A Lesson From
David 07-15-16
1 Samuel 17:48-49 (ESV) 48 When the
Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward
the battle line to meet the Philistine.
49
And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung
it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead,
and he fell on his face to the ground.
This passage of Scripture resonated in my
soul today as I thought about the events of last night. To get a fuller
perspective read the 16th and 17th Chapters of 1st Samuel. It is a relevant
message for us as individuals, for our nation and for the world in general.
Alas, I fear that our nation will fail to heed the insight this portion of God's
Word would provide them;however, it is as relevant and timely as tomorrow's
headlines for you and me
I was driving last night listening to the
BBC World Broadcast as I do for about an hour every night that I work. Of course
the broadcast was drenched with the coverage of the attack in Nice, France. It
was an interview with an eyewitness however, that captured my attention.
The person in question would have been
directly in the path of the attacker had he not stopped for a couple of minutes
to complain to his friend about the volume of the music in the square, where the
festivities were taking place. What struck me was the absolute fear and terror
in this man's voice. As would I,or almost anyone else in his shoes have been, he
was shaken to the point of not being able to talk. He struggled throughout the
entire interview to describe what had taken place; losing his composure time and
again. His quivering, panic stricken responses to the interviewers questions
stuck in my head all night. I went to bed last night wishing to be G.I.Joe or
better yet Rambo. You know, put on a headband, strap on an AK, and go deliver
the wrath of God on the heads of all our enemies. Old Soldier
Syndrome.
I woke up this morning, more sound of
mind after some sleep(smile) and realized that my Rambo days were long gone, if
I ever even had any. I realized my time for that sort of battle was indeed over.
The Army has no need, nor does it want any 65 year old wannabes to become
nothing but cannon fodder. My dreams of running around blowing everything up,
engaging the enemy at impossible odds and winning.......dashed and
vanished.
And herein lieth the lesson.
God calls and elects all types of people,
in every conceivable walk of life doesn't He? Folks, I believe with all my heart
that there are devout Christians fighting the enemy on foreign soil because they
have been called of God for that purpose. Maybe a little more difficult to
believe,there are devout Christians fighting in the political arenas of our
nation because that is where God has placed them. There are devout Christians
protesting the injustices and evils of our nation and world, called of God to
raise a voice. There are God fearing, Jesus loving folks unseen and unheard
fighting the REAL warfare in their prayer closets. There are Christians of every
ilk and tribe fighting battles in every conceivable forum, God having
them called to do just that. Unfortunately for my ego, God has not called every
one to be a Rambo.(big smile) But, BUT, He HAS called EVERYONE to a BATTLE
somewhere and in some form hasn't He? It's not a matter of if, but where and
how isn't it?
Look at that passage again and notice
this about King David.
1 Samuel 17:48-49 (ESV) 48 When the
Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward
the battle line to meet the Philistine.
49
And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung
it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead,
and he fell on his face to the ground.
".........David ran quickly TOWARD(caps
mine) the battle line....."
You see our nation, and if not you, then
of a certainty me, prefer the path of LEAST resistance don't we? "That physical
or metaphorical pathway that provides the least resistance to forward
motion....."
I don't know about you, but I personally
don't like confrontation. Some people do, but I ain't one of em.' You feelin' me
here? That being said, there are enemies in this physical world and there are
enemies of our soul that aren't going away. A battle line has been drawn and we,
as David, must run toward the battle. Not in our own strength, because the
battle is the Lord's.
1 Samuel 17:47 (ESV) 47 and that all
this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For
the battle is the LORD’s, and he
will give you into our hand.”
Brothers and sisters this world
is being terrorized. People, like that soul in France last night, who have
experienced it first hand, are being shaken to the core. A spirit of fear and
uncertainty envelopes the entire world does it not? You can almost feel it can't
you? But there is a God in heaven, the one true God, the God of Abraham, Isaac,
and Israel, that gives us hope and encouragement. If we name the name of Jesus
Christ as Lord and Savior, He has promised to strengthen and uphold us for the
battle at hand; and, to see us through to the end. All we need do is hold on
tight and keep our hearts and mind focused on Him.
Psalm 16:8 (ESV) 8 I have set the
LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.
God Bless
Friday, July 15, 2016
Friday, July 8, 2016
Running On
Empty 07-08-16
Acts 1:8 (ESV) 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
HELP!! PLEASE ....SOMEONE COME QUICK!!! I'M IN TROUBLE!!!!
My up until now serene Friday afternoon world has been breached.The enemy,disguised as two small females of the human species, answering to the names Chloe and Maddie Grace are at the gates and I need HELP! So, if my written words from time to time seem to tail off into incoherence, you will I hope,understand.
My thoughts are very jumbled today. Much credit can be given to the two aforementioned aliens running around the house. That being said, as I walked into work last night I had a strange feeling concerning that word power. Give me a little space here please. I walked in last night unaware of what had just happened in Dallas, Texas. I heard just the word "Dallas" as I walked in and my ears perked up because I have a son that lives in Texas. So, I took a seat and was promptly brought up to speed by the newscast. But, the horror of what was happening in Texas wasn't what hit me. It was the reaction of my co workers and to be honest my own reaction.
I looked at my sports talk junkie from work and his reaction to he news hit me. His reaction was no reaction. Without even looking up from the paperwork he was engaged in,he nonchalantly asked "How many are dead?" One of my other buddies from work, just as nonchalantly replied, "I don't know, four or five I think," and he went on about his business. A few seconds later, the conversation had shifted to the baseball scores of the day, the insanity in Dallas already forgotten.I would not have given it a second thought except for the fact that my reaction to the events of the day were just as nonchalant.It was if "oh well, just another shooting, what else is new."?
It was at this point that the word "POWER" crossed my mind.It was like all of us were running on empty. We had become so numb and desensitized by the violence of the week, we could not register any type of emotional response to the fact of two killed by police this week,followed by 11 police shot and five dead last evening. There was no juice in the tank.
Today as I mused about what to write, the Holy Ghost spoke the verse to my heart. Look again.
Acts 1:8 (ESV) 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
You see folks, the world's systems and the people in it are being tied to the whipping post and slowly bled of any hope. They face daily the crushing circumstances imposed by oppressors both material and spiritual.They are running on empty.They have nothing left in the tank with which to respond. And once they run dry, they are allowing themselves to be filled with malice, vengeance and hate.
The danger in all of this is just this: We, as Christians can fall prey to that same snare if we are not careful. What did Jesus tell the disciples to do? Wait for the promise.
Acts 1:4-5 (ESV) 4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me;
5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
And herein lieth the lesson. Look at what the disciples did.They returned to Jerusalem and..
Acts 1:14 (ESV) 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.
They got together and got alone with God. They waited before the Lord until they were filled with the Holy Ghost. Even the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son Of God, had to get alone with the Father.
Mark 1:35 (ESV) 35 And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.
Mark 6:46 (ESV) 46 And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray.
Luke 6:12 (ESV) 12 In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.
Jesus the Lord got alone with His Father, He commanded the disciples to get alone with the Father, so I think that we will be ahead of the game if we take the advice and example of the Lord. What say you?
Brothers and sisters, the war is real. Listen, I understand and agree with those that say dwelling on the negative will eventually cause us to become callous and fill us with fear.I read this week that what we feed grows and what we starve dies. That's right on.
But like it or not, the war is real.Jesus said these things happening on the earth today were just the BEGINNING of sorrows. This world will empty your tank. It will drain you dry and fill you with fear and misery. In order to survive and even thrive, we must get alone with God. He has to become real in our lives. We must allow The Holy Spirit to fill and empower us.
Psalm 51:11 (ESV) 11 Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
God Bless
Acts 1:8 (ESV) 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
HELP!! PLEASE ....SOMEONE COME QUICK!!! I'M IN TROUBLE!!!!
My up until now serene Friday afternoon world has been breached.The enemy,disguised as two small females of the human species, answering to the names Chloe and Maddie Grace are at the gates and I need HELP! So, if my written words from time to time seem to tail off into incoherence, you will I hope,understand.
My thoughts are very jumbled today. Much credit can be given to the two aforementioned aliens running around the house. That being said, as I walked into work last night I had a strange feeling concerning that word power. Give me a little space here please. I walked in last night unaware of what had just happened in Dallas, Texas. I heard just the word "Dallas" as I walked in and my ears perked up because I have a son that lives in Texas. So, I took a seat and was promptly brought up to speed by the newscast. But, the horror of what was happening in Texas wasn't what hit me. It was the reaction of my co workers and to be honest my own reaction.
I looked at my sports talk junkie from work and his reaction to he news hit me. His reaction was no reaction. Without even looking up from the paperwork he was engaged in,he nonchalantly asked "How many are dead?" One of my other buddies from work, just as nonchalantly replied, "I don't know, four or five I think," and he went on about his business. A few seconds later, the conversation had shifted to the baseball scores of the day, the insanity in Dallas already forgotten.I would not have given it a second thought except for the fact that my reaction to the events of the day were just as nonchalant.It was if "oh well, just another shooting, what else is new."?
It was at this point that the word "POWER" crossed my mind.It was like all of us were running on empty. We had become so numb and desensitized by the violence of the week, we could not register any type of emotional response to the fact of two killed by police this week,followed by 11 police shot and five dead last evening. There was no juice in the tank.
Today as I mused about what to write, the Holy Ghost spoke the verse to my heart. Look again.
Acts 1:8 (ESV) 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
You see folks, the world's systems and the people in it are being tied to the whipping post and slowly bled of any hope. They face daily the crushing circumstances imposed by oppressors both material and spiritual.They are running on empty.They have nothing left in the tank with which to respond. And once they run dry, they are allowing themselves to be filled with malice, vengeance and hate.
The danger in all of this is just this: We, as Christians can fall prey to that same snare if we are not careful. What did Jesus tell the disciples to do? Wait for the promise.
Acts 1:4-5 (ESV) 4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me;
5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
And herein lieth the lesson. Look at what the disciples did.They returned to Jerusalem and..
Acts 1:14 (ESV) 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.
They got together and got alone with God. They waited before the Lord until they were filled with the Holy Ghost. Even the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son Of God, had to get alone with the Father.
Mark 1:35 (ESV) 35 And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.
Mark 6:46 (ESV) 46 And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray.
Luke 6:12 (ESV) 12 In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.
Jesus the Lord got alone with His Father, He commanded the disciples to get alone with the Father, so I think that we will be ahead of the game if we take the advice and example of the Lord. What say you?
Brothers and sisters, the war is real. Listen, I understand and agree with those that say dwelling on the negative will eventually cause us to become callous and fill us with fear.I read this week that what we feed grows and what we starve dies. That's right on.
But like it or not, the war is real.Jesus said these things happening on the earth today were just the BEGINNING of sorrows. This world will empty your tank. It will drain you dry and fill you with fear and misery. In order to survive and even thrive, we must get alone with God. He has to become real in our lives. We must allow The Holy Spirit to fill and empower us.
Psalm 51:11 (ESV) 11 Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
God Bless
Friday, July 1, 2016
LOOKOUT
! 07-01-16
Proverbs 25:19 (ESV) 19 Trusting in a treacherous man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth or a foot that slips.
There is a truism in football that has been taught for decades. It was one of the first things that I as a budding young football player many years ago, was taught by my irate at he time,football coach. What's that you say? It is called a "lookout block." What is that Ronnie? Well, it is when a pass play is called and the lineman or linemen misses their blocking responsibility. As the QB (Quarterback) takes his drop, the lineman or linemen that missed their block, turn around and yell "LOOKOUT" to the quarterback because he is getting ready to be blind sided and deposited on his back. It does not sit well with quarterbacks, especially ones that make millions of dollars throwing a football. Neither does it play with coaches; whose million dollar paychecks are determined by how well the team performs every Sunday in the win column. If the aforementioned lineman is responsible for too many of these lookout blocks, he will find himself riding the pine or worse,out of a job.
You know we all need lookouts in our lives. A lookout is someone who watches an area and warns others of approaching danger. Family, pastors, hopefully they all perform the function of a lookout in our lives. In a perfect world, we all are connected and have each other's back. Unfortunately, ours is not a perfect world is it? Nope 'fraid not.' Occasionally, we have those that turn at us just before the freight train rolls over us, and yell "LOOKOUT" when they have missed their block. Most times by then, it is too late and we are staring up from he ground trying to figure out what pancaked us. We have all been the recipients of lookout blocks from others in our lives. And, if the truth were known, we have been guilty of our fair share of missed assignments.
But, it's when we keep getting blind sided by someone that maybe we should begin to exercise some caution. I remember a time in my life that I kept getting blind sided by someone very dear to me. You know how it goes don't you? You experience the range of emotions. Anger, frustration, resentment, worry and sadness. You seek out the comfort and counsel of others as you opine the reason(s) why the person or persons are behaving in such a manner. Sometimes it helps, most times it doesn't. Then all of a sudden you pick up the phone or answer the knock at the door, knowing that bad news is coming, and you find yourself numb. You have been hit so many times that you are now desensitized. It doesn't shock or hurt, you are numb and unfeeling. You are at a crossroad and many times the enemy or a well wishing friend will put you on a guilt trip because you DON'T feel anything. It's not tht you don't want to feel something, it's the fact that your "feeling tank" is empty. You got nothing left. And herein lieth the lesson.
Look carefully at this verse.
Jeremiah 17:5 (ESB) 5 Thus says the LORD: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD.
Now ,this is a very negative verse. But, there is a positive flip side to it. Bear with me please. Let me be honest and transparent with you here. In the distant and not so distant past, I have spent MUCH precious time venting my frustration and anger to friends and enemies alike. I have blown up cell phones complaining to anyone unlucky enough to have answered my call. I have mounted my soapbox at the office water cooler looking for consolation and comfort, rarely, if ever finding anything more than temporary relief.
When literally,at wit's end, stomach churning and roiling, angry at EVERYTHING, I am given pause. A still,small voice enters my head and reminds me of the above verse. Yes,the above verse. And then the wisdom from above starts flowing.
No, God is not eternally cursing me for reaching out to people in time of need. We allow ourselves to be cursed don't we? How so Ronnie? Well, we walk around like a time bomb, ready to explode. Angry, resentful,and hurt,we end up taking it out on some poor schmuck who just happens to pass by and wish us well. Then we feel nothing, all emotion wrung out of us.We can't find any relief or a solution because we keep on looking to people, the flesh, instead of God. Sound familiar? Well, maybe not to you, but, believe me, I can relate.
God is waiting with outstretched arms; and, in the words of Elsa of Frozen fame,(thanks to Maddie Grace and Chloe for the help with Elsa) the Lord is saying "LET IT GO." You feelin'me here?
Brothers and sisters, we get hurt by others and we hurt others. We blind side and in turn,we get blind sided. That, in a nutshell, is a part of the human condition, and will remain so until Jesus comes back. We have a choice. We can put our trust and confidence in the flesh, or we can turn it over to God Almighty and let it go. Read a little further in Jeremiah.
This is what God, in His infinite patience and mercy, tries to get on the inside of your's truly.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV) 7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD.
8 He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”
LET IT GO.
Psalm 4:1 (ESV) 1
Answer me when
I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me
relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and
hear my prayer!
God Bless
Proverbs 25:19 (ESV) 19 Trusting in a treacherous man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth or a foot that slips.
There is a truism in football that has been taught for decades. It was one of the first things that I as a budding young football player many years ago, was taught by my irate at he time,football coach. What's that you say? It is called a "lookout block." What is that Ronnie? Well, it is when a pass play is called and the lineman or linemen misses their blocking responsibility. As the QB (Quarterback) takes his drop, the lineman or linemen that missed their block, turn around and yell "LOOKOUT" to the quarterback because he is getting ready to be blind sided and deposited on his back. It does not sit well with quarterbacks, especially ones that make millions of dollars throwing a football. Neither does it play with coaches; whose million dollar paychecks are determined by how well the team performs every Sunday in the win column. If the aforementioned lineman is responsible for too many of these lookout blocks, he will find himself riding the pine or worse,out of a job.
You know we all need lookouts in our lives. A lookout is someone who watches an area and warns others of approaching danger. Family, pastors, hopefully they all perform the function of a lookout in our lives. In a perfect world, we all are connected and have each other's back. Unfortunately, ours is not a perfect world is it? Nope 'fraid not.' Occasionally, we have those that turn at us just before the freight train rolls over us, and yell "LOOKOUT" when they have missed their block. Most times by then, it is too late and we are staring up from he ground trying to figure out what pancaked us. We have all been the recipients of lookout blocks from others in our lives. And, if the truth were known, we have been guilty of our fair share of missed assignments.
But, it's when we keep getting blind sided by someone that maybe we should begin to exercise some caution. I remember a time in my life that I kept getting blind sided by someone very dear to me. You know how it goes don't you? You experience the range of emotions. Anger, frustration, resentment, worry and sadness. You seek out the comfort and counsel of others as you opine the reason(s) why the person or persons are behaving in such a manner. Sometimes it helps, most times it doesn't. Then all of a sudden you pick up the phone or answer the knock at the door, knowing that bad news is coming, and you find yourself numb. You have been hit so many times that you are now desensitized. It doesn't shock or hurt, you are numb and unfeeling. You are at a crossroad and many times the enemy or a well wishing friend will put you on a guilt trip because you DON'T feel anything. It's not tht you don't want to feel something, it's the fact that your "feeling tank" is empty. You got nothing left. And herein lieth the lesson.
Look carefully at this verse.
Jeremiah 17:5 (ESB) 5 Thus says the LORD: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD.
Now ,this is a very negative verse. But, there is a positive flip side to it. Bear with me please. Let me be honest and transparent with you here. In the distant and not so distant past, I have spent MUCH precious time venting my frustration and anger to friends and enemies alike. I have blown up cell phones complaining to anyone unlucky enough to have answered my call. I have mounted my soapbox at the office water cooler looking for consolation and comfort, rarely, if ever finding anything more than temporary relief.
When literally,at wit's end, stomach churning and roiling, angry at EVERYTHING, I am given pause. A still,small voice enters my head and reminds me of the above verse. Yes,the above verse. And then the wisdom from above starts flowing.
No, God is not eternally cursing me for reaching out to people in time of need. We allow ourselves to be cursed don't we? How so Ronnie? Well, we walk around like a time bomb, ready to explode. Angry, resentful,and hurt,we end up taking it out on some poor schmuck who just happens to pass by and wish us well. Then we feel nothing, all emotion wrung out of us.We can't find any relief or a solution because we keep on looking to people, the flesh, instead of God. Sound familiar? Well, maybe not to you, but, believe me, I can relate.
God is waiting with outstretched arms; and, in the words of Elsa of Frozen fame,(thanks to Maddie Grace and Chloe for the help with Elsa) the Lord is saying "LET IT GO." You feelin'me here?
Brothers and sisters, we get hurt by others and we hurt others. We blind side and in turn,we get blind sided. That, in a nutshell, is a part of the human condition, and will remain so until Jesus comes back. We have a choice. We can put our trust and confidence in the flesh, or we can turn it over to God Almighty and let it go. Read a little further in Jeremiah.
This is what God, in His infinite patience and mercy, tries to get on the inside of your's truly.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV) 7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD.
8 He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”
LET IT GO.
Psalm 4:1 (ESV) 1
God Bless
Friday, June 24, 2016
We've Made Our
Choice 06-24-16
Psalm 31:5 (ESV) 5 Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O LORD, faithful God
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WtCV_ysZC04" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
I hope I embedded the video correctly. My technical saavy is sadly lacking. If not, this video can be viewed on Youtube. Hope you enjoy it.
You know,I have sang that song on many, many, many occasions in church. It was a favorite in the church I attended for most of my adult life. I have seen and been a recipient of countless moves of the Holy Spirit invoked while singing this song. It was just one of those songs that God used to stir the people.
The title today and the song was inspired by a group of people across the pond in Britain. You know.......;I'm sure by now you have heard of the "Brexit" vote yesterday. The folks in the U.K. voted to leave the European Union. They made a choice. It went against conventional wisdom from virtually every front. These folks voted to leave, knowing that it would probably mean some painful readjusting both economic and political in their lives. Indeed, if one reads the commentaries and opinions being offered the day after, one must come to the conclusion that this choice is in conflict with the wisdom of this world; and the world is responding. Voicing it's disapproval through stock market turmoil and political uncertainty the world over. However, those folks unmoved and unintimidated by the conventional wisdom of their day, MADE THEIR CHOICE.
Which by the way dear Christian brother and sister,brings me to my point. If you have asked the Lord Jesus Christ to be your Savior. If you count yourself as one of the Blood Bought and trust The Lord Jesus to see you safely through, then you, dear Child Of God, HAVE MADE A CHOICE haven't you? Indeed you have Praise The Almighty God!!
Now that choice may have cost you some pain in this life. Maybe you have been battered around in this world. Maybe your hull is scarred and beat up. Maybe you have been mocked and made fun of by the wisdom of this world.Indeed, there are some in this world that are suffering physical persecution and martyrdom for the choice they have made.
But.........
BUT........there's coming a day. There's coming a day when the wisdom and systems of this world are going to be shown for exactly what they are in God's eyes........foolishness.
1 Corinthians 1:25 (ESV) 25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1 Corinthians 1:21 (ESV) 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
This old world looks pretty dark right now. But, as the song says, God has a people and they're never going to be vanquished. A CHURCH TRIUMPHANT. That battered and beat up ship is going to carry you safely home one of these days. We, as the sheep of His pasture, have committed our spirits into the hands of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. Hold on Child Of God, the best is yet to come.The church is alive and well brothers and sisters!
If you have never made Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior, DO IT NOW. MAKE THAT CHOICE! HE'S COMING BACK!!
Revelation 1:8 (ESV) 8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Revelation 22:20 (ESV) 20 He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
For we've settled the question,we've made our choice.
Psalm 25:12 (ESV) 12 Who is the man who fears the LORD? Him will he instruct in the way that he should choose.
God Bless
Psalm 31:5 (ESV) 5 Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O LORD, faithful God
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WtCV_ysZC04" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
I hope I embedded the video correctly. My technical saavy is sadly lacking. If not, this video can be viewed on Youtube. Hope you enjoy it.
You know,I have sang that song on many, many, many occasions in church. It was a favorite in the church I attended for most of my adult life. I have seen and been a recipient of countless moves of the Holy Spirit invoked while singing this song. It was just one of those songs that God used to stir the people.
The title today and the song was inspired by a group of people across the pond in Britain. You know.......;I'm sure by now you have heard of the "Brexit" vote yesterday. The folks in the U.K. voted to leave the European Union. They made a choice. It went against conventional wisdom from virtually every front. These folks voted to leave, knowing that it would probably mean some painful readjusting both economic and political in their lives. Indeed, if one reads the commentaries and opinions being offered the day after, one must come to the conclusion that this choice is in conflict with the wisdom of this world; and the world is responding. Voicing it's disapproval through stock market turmoil and political uncertainty the world over. However, those folks unmoved and unintimidated by the conventional wisdom of their day, MADE THEIR CHOICE.
Which by the way dear Christian brother and sister,brings me to my point. If you have asked the Lord Jesus Christ to be your Savior. If you count yourself as one of the Blood Bought and trust The Lord Jesus to see you safely through, then you, dear Child Of God, HAVE MADE A CHOICE haven't you? Indeed you have Praise The Almighty God!!
Now that choice may have cost you some pain in this life. Maybe you have been battered around in this world. Maybe your hull is scarred and beat up. Maybe you have been mocked and made fun of by the wisdom of this world.Indeed, there are some in this world that are suffering physical persecution and martyrdom for the choice they have made.
But.........
BUT........there's coming a day. There's coming a day when the wisdom and systems of this world are going to be shown for exactly what they are in God's eyes........foolishness.
1 Corinthians 1:25 (ESV) 25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1 Corinthians 1:21 (ESV) 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
This old world looks pretty dark right now. But, as the song says, God has a people and they're never going to be vanquished. A CHURCH TRIUMPHANT. That battered and beat up ship is going to carry you safely home one of these days. We, as the sheep of His pasture, have committed our spirits into the hands of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. Hold on Child Of God, the best is yet to come.The church is alive and well brothers and sisters!
If you have never made Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior, DO IT NOW. MAKE THAT CHOICE! HE'S COMING BACK!!
Revelation 1:8 (ESV) 8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Revelation 22:20 (ESV) 20 He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
For we've settled the question,we've made our choice.
Psalm 25:12 (ESV) 12 Who is the man who fears the LORD? Him will he instruct in the way that he should choose.
God Bless
Saturday, June 18, 2016
War Of
Words 06-18-16
2 Chronicles 20:15 (ESV) 15 And he said, “Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s.
I was talking with a friend at work this week about being drafted. We live today in the era of the professional military. However, back in the old school days we were drafted, conscripted is a better word,into Uncle Sam's war machine. Your number came up and off you went.Some of us, like the author chose to join a service when my number came up; but, it was all the same, compulsory military service. Anyway, when my friend spoke of being drafted my ears perked up.
He explained to me that a battle had been joined in personal life. He had not asked for, nor had he sought this battle. It was a set of circumstances that he had not signed up for,but the enemy had spied him out anyway. He was compelled in his gut to do something. He told me he felt like he had been drafted. That ever happened to you? I would venture that we all have been "drafted" at one time or another in our lives.Our conversation this week past set me to thinking; and a couple of passages came to mind while my buddy spoke of the "war of words" swirling around these circumstances.
You know how it goes don't you? Stuff happens, opinions form and before we know it we have a fight on our hands. We see it on Facebook all the time. Back and forth, back and forth, with each post becoming more malicious and vindictive. In the end nothing is resolved, relationships are damaged or outright destroyed and the truth is buried under an avalanche of words.However, to his eternal credit, Jehosaphat took a different tack didn't he? Look at this.
The Bible speaks about a great multitude that came against Jehoshaphat FOR BATTLE. He wasn't looking for it, it just showed up. Jehoshaphat was drafted!
It also says that Jehoshaphat was afraid. But, and here it is, look at the war of words Jehoshaphat waged.He didn't rattle a sword. He didn't send a messenger(the Facebook of his day)with threats and accusations, no, no. What did he do?
2 Chronicles 20:3 (ESV) 3 Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.
You see Jehoshaphat refused to put his hand on it.He stilled himself and decided to let God be the judge. He set his face to seek the Lord. He prayed, fasted and let God choose. What was God's response? Look at this.
2 Chronicles 20:17 (ESV) 17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the LORD will be with you.”
"......stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord......"
Brothers and sisters, many times life will draft us to fight a battle not of our choosing. Our flesh will scream at us to retaliate against the attacks of the enemy in our power. To take it upon ourselves to defend our position. I know from past experience.Jehoshaphat and the children of Israel did have to "go out against them" but he Lord did the fighting. And herein lieth the lesson. We rarely, if ever have all the facts and NEVER have all the truth. GOD ALMIGHTY IS THE ONLY TRUE AND RIGHTEOUS JUDGE. We are best served if we take it to the Lord and stand firm, hold our position, and let the Lord do as he sees fit.
Sometimes His decision may perplex us but rest assured His decision is righteous, and we must trust Him to do the right thing. If the war of words that we wage is waged in our prayer closet, then we may be absolutely certain that we will see the salvation of the Lord no matter what. Amen? AMEN!!
Psalm 31:1-2 (ESV) 1
In you, O
LORD, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame; in
your righteousness deliver me!
2 Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily! Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me!
God Bless
.
2 Chronicles 20:15 (ESV) 15 And he said, “Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s.
I was talking with a friend at work this week about being drafted. We live today in the era of the professional military. However, back in the old school days we were drafted, conscripted is a better word,into Uncle Sam's war machine. Your number came up and off you went.Some of us, like the author chose to join a service when my number came up; but, it was all the same, compulsory military service. Anyway, when my friend spoke of being drafted my ears perked up.
He explained to me that a battle had been joined in personal life. He had not asked for, nor had he sought this battle. It was a set of circumstances that he had not signed up for,but the enemy had spied him out anyway. He was compelled in his gut to do something. He told me he felt like he had been drafted. That ever happened to you? I would venture that we all have been "drafted" at one time or another in our lives.Our conversation this week past set me to thinking; and a couple of passages came to mind while my buddy spoke of the "war of words" swirling around these circumstances.
You know how it goes don't you? Stuff happens, opinions form and before we know it we have a fight on our hands. We see it on Facebook all the time. Back and forth, back and forth, with each post becoming more malicious and vindictive. In the end nothing is resolved, relationships are damaged or outright destroyed and the truth is buried under an avalanche of words.However, to his eternal credit, Jehosaphat took a different tack didn't he? Look at this.
The Bible speaks about a great multitude that came against Jehoshaphat FOR BATTLE. He wasn't looking for it, it just showed up. Jehoshaphat was drafted!
It also says that Jehoshaphat was afraid. But, and here it is, look at the war of words Jehoshaphat waged.He didn't rattle a sword. He didn't send a messenger(the Facebook of his day)with threats and accusations, no, no. What did he do?
2 Chronicles 20:3 (ESV) 3 Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.
You see Jehoshaphat refused to put his hand on it.He stilled himself and decided to let God be the judge. He set his face to seek the Lord. He prayed, fasted and let God choose. What was God's response? Look at this.
2 Chronicles 20:17 (ESV) 17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the LORD will be with you.”
"......stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord......"
Brothers and sisters, many times life will draft us to fight a battle not of our choosing. Our flesh will scream at us to retaliate against the attacks of the enemy in our power. To take it upon ourselves to defend our position. I know from past experience.Jehoshaphat and the children of Israel did have to "go out against them" but he Lord did the fighting. And herein lieth the lesson. We rarely, if ever have all the facts and NEVER have all the truth. GOD ALMIGHTY IS THE ONLY TRUE AND RIGHTEOUS JUDGE. We are best served if we take it to the Lord and stand firm, hold our position, and let the Lord do as he sees fit.
Sometimes His decision may perplex us but rest assured His decision is righteous, and we must trust Him to do the right thing. If the war of words that we wage is waged in our prayer closet, then we may be absolutely certain that we will see the salvation of the Lord no matter what. Amen? AMEN!!
Psalm 31:1-2 (ESV) 1
2 Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily! Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me!
God Bless
.
Friday, June 10, 2016
Urgent Need
Urgent
Need 06-10-16
Titus 3:14 (ESV) 14 And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.
A thought.
Oftentimes these days I wander off in my mind (getting older smile). Let's see, where was I? Oh yes, I remember now. I wander off in my mind and wonder about the plight of those Christians suffering such persecution in the Middle East and many other parts of the world. I remember seeing a picture a couple of years ago of a small girl laying dead on a floor in Iraq. I remember the anger and frustration I felt which litreally brought me to tears while gazing on that child. I remember wishing that I could somehow and in someway avenge that child of the horror and abuse she suffered. I also remember the Lord putting that verse in my heart that vengeance was His and He would indeed make things right in His time and in His way. I had such compassion for that child.
That being said, I read a book many, many years ago, The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. Some folks like him, some don't. I fall into the like category. At any rate, one of the points in the book concerned a "strategy" of the devil in dealing with God's elect. You and me. It went like this. The enemy doesn't care about our compassion and desire to help those in the world. Nope. He will gladly encourage us to feel all the compassion and love for those in THE world. What he doesn't want is for us to be compassionate and kind to those whom reside in OUR world. It's O.K. to love someone in Iraq just don't love that person sitting on your living room couch.
Understand that the most "urgent needs" are living in your home. They are sharing your bed. They live next door or down the street. They are the folk you and I see everyday.I remember while my mother was still living, the Lord spoke to my heart one day. I was thinking about "doing" something for the Lord. You know how that goes. I can't even remember what it was. Anyway, He spoke gently to my heart and said I need look no further than the next bedroom to "see clearly" my vision and ministry for the Lord.
God's work many times is staring us dead in the face. We just miss it because we aren't looking in the right places.
Psalm 89:11 (ESV) 11 The heavens are yours; the earth also is yours; the world and all that is in it, you have founded them.
God Bless
Titus 3:14 (ESV) 14 And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.
A thought.
Oftentimes these days I wander off in my mind (getting older smile). Let's see, where was I? Oh yes, I remember now. I wander off in my mind and wonder about the plight of those Christians suffering such persecution in the Middle East and many other parts of the world. I remember seeing a picture a couple of years ago of a small girl laying dead on a floor in Iraq. I remember the anger and frustration I felt which litreally brought me to tears while gazing on that child. I remember wishing that I could somehow and in someway avenge that child of the horror and abuse she suffered. I also remember the Lord putting that verse in my heart that vengeance was His and He would indeed make things right in His time and in His way. I had such compassion for that child.
That being said, I read a book many, many years ago, The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. Some folks like him, some don't. I fall into the like category. At any rate, one of the points in the book concerned a "strategy" of the devil in dealing with God's elect. You and me. It went like this. The enemy doesn't care about our compassion and desire to help those in the world. Nope. He will gladly encourage us to feel all the compassion and love for those in THE world. What he doesn't want is for us to be compassionate and kind to those whom reside in OUR world. It's O.K. to love someone in Iraq just don't love that person sitting on your living room couch.
Understand that the most "urgent needs" are living in your home. They are sharing your bed. They live next door or down the street. They are the folk you and I see everyday.I remember while my mother was still living, the Lord spoke to my heart one day. I was thinking about "doing" something for the Lord. You know how that goes. I can't even remember what it was. Anyway, He spoke gently to my heart and said I need look no further than the next bedroom to "see clearly" my vision and ministry for the Lord.
God's work many times is staring us dead in the face. We just miss it because we aren't looking in the right places.
Psalm 89:11 (ESV) 11 The heavens are yours; the earth also is yours; the world and all that is in it, you have founded them.
God Bless
Friday, June 3, 2016
Rescued
Rescued
06-03-16
2 Timothy 4:18 (ESV) 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Short and sweet this week.
Have you ever been rescued? I literally have. And more than likely the quick actions of my rescuer probably spared my life. At any rate, as I thought about that verse today a picture from June 5, 1989(I researched the date) came sharply into focus in my mind's eye. It was from Tianamen Square in China. Do you remember? A solitary man with two shopping bags in his hand, walked out and stood in front of a moving column of tanks, in a protest against the military crackdown on a student protest. A brief,but very intense standoff ensued and then it was over. The man has never been identified, nor has his safety and well being been determined. He is known simply known as Tank Man. It's worth a watch.
Now, the wisdom of his actions may be debated by some but that is moot isn't it? For a brief moment, this brave man was not controlled by fear, or the consequences of his actions. For those brief minutes this man was moved by his convictions. He resisted evil with selfless determination.
Sometimes in this life, we ae confronted with evil aren't we. It may be a head on, face to face confrontation; but, more than likely it appears very subtly and steathily. But, one thing is for sure, it originates from the enemy of our souls and it's intent is our devastation. Paul, however made a bold proclamation didn't he? He asserted that THE LORD would rescue us from EVERY EVIL DEED, and bring us safely home. When and how God chooses to deliver us is not the issue is it? Our final outcome rests in God's hands; and, he has promised those who name the name of Jesus a safe landing.
Our responsibility is to trust in the Lord, yield to His leading as best we can, and stand by our CONVICTIONS. IS THAT RIGHT OR NOT? You see God has made clear how we are to resist the evil that pursues us and our loved ones. Go read Ephesians 6.
After having taken up the WHOLE armor of God, having prayed and spent time alone with God being strengthened and encouraged by Him, then and only then are we ready to stand.
Ephesians 6:13 (ESV) 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Look at the next two words in vs.14. "Stand therefore.........."
That word therefore means "Because of or for this reason"
Brothers and sisters, if we will seek God and His wisdom, for that reason we can stand against the evil onslaughts in the power of our convictions. Our rescue is promised.
Psalm 40:13-14 (ESV) 13 Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me! O LORD, make haste to help me!
14 Let those be put to shame and disappointed altogether who seek to snatch away my life; let those be turned back and brought to dishonor who delight in my hurt!
God Bless
2 Timothy 4:18 (ESV) 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Short and sweet this week.
Have you ever been rescued? I literally have. And more than likely the quick actions of my rescuer probably spared my life. At any rate, as I thought about that verse today a picture from June 5, 1989(I researched the date) came sharply into focus in my mind's eye. It was from Tianamen Square in China. Do you remember? A solitary man with two shopping bags in his hand, walked out and stood in front of a moving column of tanks, in a protest against the military crackdown on a student protest. A brief,but very intense standoff ensued and then it was over. The man has never been identified, nor has his safety and well being been determined. He is known simply known as Tank Man. It's worth a watch.
Now, the wisdom of his actions may be debated by some but that is moot isn't it? For a brief moment, this brave man was not controlled by fear, or the consequences of his actions. For those brief minutes this man was moved by his convictions. He resisted evil with selfless determination.
Sometimes in this life, we ae confronted with evil aren't we. It may be a head on, face to face confrontation; but, more than likely it appears very subtly and steathily. But, one thing is for sure, it originates from the enemy of our souls and it's intent is our devastation. Paul, however made a bold proclamation didn't he? He asserted that THE LORD would rescue us from EVERY EVIL DEED, and bring us safely home. When and how God chooses to deliver us is not the issue is it? Our final outcome rests in God's hands; and, he has promised those who name the name of Jesus a safe landing.
Our responsibility is to trust in the Lord, yield to His leading as best we can, and stand by our CONVICTIONS. IS THAT RIGHT OR NOT? You see God has made clear how we are to resist the evil that pursues us and our loved ones. Go read Ephesians 6.
After having taken up the WHOLE armor of God, having prayed and spent time alone with God being strengthened and encouraged by Him, then and only then are we ready to stand.
Ephesians 6:13 (ESV) 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Look at the next two words in vs.14. "Stand therefore.........."
That word therefore means "Because of or for this reason"
Brothers and sisters, if we will seek God and His wisdom, for that reason we can stand against the evil onslaughts in the power of our convictions. Our rescue is promised.
Psalm 40:13-14 (ESV) 13 Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me! O LORD, make haste to help me!
14 Let those be put to shame and disappointed altogether who seek to snatch away my life; let those be turned back and brought to dishonor who delight in my hurt!
God Bless
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