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New Year’s Devotion: Entering 2012 With Hope

December 27, 2011 11:46 am / 2 Comments on New Year’s Devotion: Entering 2012 With Hope

In Jeremiah 29:11, we find a wonderful promise that our Lord gives to His people…

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

The ESV translates this passage with a slightly different phrasing “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Although the Lord originally gave this promise to the believers in the physical nation of Israel… in today’s time this promise applies to all believers (both Jewish and Gentile) who make up His spiritual nation of Israel. (Gals 6:14-16). As we begin the New Year, as believers in Christ, let us remind ourselves of this precious promise and the great hope that awaits us in the coming year.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Jeremiah 29:11

THE STUDY:

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

“know” – to observe, to perceive “thoughts” – plot, plan, invention, weave “think” – same as “thoughts” “saith” – to reveal, to utter, to proclaim “LORD”- Jehovah “thoughts” weave, plot, work “peace” – harmony, health, prosperity “evil” – adversity, mischief, sorrow, troubles “expected” – expectation, to count on, rely on “end” – after part, end,

Here we find a clear declaration from our Lord concerning His plans and watch care for our lives. The Lord makes 3 basic declarations in this verse.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you”. – First of all, the Lord tells us that He personally makes individualized plans for each of our lives. He does not rely on others to plan our lives, nor does He simply allow our lives to go unguided and protected. He has invented a plan for each of us. This plan includes….

“thoughts of peace and not of evil” – the purpose of these plans is to bring to us prosperity and good, not sorrow and troubles. By simply seeking His will for our lives, and then following that will, He will allow our lives to be successful in our endeavors for Him. By following His plans our lives will be spiritually prosperous and in harmony with our Lord. These plans will not lead us into sin, sorrow or spiritual trouble.

Romans 8:28, reveals this same principle to us… And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

“to give you an expected end” – Third, The Lord tells us what the result of this truth should be for our lives…. An expected end… in other words, a future that we can place our hope and confidence in. By understanding that the Lord has planned our lives in advance, and knowing that those plans will result in our good and spiritual prosperity, why should we not be hopeful and looking forward to a bright future for each of us?

Lamentations 3:25-26 – The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD

The ability to discern, follow, and patiently do His will for our lives can be a very difficult task. In Daniel we have the perfect example of a King who rejected God’s will for His own will and had to learn a very difficult lesson.

Daniel 4:29-36

²⁹At the end of twelve months he walked in the palace of the kingdom of Babylon. ³⁰The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty? ³¹While the word was in the king’s mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee. ³²And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field: they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.

³³The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles’ feathers, and his nails like birds’ claws.

³⁴And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation: ³⁵And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou? ³⁶At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have trusted in Christ.

By patiently seeking the face of the Lord, and doing His will, we can be confident of what the future holds for us. We can count on the fact that by simply serving Him our future will be filled with hope and spiritual prosperity.

For those who have never trusted in Christ.

The first step towards spiritual peace and prosperity is found by trusting the Lord with our past present and future. Trust that He died on the cross, paying the price for the sins of His people. Come to Him in a spirit of remorse with a willingness to turn from our sins and accept Him as the Lord of our life. From that point forward we can know that He is leading and guiding us and preparing us a wonderful future of peace, and spiritual properity. And we can know that our future will culminate in having a perfect, eternal habitation that He has prepared for us.

John 14:1-4

1) Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

2) In my Father’s house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also.

4) And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

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My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month):

www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com

www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

Follow my Squidoo Instructional Lens “Presenting God’s Grace” “The Solemn Obligation To Present the Doctrines of Grace to the Lost and Saved Alike” http://www.squidoo.com/presenting-gods-grace

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

Little Is Much When God Is In It

December 18, 2011 9:46 am

One great chorus that has been sung in churches for many years is the chorus “Little Is Much When God Is In It”:

1. In the harvest field now ripened, There’s a work for all to do. Hark, the voice of God is calling, To the harvest calling you.

2. Does the place you’re called to labor Seem so small and little known? It is great if God is in it, And He’ll not forget His own.

3. When the conflict here is ended And our race on earth is run, He will say, if we are faithful, “Welcome home, my child, well done.”

CHORUS:
Little is much when God is in it. Labor not for wealth or fame. There’s a crown and you can win it, If you go in Jesus’ name.

If you would like to hear this song being sung you can find it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDAsDwvDDAc

Is this song Scriptural? Are there examples in the Bible where God uses the small things to yield great results for Him? Lets take a look at what the Bible says….

THE SCRIPTURES:

Judges 7:1-8, 16-23

THE STUDY:

The Context Of Our Study: Judges 6:…

Vs 1-7 – The Israelites for their sin are oppressed by Midian
Vs 8-10 – A prophet rebukes them
Vs 11-16 – An angel sends Gideon for their deliverance
Vs 17 – 23 – Gideon’s present is consumed with fire – The proof of Gideon’s calling
Vs 24 -27 – Gideon destroys Baal’s altar, and offers a sacrifice upon the altar Jehovah-shalom
Vs 28 -32 – Joash defends his son, Gideon, and calls him Jerubbaal – “Let Baal Plead (Argue) With Him”
Vs 33 –35 – Gideon’s army gathered from Israel

“God Is In It” – Gideon’s fleece proof of victory from the Lord: Judges 6:36-40…

36) And Gideon said unto God, If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said,

Gideon asks the Lord for a miracle which would prove that Israel will get the victory over the Midianites. Note the lack of faith on the part of Gideon, but the patience, kindness and grace of Jehovah. Gideon not totally lacking faith, he had been willing to destroy the idols of Baal, placing his life at risk at the hands of the Baal worshippers.

37) Behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; [and] if the dew be on the fleece only, and [it be] dry upon all the earth [beside], then shall I know that thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said.

38) And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and thrust the fleece together, and wringed the dew out of the fleece, a bowl full of water.

Jehovah proceeds to do exactly as Gideon asks…. He places dew on the fleece while keeping the floor dry. Proof Israel will get the victory.

39) And Gideon said unto God, Let not thine anger be hot against me, and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon all the ground let there be dew.

40) And God did so that night: for it was dry upon the fleece only, and there was dew on all the ground.

Notice that Gideon is aware of his lack of faith and the Lord’s patience and grace being shown to him. Keep in mind, Gideon ALREADY knew God’s will (Jud 6:14-16, 6:36), he was in doubting if the Lord’s promise was true. This fleece incident is not to DISCERN the Lord’s will, it is to AFFIRM the Lord’s will.

The Lord, once again, acts to ease Gideon’s concerns by working another miracle. This miracle was the exact opposite as the previous miracle. Dew was now on the ground while the fleece was dry.

“The Little” – Gideon’s 300 men: Judges 7:1-8…

1) Then Jerubbaal, who [is] Gideon, and all the people that [were] with him, rose up early, and pitched beside the well of Harod: so that the host of the Midianites were on the north side of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley.

Gideon is now preparing to go against the Midianites.

2) And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that [are] with thee [are] too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me.

Why did the Lord desire to decrease the number of Israelites? So that He might be glorified not the military might of Israel. (Zech 4:6, Psa 20:7)

**Principle #1 – The Lord uses the little things to accomplish great acts of service for Him so that He might be glorified

3) Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever [is] fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand.

**Principle #2 – The Lord uses those of faith to accomplish great things.

4) And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people [are] yet [too] many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, [that] of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go.

5) So he brought down the people unto the water: and the LORD said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink.

6) And the number of them that lapped, [putting] their hand to their mouth, were three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water.

7) And the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the [other] people go every man unto his place.

The Lord divides the remaining group into two groups based upon those who lapped and those who bent down to drink water. We now have 32,000 down to 10,000 down to 300.

Men on knees taking longer drink – concerned about satisfying desires of flesh.

Men lapping taking short drink – ready for war, placing call of God ahead of fleshly satisfaction.

**Principle #3 – The Lord uses those who put Him first and their fleshly desires second to accomplish great things.

What a miracle the Lord was about to perform. He was going to use 300 Israelites to defeat an innumerable army of Midianites and Ammonites (Jud 7:12)

8) So the people took victuals in their hand, and their trumpets: and he sent all [the rest of] Israel every man unto his tent, and retained those three hundred men: and the host of Midian was beneath him in the valley.

Gideon obeys the Lord and takes the 300, leaving the other Israelites in their tent with sustenance.

“The Much” – A Great Victory Over Midianites: Judg 7:16-23 …

16) And he divided the three hundred men [into] three companies, and he put a trumpet in every man’s hand, with empty pitchers, and lamps within the pitchers.

He now equips his men with a trumpet, a pitcher and a lamp. Note that there was no military weapons used. Gideon understood they stood no chance for a military victory. They would only gain a victory through an absolute miracle from Jehovah.

17) And he said unto them, Look on me, and do likewise: and, behold, when I come to the outside of the camp, it shall be [that], as I do, so shall ye do.

18) When I blow with a trumpet, I and all that [are] with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on every side of all the camp, and say, [The sword] of the LORD, and of Gideon.

Gideon divides the 300 into 3 groups of 100 each. Gideon’s instructions to His warriors… follow my lead, blow your trumpets and shout “the Sword of the Lord and of Gideon”.

Note: It is not plural “swords” but the Lord’s “sword” being used through Gideon. The desire of the Lord was being fulfilled… the Israelites were understanding that the weapons of this warfare was of God, through His servant. To Him be the glory.

**Principle #4 – The Lord accomplishes great things by working in and through weak sinful human instruments. It is the Lord that accomplishes the work. He simply uses men to do it. Much like a writer uses a pen to place his words on the paper.

19) So Gideon, and the hundred men that [were] with him, came unto the outside of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch; and they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers that [were] in their hands.

20) And the three companies blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the lamps in their left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow [withal]: and they cried, The sword of the LORD, and of Gideon.

Gideon’s plan is put into motion.

Please note that:

1. Gideon placed his plan into action at the beginning of the “middle watch” . It was a time of confusion with the men just getting into their place for their turn at the watch.

2. It was very dark. There were three night watches of equal length. They ran from 6:00pm to 6:00am. Therefore, Gideon made his move at approx 10-11 pm.

21) And they stood every man in his place round about the camp: and all the host ran, and cried, and fled.

Through the Lord’s intervention, at the sudden sounding of the trumpets, the breaking of the pitchers and the shining of the light terrified the Midianites; they probably thought that there was a great number of invaders surrounding them and ready to pounce upon the Israelites.

22) And the three hundred blew the trumpets, and the LORD set every man’s sword against his fellow, even throughout all the host: and the host fled to Bethshittah in Zererath, [and] to the border of Abelmeholah, unto Tabbath.

Their confusion is so great they turn on one another and begin to war within their own ranks. They then flee for their lives.

23) And the men of Israel gathered themselves together out of Naphtali, and out of Asher, and out of all Manasseh, and pursued after the Midianites.

The closest Israelites, then gathered and begin to pursue the defeated Midianites. These would have included those of little faith and those who knelt to drink.

**Principle #5 – Those who are weaker spiritually are strengthen by God when others exhibit faith in their service to Him.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved…

Those who are the smallest and the most unlikely to succeed in their service to Him are the ones most likely to glorify Him through their acts of faithful service to Him. We all have a special privilege and opportunity to serve Him in times of weakness. It is during these times we can glorify Him in the greatest ways.

2Cor 10:2-5

2) But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

3) For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

4) (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

5) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

2Cor 3:4-5

4) And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:

5) Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency [is] of God;

2Cor 4:7

7) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

1Cor 1:18-24

18) For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

19) For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.

20) Where [is] the wise? where [is] the scribe? where [is] the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?

21) For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

22) For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:

23) But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;

24) But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

1Cor 2

1) And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.

2) For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.

3) And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.

4) And my speech and my preaching [was] not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

5) That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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The Religions of The World

November 26, 2011 1:05 pm / 6 Comments on The Religions of The World

Currently there are approximately 40 major religions that exist in the world today. You can see a listing and description of forty of them at http://www.religionfacts.com/

The some of the largest religions include… Christianity , Islam, Secular/Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist, Hinduism, Chinese traditional religion, Buddhism, primal-indigenous, African Traditional & Diasporic, Sikhism, Juche, Spiritism, Judaism, Baha’I, Jainism, Shinto, Cao Dai, Zoroastrianism, Tenrikyo, Neo-Paganism, Unitarian-Universalism, Rastafarianism, and Scientology.

One thing we can know for sure, each of these religions vary in doctrine and practices. Their teachings range from Atheism that denies the existence of god, to the Wicca religion that teaches many gods exist. There are similar irreconcilable discrepancies between the religions in the area of man’s condition, salvation, the afterlife, and their founders.

As you study the basic differences between the beliefs of these religions, one thing becomes very clear… these religions contradict each other in almost all areas of their teachings. This establishes the fact that all but one of these religions must be based upon error.

Why do so many various religions exist? The Bible helps us to understand why these varied belief systems exist.

THE SCRIPTURES:

2Tim 4

1) I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

2) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

3) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

4) And they shall turn away [their] ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

1Tim 4

1) Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

2) Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

3) Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

2Cor 11

1) Would to God ye could bear with me a little in [my] folly: and indeed bear with me.

2) For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.

3) But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

4) For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him]….

13) For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

14) And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

15) Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

THE STUDY:

False religions have been with us from the beginning of time. In the very beginning, Adam and Eve were called upon to choose which set of spiritual truths they were to embrace and follow with their lives. Would they accept the truths that had been given to them from God or the lies that were told to them by Satan? We are all familiar with the choice that they had made and the affects of that choice upon all mankind.

Adam and Eve choose to submit to the teachings and desires of Satan. This represents the first act of human belief in a false religion….

2 Cor 11:3-4, 13-15

But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him]…… For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

Since false religions have been with us from the Garden of Eden, as Christians, what are we to do? By remembering Adam and Eve’s sin, and its results, we are reminded of the devastating effects of following a false religion.

In 2^nd Timothy 4:1-4, Paul writing to the young pastor, Timothy, gives timeless insight into false teachings and the religions that oppose the truth of the gospel of Christ. Paul’s instructions are so important for us all…

I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ,

Remember, as Christians, we are given the responsibility to remain faithful to the truths of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

This same Lord that we serve, will someday judge both lost and saved, those who will be physically dead and those who will be alive at His coming. This means that all men will be held accountable for the choice they make concerning which God they will serve. The choice is plain, follow the teachings of Jehovah God and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ; or the teachings of the many false gods of this world, created, empowered and supported by Satan.

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

Timothy was to:

proclaim the truth of God’s Word
continue to be faithful in blessed times and in times of trial and heartache
convince others of the truth
correct the errors held by others
encourage others to stand by the truths to which they held
do all the above through the use of patience and the teachings of doctrinal truth.

These responsibilities not only apply to Timothy, nor to pastors in today’s time, but to all who hold to the truths and faith of Christ Jesus. We are to stand for the truth and work for it’s continuance and growth.

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

Why is it so important for Christians to work for the propagation of the truth?

Because due to the sinful desires of mankind, the natural course of the fallen world is to reject the truth and follow after those who teach error. The doctrines of sin, man’s inability to gain salvation of his own merit, God’s grace, and salvation through Christ’s work alone, are a few of many truths that go against the lusts of the depraved human heart.

And they shall turn away [their] ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

When looked at from the light of God’s Word, fallen mankind is responsible, guilty, shameful, and unable to deliver themselves from their horrible condition. God’s Word presents a clear view of the wickedness of man contrasted by the love, grace and the ability of Almighty God. This is why lost mankind, apart from God’s gracious intervention, will reject the truths of His Word at every turn.

It is due to this desire of our fallen natures to hear fables that we have the false teachings of this world flourishing. It is much more pleasing to a fallen human heart to hear that they are not wicked and separated from a Holy God; or although sinful, they deserve salvation and can attain it through their own good works. These are the basic messages of the false religions of the day. These are the messages of error, that if followed, will condemn mankind to an eternity of separation from God in the Lake of Fire.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

As the coming of Christ draws near, each of us must be on guard against allowing error to enter into our lives and beliefs. As Paul stated so clearly in 1 Timothy 4:1-2….

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; …

Turning from the truth to a false religion is proof of an imitation salvation experience and a mark of an unregenerate nature. In other words, if we find ourselves turning from the truth of God’s Word to a false religion, we can rest assured that our original salvation experience was a counterfeit. It only involved a mental acceptance of truth, without ever receiving a changed heart through the gracious workings of Christ.

For those who have yet to be saved…

In this blog posting, you have come face to face with a small portion of the Biblical teachings on the false religions of today. The motive behind God’s Word and this blog entry is the same. It is an attempt, motivated by love to warn those who have been deceived by the seducing spirits of this world and the fallen nature within each of us.

Please, look into the Word of the Lord and by faith, accept it’s truths. Trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, who He is and what He has done for His people. Look to Christ and receive salvation from your sins and eternal life with Him. If you would like more information about the teachings concerning the Lord Jesus Christ and the salvation He so graciously gives you have many options:

Open His Word and read about Him
If you are uncertain where to start in His Word you can take a look at my blog page “All About Salvation” to help get you started
You can look at these links for more information:

http://www.bryanstation.com/articles/a-message-to-the-lost

http://www.intouch.org/resources/content/topic/how_well_do_you_know_god

http://www.gty.org/Resources/Articles/A335

http://www.lwf.org/site/PageNavigator/jesus/who_is_jesus

You can contact a Bible believing church. They will be glad to help you to understand what Christ has done for you
Or, you are more than welcome to contact me through my email address settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the Lord Jesus Christ and what He has done for you.

With the multiplicity of false religions, comes proof that the second coming of Christ is coming soon. Time is short. No one knows what tomorrow holds. Look to Jesus know while He is at work in your heart and you still have time. Don’t say as did the prophet Jeremiah…

Jer 8:20

20) The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – Part # 6

November 11, 2011 7:34 am

“… He shall direct thy paths.”

Prov 3:6 – “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

In this short 12 word verse, we find one of the most precious promises of the Bible… the promise for the Lord’s leadership and guidance in our lives. But in this same verse, we find one of the most difficult aspects of the Christians life… following the path the Lord desires for our life.

One of my most frequently asked questions is “How can I find God’s will for my life?” In the next 6 blog entries we will be seeing what God’s word teaches us about this important subject…

What is God’s will ?
Not my will, but thine be done.
Thus saith the Lord
Oh what a feeling
Open and shut doors
Summary of the study

In part number 6 of our study lets study… “… He shall direct thy paths”

THE SCRIPTURE:

Ps 25:9-10 (KJV)

The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.All the paths of the LORD [are] mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.

Prov 3:5-6 (KJV)

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Prov 16:9 (KJV)

A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.

Isa 48:17 (KJV)

Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I [am] the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way [that] thou shouldest go.

Jer 10:23 (KJV)

O LORD, I know that the way of man [is] not in himself: [it is] not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

THE STUDY:

Please notice all the above verses… these are just a few, of many verses that affirm, and then reaffirm, to us the promise that the Lord will show His will to anyone who sincerely desires to follow Him.

Throughout our study we have seen the graciousness of our Lord brought into view. From His first promise to show us His will; to giving us the desire to put His will first; to giving us His Word, the foundation and authority for all our decision making; to giving us thoughts, desires, and a conscience to lead us to His desires for us; to personally intervening in our lives opening and closing opportunities for us; we have His grace clearly shown.

As in every area of our life… we should be always appreciative for His many acts of grace on our behalf.

Now let’s apply all of our previous studies on His will to a very simple example… (please see practical application)

THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION

For those who are saved…

Keeping our previous studies in mind, lets consider a practical application to our study…

Let’s assume that I am a young man that has been called to preach God’s Word. I am currently seeking aBibleCollegeto begin my studies. I am not sure which college the Lord would have me to attend…. Now what?

Step 1: I can be assured that the Lord has a will for my life, and I can put my full trust in His promises to show it to me.

Step 2: I examine my heart to be sure that it is His will that I desire. In prayer, I lay out my desires, asking Him to bless my efforts. However, I ALWAYS seek His will above any desires I may harbor within.

Step 3: I begin to compile a list of Bible Colleges that would meet my academic needs. I take into account their curriculum, their doctrinal statement, the testimony of their instructors, and the mission statement of the school. Also, the location of the nearest Bible teaching church, the ministries that would be open to me at each school, the cost of the classes, etc etc etc.

I look into the Bible to find the requirements of the position to which I have been called, the major Bible doctrines that should be taught, the requirements of Godly teachers, and the mission of those who are called of the Lord, the Lord’s teachings on indebtedness, etc, etc, etc.

Through this process I should be able to weed out some of the schools due to unscriptural doctrine, ungodly teachers, a lack of opportunities to serve the Lord while in college, excessive, wasteful costs or in some other way, not meeting my needs to prepare me for the ministry to which I have been called.

Step 4:

With the remaining choices left, I am sure that some school choices would seem more appealing than others. Now I have to be honest with myself… since from a Scriptural standpoint, all my remaining choices seem to be basically “equal”; why do some appeal to me more than others?

Is it perhaps, the Holy Spirit, placing in my heart the desire to attend the school the Lord would have for me, or is it simply a fleshly desire that really should not have a part in my decision making process. I come to the conclusion that it is due to the location of the school. I like warmer weather and the school I am drawn to is in the South. For now I take it into account, but I cannot allow it to be the final decision. That desire has no real spiritual significance.

My prayer now should be “Dear Lord, you know my desire to follow your will. Also, you know my desire for warmer weather. To my knowledge, this southern school is no better, or worse, that any of the other schools based upon principles of your Word. Please allow the doors to remain open so that I may attend… but not my will but thine be done.

Step 5: I apply to all the remaining schools, including the southern school… again, through the Lord’s intervention some more of the schools will be eliminated. Of the remaining schools to which I have been accepted, I begin a review of all the Biblical research I had done in step number 3. If the Lord shows me nothing new in His Word and, therefore, all the schools are still on equal footing after a review, then I are free to go to any of the schools to which I have been accepted.

If the southern school is one of the schools to which I have been accepted, I can feel free to go. The Lord has graciously kept the door to this school open for me. I should step through the open door with a thankful heart, knowing He has blessed me with a sound school and given me the desire of my heart.

Please remember, the Lord will hold me responsible to follow the directions of His Word. By researching schools in the context of His Word and then doing a final review, I have done all I can do to follow His teachings. Since He has opened doors to several schools, I can assume these schools would all fit into “His will” for my life. I can go to any I would choose with confidence, I have put His will first and now have His blessings upon me.

Ps 32:7-11

Thou [art] my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.Be ye not as the horse, [or] as the mule, [which] have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.Many sorrows [shall be] to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all [ye that are] upright in heart.

In our search for God’s Will ….

Prayer Principle #6 – At the end of this process we need to thank Him for showing us His will (even if it is a “no” answer or a “you must wait” answer). Also, we must commit ourselves to continued submission as we begin down this new path of life He has opened to us.

For those who have never trusted in Christ…

Just as the Lord opens opportunities to serve Him for His followers, so too, the Lord has opened opportunities to become a follower of Christ. The Lord never promised how long the opportunity to trust in Him would last, but He did make it plain that the opportunity to trust in Him would end someday…

John 12:35 (KJV)

Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.

None of us know what tomorrow will hold. A car accident, sickness or other tragedy could bring an end to the opportunity we’ve been given to trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior. That’s why anyone who has not trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ should seek His face NOW. We have no promise of a tomorrow. We need to be ready to face eternity while we can.

If you have questions about the gracious salvation that our Lord offers to us, please feel free to refer to my blog page entitled “How to have a relationship with God” . Or, you can find any Bible teaching church, I’m sure anyone there would be glad to answer your questions about having a relationship with Almighty God.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part # 5

October 29, 2011 10:49 am / 4 Comments on Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part # 5

“Open and shut doors…”

Prov 3:6 – “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

One of the most frequently asked questions I’ve been asked is “How can I find God’s will for my life?”

In the next 6 blog entries we will be seeing what God’s word teaches us about this important subject…

What is God’s will ?
Not my will, but thine be done.
Thus saith the Lord
Oh what a feeling
Open and shut doors
Summary of the study

In part number 5 of our study lets study… “Open and shut doors…”

THE SCRIPTURE:

1Cor 16:8-9 (KJV) But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost.For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and [there are] many adversaries.

2Cor 2:12-13 (KJV) Furthermore, when I came to Troas to [preach] Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia.

Gal 6:9-10 (KJV)And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Phil 4:10 (KJV) But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

Col 4:2-3 (KJV) Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

THE STUDY:

In our previous studies, as we search for God’s will for our lives (part #1), our attitude should be one of placing the Lord’s will above any, and all, of our personal desires (part #2). We’ve also seen that knowledge and application of God’s Word is of ultimate importance (part #3).

In our last blog entry, we saw that we cannot rely on our thoughts, conscience, emotions and desires to reveal the Lord’s will to us. We must put all of these “to the test” by comparing them to the Scriptures. If they align with the principles of God’s Word then we can follow these impressions, knowing we are walking within the confines of God’s Word. If they oppose His Word, we then must recognize them as coming from our sinful flesh, worldly influences, or perhaps, even demonic influences. In any case these type of impressions must never be followed, no matter how desirable they may appear to us. (part #4)

If, after applying God’s Word to our situation and our impressions, we are still uncertain as to the path that He would have us to take, we need to also be observant towards recognizing open and closed doors of opportunity, signs of the Lord’s workings and the area of greatest need which help us determine His will for our lives.

In several places in Scripture, Paul explains how he decided upon different paths of service for Christ…

Doors of opportunity
1. Col 4:2-3 – Here, Paul asked for the prayers of others. What did he ask for? Not for prayers of deliverance from prison, but prayers that the Lord would open opportunities for Him to proclaim the gospel to the lost around him.
2. Phil 4:10 – But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

i. In this verse, Paul recognized that the church at Phillippi was unable to continue to support him, when the opportunity to do so had closed. Paul knew that we can only serve the Lord when the opportunity is open to us.

ii. Paul describes this idea as “redeeming the time” (Eph 5:15-17, Col 4:5-6)

iii. The Lord Himself recognized that there will come a time when we will no longer be able to serve the Lord on earth. We need to take advantage of the opportunity while it is open to us. (John 9:4)

iv. King Solomon knew this principle as well. (Eccl 9:10)

Gal 6:9-10 – In this section of Scripture, Paul encourages all of us, that when possible, we are to take advantage of every opportunity of service that the Lord opens to us.

Doors of opportunity and seeing the Lord’s blessings in a particular ministry.
1. 1 Cor 16:8-9 – Paul decided to stay and continue to minister at Ephesus, instead of moving on to another region. Why? A “great door” of opportunity was open to him
2. He had seen the Lord working among the people as he ministered to them. His ministry, through the power of the Lord, was having great effect (effectual) among the people.
3. Please notice that Paul was able to discern the difference between “opposition” and a “closed door”. Paul knew that even though there was opposition to a his ministry the Lord was still allowing him to minister and to show His power.
Paul choose to go to area of his greatest burden when more than one door was opened to him.
1. 2Cor 2:12-13 – In this case, Paul had at least two doors of service opened to him. One was to continue to minister to the people of Troas, another to search for his friend Titus who had turned up missing. In this case, Paul chose to look for Titus, perhaps he was thinking that the Lord burdened his heart about the situation. Maybe, Paul felt as if he would be best used by the Lord to find his brother than to continue ministering to the people of Troas.
2. If Paul made the correct choice then we can see that when we have more than one option open to us, we should ask “How can I be used the greatest in the Lord’s service?” and also “Where is the need to minister the greatest?” Paul had made the determination that Titus needed him at that time more that the people of Troas.
3. There is some question as to whether Paul had done what was pleasing to the Lord by leaving to find Titus. After all, he made it plain that “ a door was opened unto me of the Lord”. Would the Lord continue to keep a door open when He did not intend for Paul to stay?
4. We will never know for sure if the judgment Paul made was the correct one or not.

The one thing we can know is this… we must use great care in making our decisions based upon “open and closed doors” of opportunity. They can, at times, be difficult choices due to our emotions and fallen nature. Also, we need to see that no one is perfect. Even if Paul did make a misjudgment as to God’s will, it only shows that he was a part of fallen mankind. Even those who are the most spiritual will make mistakes in discerning His will from time to time.

THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION

For those who are saved…

We must be alert to the events surrounding us. Many times, we overlook opportunities of service that our Lord has opened to us. Also, when we are confronted with trying to discern His will concerning any given choice we are facing, we should be watching the events take place around us. It is very possible, that through the events the Lord will be eliminating, or confirming choices that will help us to see the path He would have us to take.

In our search for God’s Will to be shown to us in our lives….

Prayer Principle #5 – We must pray for the Lord’s intervention in the circumstances of our lives, using open and closed doors to help us discern His will for our lives.

For those who have never trusted in Christ…

John 12:35 (KJV)

Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part # 4

October 23, 2011 8:30 am / 3 Comments on Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part # 4

“Oh what a feeling…”

Prov 3:6 – “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

One of the most frequently asked questions is “How can I find God’s will for my life?” In the next 6 blog entries we will be seeing what God’s word teaches us about this important subject…

What is God’s will ?
Not my will, but thine be done.
Thus saith the Lord
Oh what a feeling
Open and shut doors
Summary of the study

In part number 4 of our study lets study… “Oh what a feeling…”

THE SCRIPTURE:

Acts 17:10-11 (KJV)

And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming [thither] went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Rom 12:1-3 (KJV)

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Phil 1:9-11 (KJV)

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all judgment;That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;Being filled with the fruits

of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Phil 2:12-13 (KJV)

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

Eph 5:6-13 (KJV)

Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.Be not ye therefore partakers with them.For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:(For the fruit of the Spirit [is] in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove [them].For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.

1Thess 5:16-22 (KJV)

Rejoice evermore.Pray without ceasing.In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.Quench not the Spirit.Despise not prophesyings.Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.Abstain from all appearance of evil.

THE STUDY:

In our search for God’s will, many times we find ourselves relying on our ”feelings” to help us determine His desires for our lives. For example, a lack of a guilty conscience can be interpreted as the Lord’s approval for a certain action. Likewise, a feeling of excitement, or certainty, can be interpreted as the Lord’s urging us forward in our plan of action. How about a depressed, or anxious, feeling? That can be interpreted as the Lord putting the brakes on our current life path, showing us a need to seek another. A fleeting thought that enters our mind, can be interpreted as the Spirit revealing to us the path the Lord would have us to take. Seeing the need in the life of other people, many times, is interpreted as the Lord’s call to a certain ministry.

I am not denying that the Holy Spirit, at times can use our thoughts, conscience, emotions and desires to aid us in the understanding of His will for our lives. However, we should never rely exclusively on these inward “impressions” to decide the life path for us to take. So how can we discern the Lord’s will in our life “impressions”?

1 Thess 5: 21 gives us a very straightforward answer to our question… “Prove all things, hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil.”

The Lord gives us some basic principles of guidance to “prove” (put to the test) our feelings thoughts and emotions in Phil 1:9-11:

“… that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all judgment” –

Our life should be centered upon showing love… love for our Lord and love for others around us.

How do we show our love for the Lord? One way, is to put His will for our lives ahead of our own. Another way, is to become familiar with His Word (knowledge) and then apply it to our life decision making (judgment).

“That ye may approve things that are excellent” –

Another way to show our love for our Lord is to take the time and effort to put to the test all our life experiences ,and feelings, so we can know which ones He approves. By using our knowledge of His Word and then exercising Godly judgment, we can discern which emotions, desires and feelings are coming from Him.

This point cannot be underemphasized…. One of the greatest uses of His Word is to use it to prove what is pleasing to Him. This applies to any area of our life. The teachings we receive, the world’s influences on our lives, and His will for our lives (including the events we experience and the feelings we have) are to be put to the test using His Word and a mind that is renewed through a growing knowledge of His Word . See Acts 17:10-11 (the Scriptures), Eph 5:6-13 (the truth) , Roms 12:1-3 (a renewed mind).

“that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness” –

What is the result of putting the teachings we receive, the influences of the world, and our life experiences and feelings to the test?

It is two-fold righteousness both an inward righteousness (“sincerity”) and an outward righteousness (“without offence”). These two types of righteousness combine to bring about a life that is fulfilling His will and bearing an abundance of spiritual fruit.

“which are by Jesus Christ” –

Living a life that is fulfilling His will is a work of Christ in our hearts. Christ, through His Spirit enables us to serve Him in spite of our sinful, fallen nature.

“unto the glory and praise of God” –

Living lives that fulfill His will brings all the praise and glory to the Lord. Why? Because we are living our life according to His will due to His will because He is at work within us.

Phil 2:12-13

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION

For those who are saved…

We can prove what is His will for our lives, through an attitude of submission to His will and the renewal of our minds. This renewal comes through a consistent increase in knowledge and application of His Word.

The more we are familiar with His Word, the better we can discern His will for our lives. The greater our knowledge of His Word, the easier it is to discern if our thoughts, feelings and urgings are from the Lord or elsewhere.

Again, as in our prior study, we find that His Word takes preeminence in our life decisions. If our feelings, thoughts, or emotions run parallel to His Word we can follow them without hesitancy knowing that we are living within the instructions of His Word.

If however, our impressions, in any way, depart from the principles laid out in His Word, we can rest assured that the impression is not from the Lord, but is being produced from a sinful origin (our flesh, the world, or powers of darkness). In this case, we are to flee from the path these impressions would indicate we are to follow.

Rom 12:1-3 (KJV)

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

In our search for God’s Will to be shown to us in our lives….

Prayer Principle #4 – We must pray for the Lord’s discernment of His leading in our lives.

For those who are not saved….

The Lord’s will for the life of those who have never trusted in Christ is clearly declared in 1Tim 2:3-6 …

For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

For more information about salvation and the forgiveness of sins, please refer to my blog page found here: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part #3

October 15, 2011 9:08 am / 2 Comments on Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part #3

Thus saith the Lord

Prov 3:6 – “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

One of the my most frequently asked questions is “How can I find God’s will for my life?” In the next 6 blog entries we will be seeing what God’s word teaches us about this important subject…

What is God’s will ?
Not my will, but thine be done.
Thus saith the Lord
Oh what a feeling
Open and shut doors
Summary of the study

In part number 3 of our study lets look at… “Thus saith the Lord”

THE SCRIPTURE:

Ps 19:8 – The statutes of the LORD [are] right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD [is] pure, enlightening the eyes.

Ps 119:105 – NUN. Thy word [is] a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Prov 6:23 – For the commandment [is] a lamp; and the law [is] light; and reproofs of instruction [are] the way of life:

2Tim 3:16-17 – All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

THE STUDY:

King David and his son, King Solomon, understood the important role of God’s Word in our decision making processes…

In Psalm 19:8, David makes it plain that the Word of the Lord “enlightens” the believer’s eyes. The word “enlightens” refers to “the break of day”. In other words, without the Bible, we are living our life in darkness (much like the darkness of a cloudy nighttime). But when we use the Bible in our day to day walk, it is like dawn (when the sun appears and enlightens everything around us) making it easy for us to see clearly and make wise decisions.

In Psalms 119:105 – David makes the same point about God’s Word using the example of a lamp and light that enlightens the paths of life that we are to take. Again, we see how the Word enlightens us as we make our daily decisions, helping us to understand clearly the will of the Lord.

In Proverbs 6:23 – David’s son, Solomon, also exhibited the importance of God’s Word as a guide for his life. He said that “the commandment is a lamp and the law is light” basically restating what his father has stated previously. But then he went on to say “reproofs of instruction are the way of life”, again, referring to the Word of God (reproofs of instruction), he said that they are the path that we are to follow in life.

In all of these Old Testament passages the importance of God’s Word in our decision making processes is clearly on display…. However, one of the most important verses on this subject is found in the New Testament, written by the Apostle Paul….

In 2 Tim 3:16-17, we find Paul declaring that the Scriptures are of utmost importance in our decision making, because they are the very word of God handed down to man…

“All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God” – here “inspiration” is made up of two Greek root words, one is the word for “God”, the other is a word for “blow” or “breathe”. This teaches us that the Bible was given to man by God breathing or blowing it to them. Just like when we speak, we gently blow out, in the same way the Lord literally spoke the words which are recorded in the Bible. The Scriptures are, literally, the perfect, complete, reliable, words spoken by God to man.

Paul goes further explaining that these words can benefit man in the following ways
1. For doctrine – teaching, to impart knowledge or facts
2. for reproof – evidence, to convince the knowledge is true
3. for correction – to straighten, to restore to proper position
4. for instruction in righteousness: – tutor, to learn to be aligned with commands of God The result of endoctrination, conviction, restoration and education in the truth…

i. perfect – spiritually mature

ii. throughly furnished unto all good works – completely equipped to perform any work that is pleasing to God.

THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION

For those who are saved…

Please, especially take note of what Paul said at the end of 2 Timothy 3:16-17. In this section of Scripture…. “That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” Paul made the statement that God spoke His Word to man, was so that His followers may be spiritually mature, and entirely equipped to perform all works that are pleasing to God.

In other words, His Word was given to those who are saved so that we can, through the Spirit, recognize and then take the paths that He has chosen for us to take in life… by following these paths we perform the ministries (good works) that He has desired for our lives.

Paul, through the inspiration of Almighty God, says that the Word is all that is needed for the Christian to follow God’s will, and live a life that is pleasing to Him. Paul did not say “the Scriptures plus good feelings”, nor did he say “the Scriptures plus a miraculous sign from heaven (like a lightning bolt striking a fore ordained object)”, nor did he say “the Scriptures plus other men’s approval”. Absolutely not, Paul made it plain that the Scriptures alone would mature and completely equip a Christian to lead a life that was pleasing to God.

Not only are we to be sure that our desires are in submission to the Lord’s will for our lives (part #2). But also, we are to give our full attention to His Word as the road map guiding us in the many choices of our lives.

In our search for God’s Will to be shown to us in our lives….

Prayer Principle #3 – We must pray for understanding and application of His Word, through the Spirit, concerning the Lord’s leadership in our lives.

For those who are not saved….

The Lord’s will for the life of those who have never trusted in Christ is clearly declared in 1Tim 2:3-6 …

For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

For more information about salvation and the forgiveness of sins, please refer to my blog page found here: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – What Is God’s Will? (Part #2)

October 8, 2011 9:39 am / 4 Comments on Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – What Is God’s Will? (Part #2)

“Not my will, but thine, be done”

Prov 3:6 – “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

One of the my most frequently asked questions is “How can I find God’s will for my life?” In the next 6 blog entries we will be seeing what God’s word teaches us about this important subject…

What is God’s will ?
Not my will, but thine be done.
Thus saith the Lord
Oh what a feeling
Open and shut doors
Summary of the study

In part number 2 of our study lets study… “Not my will, but Thine, be done.”

THE SCRIPTURE:

Ps 40:8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law [is] within my heart.

Luke 22:42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.

John 4:34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

John 5:30 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.

John 6:38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.

THE STUDY:

Our search for the Lord’s will starts with a brutally honest look at our own hearts. Before beginning our search, we must ask ourselves the question, “Am I willing to do whatever the Lord wants me to do?” By God’s grace we all can answer “yes” to this question. If we can say “yes”, we are ready to begin our search for His guidance in the many life issues that we face.

Unfortunately, if you are like me, at times, I would have to say “no” in response to this question.

King David is described by the Lord as, “a man after mine own heart” (Acts 13:22). David illustrates this principle when he wrote: “I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law [is] within my heart.” (Ps 40:8)

David’s desires were the same as the desires of Christ’s heart ….

“Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” (John 4:34)

“I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.” (John 5:30)

“For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” (John 6:38)

Christ not only talked the talked but He walked the walk…

One of the verses that has been the greatest blessing to my heart over the years is found in Luke 22:42, “…Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” To appreciate the depth of Christ’s devotion to the will of His Father, please remember the context of this verse. The “cup” Christ is speaking of is His coming crucifixion. Think about it… when faced with a horribly brutal death on the cross, Christ voiced His own desires to the Father before stating, “it really doesn’t matter what I desire…. I am willing to put my desires aside, and do what you would have me to do…. even to the point of a brutal, painful, humiliating, torturous death on the cross.” (my paraphrase)

After being given such a wonderful example of self-sacrifice, putting our heavenly Father first in our lives, shouldn’t we do the same? Think of what a sad example we set when we go through the motions of seeking His will as an after-thought. We basically are saying…. “I’m going to do (fill in the blank), I’ll see if that’s ok with you, Lord.” What a shame.

THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION

For those who are saved…

As Christians, we have been purchased by Christ through His death on the cross, paying the price for our sins. (1 Cor 6:20). That’s why Paul describes the need to be a living sacrifice for the Lord… after all, it is simply our “reasonable service” to Him. (Rom 12:1).

Would the Lord deny showing us His will, if we sincerely desire to act upon His will, putting

Him above all others desires in our life? I think not.

Matt 7:7-11

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

In our search for God’s Will to be shown to us….

Prayer Principle #2 – We must pray for a spirit of self-sacrifice and self-control, putting our Lord first, as we begin our search for His will.

For those who are not saved….

The Lord’s will for the life of those who have never trusted in Christ is clearly declared in 1Tim 2:3-6 …

For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

For more information about salvation and the forgiveness of sins, please refer to my blog page found here: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

———————————————————-

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

————————————————————————————–

Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – What Is God’s Will? (Part #1)

October 2, 2011 8:38 am / 11 Comments on Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – What Is God’s Will? (Part #1)

Prov 3:6 – “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

One of the most frequently asked questions posed to me during my ministry has been “How can I find God’s will for my life?” In the next 6 blog entries we will be seeing what God’s word teaches us about this important subject…

What is God’s will?
Not my will, but thine be done.
Thus saith the Lord
Oh what a feeling
Open and shut doors
Summary of the study

In part number 1 of our study lets answer the question… What is God’s will?

THE SCRIPTURE:

God’s Sovereign Will:

Prov 16:9 – A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.

Prov 16:33 -The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof [is] of the LORD.

Dan 4:35 -And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

Acts 2:23-24 -Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

Acts 4:27-28 – For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.

Rom 9:17-24 – For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will [have mercy], and whom he will he hardeneth.Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed [it], Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?[What] if God, willing to shew [his] wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory, Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?

Eph 1:11-12 -In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

And many, many more….

God’s Revealed Will:

Ps 119:1-12 – ALEPH. Blessed [are] the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.Blessed [are] they that keep his testimonies, [and that] seek him with the whole heart.They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded [us] to keep thy precepts diligently.O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments.I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly. BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed [thereto] according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed [art] thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes.

Matt 28:20 -Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

John 14:21 -He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

Eph 5:15-17 -See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].

Eph 6:5-7 – Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:

Heb 8:10 – For this [is] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:

1John 5:3 – For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

And many, many more….

God’s Individual Will:

Prov 3:6 – In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Eccl 9:10 – Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do [it] with thy might; for [there is] no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

Jer 10:23 – O LORD, I know that the way of man [is] not in himself: [it is] not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

Acts 11:12 – And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man’s house:

Acts 16:6-8 – Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.

Gal 6:10 – As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Phil 4:10 – But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

And many, many more….

THE STUDY:

God’s Sovereign Will – This is the “secret’ will of God that has been determined before the foundation of the world. This will includes EVERY event that actually takes place throughout history. (Deut 29:29)
1. Prov 16:9 – Here we find that mankind makes many plans concerning his future, but the Lord is the One that controls all the future events in one’s life.
2. Prov 16:33 – Here, we find that although the casting of lots from man’s standpoint is a random occurance… it is actually predetermined and under God’s total control.
3. Dan 4:35 – It is clearly declared that His sovereign will is done both in heaven and on earth. No one can hinder it
4. Acts 2:23-24, 4:27-28 – Even the crucifixtion of Christ was a part of His “determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God”
5. Rom 9:17-24 – Pharoah, his rebellion and his defeat, was all a part of God’s plan, which ultimately resulted in glorification of God. We cannot question His will, He knows the end from the beginning, but we do not.
6. Eph 1:11-12 – Even our salvation and our inheritance are a part of His eternal plan. All of this is why we are to thank and glorify Him for all things. He is the One in ultimate control of all.

God’s Revealed Will – This is God’s desires for our lives as revealed in His will. Commands like “be ye holy” and “thou shalt not lie”, as well as “think on these things” etc. are all a part of God’s will for all His people. These are all revealed to us in the Bible.
1. Ps 119:1-12 – In the entire Psalm 119:, we find the importance of God’s Word for our lives stressed. The Word of God in Psa 119: is given the titles “Law”, “Ways” , “Precepts”, “Statutes”, “Commandments”, “Judgments”, “Word”… the list goes on and on. And yet, the basic principle is that we are responsible to be in submission to His Word for our own good.
2. Matt 28:20 – The Lord’s churches are to teach new believers to observe all of His commands (which are found in His Word)
3. John 14:21, 1 John 5:3 – Keeping His Word is a sign of our love for Him.
4. Eph 5:15-17 – By understanding the principles of His Word, and applying them to our lives, we can wisely walk in this world, using our time on earth to the greatest spiritual benefit.
5. Eph 6:5-7 – We are to sincerely obey His Word with the right motives in our hearts. This is an act of service to the Lord.
6. Heb 8:10 – The Word is placed in our hearts, minds and consciences. As we study and learn more of His Word we carry it with us and, hopefully, live according to it. (Psa 119:11)

God’s Individual Will – This is God’s desires for each one of us as individuals. Throughout the Scriptures, we find followers of Christ being directed in their lives. This direction normally takes the form of open and closed doors of opportunity.
1. Prov 3:6 – Here we find that if we recognize His Lordship and submit to it in our lives then He will supply the direction we need to choose the correct life paths.
2. Eccl 9:10 – “whatever thy hand findeth to do” – this can be describing the opportunities we have open to us. Our responsibility is to take advantage of the opportunities we have in God honoring ways. He is the One that controls what opportunities open to us.
3. Jer 10:23 – We do not have the ability in and of ourselves to control the future events and opportunities of our lives. This is all in the Lord’s hands.
4. Acts 11:12, Acts 16:6-8 – Here is one example where the Lord used His Spirit to lead Peter to accompany men to a house where Peter received the call to Joppa. Also the Lord led Paul in his ministry to forego preaching the Word in Asia and Bithynia. In both of these cases the Lord used His Spirit to lead His servants to areas of ministry. This Spirit leading could have been received as a combination of open/closed doors, the Word in conjunction with the human conscience, or even supernatural revelation (prior to the completion of His Word). Neither Peter, nor Paul, explicitly details how the leading came about in their lives.
5. Gal 6:10 – Paul clearly declares that we are to minister for the Lord based on the opportunities that are open to us.
6. Phil 4:10 – Paul as he was writing to the church at Philippi made it plain that the church had faithfully supplied their support of Paul when they had opportunity. But for an unspecified length of time, they lacked the opportunity to support him. Note, that Paul was not critical of them and their lack of support during the inopportune times. He only praised them for continuing to support him when they had the opportunity.

The above outline helps us to understand that there are three aspects to the will of God.

THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION

For those who are saved…

Here are the beginning principles we must understand as we begin our study of finding God’s will for our lives:

The Sovereign Will of God cannot be changed by man. This will of God will always be done. Every event in history that has taken place, and will take place is a part of this sovereign controlling will of God. (Dan 4:35). We have no need to be concerned about following this will of God. It will always take place.

Please notice that the Word of God (His Revealed Will) is the basis of the future judgment of the believer’s life. (Roms 14:10, 2 Cor 5:10) It is this same Word that was given to us to lead us and guide us along life’s pathways. (Psa 119:105, Psa 119:11)

Therefore, all of our life’s decisions are to be made based upon our knowledge and understanding of His Word. The revealed will of God for each of our lives is regulated by the Spirit’s inner witness through the use of His Word (1 Pet 1:22, Ezek 36:27) and in our conscience (1 Tim 1:19, Heb 13:18)

The individual will of God is regulated based upon the Spirit’s intervention in each of our lives normally through open or closed doors of opportunity (Gals 6:10)

In our search for God’s Will to be shown to us in our lives….

Prayer Principle #1 – We must pray for the Lord’s leadership in our lives.

For those who are not saved….

The Lord’s will for the life of those who have never trusted in Christ is clearly declared in 1Tim 2:3-6 …

For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

For more information about salvation and the forgiveness of sins, please refer to my blog page found here: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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The Invitation of the Gospel

September 23, 2011 6:20 pm / 6 Comments on The Invitation of the Gospel

When we receive an invitation to some social event, we should appreciate the opportunity that has been set before us. Think about what an invitation implies. Someone thought of us, they wanted us to be present for their event and finally, they took the time and effort to send us their invitation. We should have taken their invitation as a compliment, someone thinks highly of us.

The far greatest invitation that we can receive was extended to us from Almighty God. It is an invitation that tells us that those who are invited are loved by Him, He desires to spend an eternity with them in His presence, and He is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice so that they can receive this sincere, legitimate invitation.

Let’s take a look at the invitation that is extended from God to His people…

THE SCRIPTURE:

Isa 55

1) Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

2) Wherefore do ye spend money for [that which is] not bread? and your labour for [that which] satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye [that which is] good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.

3) Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, [even] the sure mercies of David.

THE STUDY:

1) Who can take advantage of this invitation?

a) Vs 1 – “everyone that thirsteth” – He must see he has a need

i) Mark 2:17 – Christ came for sinners

ii) Roms 3:9-10 – All are lost but blinded

iii) John 5:40 – Men are blinded… they will not come.

b) Vs 1 – “he that hath no money” – He must see he is undeserving of this great gift

i) Jer 10:23 – Not in man to direct his steps

ii) Jer 17:9 – heart is deceitful above all things desperately wicked

2) What is he invited to do?

a) Vs 1 – “come” –

i) Repentance – turning from sin to God – Acts 26:18

ii) Belief – trusting Him alone for salvation – Matt 11:28

b) Vs 1 – “buy” – Salvation is a possession we can obtain through grace of God –

i) Jhn 1:12 – to them gave He power to become Son of God

ii) 1 Cr 2:6-11 – wisdom given from God not world

c) Vs 1 – “eat” – Personally partake of

i) Heb 3:24 – partakers of Christ

ii) 2 Pet 1:4 – partakers of the divine nature

3) What is the purpose behind this invitation?

a) Vs 1 – to obtain “water” – salvation

i) John 4:1-14 – living water

b) Vs 1 – to obtain “wine” – blood of Christ

i) Gen 35:14 – Blood poured out on rock to sanctify it

ii) Luke 10:30-36 – Good Samaritan – Blood in wounds of sin.

c) Vs 1 – to obtain “milk” – Word

i) 1 Cor 3:1-2 – fed with milk not meat

ii) 1 Ptr 1:22- purify soul through truth

4) What must be given to obtain this?

a) Vs 1 – “without money” – not riches of world

i) 2 Tim 2:25-26 – Repentance is a gift

ii) Eph 2:8 – Belief is a gift

b) Vs 1 – “without price” – not in other types of works or good deeds

i) Titus 3:5 – Not of our works

ii) Isa 64:6 – filthy rags

5) How can we waste our lives?

a) Vs 2- “spend money for that which is not bread” – spend worldly possessions in pursuit of satisfaction

i) Eccl 2:7-9 – wealth and purchases do not satisfy

b) Vs 2 – “your labor for that which satisfieth not?” – labor with good deeds to secure satisfaction

i) Eccl 2:1-6 – labors for happiness failed

6) How can we save our lives?

a) Vs 2 – “hearken diligently unto me” – listen and obey the Lord’s Word

i) Rom 10:12-17 – how shall they hear without a preacher

b) Vs 2 – “eat ye that which was good” – partake of that which satisfies (work of Christ)

i) John 6:35 – I am the Bread of Life

c) Vs 2 – “let your soul delight itself in fatness” – Joy from blessings bestowed

i) 1 Pet 1:8-9 – Joy unspeakable and full of glory

7) What must we do to be saved?

a) Vs 3 – “Incline your ear” – Hear Him with intent to obey (submission to Lordship)

i) Rom 10:3 – submit to His righteousness not works of righteousness

b) Vs 3 – “come unto me” – Turn from sin to Lord

i) Matt 11:28-30 – Come all that labor…. He gives rest

ii) John 6:37 – Come to Him, He will not cast out

c) Vs 3 – “hear” – Receive His Word

i) 1 Thess 2:13 – Word working in those who receive it as God’s Word

8) What graces do we receive?

a) Vs 3 – “your soul shall live” – receipt of everlasting life

i) Num 21:7-9 – look (with faith) at serpent on pole and live

ii) John 10:25-30 – give eternal life, never perish, not plucked form hand

b) Vs 3 – “I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David” – the promise (contract) that secures His everlasting mercy to us

i) Heb 12:22-29 – New covenant with Christ

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

We need to thank the Lord for extending to us this invitation of the gospel and then giving us the ability to come to Him and receive His grace in our lives.

For those who have yet to be saved…

Take the invitation the Lord has extended very seriously. By recognizing your need of forgiveness turning to Him in faith, and then trusting Him to grant you that forgiveness and the promise of a new life in Him… you will be saved.

Don’t put off coming to Him. None of us know what tomorrow may hold for us.

2Cor 6:2 (KJV)

2) (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now [is] the accepted time; behold, now [is] the day of salvation.)

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Christ The Lamb Of The New Testament

September 16, 2011 6:25 pm / 4 Comments on Christ The Lamb Of The New Testament

When the Word of God calls Christ the Lamb, it is teaching us many different truths about Christ. Let’s take our time and study what the Bible teaches us when it calls Jesus the Lamb.

THE SCRIPTURE:

John 1:29 (KJV)

29) The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

John 1:35-36 (KJV)

35) Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;

36) And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!

Acts 8:26-35 (KJV)

26) And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert…

32) The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:

33) In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.

34) And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?

35) Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.

1Pet 1:13-21 (KJV)

13) Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;…

18) Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, [as] silver and gold, from your vain conversation [received] by tradition from your fathers;

19) But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

20) Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,

21) Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

Rev 5:6-14 (KJV)

6) And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth…

12) Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

13) And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be] unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

14) And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

Rev 6

1) And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.

Rev 6:16-17 (KJV)

16) And 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:

17) For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

Rev 7:9-17 (KJV)

9) After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

10) And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb…

17) For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

Rev 12:11 (KJV)

11) And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

Rev 13:8 (KJV)

8) And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

Rev 14

1) And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads.

2) And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps:

3) And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred [and] forty [and] four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.

4) These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, [being] the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb…

12) Here is the patience of the saints: here [are] they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Rev 15:3-4 (KJV)

3) And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous [are] thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true [are] thy ways, thou King of saints.

4) Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for [thou] only [art] holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.

Rev 17:14 (KJV)

14) These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him [are] called, and chosen, and faithful.

Rev 19:7-9 (KJV)

7) Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.

8) And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

9) And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed [are] they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.

Rev 21:9-27 (KJV)

9) And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife…

27) And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.

Rev 22

1) And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.

2) In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, [was there] the tree of life, which bare twelve [manner of] fruits, [and] yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree [were] for the healing of the nations.

3) And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:

4) And they shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in their foreheads.

5) And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

THE STUDY:

1. John 1:35-36 – He is the Lamb of God– He is sent by, and shares Deity with, the Father

1. Rev 6:1 – In control of future world events
2. Rev 6:16-17 – Delivers the wrath of God
3. Rev 14:1-5 – The redeemed are firstfruits dedicated to God and Lamb
4. Rev 14:6-12 – Lamb oversees judgment of Lost
5. Rev 15:3-4 – Song of Praise sung to both Father and Lamb
6. Rev 17:14 – He overcomes wicked because He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords
7. Rev 21:9-26 – He possesses an eternal city where He dwells with His people.
8. Rev 22:1 – He shares throne with Father
John 1:29 – He is the Lambof God – He takes away the sin of the world through His sacrifice.
1. Acts 8:26-35 – He gave His life on the cross, willingly, innocently like a Lamb to the slaughter.
2. 1 Peter 1:13-21 – His blood was shed like a sacrificed Lamb that was without blemish or spot.
3. Rev 5:6-14 – His shed blood redeemed men from every kindred, tongue, people, nation. Made them Kings and Priests and will reign.
4. Rev 7:9-17 – His blood saves and secures eternal future with God.
5. Rev 12:11 – His blood gives victory to followers over world, sin and death
6. Rev 13:8, 21:27 – Lamb slain basis of spiritual life that is given to those in Book of Life
7. Rev 19:7-9 – Has an intimate love relation with His people based upon His righteousness given to the saints.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

Christ, the Lamb of God, has sent the perfect example of self-sacrifice for us to follow. After realizing all He has done for us by giving Himself on the cross to pay for our sins, should we not be willing to sacrifice ourselves for Him.

For those who have yet to be saved…

When we realize what Christ, the Lamb of God, has done to make possible the forgiveness of sin; should we not turn to Him by faith, trusting in His work to save us from our sins and secure our eternity with Him.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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The Sown Seed

September 9, 2011 9:26 pm / 4 Comments on The Sown Seed

Bedtime stories, Aesop’s fables, Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Andersen and other types of “moral stories” have been a part our childhood for many generations. How many of us have not heard the story of “The Boy Who Cried Wolf”, “The Hare and the Tortoise”, “Little Red Riding Hood” or “Jack and the Beanstalk”? http://crunkish.com/top-ten-childrens-stories/

In spite of the good moral lessons presented in many of these stories, they lack spiritual truth and Godly authorship. In the Word of God we find a series of lessons presented by Christ in the form of illustrative stories. These lessons are called “parables”.

What is a parable? The Greek word for “parable” means “to set alongside for comparison”. This definition helps us to understand the unique Biblical aspect of the parables of Christ. A Biblical parable is the comparison of the physical to the spiritual in an effort to reveal the spiritual. A parable simply uses illustrations from this physical world to help reveal and explain a spiritual truth to whom it was intended.

For today’s blog entry, let’s look at one of the most well-known parables of Christ and the spiritual truth represented in it….

THE SCRIPTURE:

Matt 13:1-9

1) The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.

2) And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.

3) And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

4) And when he sowed, some [seeds] fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:

5) Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:

6) And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

7) And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:

8) But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.

9) Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Matt 13:18-23 (KJV)

18) Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.

19) When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth [it] not, then cometh the wicked [one], and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.

20) But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

21) Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

22) He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

23) But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth [it]; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.

THE STUDY:

In Matthew chapter 13, we find the parable of the Sower. In verses 1-9 we find Christ’s presentation of the parable, in verses 18-23 we find the explanation of this parable.

The parable:

1) The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.

2) And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.

Jesus’ audience for this parable was the multitudes that were following Him. This multitude were probably following Him for many differing reasons. Some followed Him trying to personally see the miracles being performed; others hoped to have their physical needs supplied; and some were following out of curiosity.

3) And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

In this parable, we are told of a man who was sowing seed meant to produce mature seed bearing plants.

The rest of the parable centers on the four areas where the seed falls. The Lord goes further and explains the effects each area has on the seed’s production.

4) And when he sowed, some [seeds] fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:

Area #1 – The Way Side. As the man sows, some of the feed fell “by the wayside” (the path upon which the sower walked). The result, the seed is eaten by the birds. There is no fruit produced.

5) Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:

6) And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

Area #2 – The Stony Places. Some of the sown seed falls in shallow earth. The result is that the ground allows the seed to sprout but as the sun beats down upon the plant it withers due to lack of moisture due to an insufficient root system. No fruit was produced.

7) And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:

Area #3 – The Thorny Places. Other seed feel in among the thorns. As the seeds began to grow, the thorns crowded them out and they died. Again, no fruit was produced.

8) But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.

Area #4 – The Good Ground. Here, the seed falls on “good ground”. This allows the seeds to sprout, grow and mature as they were intended. This is the only case in which fruit was produced from the seed that was sown.

9) Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Parables were not only meant to reveal truth to those who are blessed of God but also to hide the truth from those who would misuse it. (Matt 13:10-16, Matt 7:6) The Lord was inviting those of the multitude who was given understanding by God to learn and apply this parable to their lives.

The explanation:

18) Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.

The Lord now beings to explain the spiritual truths contained within the parable.

19) When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth [it] not, then cometh the wicked [one], and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.

The sower represents a person who is taking God’s Word and proclaiming it to others.

The seed represents the Word of God that gives access to God’s Kingdom (salvation).

The fruit produced through the sowing of the seed is spiritual fruit that is produced by all who trust in Christ.

Area #1 – “The Way Side” – In this portion of the parable. The wayside is a picture of the heart of a lost individual who does not meditate on but ignore or do not take seriously the message of salvation. The birds represent Satan who keeps his attention off the message. Satan placing in his thoughts things “more important” than the Word for the lost person. Because of this, salvation is not received and the fruits of the spirit are not borne by the lost one. (Luke 9:57-62)

20) But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

21) Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

Area #2 – The Stony Places. Here, the word that is received by the lost person is a novelty and for awhile he applies it to his life producing an outward reformation of his actions, not a new life within. After a while, the novelty wears off and the lost person returns to the same lifestyle that he had departed from. (2 Pet 2:22)

22) He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

Area #3 – The Thorny Places. Here we see that when a lost person hears God’s Word, if he allows the desires of his flesh to rule his life, he will nto take heed to the Word but live according to his desires for wealth and the other things this world has to offer. (Lk 18:18-23)

23) But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth [it]; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.

Area #4 – Here we find God’s Word being presented to the heart that has been prepared by God. The Word is received, understood and acted upon. This results in spiritual fruits being borne as the Word grows and prospers in the heart. (John 15:1-8)

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

We need to thank the Lord for preparing our hearts to receive His Word. And then, out of appreciation for what He has done, we should take His Word to others, through our voice and life of displaying the fruits of the Spirit.

For those who have yet to be saved…

Why do some men hear the gospel message and yet do not trust in Christ as their Savior? In our study today, we have seen that:

For some, the Word of God is ignored and not taken seriously.
For others, it is a simply a novelty to be followed for awhile but no real commitment to the message of the Word is ever made.
And for yet others, the true value of the Word is not perceived, therefore they choose to live their life in pursuit of worldly things they believe is of greater value.

The only person that benefited from the preaching of the Word was the person whose heart has been prepared by God to receive the Word, understand the Word, and commit to the Word and its author, Christ. Following this commitment, the newly saved person begins to bear spiritual fruits.

You, too have this decision before you. The message of God’s Word centers on His son, Jesus Christ, and the salvation we can receive through Him…

John 3:14-21 (KJV)

14) And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:

15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

19) And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

20) For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

21) But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

Won’t you take this message seriously, turn form your sin and place your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His work on the cross?

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Nehushtan:The Thing of Brass

September 2, 2011 9:20 pm / 3 Comments on Nehushtan:The Thing of Brass

We all know what it is like to want to receive a good grade in school. It was so important for us to receive credit for the work we had done. Many times we would complete “extra-credit” work just to raise our grade? Many times, acceptance in to a school of higher learning depends upon the grade we received in our previous years of study. The entire education system of our country is based on giving students the appropriate “credit” for the work they have done.

Even during a job search, our grade point average in High School and College can dictate the opportunities that will come open for our consideration. For many of us, making sure we give and receive the proper credit for our actions has become a way of life.

Sorry to say, we may not be quite as careful about the credit that we give to our Lord for all He has done for us and in us. How often do we find ourselves taking the credit for what He has done in our lives? Our gifts, talents, personality, and intelligence come from Him. How often do we accept praise for what He has given to us? What about our health, the possessions we have, or the forgiveness of our sins? How often do we stop and thank Him for all these blessings He has bestowed upon us?

The both Old and New Testament, the Bible records many different times when the Israelites forgot to give their Lord credit for what He had done in their lives. Let’s look at one of those times, paying special attention to the results of their forgetfulness.

THE SCRIPTURE:

Num 21:4-9 (KJV)

4) And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.

5) And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for [there is] no bread, neither [is there any] water; and our soul loatheth this light bread.

6) And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.

7) Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the LORD, and against thee; pray unto the LORD, that he take away the serpents from us. And Moses prayed for the people.

8) And the LORD said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.

9) And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.

2 Kgs 18

1) Now it came to pass in the third year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, [that] Hezekiah the son of Ahaz king of Judah began to reign.

2) Twenty and five years old was he when he began to reign; and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name also [was] Abi, the daughter of Zachariah.

3) And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did.

4) He removed the high places, and brake the images, and cut down the groves, and brake in pieces the brasen serpent that Moses had made: for unto those days the children of Israel did burn incense to it: and he called it Nehushtan.

5) He trusted in the LORD God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor [any] that were before him.

John 3:9-16 (KJV)

9) Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?

10) Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

11) Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.

12) If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you [of] heavenly things?

13) And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, [even] the Son of man which is in heaven.

14) And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:

15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

THE STUDY:

Num 21:4-9 (KJV)

4) And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.

5) And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for [there is] no bread, neither [is there any] water; and our soul loatheth this light bread.

They became discouraged, why? They no longer appreciated all the Lord had done for them.

He had delivered them from Egypt bondage
He had given them manna
He had given them water from the rock
etc etc etc etc

6) And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.

The Lord simply took back one of His blessings (protection) because they were not appreciating them. Remember Job, God had placed a hedge about him and Satan had ot come to God to remove the hedge and work in Job’s lIfe.

The people come to realize they committed sin and this sin was an against to the Lord. They understood their sin had separated them from communion with the Lord and asked that their godly leader would interceded on their behalf.

8) And the LORD said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.

The Lord gave Moses the responsibility to make the brass serpent on a pole. Then wjen they would look upon the serpent they would live. The looking would be by faith. It made no sense to look for healing. Much like Noah building the ark, when there had been no such thing as rain.

9) And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.

Moses faithfully made the serpent/pole. And those who believed His message of salvation and acted upon it lived.

Based upon the Lord’s teachings in John 3:9-16, the serpent on the pole represented Christ and His work on the cross:

John 3:9-16 (KJV)

9) Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?

10) Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

11) Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.

12) If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you [of] heavenly things?

13) And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, [even] the Son of man which is in heaven.

14) And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:

15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Remember, the serpents were the punishment of the people’s sins. It is the punishment for our sins that Christ has borne when He hung on the cross for us. That is why the serpent is hanging on the cross. Christ, as He hung on the cross was putting to death the judgment for our sins. (1 Pet 2:21-24, 3:18, 2 Cor 5:21)

Just as we must look to Christ to receive forgiveness and salvation from sins punishment, so too, the Israelites were to look, by faith, to the coming Messiah who would take their sin upon Himself.

The really sad part of our account is that the Israelites forgot this lesson they had learned. After all of this, once again they forgot to appreciate what their Lord had done for them…

2 Kgs 18

1) Now it came to pass in the third year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, [that] Hezekiah the son of Ahaz king of Judah began to reign.

2) Twenty and five years old was he when he began to reign; and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name also [was] Abi, the daughter of Zachariah.

3) And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did.

800 years has now passed since the Israelites were first confronted with the serpents in the wilderness. Hezekiah, the Godly king over the nation of Judah, sought to follow his ancestor David’s example and obey the Lord with all his heart. Remember, King David was described by God as a “ man after mine own heart”. (Acts 13:22)

One of the idols that the Israelites was worshipping was this brass pole with the serpent upon it. As Hezekiah destroyed this pole, he called it Nehushtan… the thing of brass.

The Israelites had kept this remnant as a reminder of God’s deliverance from the serpents, as well as, the lesson they had learned about appreciating all that Jehovah had done for them. It also should have been a reminder of their coming Messiah and what He would do on their behalf. However, over the last 800 years, they had forgotten the blessings of God and the lesson they had learned. Once again they no longer appreciated the workings of God but had turned this into an idol for idolatrous worship.

This was an abomination before God.

5) He trusted in the LORD God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor [any] that were before him.

Hezekiah was willing to do what many of the Kings of Judah were unwilling to do… destroy the false idols of the Israelites. It was this faith in his Lord that made Hezekiah stand out among all the kings of Judah.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

Let’s not follow the example of the Israelites, who were overlooking the Lord’s blessings upon them. By “counting our blessings” the Lord will continually be encouraging our hearts as we seek to serve Him. (Psa 40:5)

For those who have yet to be saved…

The Great Lord of the Israelites is still intervening in the lives of people today. No matter how we may have failed the Lord in the past, He is always ready to forgive and accept you into His family. He will love you, care for you, and will guarantee you an eternity with Him.

All He requires is that we be willing to put our sinful walk of life behind us and trust Him with our salvation and our future lives. Submit to His Lordship, turn from your sins and trust in Him… you will be saved. “… The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.”

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Anger: A Gift From God

August 26, 2011 6:16 pm / 9 Comments on Anger: A Gift From God

How often have we heard it said that “Anger is sinful” ? This statement, in many cases, is a true statement with a Biblical foundation. (Please refer to Eccl 7:9, Gal 5:20, Eph 4:31-32,Col3:8, James 1:19 and many more).

However, for the Christian, it is important to understand that not all types of anger are equal. There is a special type of anger that is given to us from God. It serves a useful purpose in our Christian life, and should be an integral part of our walk of faith in the midst of a sinful world.

Let’s see what the Bible teaches us about the anger that pleases God…

THE SCRIPTURE:

Ps 4:4 (KJV)

4) Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.

Rom 1:18 (KJV)

18) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

Eph 4:26 (KJV)

26) Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

THE STUDY:

Ephesians 4:26 – “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” – Here we find a type of anger that pleases our Lord. It is a type of anger that is pointed toward the sin that we see in this fallen world. It is not a selfish type of anger, it is an anger motivated by Divine holiness and an understanding of sin’s results in the lives of mankind…

There are 6 aspects to this anger:

It is an anger that affects our actions.

The Greek word for anger “orge” is a word that is defined as “to be enraged causing arousal to action”. Have you ever been so angry you couldn’t hold it in any longer. This is the type of anger we are talking about.

It is an anger that mirrors the anger of God towards sin.

The Greek word for “anger” in Eph 4:26 is translated “wrath” in Rom 1:18 – “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness”. The same type of anger God has against sin is the same type we should have against sin. (see also Nums 22:22, Roms 9:22, Eph 5:6 etc)

It is an anger that results in abstinence from sin.

In our Eph text, we can see that the result of being angry at sin is to “sin not”.

It is an anger that we should act upon quickly.

In our text, we can see that we should deal with the issue on a daily basis and not allow this anger to dwell in our lives for an extended period. “Let not the sun go down on your wrath.”

For example, when we experience this type of anger against a sin, we should not put off dealing with it. When we see sin in our lives that causes us this anger, we are to confess and repent. (1 John 1:8-9) When we enter into a temptation that will lead to sin, we are to quickly remove ourselves from this temptation. We are not to “think about it”, nor “dwell on it”. This is reaffirmed in the next verse that says… “Neither give place to the devil”.

Finally, when we see sin in the lives of others, we are to follow Scriptural dictates in dealing with the issue. For sin in the lives of saved individuals, we are to approach them with humility and love seeking to help them (Gals 6:1-2). If the sin we see is in the lives of one who has not been saved, we are to share with them the gospel message through our words and actions, realizing their only hope of forgiveness and a changed life lies in the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 3:19)

Please notice that Ephesians 4:26 is closely related to Psalm 4:4…

Ephesians 4:26 – “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:”

Psalm 4:4 – “ Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.

By looking at Psa 4:4. we can learn two more facts about this type of anger….

First of all, the motive driving a Godly anger is spoken of…. It is an awe of God.

To be in “awe” of God means that we begin to see and understand His greatness, holiness, sovereignty and love; as well as all He has done for us. Why should we be angry at sin? Because we serve a holy God who loved us and gave Himself for us? Should we not hate sin as does He?

Also, notice we need to meditate on our day, on His greatness, the sin we have seen, and how we have dealt with that sin.

By meditating on our day, we will be able to identify any missed sin, deal with it and be prepared with a “clean slate” for the coming day. If we do this, we can then rest peacefully or “be still”; knowing we have done His will.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

We should all be asking Him for grace, so that we can have the appropriate anger towards sin and the wisdom to deal with sin when we see it.

For those who have yet to be saved…

The Lord desires for you to deal with the sin that is in your life. Look into His Word to see God’s attitude about sin, sin’s results for your life and the remedy for your sinful condition.

You can learn more about all these subjects by looking at my blog page entitled How To Have A Relationship With God

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Who is God?

August 20, 2011 8:37 am / 4 Comments on Who is God?

Have you ever stopped and thought about who is God and how great is He? It is a mind boggling endeavor. Being able to identify God and begin to grasp His greatness is almost an impossible task. But, thanks to our God, and Moses his servant, we have both of our questions answered in one short passage of scripture.

In our text, Moses, the leader of the nation ofIsrael, publically declares the identity and greatness of the God of this world, allowing us all to answer the question… “Who is God?”

THE SCRIPTURE:

Deut 32

1) Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth.

2) My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:

3) Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God.

4) [He is] the Rock, his work [is] perfect: for all his ways [are] judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right [is] he.

THE STUDY:

The Context of this message –
1. Deut 31: – Moses hands authority for leadership of Israel to Joshua
2. Deut 32:-33: – Moses farewell address to the Israelites
3. Deut 34: – Moses dies
4. Here in Deut 32: – We have a part of the final message Moses delivers to the Israelites. What did he want to leave with the Jews? The greatness of his God!

Vs 1- The Importance of the message – “Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. “
1. Both men and angels, I am calling upon you to listen carefully to what I have to say.
2. I “will speak” – to arrange words carefully
3. The “words of my mouth” – speech, phrasings

Vs 2- The Results of this message – “My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:”
1. “my doctrine” – “the received thing” the truths which I have received through revelation and experience I will now hand down to you.
2. “as rain”, “as dew”, “small rain”, “showers” – all speak of gentleness – Through Moses gentle words and sayings great truths would be handed down. They would be truths that would bring about growth, nourishment and increase for all the nation of Israel.

Vs 3 – The Purpose of this message “Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God.”
1. “I will publish the name” – To reveal the identity of God
2. “ascribe ye greatness” – To explain the greatness of God.
3. “LORD” – “Jehovah” – “The Existing One” – Jehovah is the only TRUE GOD. He is the only God that actually exists. Other men may create Gods but Jehovah is the only True God. That is why He told Moses to call Him “I AM”… in other words, “I exist”. (Exodus 3:13-15)
4. “God” – “Supreme One, Worshipped One” – This same Jehovah is also described as God by Moses. This teaches us that He is the One who is over all of us. He is Supreme and deserves our worship.

Vs 4 – The Message – “[He is] the Rock, his work [is] perfect: for all his ways [are] judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right [is] he.”
1. “He is the Rock” – Jehovah is the Creator and Sovereign Lord of all. He does nto change. He is the firm foundation upon which everything exists. He can be relied upon for our physical life and needs, our spiritual life and needs, our daily walk with Him, and our eternal existence. He is the refuge to Whom we can run.
2. “His work is perfect” – All of His works are without blemish and complete. He leaves nothing undone, He commits no sin, He makes no errors.
3. “all His ways are judgment” – His workings among men are always fair, He never mistreats anyone nor does He unfairly favor anyone.
4. “a God of truth” – His teachings are actual to fact, He is faithful to His promises, He can be relied upon
5. “without iniquity” – He can do no sin. He is not tainted with the filth of sin, He is not dirtied. His nature is pure and untouched by sin
6. “just” – He lives by the same set of rules that He Himself sets. He keeps His own laws
7. “right” – He is straight, forthright, and honest. He is not shady, sneaky or misleading.

Jehovah is the Only True God. He is the Creator, the Lord, the Redeemer and the Holy One.

You can personally know this same God by simply turning from your sin and coming to Him in faith, trusting Him to forgive you of your sin debt, and grant you eternal life. May the Lord bless you in your search for the True God and a relationship with Him.

1Thess 1:9-10 (KJV) – For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, [even] Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Ask The Stars… They Will Tell You

August 13, 2011 8:00 am / 4 Comments on Ask The Stars… They Will Tell You

Did you ever wonder what your future held for you? Have you ever been tempted to go to an astrologer? Have you ever actually given into the temptation and visited an astrologer?

For many Americans, having their horoscope read is an innocent, fun, and in some cases beneficial pursuit. In fact, based on the latest Harris poll, slightly more than ¼ of Americans believe in Astrology. (You can access this poll at http://www.harrisinteractive.com/vault/Harris_Poll_2009_12_15.pdf)

Just Google “daily horoscope” and you will see over 6 ½ million websites, most of which are offering access to daily horoscopes. Yes, undoubtedly astrology, horoscopes and other methods of foretelling future events has found a solid foothold in our society.

So what does the Lord say about all this? Is it just an innocent pursuit? Let’s see what the Word of God has to say…

THE SCRIPTURE:

Stand now with thine enchantments, and with the multitude of thy sorceries, wherein thou hast laboured from thy youth; if so be thou shalt be able to profit, if so be thou mayest prevail. Thou art wearied in the multitude of thy counsels. Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, the monthly prognosticators, stand up, and save thee from these things that shall come upon thee. Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: there shall not be a coal to warm at, nor fire to sit before it. Thus shall they be unto thee with whom thou hast laboured, even thy merchants, from thy youth: they shall wander every one to his quarter; none shall save thee.

(Isa 47:12-15)

To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, (Psa 19:1-4)

THE STUDY:

Isa 47:12-15

In our first text, Isaiah is receiving a message from God to be delivered to the empire ofBabylon. In this message Isaiah is tellingBabylonof their coming punishment from God for the sins they have committed (vs 1-11)

Then in verse 12 and 13 – the Babylonians were to turn to their sinful pursuits of enchantments, sorceries, and getting counsel from astrologers, stargazers and monthly prognosticators. They had put these sinful pursuits ahead of serving the Lord in times past…. So they should rely on them now as well. All of those things would prove worthless.

In verses 14-15 – The Lord would do away with all those pursuits as fire burns stubble. They would not be able to deliver themselves from these judgments, much less the entire nation ofBabylon, their merchants and their associates from youth. None of their past pursuits, or associates, could save the nation nor themselves…

Clearly these verses present two important truths about future tellers….

They are of no lasting value… the Lord is the One who controls all events. They do not control, nor can they save from future events. (Isa 44:24-25, Isa 41:21-24)
They will receive judgment from the Lord along with those who look to them. Clearly, they were sharing in the punishment meted out to the empire ofBabylon. (Isa 8:19-22)

(see also: Dan 1:20, 2:2, 2:27, 4:7, 5:7, 5:11, 5:15 – the astrologers being talked about in the book of Daniel, were unable to interpret or give the solution to the King’s dream. The entire Daniel account is teaching the impotence of astrologers when it comes to solving life’s issues and understanding God’s will for our lives.)

Psalm 19:1-4

Here we find the answer to the question “Why did the Lord create all the heavenly bodies?” In many astrologist’s minds, the purpose of the heaven’s existence is to help interpret future events. However, in our Psa 19: verses we find that the real purpose of the creation of the heavens was to display God’s great power, wisdom and glory. By looking at the greatness of the heavenly bodies, EVERYONE is given a testimony to God’s existence and greatness. It is a testimony that transcends national, cultural, language and even continental boundaries. It is the witness Paul talks about in Romans 1:19-20.

THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION

For the Christian….

We need to always remember that the Lord Jesus Christ is the only One who controls our future. (Dan 4:34-35, Isa 46:9-11) It is our responsibility to trust Him with our future on a daily basis. To seek knowledge of what our future holds is a lack of faith on our part. He will take care of us… we do not need to think, nor worry about what the future may hold. (Matt 6:25-34)

For those who have never trusted in Christ…

The greatest peace comes from trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ to care for our past, present and future. (Phil 4:6-7) By looking to Christ and trusting in His work on the cross, we can find rest and peace from the burden of our sin. (Matt 11:28-30).

Turn to the Lord, relying totally on Him to give forgiveness, peace and rest… this is the key to knowing we are under His care. Then the future is no longer an uncertainty to be feared and concerned about… it can now be approached with a confident expectation knowing that He will accompany us and protect us no matter what the future may hold. (Pro 3:5-6, Psa 32:8, Jer 6:16)

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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The Good Samaritan

August 5, 2011 7:46 pm / 2 Comments on The Good Samaritan

One of the most common phrases used to describe someone who helps others in times of need is “a Good Samaritan”. This phrase has become so common that in many cases, those using this title have no idea its source or contextual meaning.

The original description and story behind the Good Samaritan is found in God’s Word… let’s take a few minutes to read about the Good Samaritan and how his actions affect every one of us.

THE SCRIPTURE:

Luke 10:25-37 (KJV)

25) And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?…37) And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

THE STUDY:

For us to properly understand the story of the Good Samaritan, we need to notice the pretext of this story found in Luke 10:25-29…

And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

Here, we find the Lord talking to a lawyer (a person who was educated in the Old Testament laws of God.) The lawyer stands up, and asks a question of Christ desiring to trip up Christ and find fault with Him.

He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?

To avoid falling into the lawyer’s trap Jesus wisely responds by asking the lawyer two questions….“ What is written in the law? How readest thou?”

And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

The lawyer responds with a quote from the OT found in Deut 6:5

And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.

Here, Jesus knew that no fallen human can love the Lord with all their heart, soul and mind. Jesus response was clearly an attempt by Christ to point out the lawyer’s great spiritual need… to recognize his sin and then come to Christ for the forgiveness.

But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?

However, the lawyers response clearly indicates that he was blind to his own sinful condition.

The lawyer had missed the point. He didn’t want to own up to his own sinful condition. He now was trying to change the subject to the second part of his response, the need to love our neighbour as ourself.

This is where Christ now begins the story of the Good Samaritan. Christ, in His infinate wisdom seeks to show this man his sinful condition, his need of salvation, as well as trying to answer this man’s question about who is our neighbor….

And Jesus answering said, A certain [man] went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded [him], and departed, leaving [him] half dead.

Here, the Lord begins the story by presenting sinful mankind’s condition before salvation. Mankind, following Satan’s attack in the garden of Eden is now sinful, naked in God’s presence and mortally wounded. Sinful man is now half dead…. He is spiritually dead while still possessing physical life. Soon, however, he will be totally dead without God’s intervention in his life. This was the lawyer’s current condition.

31) And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

Here, the priest represents organized religions. They can do nothing to heal this man’s condition. Religion without submission to the will and ways of God is simply hypocrisy and of no value to God nor man.

32) And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked [on him], and passed by on the other side.

Next, the Levite (a picture of the law) passes by, once again of no help to this wounded man. All of our works of righteousness are nothing in the sight of a Just God.

33) But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion [on him],

Jesus Christ is pictured by this Samaritan. Here Christ comes to the wounded one, the helpless one, the half dead one. When Christ saw him, out of mercy based upon love He begins to help meet his needs.

34) And went to [him], and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

Christ goes to the sinner, medicates his wounds of sin with the Spirit (oil) and His blood (wine). He then supports and enables him through His Spirit (beast) leading him to His church (inn).

It was there at His church that this man was cared for by God and loved.

35) And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave [them] to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

Here Christ is seen paying the debt of the sinner, giving this debt payment to the host (the saints in the congregation). By this He is enabling the host to care for the newly saved one. In other words, He is giving the church the truth and leadership and other blessings so that they can properly care for him. At Christ’s second coming a further set of blessings (rewards) will be given to those who are faithful in caring for this newly saved man.

36) Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?

After Christ told this story, trying to show this man his sin and the salvation and care that is found in Christ, Jesus now points him to the answer to his question… the Samaritan is the true neighbor of the man is such great need.

37) And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

Now once, again Christ places the responsibility on the man to show mercy to those who has wronged him. Again Christ, is trying to show him his sin and need to come to Christ for salvation.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

We need to never minimize what the Lord did for us when He came to us, saved, us and then led us by His Spirit into His church where we are fed and cared for.

For those who have yet to be saved…

Don’t be like this man who was unwilling to take an honest look at his sin and spiritual needs. By being honest with ourselves, and our God, we can not only see our spiritual need and look to Him to meet that need.

Heb 12:2 (KJV)

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.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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I Am The Lord: That Is My Name

July 30, 2011 8:15 am / 8 Comments on I Am The Lord: That Is My Name

On a recent broadcast of the “In Touch” TV program (www.intouch.org), I heard a song entitled “God Of The Ages”. It is a beautiful, Scriptural song (it is based upon Colossians chapter 1) declaring our Lord as the God of the Ages.

As I listened to this song it brought to my mind the following verses from Isa 42:…

“Thus saith God the LORD, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee,… I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.”

Let’s take a few minutes to see what these verses of Scripture teach us about our wonderful Lord and Savior!

THE SCRIPTURES:

Isa 42:5-12 (KJV)

5) Thus saith God the LORD, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein:

6) I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;

7) To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, [and] them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.

8) I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

9) Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.

10) Sing unto the LORD a new song, [and] his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof.

11) Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up [their voice], the villages [that] Kedar doth inhabit: let the inhabitants of the rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains.

12) Let them give glory unto the LORD, and declare his praise in the islands.

THE STUDY:

Isaiah’s Description of the Lord…

Isa 42:5-12 (KJV)

Before Isaiah delivers God’s message to the people of Judah, he emphasizes the greatness of the author of this message….

Isaiah emphasizes three workings of this great God…

1) He is Creator of All – he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it

2) He gives us Physical Life – he that giveth breath unto the people upon it

3) He gives us Spiritual Life. – and spirit to them that walk therein:

What This Lord Has Done For Us (By Sending Christ on Our Behalf)…

Isaiah now delivers God’s message to the people. The message beings with a reminder of all the Lord has done for us when He sent His Son to save us…

6) I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;

7) To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, [and] them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.

The Workings of the Father IN the Son…

1) The sinlessness of His Son – I the LORD have called thee in righteousness,

2) The Father’s accompanying of His Son – and will hold thine hand,

3) The Father’s protection of His Son – and will keep thee,

The Workings of the Father THROUGH the Son…

1) The Father’s eternal plan of salvation based upon the work of the Son – and give thee for a covenant of the people,

2) The Father’s giving of Truth through the Son – for a light of the Gentiles; To open the blind eyes,

3) The Father’s liberation from sin’s bondage through the Son – to bring out the prisoners from the prison, [and] them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.

How Can We Show Him Our Appreciation?….

Based on who He is and what He has done for us in sending Christ on our behalf; how do we show Him our appreciation?

1) By putting Him first in our lives… I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

“Lord” – Master, Ruler, Authority Holder

2) By recognizing His greatness – Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare:

3) By recognizing what He does for us – Before they spring forth I tell you of them.

4) By verbally declaring His greatness and workings to all mankind, everywhere – Sing unto the LORD a new song, [and] his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof. Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up [their voice], the villages [that] Kedar doth inhabit: let the inhabitants of the rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains.

5) Making Him shine in the eyes of others through our actions – Let them give glory unto the LORD, and declare his praise in the islands.

Glory – to give great importance to
Praise – to make shine in the eyes of others

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have received the Lord’s gracious offer of salvation, let us serve Him with our whole heart realizing what a great God we serve.

Now that we have seen how our Gracious, Loving Heavenly Father has sent His Son to the earth for the sake of His people…. Our need is to accept this message by faith and turn to the Lord to receive forgiveness and spiritual life.

If you have any questions about salvation, I have a tab available on my blog that gives in depth information on what salvation is and what you must do to be saved. Please click on this link for more information about salvation.

If you continue to have questions or concerns about your salvation, find a Bible-believing church in your area. The Pastor would be glad to share Christ and the way of salvation with you. If you feel more comfortable communicating through email, you are always welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com.

May the Lord bless you as you seek His truth.

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My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month):

www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com

www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

What does God Look Like ?

July 23, 2011 10:02 am / 4 Comments on What does God Look Like ?

We all have our own concept of what God looks like. Some of us think of God as an old man with a long gray beard and robes; a young youthful powerful man; a carved or molten totem made by man; or even an inanimate object found in nature. With all these differing ideas about God’s appearance, how does God appear in His Word?

THE SCRIPTURE:

Dan 7:9-14 (KJV)

I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment [was] white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne [was like] the fiery flame, [and] his wheels [as] burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened. I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld [even] till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame. As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time. I saw in the night visions, and, behold, [one] like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed.

THE STUDY:

Several times in God’s Word we find man seeing God in visions or dreams. Some of the many times God is seen is found in: Ezek 1:26-28, Dan 7:9-14, Rev 1:13-16, Rev 14:14 etc. In every case, the vision of God varies in appearance, with each descriptive element of the vision symbolizing a truth about our God.

In this blog entry, we will be looking at Daniel 7:9-14 to help us illustrate the use of symbolism in descriptions of God’s appearance:

The appearance of God the Father:

I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit,

The “thrones” that are cast down signifies the overturning of the different nations and rulers of this world by the ultimate authority holder, God Himself. God is given the title the “Ancient of Days” referring to the fact that He is the One who has, and will eternally exist.

whose garment [was] white as snow,

Here, the purity of God is being described using the symbolism of white clothing. White being symbolic of purity, while black many times is used to illustrate the wickedness or “darkness” of this world.

and the hair of his head like the pure wool:

Here the wisdom of God is in view. The head being the center of the thought and judgment processes, while the symbolism of wool for His hair is a representation of thickness, vitality and abundance. The white color of wool is a picture of purity.

Remember, in the context, we are looking at God who is the Judge of all “the judgment was set and the books were opened”. What is being described is the fact that God’s judicial decisions are always wise, pure and in abundance. He never lacks perfect wisdom, nor does He ever cease to exercise it.

his throne [was like] the fiery flame,

His throne, speaks of His authority to rule. The fiery flame is a picture of punishment of sin (example: lake of fire) and also it pictures judgment based upon the truth of His Word. His Word is described as a “lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path” by the psalmist.

[and] his wheels [as] burning fire.

In those days, thrones had wheels on them allowing them to be moved swiftly. Here in symbol, we are taught that the judgments of God, even though brought upon the guilty very swiftly, are still just and right.

A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him:

As the Lord renders His sentence upon the lost it is much like a flame of fire, picturing His Word as it departs from His mouth. The flames are also a picture of the end result of His decrees … the judgment of sin.

thousand thousands ministered unto him,

Again, we have the authority of Lord being illustrated. Millions of people serving the Lord shows His authority over all. This is a picture of those saved by His grace now serving Him throughout eternity.

and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him:

His judgment of hundreds of millions of people, again shows what great authority and control He exercises over all mankind. These hundreds of millions show us that He has authority over all the lost. He stands in righteous, pure judgment over them.

the judgment was set, and the books were opened…

the time of His judging the lost has come…. The 66 books of the Bible are opened, a prelude to the judgment of their works. (see Rev 20:12)

The appearance of God the Son:

I saw in the night visions, and, behold, [one] like the Son of man

Daniel had received these visions in the nighttime (perhaps they were dreams). In this vision he sees the Lord Jesus Christ entering the throne room.

came with the clouds of heaven,

Several times in the Scriptures Christ’s coming to the earth is associated with the clouds. Besides His literal coming in the clouds at His second coming, the symbolism here is teaching us that Christ’s origin is heaven. It also teaches us of His glory and majesty as He is exalted over mankind.

and came to the Ancient of days,

He comes to God the Father, having perfect communion with Him.

and they brought him near before him.

The servants of God now escort Christ to God… much like a visiting King is escorted into a city by its citizenry. This procession was a symbol of respect and recognition of authority.

And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom,

Here, due to the faithfulness of Christ during His first coming, is exalted as King of King and Lord of Lords. The Father is placing Christ in a position of authority and honor. (Phils 2:1-11)

that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him:

The authority of Christ places Him over all mankind. No man or created being holds authority over Him.

his dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed.

The authority of Christ will never be taken away, it is without end. Throughout eternity, He will be looked upon as our King and Lord.

As we have seen in this example, Daniel’s vision of God was symbolic in nature, teaching us many truths about the attributes of our God. This principle holds true with all the other sightings of God that we find in the Word of God. As a matter of fact, the Bible makes it very plain that…

John 1:18 (KJV)

No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared [him].

So basically what we are told in the Bible is that by looking at Christ, His life and His words, we will see the Father in Him. Christ is the ultimate representative of God on earth… He WAS God on earth. This is why to be able to see God we must look to Christ.

What does God look like? I have no idea. Remember, God is a spirit, it is possible that He is not visible to man, apart from the fleshly body He took upon Himself when He came in the person of Jesus Christ to the earth.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have experienced God’s gracious salvation…

We have already come to know God through His Son Jesus Christ… as we live our lives on earth, our search for God’s will and ways should be centered upon the Lord Jesus Christ. He is our central focus to see God and learn of His ways.

For those who have never been saved from their sins…

The answer to your search for God is find in Christ Jesus and Him alone. Your first priority is to learn of the grace and truth of God. It is through a knowledge of His Word and His gracious intervention in your life that you may be saved and enter a close relationship with God…

John 1:12-14

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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Escaping Fear’s Grip Part 3

July 15, 2011 6:59 pm / 2 Comments on Escaping Fear’s Grip Part 3

Anyone who is familiar with the current events of the day, realize that we are living in fearful times.

Terrorism; our nation’s debt, crime, and unemployment; the decrease in value of our homes, investments, savings and retirement plans; shortages of oil and food; the recent rash of floods, tornadoes, earthquakes and volcanoes; personal tragedies and trials, the loss of health, the loss of strength that comes with aging or sickness… all of these, and many others, produce anxiety, fear, and in some cases panic, in the hearts and minds of us all.

So what are we to do in these troubled times? What is the answer to fear in the hearts of someone who has lost their job, is facing the foreclosure of their home and, perhaps, does not know where their next meal is coming from? What about those who are suffering the loss of a loved one through death or divorce? Even worse, what can possibly take away the anxiety and stress that stems from losing a loved one who was the sole provider for the family? What comfort can be given to someone who is facing failing health with no medical reason to believe things will get better?

By God’s grace, over the next few blog entries we will be looking into the Word of God to see what comfort we can find during these catastrophic times of our life. In our 3-part study we will be looking at three basic principles:

Realize that the fearful times will remind us of God’s presence in our lives. He is always with us.
Realize that the fearful times fulfill a purpose in our lives. It opens doors of opportunity to us.
Realize that the fearful times will come to an end. A glorious eternity awaits us.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Rev 21

1) And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

2) And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

3) And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be] their God.

4) And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

5) And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

Ps 30:5 (KJV)

5) For his anger [endureth but] a moment; in his favour [is] life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy [cometh] in the morning.

Rom 8:18 (KJV)

18) For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

2Cor 4:16-18 (KJV)

16) For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day.

17) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory;

18) While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.

Heb 11:13-16 (KJV)

13) These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

14) For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.

15) And truly, if they had been mindful of that [country] from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.

16) But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

THE STUDY:

If you are like me, it is during the fearful times of my life that time seems to stand still. My fearful times seem to last for an eternity…. hour by hour, day after day… they seem to continue on, almost without end. Then finally, there appears light at the end of my tunnel and the sun beings to shine once again.

But this is only my perception of things. In reality, the fearful, difficult times of my life, in comparison to eternity, only last a moment….

2 Cor 4:16-18 – “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.”

Let’s stop and think about it just a minute, even if our fearful time last a lifetime, compared to eternity it is nothing. A lifetime is basically 80 years. Compared to eternity, 80 years is nothing. If you would take one grain of sand and compare it to all the sand found on every beach in the world, our time of distress would be smaller. If you would take one drop of water and compare it to all the water in the oceans, rivers, lakes and wells in this world, our time of trials would be less. Truly, in the big scheme of things, a Christian is so blessed knowing that the trials of life are only short-lived and we have a wonderful eternity awaiting us…

Rom 8:18 – “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us. “

As we read His Word, we become familiar with many of the servants of our Lord who faced trial upon trial, distress upon distress. Think of the Apostle Paul who suffered tremendous heartache and trials at the hands of those that opposed Christ and His ministers…

2Cor 11:23-27 -” Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I [am] more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty [stripes] save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; [In] journeyings often, [in] perils of waters, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils by [mine own] countrymen, [in] perils by the heathen, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.”

This same Paul, who so greatly suffered at the ends of the enemies of Christ, was able to write that these sufferings were not “able to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed in us”.

What a tremendous truth that applies to every follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. Every fearful time we face is under our Lord’s control… it is for our good and His glory… and it is only temporal in nature. It cannot be compared to the glorious eternity awaiting us!

Chapter 11 of the book of Hebrews summarizes the great motivation that kept the OT saints as they served their Lord. In verse number 13-16 we read…. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that [country] from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

How could the OT saints be faithful to their God in the midst of such trials and struggles that they faced? How could they continue on in the midst of so many fearful times in life? It was this very principle that kept them going…. they knew that they had awaiting them a far better place. They knew they had eternity with their Lord to look forward to.

You may ask, “What is so special about eternity for the Christian?” No mortal man can begin to explain the greatness of eternity with God. However, by His grace, He revealed eternity to the Apostle John and, then, God gave John the words to pen in Revelation chapter 21:& 22:. Here, we find beautiful descriptions of eternity with our Lord. I would encourage every believer to memorize these chapters, and then use them as a constant motivation to serve our Lord.

For purposes of this blog, I will share only the beginning verses of chapter 21.

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be] their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

When we read these verses, I believe it pretty much sums it up. Yes, dear fearful, suffering believer, your fears will come to an end and your sufferings will pass. Someday, in the near future you will no longer be in the presence of sin, sickness, trials and distress. Fear will be a thing of the past. We will be with our Lord, enjoying His glory, His love, and His eternal presence.

As we conclude our study on dealing with the fearful times of our lives, let us all remember that, for God’s people, our sorrows and fears will only last a season…. but joy will come in the morning when we go home to be with our Lord.

Psa 30:5 – For his anger [endureth but] a moment; in his favour [is] life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy [cometh] in the morning.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

We have seen that the Bible clearly promises that the fearful times in our lives do not have to overcome us. We can be victorious even when we are in the midst of these dark, seemingly hopeless situations that we face….

How can we know if this promise applies to us? David, in Psalm 27:1, touches on this subject.

“[A Psalm] of David. The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

In these verses, David links his relationship to God with the application of His promises to us. David describes his relationship to God as “the LORD is my light and my salvation”. David here says that the Lord has given him the “light” of knowledge and understanding of the truth of His Word. He goes further and says that the Lord is his “salvation”.

It is only when we have been enlightened with the truths of His Word and we have received deliverance from our sins, that we can apply His promises to our lives. Have you ever been forgiven of your sins? Have you ever come to Him understanding your spiritual needs and His divine supplies?

May the Lord bless you as you seek His truth.

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My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month):

www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com

www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

Settled In Heaven Blog

Yearly Archives: 2011

New Year’s Devotion: Entering 2012 With Hope

Little Is Much When God Is In It

The Religions of The World

Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – Part # 6

Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part # 5

Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part # 4

Finding God’s Will For Our Lives Part #3

Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – What Is God’s Will? (Part #2)

Finding God’s Will For Our Lives – What Is God’s Will? (Part #1)

The Invitation of the Gospel

Christ The Lamb Of The New Testament

The Sown Seed

Nehushtan:The Thing of Brass

Anger: A Gift From God

Who is God?

Ask The Stars… They Will Tell You

The Good Samaritan

I Am The Lord: That Is My Name

What does God Look Like ?

Escaping Fear’s Grip Part 3

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