood of the Word of God which is Jesus. We eat and drink the flesh and blood of Jesus by doing the Word of God as brought forth by the Spirit of God.
63It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. Jn. 6
I Cor. 11 ... partaking of the Lord's supper ... pertains to eating and drinking the Word of God correctly.
Jesus said ...This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
26For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.
27Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. (Examine yourself by the Word the Spirit of God gives you making necessary changes according to that word.)
29For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. (unworthily: hearing the Word but failing to make proper adjustment according to the instruction given by the Word.)
30For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep (die). 31For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. I Cor. 11
When we read the Bible, or consider the word directly carried to our mind by the Holy Spirit ... we have opportunity to "judge" ourselves by the Word and make appropriate changes in our lives. This is correctly eating and drinking the Word of God ... partaking of the "Lord's supper" correctly.
God recreates us in HIS image when we hear, by HIS Spirit, a word and stop and look into that Word and then adjust our action in a way appropriate to that word.
This is partaking of the Lord's supper ...
The Lord's supper is not eating of crackers and drinking of grape juice. Crackers and grape juice have no power. Doing this is simply church groups setting up things by their fleshly eyes.
The LORD"s supper is the Word of God from the spirit of God.
By that word we "examine ourselves" ...
If we correctly eat and drink the word by the Spirit, we will allow our path in life to be corrected. We make changes according to the information given by that word, by the Spirit. There is life and great power in doing this.
Jn. 6 ... 53Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. 57As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.
Eat the flesh of Jesus (THE WORD) ... Drink the blood of the Word of God which is Jesus. We eat and drink the flesh and blood of Jesus by doing the Word of God as brought forth by the Spirit of God.
63It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. Jn. 6
I Cor. 11 ... partaking of the Lord's supper ... pertains to eating and drinking the Word of God correctly.
Jesus said ...This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
26For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.
27Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. (Examine yourself by the Word the Spirit of God gives you making necessary changes according to that word.)
29For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. (unworthily: hearing the Word but failing to make proper adjustment according to the instruction given by the Word.)
30For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep (die). 31For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. I Cor. 11
When we read the Bible, or consider the word directly carried to our mind by the Holy Spirit ... we have opportunity to "judge" ourselves by the Word and make appropriate changes in our lives. This is correctly eating and drinking the Word of God ... partaking of the "Lord's supper" correctly.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 32:8 ... I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
Zechariah 4:6 ... Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
Psalm 139:7-14 ... Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? 8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10 Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. 13 For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
Psalm 139:23-24 ... Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: 24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Zechariah 4:6 ... Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
Psalm 139:7-14 ... Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? 8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10 Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. 13 For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
Psalm 139:23-24 ... Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: 24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Focusing on God, not evildoers
Pam Padgett ... teacher
After Nehemiah had built the wall and repaired the breaches in Jerusalem, enemies sought to do him harm and to stop more work by calling Nehemiah to meet with them in one of the villages. Nehemiah perceived their intentions, and did not meet with them. Then they sent a letter accusing the Jews of rebellion against the king, trying to bring fear and weaken them from doing the work. Nehemiah turned to God ...
Nehemiah 6:1 Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;) 2 That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. 3 And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you? 4 Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner. 5 Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand; 6 Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words. 7 And thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, There is a king in Judah: and now shall it be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together. 8 Then I sent unto him, saying, There are no such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart. 9 For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.
Then Shemaiah was hired by the enemies to try to make Nehemiah afraid and to hide in the temple, so that an evil report could be given of him. But Nehemiah perceived the counsel to hide in the temple was not of God, and rather than going along with it, he turned to God ...
Nehemiah 6:10 Afterward I came unto the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabeel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay thee. 11 And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in. 12 And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13 Therefore was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin, and that they might have matter for an evil report, that they might reproach me. 14 My God, think thou upon Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and on the prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have put me in fear.
These enemies of the work God had called Nehemiah to do in Jerusalem had evil intentions, trying various methods to hinder Nehemiah. Rather than being pulled aside by these enemies, Nehemiah turned to God with what they were doing, asking God to help him and to deal with these enemies, and Nehemiah continued in the ways of God.
While considering these things, I thought of how we also encounter people speaking evil, such as lies and things that cause fears. In addition to the harm they try to bring to us, there is often a temptation for us to focus on them and fret ourselves about what they have said or done, pulled aside from things of God... snares of the devil to try to hinder us.
Paul exhorted us to not be careful (anxious and worried), but to turn to God in everything ... not focusing on those who bring the evil, but on God, as we pour our hearts out before God and trust Him to help us and restore us in peace ...
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
After Nehemiah had built the wall and repaired the breaches in Jerusalem, enemies sought to do him harm and to stop more work by calling Nehemiah to meet with them in one of the villages. Nehemiah perceived their intentions, and did not meet with them. Then they sent a letter accusing the Jews of rebellion against the king, trying to bring fear and weaken them from doing the work. Nehemiah turned to God ...
Nehemiah 6:1 Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;) 2 That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. 3 And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you? 4 Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner. 5 Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand; 6 Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words. 7 And thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, There is a king in Judah: and now shall it be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together. 8 Then I sent unto him, saying, There are no such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart. 9 For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.
Then Shemaiah was hired by the enemies to try to make Nehemiah afraid and to hide in the temple, so that an evil report could be given of him. But Nehemiah perceived the counsel to hide in the temple was not of God, and rather than going along with it, he turned to God ...
Nehemiah 6:10 Afterward I came unto the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabeel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay thee. 11 And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in. 12 And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13 Therefore was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin, and that they might have matter for an evil report, that they might reproach me. 14 My God, think thou upon Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and on the prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have put me in fear.
These enemies of the work God had called Nehemiah to do in Jerusalem had evil intentions, trying various methods to hinder Nehemiah. Rather than being pulled aside by these enemies, Nehemiah turned to God with what they were doing, asking God to help him and to deal with these enemies, and Nehemiah continued in the ways of God.
While considering these things, I thought of how we also encounter people speaking evil, such as lies and things that cause fears. In addition to the harm they try to bring to us, there is often a temptation for us to focus on them and fret ourselves about what they have said or done, pulled aside from things of God... snares of the devil to try to hinder us.
Paul exhorted us to not be careful (anxious and worried), but to turn to God in everything ... not focusing on those who bring the evil, but on God, as we pour our hearts out before God and trust Him to help us and restore us in peace ...
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Keeping yourself through the knowledge of God
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
John told us that if we are of God, we keep ourselves and the wicked one does not touch us. I Jn. 5
One way we "keep ourselves" is through the knowledge of God.
We read the Bible and as we read the Bible we see the manifestation of God and we come to know what God will do and what God will not do.
We have experience with God and over and over we see the working of God in our lives and by this we know God.
Antichrist tries to bring thoughts to us which exalt himself and even cause us to try to exalt ourselves.
But because of the "knowledge of God" we know those things brought by antichrist and the flesh of man are not of God.
It is good to think on that which God has done. By this we enlarge our concept of God and our concept of the knowledge of God.
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; II Cor. 10
One thing we need to know is this: If we are trying to be something, to exalt ourselves, we open the door for Satan to move into our lives. And it is amazing how fast the devil can take over when we do this.
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. James 3
So instead of trying to be something, we need to do what Paul said as follows:
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, Phil 2
We make a deliberate effort to make ourselves of no reputation. We keep in mind that our goal is to serve God.
This helps greatly in "keeping ourselves".
I Jn. 5:18 ... he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.
Other things we do to "keep ourselves" are as follows:
Phil. 3 ... Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded.
Prov. 3 ... In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
Mt. 6 ...But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
John told us that if we are of God, we keep ourselves and the wicked one does not touch us. I Jn. 5
One way we "keep ourselves" is through the knowledge of God.
We read the Bible and as we read the Bible we see the manifestation of God and we come to know what God will do and what God will not do.
We have experience with God and over and over we see the working of God in our lives and by this we know God.
Antichrist tries to bring thoughts to us which exalt himself and even cause us to try to exalt ourselves.
But because of the "knowledge of God" we know those things brought by antichrist and the flesh of man are not of God.
It is good to think on that which God has done. By this we enlarge our concept of God and our concept of the knowledge of God.
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; II Cor. 10
One thing we need to know is this: If we are trying to be something, to exalt ourselves, we open the door for Satan to move into our lives. And it is amazing how fast the devil can take over when we do this.
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. James 3
So instead of trying to be something, we need to do what Paul said as follows:
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, Phil 2
We make a deliberate effort to make ourselves of no reputation. We keep in mind that our goal is to serve God.
This helps greatly in "keeping ourselves".
I Jn. 5:18 ... he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.
Other things we do to "keep ourselves" are as follows:
Phil. 3 ... Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded.
Prov. 3 ... In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
Mt. 6 ...But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Isaiah 26:3-4 ... Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is
stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. 4 Trust ye in the LORD for
ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
Psalm 130:5-6 ... I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. 6 My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.
Psalm 125:1-5 ... They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. 2 As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever. 3 For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous; lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity. 4 Do good, O LORD, unto those that be good, and to them that are upright in their hearts. 5 As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the LORD shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity: but peace shall be upon Israel.
Psalm 130:5-6 ... I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. 6 My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.
Psalm 125:1-5 ... They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. 2 As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever. 3 For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous; lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity. 4 Do good, O LORD, unto those that be good, and to them that are upright in their hearts. 5 As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the LORD shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity: but peace shall be upon Israel.
Finishing the course set before us
Joseph Meriweather ... member of body of Christ
Yesterday I was reading 2 Timothy 4 :6-8 where its says.. . For I am now ready
to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand . 7 I have fought a good
fight ,I have finished my course ,I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth
there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord
,the righteous judge , shall give me at that day :and not to me only
, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
I would very much love to say those very words that Paul mentioned ... but he
paid a price also for it . But we all should strive for this. That we will not being ashamed when we stand before Christ Jesus . We must believe in GOD works
and keep his WORD and obedient to him. Our goal should be to finished the
course that GOD has set before us. Philippians 4:13 ... I can do all
things through CHRIST which strengtheneth me.
Comments by Joan Boney ...
I believe one of the main things we must have to keep doing the assignment given us by God is faithfulness to God.
Many are "faithful" as long as some human compliments them. But what happens when we do what God says to so and humans hate and despise us? Do we compromise the word of God in order to please man and to have friendship with man? Or do we continue in that which God has shown us because we do not want to disappoint God. Faithfulness to God is key.
Comments by Joan Boney ...
I believe one of the main things we must have to keep doing the assignment given us by God is faithfulness to God.
Many are "faithful" as long as some human compliments them. But what happens when we do what God says to so and humans hate and despise us? Do we compromise the word of God in order to please man and to have friendship with man? Or do we continue in that which God has shown us because we do not want to disappoint God. Faithfulness to God is key.
Simplicity of God's answer to problem
John Rodgers ... Member of Body of Christ
I was thinking about putting another shed up in my backyard.
And the thought came to me “ Why don’t you just get rid of the stuff you have?”
----------------------
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Years ago, I would go to get my mother and myself take out food. It always cost $5.30. I always took that exact amount in and left my purse with my mother in the car.
One day, I was looking in my coin purse for the 30 cents. I always used a quarter and nickle. But that day I couldn't find a quarter and a nickle.
As I continued hunting for the quarter and nickle, a "gentle" impression came like a whisper in my ear, saying: "Three dimes will work ..."
I replied, "That's right! Three dimes will work!" (I had plenty of dimes in my coin purse.)
Then I started laughing. I knew that was the Holy Spirit talking to me. It was like HE was in back seat of car, leaning over my shoulder watching me struggle with something simple.
Often the answer is so simple ... but a different way from that which we were thinking.
The Holy Spirit helps us when we are blocked by our pattern of thinking or by our way of life.
I was thinking about putting another shed up in my backyard.
And the thought came to me “ Why don’t you just get rid of the stuff you have?”
----------------------
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Years ago, I would go to get my mother and myself take out food. It always cost $5.30. I always took that exact amount in and left my purse with my mother in the car.
One day, I was looking in my coin purse for the 30 cents. I always used a quarter and nickle. But that day I couldn't find a quarter and a nickle.
As I continued hunting for the quarter and nickle, a "gentle" impression came like a whisper in my ear, saying: "Three dimes will work ..."
I replied, "That's right! Three dimes will work!" (I had plenty of dimes in my coin purse.)
Then I started laughing. I knew that was the Holy Spirit talking to me. It was like HE was in back seat of car, leaning over my shoulder watching me struggle with something simple.
Often the answer is so simple ... but a different way from that which we were thinking.
The Holy Spirit helps us when we are blocked by our pattern of thinking or by our way of life.
Seeking to live peacefully with a neighbor
Pam Padgett ... teacher
A few months ago one of my neighbors sent me an email with what she considered to be "cute" sayings about animals. I was grieved by the first saying because it spoke of God in a way that is not true. I didn't read any further. This neighbor is not a Christian, and I prayed asking God how I should handle this. About a week later, I received another similar email which again brought grief. I believed I was led by God to send her an email asking to be removed from the distribution list of people she sent emails like this to, and explained why, sharing truth from the Bible regarding what I had read in these emails about God. She did not respond in any way. Although she has not sent any more emails, I feel sure she was offended that I asked her to stop sending these to me.
Before asking her to stop sending such emails to me, I had asked God to confirm whether this was His will, and was reminded of neither be partaker of other men's sin ...
I Timothy 5:22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.
Sometime later the following was also called to my attention ... And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (Ephesians 5:11 )
I hadn't seen this neighbor since then until recently when there have been a few times she has been driving down the street while I was walking my dogs. In the past, she would stop her car and speak briefly, but now she scowled at me and kept driving. It would "sting" me when this happened and I turned to God to help me. I was also aware of how anger and hatred eat at a person and was sorry to see the hostility in her.
I forgave her and also prayed asking God if there was anything I could do to live in peace as neighbors with this woman ... if there might be some way for there to be no hostility.
Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Last Friday I saw a mobile veterinary van parked in front of this neighbor's house. This neighbor has two cats. In the past I've taken care of the cats when she has been out of town, and knew that the older cat is being treated for cancer. When I saw this veterinary van, I was concerned that the cat's condition may have gotten worse. As I prayed about what, if anything, I should do, I was reminded of what Jesus said in the following ...
Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
I called the neighbor and left a message on her answering machine, telling her I had seen the veterinary van and offered to help if there was anything she needed. Although she didn't return my phone call, she later sent an email. There was no hostility in the email, and she thanked me for calling and leaving the message offering to help. She explained that the older cat's condition is about the same. Around a month ago, however, the younger cat was diagnosed with a very deadly type of cancer and is not expected to live into December. This woman is a widow with no children, and I'm sure this is devastating for her. I replied to her email, telling her how sorry I was to hear about the younger cat and again offered to help if needed.
I am grateful to God that I believe He led me to call this neighbor and show compassion to her, and that there was no hostility in her reply.
A few months ago one of my neighbors sent me an email with what she considered to be "cute" sayings about animals. I was grieved by the first saying because it spoke of God in a way that is not true. I didn't read any further. This neighbor is not a Christian, and I prayed asking God how I should handle this. About a week later, I received another similar email which again brought grief. I believed I was led by God to send her an email asking to be removed from the distribution list of people she sent emails like this to, and explained why, sharing truth from the Bible regarding what I had read in these emails about God. She did not respond in any way. Although she has not sent any more emails, I feel sure she was offended that I asked her to stop sending these to me.
Before asking her to stop sending such emails to me, I had asked God to confirm whether this was His will, and was reminded of neither be partaker of other men's sin ...
I Timothy 5:22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.
Sometime later the following was also called to my attention ... And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (Ephesians 5:11 )
I hadn't seen this neighbor since then until recently when there have been a few times she has been driving down the street while I was walking my dogs. In the past, she would stop her car and speak briefly, but now she scowled at me and kept driving. It would "sting" me when this happened and I turned to God to help me. I was also aware of how anger and hatred eat at a person and was sorry to see the hostility in her.
I forgave her and also prayed asking God if there was anything I could do to live in peace as neighbors with this woman ... if there might be some way for there to be no hostility.
Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Last Friday I saw a mobile veterinary van parked in front of this neighbor's house. This neighbor has two cats. In the past I've taken care of the cats when she has been out of town, and knew that the older cat is being treated for cancer. When I saw this veterinary van, I was concerned that the cat's condition may have gotten worse. As I prayed about what, if anything, I should do, I was reminded of what Jesus said in the following ...
Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
I called the neighbor and left a message on her answering machine, telling her I had seen the veterinary van and offered to help if there was anything she needed. Although she didn't return my phone call, she later sent an email. There was no hostility in the email, and she thanked me for calling and leaving the message offering to help. She explained that the older cat's condition is about the same. Around a month ago, however, the younger cat was diagnosed with a very deadly type of cancer and is not expected to live into December. This woman is a widow with no children, and I'm sure this is devastating for her. I replied to her email, telling her how sorry I was to hear about the younger cat and again offered to help if needed.
I am grateful to God that I believe He led me to call this neighbor and show compassion to her, and that there was no hostility in her reply.
Problem solved by God
Pam Padgett ... teacher
My older sister had been at college two years when I started attending the same school. She dated a man who was a member of a fraternity, and had been invited to become a member of the fraternity's "women's auxiliary", assisting with fraternity social functions. She was very excited for me to join the social circles she was in, and especially wanted me to meet members of the fraternity.
The first week of school she invited me to go to a student bar where many of the fraternity guys gathered on Thursday nights. I went, but found what was going on there to be so bad (lewdness, drunkenness, etc.) that I was unable to stay and walked back to the dormitory.
A week or so later my sister asked if I'd go to an outdoor luau with one of the freshmen "pledges" at the fraternity. The luau site was about 20 miles away near a river, and there would be a campfire. The setting was very appealing to me, plus I was excited about having a date, and I agreed to go.
Then, a few days before the luau, my sister told me that arrangements had been made for one of the other fraternity guys to take me to the luau because my date would be spending the day at the luau site building a hut for us ... a young man I had never even met was building a hut "for us"!
Suddenly the reality of this luau became very clear to me. This was not going to be people sitting around a campfire roasting marshmallows. The lewdness and drunkenness I had seen at the student bar was probably mild compared to what would be going on at this luau ... and I wouldn't be able to walk home.
I told my sister that I couldn't go along with this and did not want to go, but she kept insisting that it was too late for me to back out, that it was too late for this guy to find another date.
I turned very strongly to God, asking Him to somehow get me out of this situation, but there seemed no way out. At one point I asked God to let me have appendicitis, preferring to be in a hospital having surgery than to go to this luau.
The morning of the luau I woke up and checked to see if I might have any pain that might indicate appendicitis, and was disappointed that I felt fine. I kept praying for God to somehow work this out. Time was really running out! When I looked outside, it was raining a little, but not much. However, the rain became heavier and heavier as the day went on.
Around 2 pm I received a call from the fraternity guy who was going to take me to the luau site. He told me how sorry he was to have to tell me this, but the luau had to be cancelled. The luau site had been totally flooded, washing away all the huts that had been built, this would include the hut my date had built for us..
He told me how many years the luau had been held at this same site (a lot of years), and that nothing like this had ever happened before.
I rejoiced, knowing that God had delivered me!
My older sister had been at college two years when I started attending the same school. She dated a man who was a member of a fraternity, and had been invited to become a member of the fraternity's "women's auxiliary", assisting with fraternity social functions. She was very excited for me to join the social circles she was in, and especially wanted me to meet members of the fraternity.
The first week of school she invited me to go to a student bar where many of the fraternity guys gathered on Thursday nights. I went, but found what was going on there to be so bad (lewdness, drunkenness, etc.) that I was unable to stay and walked back to the dormitory.
A week or so later my sister asked if I'd go to an outdoor luau with one of the freshmen "pledges" at the fraternity. The luau site was about 20 miles away near a river, and there would be a campfire. The setting was very appealing to me, plus I was excited about having a date, and I agreed to go.
Then, a few days before the luau, my sister told me that arrangements had been made for one of the other fraternity guys to take me to the luau because my date would be spending the day at the luau site building a hut for us ... a young man I had never even met was building a hut "for us"!
Suddenly the reality of this luau became very clear to me. This was not going to be people sitting around a campfire roasting marshmallows. The lewdness and drunkenness I had seen at the student bar was probably mild compared to what would be going on at this luau ... and I wouldn't be able to walk home.
I told my sister that I couldn't go along with this and did not want to go, but she kept insisting that it was too late for me to back out, that it was too late for this guy to find another date.
I turned very strongly to God, asking Him to somehow get me out of this situation, but there seemed no way out. At one point I asked God to let me have appendicitis, preferring to be in a hospital having surgery than to go to this luau.
The morning of the luau I woke up and checked to see if I might have any pain that might indicate appendicitis, and was disappointed that I felt fine. I kept praying for God to somehow work this out. Time was really running out! When I looked outside, it was raining a little, but not much. However, the rain became heavier and heavier as the day went on.
Around 2 pm I received a call from the fraternity guy who was going to take me to the luau site. He told me how sorry he was to have to tell me this, but the luau had to be cancelled. The luau site had been totally flooded, washing away all the huts that had been built, this would include the hut my date had built for us..
He told me how many years the luau had been held at this same site (a lot of years), and that nothing like this had ever happened before.
I rejoiced, knowing that God had delivered me!
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
2 Timothy 1:6-7 ... Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Proverbs 10:19-21 ... In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise. 20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth. 21 The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
Psalm 91:14-16 ... Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. 15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Proverbs 10:19-21 ... In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise. 20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth. 21 The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
Psalm 91:14-16 ... Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. 15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Alert to the enemy
Pam Padgett ... teacher
When the Jews worked to repair the walls of Jerusalem, enemies came up against them to stop the work. But the Jews turned to God, and they stayed on alert at all times ...
Nehemiah 4:7 But it came to pass, that when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the walls of Jerusalem were made up, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very wroth, 8 And conspired all of them together to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it. 9 Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.
The enemies planned to come upon the Jews with no forewarning, but some of the Jews which dwelt near them gave warning. Those in Jerusalem armed themselves, and Nehemiah strengthened them by reminding them that the Lord is great and terrible. God caused the plans of the enemies to be worthless ....
Nehemiah 4:10 And Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and there is much rubbish; so that we are not able to build the wall. 11 And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come in the midst among them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease. 12 And it came to pass, that when the Jews which dwelt by them came, they said unto us ten times, From all places whence ye shall return unto us they will be upon you. 13 Therefore set I in the lower places behind the wall, and on the higher places, I even set the people after their families with their swords, their spears, and their bows. 14 And I looked, and rose up, and said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses. 15 And it came to pass, when our enemies heard that it was known unto us, and God had brought their counsel to nought, that we returned all of us to the wall, every one unto his work.
The work continued, the builders staying prepared for battle while at the same time doing the work ...
Nehemiah 4:16 And it came to pass from that time forth, that the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the rulers were behind all the house of Judah. 17 They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon. 18 For the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. And he that sounded the trumpet was by me.
This reminded me of the exhortation Peter gave us to stay sober and vigilant since our enemy, the devil, seeks to destroy us ...
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
The devil is constantly looking for opportunities to devour us, keeping us from continuing in the ways of God. Like the Jews building the walls in Jerusalem, we need to be constantly alert and diligent to deal with each thought, fear, and lie brought to us by the devil ... resisting the devil by turning to God and standing in that which we are given, steadfast in faith .... and continue in the way of God.
Paul told us to be strong in the Lord (not in ourselves) and in His power, putting on the whole armour of God ... truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, word of God, prayer ... so we can stand against the tricks and snares of the devil ...
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
When the Jews worked to repair the walls of Jerusalem, enemies came up against them to stop the work. But the Jews turned to God, and they stayed on alert at all times ...
Nehemiah 4:7 But it came to pass, that when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the walls of Jerusalem were made up, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very wroth, 8 And conspired all of them together to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it. 9 Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.
The enemies planned to come upon the Jews with no forewarning, but some of the Jews which dwelt near them gave warning. Those in Jerusalem armed themselves, and Nehemiah strengthened them by reminding them that the Lord is great and terrible. God caused the plans of the enemies to be worthless ....
Nehemiah 4:10 And Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and there is much rubbish; so that we are not able to build the wall. 11 And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come in the midst among them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease. 12 And it came to pass, that when the Jews which dwelt by them came, they said unto us ten times, From all places whence ye shall return unto us they will be upon you. 13 Therefore set I in the lower places behind the wall, and on the higher places, I even set the people after their families with their swords, their spears, and their bows. 14 And I looked, and rose up, and said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses. 15 And it came to pass, when our enemies heard that it was known unto us, and God had brought their counsel to nought, that we returned all of us to the wall, every one unto his work.
The work continued, the builders staying prepared for battle while at the same time doing the work ...
Nehemiah 4:16 And it came to pass from that time forth, that the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the rulers were behind all the house of Judah. 17 They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon. 18 For the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. And he that sounded the trumpet was by me.
This reminded me of the exhortation Peter gave us to stay sober and vigilant since our enemy, the devil, seeks to destroy us ...
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
The devil is constantly looking for opportunities to devour us, keeping us from continuing in the ways of God. Like the Jews building the walls in Jerusalem, we need to be constantly alert and diligent to deal with each thought, fear, and lie brought to us by the devil ... resisting the devil by turning to God and standing in that which we are given, steadfast in faith .... and continue in the way of God.
Paul told us to be strong in the Lord (not in ourselves) and in His power, putting on the whole armour of God ... truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, word of God, prayer ... so we can stand against the tricks and snares of the devil ...
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
Benefits to doers of the WORD
Joan Boney ... apostle / prophet
Jesus said:
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. 11These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. Jn. 15
For those of us who have the Spirit of God in us, Jesus speaks to us today by HIS Spirit that is in us. If we pay attention to that Word spoken by the Spirit of God, and "keep" that word we are truly blessed for God gives us HIS Word that we would be delivered from the way of our own flesh and from ways of devils.
From the time I was born again in 1975, it seems to me that I have had an understanding in me that to go in that which God shows me is the only safe way for me to go no matter how it might seem. And at that time I had many tests on this subject in that I had major problems and I would hear what I believed to be a word from God concerning how to deal in the issue and though everyone around me objected to what I was choosing to do thinking it would destroy me, I kept turning to God and kept doing that which I heard from God even when it did seem it would destroy me to do that word. Yet it did not destroy me. In fact that word ended up being salvation to me separating me from the religious wicked and keeping me from fame that would have ruined me.
Jesus said "few" would find the way of life and many would go in the way of destruction. Mt. 7
The way of God often looks like destruction to the flesh and to other humans. The way of God will not make sense to the natural man for he does not receive the things of the Spirit of God. (I Cor. 2)
So when we hear from God and do it, the humans around us often are bewildered by what we do and they often try to turn us from what we do.
But if we have heard from the Spirit of God and are doing that, we will prosper in the way even though it looks opposite. In the end we will have good success. Psa. 1
Jesus said: Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. Jn. 15:4
Abide means:
- accept or act in accordance with
- dwell in
Jesus said:
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. 11These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. Jn. 15
For those of us who have the Spirit of God in us, Jesus speaks to us today by HIS Spirit that is in us. If we pay attention to that Word spoken by the Spirit of God, and "keep" that word we are truly blessed for God gives us HIS Word that we would be delivered from the way of our own flesh and from ways of devils.
From the time I was born again in 1975, it seems to me that I have had an understanding in me that to go in that which God shows me is the only safe way for me to go no matter how it might seem. And at that time I had many tests on this subject in that I had major problems and I would hear what I believed to be a word from God concerning how to deal in the issue and though everyone around me objected to what I was choosing to do thinking it would destroy me, I kept turning to God and kept doing that which I heard from God even when it did seem it would destroy me to do that word. Yet it did not destroy me. In fact that word ended up being salvation to me separating me from the religious wicked and keeping me from fame that would have ruined me.
Jesus said "few" would find the way of life and many would go in the way of destruction. Mt. 7
The way of God often looks like destruction to the flesh and to other humans. The way of God will not make sense to the natural man for he does not receive the things of the Spirit of God. (I Cor. 2)
So when we hear from God and do it, the humans around us often are bewildered by what we do and they often try to turn us from what we do.
But if we have heard from the Spirit of God and are doing that, we will prosper in the way even though it looks opposite. In the end we will have good success. Psa. 1
Jesus said: Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. Jn. 15:4
Abide means:
- accept or act in accordance with
- dwell in
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 119:105 ... Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
1 Peter 2:9-10 ... But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
Proverbs 14:26 ... In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
1 Peter 2:9-10 ... But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
Proverbs 14:26 ... In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
Focused on the way set before us
Pam Padgett ... teacher
After Jesus rose from the dead, he appeared to the disciples. While with some of the disciples at the sea of Tiberias, Jesus told Peter about how he would die ...
John 21:18 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. 19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
Peter asked about one of the other disciples ...
John 21:20 Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? 21 Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? 22 Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.
It stood out to me that Jesus instructed Peter to follow Him.
Regardless of what we face in our lives, or what God chooses to do in the life of someone else, we each are to pay attention to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives, following each word we are given, taking each step in the way set before us.
Keeping our attention focused on the way we are shown, we follow the Holy Spirit leading us according to the will of God for our lives.
Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
After Jesus rose from the dead, he appeared to the disciples. While with some of the disciples at the sea of Tiberias, Jesus told Peter about how he would die ...
John 21:18 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. 19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
Peter asked about one of the other disciples ...
John 21:20 Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? 21 Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? 22 Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.
It stood out to me that Jesus instructed Peter to follow Him.
Regardless of what we face in our lives, or what God chooses to do in the life of someone else, we each are to pay attention to the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives, following each word we are given, taking each step in the way set before us.
Keeping our attention focused on the way we are shown, we follow the Holy Spirit leading us according to the will of God for our lives.
Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
When everything you do prospers
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
There is a guarantee from God concerning prosperity if we will do the following ... God says everything we do will prosper if we do following ...
1Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psa. 1
Prosper means ... turn out well
I've seen people read the Bible and listen to various preachers and not prosper.
Paul said of one group, "You are dull of hearing" ... Paul said these people couldn't discern good from evil and Paul went on to tell us the reason they could not tell good from evil.
11Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Heb. 5
Meditating in the word of God ... You simply take the word given to you by the Spirit of God and pray over it, asking God to show you how to apply that portion of HIS Word to your life. Often it helps to take a dictionary and look up the meaning of key words. Sometimes while doing that God will remind you of various things in your specific life and you can make changes which are appropriate based on that word you have heard from God. This puts you in the path of God and when you go that way everything changes. It might look like you will suffer loss by doing that but actually you end up getting free from things which harm you and you will prosper (have good success) if you just continue in that Word given by God. It may take a month or a week or several months. But if you continue doing that Word you will proper. And when you prosper you will look back and know that you prospered because of God.
Meditating in the word of God enables you to do the word of God.
8This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. 9Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Josh. 1
We meditate in the specific word given to us by the Spirit of God. Sometimes that word will come to you as a thought, a scripture brought to your mind ... Stop and consider it immediately, not letting it slip away. (Write it down when you can.)
Sometimes you will be reading Bible and get hung up on a verse and even if you try to read past that verse you find you can't think of what you are reading because you are thinking of that verse. There is a message from God to you in that verse. Go back and think on that verse. What is God saying to you? What do you need to do to conform your life to that verse? If needed, look up key words in dictionary and think on how these things fit your life and especially think on what you need to do to adjust your life so it conforms to the instruction given in that word.
In Deut. 30, we read that the Word is in us ...all we need to do is to do it. (If you get letter in mail and fail to open the envelop it doesn't do you any good ... so it is with the Word. You must apply it to your life.)
11For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off.
12It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
13Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
14But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it. Deut. 30
There is a guarantee from God concerning prosperity if we will do the following ... God says everything we do will prosper if we do following ...
1Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psa. 1
Prosper means ... turn out well
I've seen people read the Bible and listen to various preachers and not prosper.
Paul said of one group, "You are dull of hearing" ... Paul said these people couldn't discern good from evil and Paul went on to tell us the reason they could not tell good from evil.
11Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Heb. 5
Meditating in the word of God ... You simply take the word given to you by the Spirit of God and pray over it, asking God to show you how to apply that portion of HIS Word to your life. Often it helps to take a dictionary and look up the meaning of key words. Sometimes while doing that God will remind you of various things in your specific life and you can make changes which are appropriate based on that word you have heard from God. This puts you in the path of God and when you go that way everything changes. It might look like you will suffer loss by doing that but actually you end up getting free from things which harm you and you will prosper (have good success) if you just continue in that Word given by God. It may take a month or a week or several months. But if you continue doing that Word you will proper. And when you prosper you will look back and know that you prospered because of God.
Meditating in the word of God enables you to do the word of God.
8This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. 9Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Josh. 1
We meditate in the specific word given to us by the Spirit of God. Sometimes that word will come to you as a thought, a scripture brought to your mind ... Stop and consider it immediately, not letting it slip away. (Write it down when you can.)
Sometimes you will be reading Bible and get hung up on a verse and even if you try to read past that verse you find you can't think of what you are reading because you are thinking of that verse. There is a message from God to you in that verse. Go back and think on that verse. What is God saying to you? What do you need to do to conform your life to that verse? If needed, look up key words in dictionary and think on how these things fit your life and especially think on what you need to do to adjust your life so it conforms to the instruction given in that word.
In Deut. 30, we read that the Word is in us ...all we need to do is to do it. (If you get letter in mail and fail to open the envelop it doesn't do you any good ... so it is with the Word. You must apply it to your life.)
11For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off.
12It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
13Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
14But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it. Deut. 30
Monday, October 22, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 119:1-3 ... Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. 2 Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. 3 They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways.
Prov 17:27-28 ... He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. 28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
Hebrews 12:14 ... Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
Ephesians 2:8 ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Ephesians 5:11-12 ... And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. 12 For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
Prov 17:27-28 ... He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. 28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
Hebrews 12:14 ... Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
Ephesians 2:8 ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Ephesians 5:11-12 ... And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. 12 For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
Fear God not man
Pam Padgett ... teacher
When Jesus was brought before Pilate, Pilate found no fault with Him. Then the Jews told Pilate that Jesus said He was the Son of God, and Pilate was afraid. He asked Jesus where He was from, but Jesus didn't answer.
John 19:6 When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. 7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God. 8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid; 9 And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.
Pilate tried to cause Jesus to answer him by saying he had power to crucify or to release Jesus. But Jesus told Pilate he would have no power unless it had been given to him from above ...
John 19:10 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Jesus was seeking to do the will of the Father, even when it meant He would be put to death. Pilate said he had power to crucify or release Jesus, but Jesus knew that unless it was the will of the Father, Pilate would not be able to do it. Therefore, Jesus wasn't swayed by what Pilate said. He did steadfastly what was needed so all scripture concerning His death would be fulfilled, including ... He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. (Isaiah 53:7)
People sometimes try to cause us to do what they want by trying to bring fear, such as threatening to do something unwanted, or to withhold something desired. If we seek things and standing in this world, or trust in ourselves or others to provide our needs, we put ourselves in a position to be easily scared by these people.
But if we seek to do the will of God, and trust in God to provide all of our needs and work out each matter in our lives ... turning to God and being willing to do according to His will .... we fear God. We act, not out of fear of man, but in obedience to God.
Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.
Jesus taught not to fear man, but to fear and trust in God, who cares for each detail of our lives ...
Matthew 10:26 Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. 27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. 28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.
When Jesus was brought before Pilate, Pilate found no fault with Him. Then the Jews told Pilate that Jesus said He was the Son of God, and Pilate was afraid. He asked Jesus where He was from, but Jesus didn't answer.
John 19:6 When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. 7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God. 8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid; 9 And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.
Pilate tried to cause Jesus to answer him by saying he had power to crucify or to release Jesus. But Jesus told Pilate he would have no power unless it had been given to him from above ...
John 19:10 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Jesus was seeking to do the will of the Father, even when it meant He would be put to death. Pilate said he had power to crucify or release Jesus, but Jesus knew that unless it was the will of the Father, Pilate would not be able to do it. Therefore, Jesus wasn't swayed by what Pilate said. He did steadfastly what was needed so all scripture concerning His death would be fulfilled, including ... He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. (Isaiah 53:7)
People sometimes try to cause us to do what they want by trying to bring fear, such as threatening to do something unwanted, or to withhold something desired. If we seek things and standing in this world, or trust in ourselves or others to provide our needs, we put ourselves in a position to be easily scared by these people.
But if we seek to do the will of God, and trust in God to provide all of our needs and work out each matter in our lives ... turning to God and being willing to do according to His will .... we fear God. We act, not out of fear of man, but in obedience to God.
Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.
Jesus taught not to fear man, but to fear and trust in God, who cares for each detail of our lives ...
Matthew 10:26 Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. 27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. 28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.
Stopping tongue
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Recently I was speaking with Pam by phone. My TV was on and muted. Crawlers began showing across the bottom of the screen and as we talked I noticed the news headlines. One headline really caught my attention and caused me to groan. I strarted to tell Pam what I'd seen but the stopped myself. It would not bring grace (cause her to glorify God). It would cause her to groan inside as I had groaned. I stopped my tongue.
29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Eph. 4
grace: feeling of gratitude to God
Twice I was tempted to tell Pam the news story. I knew each time the story would bring evil and not good.
Job said:
3Then Job answered the LORD, and said, 4Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. Job : 40
Question: If I speak this will it cause the other person to have gratitude toward God?
Recently I was speaking with Pam by phone. My TV was on and muted. Crawlers began showing across the bottom of the screen and as we talked I noticed the news headlines. One headline really caught my attention and caused me to groan. I strarted to tell Pam what I'd seen but the stopped myself. It would not bring grace (cause her to glorify God). It would cause her to groan inside as I had groaned. I stopped my tongue.
29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Eph. 4
grace: feeling of gratitude to God
Twice I was tempted to tell Pam the news story. I knew each time the story would bring evil and not good.
Job said:
3Then Job answered the LORD, and said, 4Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. Job : 40
Question: If I speak this will it cause the other person to have gratitude toward God?
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 116:1-2 ... I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and
my supplications. 2 Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore
will I call upon him as long as I live.
Ephesians 4:29 ... Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
Psalm 104:24-31 ... O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. 25 So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 26 There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein. 27 These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season. 28 That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good. 29 Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust. 30 Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth. 31 The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works.
Psalm 100:1-5 ... Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. 2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. 3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Psalm 118:24 .. This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Ephesians 4:29 ... Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
Psalm 104:24-31 ... O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. 25 So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 26 There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein. 27 These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season. 28 That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good. 29 Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust. 30 Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth. 31 The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works.
Psalm 100:1-5 ... Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. 2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. 3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Psalm 118:24 .. This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Is it weak faith to go to medical doctor?
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Here is the important thing concerning faith and going to medical doctor.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Prov. 3:6
Pray first ... ask God what you should do ... And God will direct your paths.
I have an eye disease, glaucoma. I have been going to doctor for about 3 years and put drops in eyes twice daily to control pressure. But I am also having fuzzy vision. It could be as simple as cataracts. But not knowing is troublesome. Doctor I go to now is from another country and it is difficult to ask him questions.
What to do?
I prayed and asked God.
After praying, some time passed and then had idea to call doctor who tests my eyes for eye glasses and ask if there is another doctor he could recommend for glaucoma. I believed this idea was from God after prayer. I did call eye glass doctor and he gave me name of another doctor and I made appointment. I wanted to know what was causing the blur vision when I watch TV or drive the car. It it is cataracts I know they can be removed when they are "ripe". But if there is a mascular degeneration problem it cannot be cured. To be left by first doctor with a statement that I have vision loss and he didn't know what was going on really troubled me.
I felt great peace after making the appointment. I went to the second doctor and he said the vision blur is caused by cataracts and they can be removed when I choose to have them removed and then my vision will be clear again for TV or driving. I really had great comfort in knowing this. But my main rejoicing was in God for I knew God led me to seek out this second doctor. And every prayer I prayed concerning this subject was answered completely! I rejoiced in God leading me and answering my prayers!
I do not believe it is weak faith to go to medical doctor if you have prayed, asking God what to do, and wait until you are persuaded God is leading you. There is faith in that itself for faith is believing you have heard from God.
Here is the important thing concerning faith and going to medical doctor.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Prov. 3:6
Pray first ... ask God what you should do ... And God will direct your paths.
I have an eye disease, glaucoma. I have been going to doctor for about 3 years and put drops in eyes twice daily to control pressure. But I am also having fuzzy vision. It could be as simple as cataracts. But not knowing is troublesome. Doctor I go to now is from another country and it is difficult to ask him questions.
What to do?
I prayed and asked God.
After praying, some time passed and then had idea to call doctor who tests my eyes for eye glasses and ask if there is another doctor he could recommend for glaucoma. I believed this idea was from God after prayer. I did call eye glass doctor and he gave me name of another doctor and I made appointment. I wanted to know what was causing the blur vision when I watch TV or drive the car. It it is cataracts I know they can be removed when they are "ripe". But if there is a mascular degeneration problem it cannot be cured. To be left by first doctor with a statement that I have vision loss and he didn't know what was going on really troubled me.
I felt great peace after making the appointment. I went to the second doctor and he said the vision blur is caused by cataracts and they can be removed when I choose to have them removed and then my vision will be clear again for TV or driving. I really had great comfort in knowing this. But my main rejoicing was in God for I knew God led me to seek out this second doctor. And every prayer I prayed concerning this subject was answered completely! I rejoiced in God leading me and answering my prayers!
I do not believe it is weak faith to go to medical doctor if you have prayed, asking God what to do, and wait until you are persuaded God is leading you. There is faith in that itself for faith is believing you have heard from God.
Prepared and set in order by God
Pam Padgett ... teacher
The scribe Ezra went from Babylon to Jerusalem together with some of the children of Israel, having prepared his heart to seek and do the law of the Lord and to teach the statutes and judgments of God in Jerusalem.
Ezra 7:6 This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he was a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him. 7 And there went up some of the children of Israel, and of the priests, and the Levites, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinims, unto Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king. 8 And he came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year of the king. 9 For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him. 10 For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.
God put in the heart of Artaxerxes, king of Persia, what he should decree both for the journey and for the people under his rule after Ezra arrived in Jerusalem.
Artaxerxes allowed the children of Israel to return to Jerusalem. And he sent silver, gold, and vessels for the service of the house of God ...
Ezra 7:12 Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven, perfect peace, and at such a time. 13 I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and of his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee. 14 Forasmuch as thou art sent of the king, and of his seven counsellors, to enquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of thy God which is in thine hand; 15 And to carry the silver and gold, which the king and his counsellors have freely offered unto the God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem, 16 And all the silver and gold that thou canst find in all the province of Babylon, with the freewill offering of the people, and of the priests, offering willingly for the house of their God which is in Jerusalem: 17 That thou mayest buy speedily with this money bullocks, rams, lambs, with their meat offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them upon the altar of the house of your God which is in Jerusalem. 18 And whatsoever shall seem good to thee, and to thy brethren, to do with the rest of the silver and the gold, that do after the will of your God. 19 The vessels also that are given thee for the service of the house of thy God, those deliver thou before the God of Jerusalem. 20 And whatsoever more shall be needful for the house of thy God, which thou shalt have occasion to bestow, bestow it out of the king's treasure house.
Artaxerxes also gave commandments to those beyond the river to help them, and to not impose toll, tribute, or custom on any of the priests, Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of the house of God ...
Ezra 7:21 And I, even I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which are beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it be done speedily, 22 Unto an hundred talents of silver, and to an hundred measures of wheat, and to an hundred baths of wine, and to an hundred baths of oil, and salt without prescribing how much. 23 Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the house of the God of heaven: for why should there be wrath against the realm of the king and his sons? 24 Also we certify you, that touching any of the priests and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.
In addition, Artaxerxes told Ezra to set magistrates and judges to judge all the people beyond the river according to the laws of God ...
Ezra 7:25 And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not. 26 And whosoever will not do the law of thy God, and the law of the king, let judgment be executed speedily upon him, whether it be unto death, or to banishment, or to confiscation of goods, or to imprisonment.
Ezra confessed that all of this was done by God. God had put these things in the heart of Artaxerxes. God had shown mercy to Ezra and strengthened him. All was prepared and set in order by the hand of God ...
Ezra 7:27 Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers, which hath put such a thing as this in the king's heart, to beautify the house of the LORD which is in Jerusalem: 28 And hath extended mercy unto me before the king, and his counsellors, and before all the king's mighty princes. And I was strengthened as the hand of the LORD my God was upon me, and I gathered together out of Israel chief men to go up with me.
The scribe Ezra went from Babylon to Jerusalem together with some of the children of Israel, having prepared his heart to seek and do the law of the Lord and to teach the statutes and judgments of God in Jerusalem.
Ezra 7:6 This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he was a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him. 7 And there went up some of the children of Israel, and of the priests, and the Levites, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinims, unto Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king. 8 And he came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year of the king. 9 For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him. 10 For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.
God put in the heart of Artaxerxes, king of Persia, what he should decree both for the journey and for the people under his rule after Ezra arrived in Jerusalem.
Artaxerxes allowed the children of Israel to return to Jerusalem. And he sent silver, gold, and vessels for the service of the house of God ...
Ezra 7:12 Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven, perfect peace, and at such a time. 13 I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and of his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee. 14 Forasmuch as thou art sent of the king, and of his seven counsellors, to enquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of thy God which is in thine hand; 15 And to carry the silver and gold, which the king and his counsellors have freely offered unto the God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem, 16 And all the silver and gold that thou canst find in all the province of Babylon, with the freewill offering of the people, and of the priests, offering willingly for the house of their God which is in Jerusalem: 17 That thou mayest buy speedily with this money bullocks, rams, lambs, with their meat offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them upon the altar of the house of your God which is in Jerusalem. 18 And whatsoever shall seem good to thee, and to thy brethren, to do with the rest of the silver and the gold, that do after the will of your God. 19 The vessels also that are given thee for the service of the house of thy God, those deliver thou before the God of Jerusalem. 20 And whatsoever more shall be needful for the house of thy God, which thou shalt have occasion to bestow, bestow it out of the king's treasure house.
Artaxerxes also gave commandments to those beyond the river to help them, and to not impose toll, tribute, or custom on any of the priests, Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of the house of God ...
Ezra 7:21 And I, even I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which are beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it be done speedily, 22 Unto an hundred talents of silver, and to an hundred measures of wheat, and to an hundred baths of wine, and to an hundred baths of oil, and salt without prescribing how much. 23 Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the house of the God of heaven: for why should there be wrath against the realm of the king and his sons? 24 Also we certify you, that touching any of the priests and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.
In addition, Artaxerxes told Ezra to set magistrates and judges to judge all the people beyond the river according to the laws of God ...
Ezra 7:25 And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not. 26 And whosoever will not do the law of thy God, and the law of the king, let judgment be executed speedily upon him, whether it be unto death, or to banishment, or to confiscation of goods, or to imprisonment.
Ezra confessed that all of this was done by God. God had put these things in the heart of Artaxerxes. God had shown mercy to Ezra and strengthened him. All was prepared and set in order by the hand of God ...
Ezra 7:27 Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers, which hath put such a thing as this in the king's heart, to beautify the house of the LORD which is in Jerusalem: 28 And hath extended mercy unto me before the king, and his counsellors, and before all the king's mighty princes. And I was strengthened as the hand of the LORD my God was upon me, and I gathered together out of Israel chief men to go up with me.
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