Facing your pain from the past - Day 2

Not a Victim Anymore

At one point or another, most of us have been a victim of something. Whether is abuse, discrimination, wrongdoing, or a false accusation, being a victim can be painful, frustrating, and even devastating.

In John 5 it invites us into the story of a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years. Upon encountering him, Jesus asked him a profound question...

Wilt thou be made whole?

In the story the man responded with a list of obstacles that were standing in the way of his healing. He pointed fingers at his circumstances and the actions of others. In other words, he responded with a victim mindset. But Jesus gave him a directive, "Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." Upon doing so, he was healed of his condition. I believe that Jesus is asking you and I the same question, "Do you want to get well?"

We have options we can either continue to focus on the obstacles and find excuses that will keep us stuck in the conditions and mindsets that perpetuate our sense of victimhood, or we can stand up, take responsibility for what is ours, and walk towards freedom and healing. The choice is ours, We can continue to find reasons and excuses that justify why we are the way we are, or we can decide to get well. The beautiful thing about choosing to get well is that with God's strength, we have the capacity to not only survive victimization we once experienced, but to overcome it completely. Romans 8:37 " Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us."

The Hard Work of Forgiveness

Forgiveness isn't endorsement and it certainly isn't accompanied by warm, fuzzy feelings. Forgiveness is a choice we make. The directive to forgive those who have wronged us comes from God. He asks this of us, not because it is easy, but because it is good. In fact, He knows, better than anyone, the cost of forgiveness. God himself models what He asks of us. He asks us to forgive others, just as He generously extends His forgiveness to us. (Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:32, Mark 11:25)

Jesus paid with his very life. He knows the cost. But, He also know the freedom it brings. As I have committed to the hard work to forgiveness, I have discovered that it is a vertical transaction between God, and you, more than it is a horizontal one between you, and another human. Forgiveness is setting someone free, and realizing the prisoner was you. You can be filled with hatred and rage towards the person but you will feel horrible sense of guilt for wishing things on a person. Many cases the people that have hurt us go on living their lives, often unaware or apathetic to the depth of our pain, while we are left with anger, hurt, and bitterness.

Unforgiveness holds everyone prisoners. The way to get free is to set others free. With rage and bitterness absent from your heart, there is room for more precious things like joy, hope and gratitude. Going before God and releasing the people who have done wrong to us by forgiving them isn't always easy, but it is good.

Everyone Story Matters

Having to share your story no matter what it is, we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. In Revelation 12:11 "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto death." Be encourage that God could use your story to set other people free. If they have a problem with your story, that is between them and God, we are not to judge. Your story belongs to God Sharing a story is powerful. It shows people what is possible, and we all have a story to tell.

There are people who need to hear your story. In John 4 we have the story of the samaria woman in the well, she return to town and shared her story about Jesus. There are people on the other end of your perseverance. They are counting on you to overcome the obstacles you are facing and to be brave enough to share. When we share our story, we give the gift of "me too", "been there done that". We help people to tangibly understand that they are not alone.

Let your story be heard, seen, and spoken by others so they can also feel the presence of the lord, walking by faith and filled with the Holy Spirit and share your story. Your story of salvation, what brought to be saved.

GB,
Essie

seven day devotional summerized in 2 at bible.com

Facing your pain from the past - Day 1

The Book of Ephesians

Ephesians 5:18-21

I. SPEAKING Godly Music (vs 19)

Ephesians 5:19 & Colossians 3:16

II. SINGING a Godly Melody (vs 19)

Ephesians 5:19, Psalms 7:17, & Psalms 18:49

III. SUPPLYING a Godly Grateful Message (vs 20)

Ephesians 5:20, I Thessalonians 5:18, Ephesians 5:4, & Hebrew 13:15

(Complaining we all do it even when life is good. Replace your addiction with something else, be positive.)

IV. SUBMITTING to a God-given model (vs 20)

Ephesians 5:21, Hebrew 13:17 (Parenting), & James 4:7

A. To our MASTER

B. In our MARRIAGE (vs 22)

MELODY - Soul

HARMONY - Spirit

RHYTHM - Body (Flesh)

• Heavy in Rhythm is not a good Christian music.
• No double standards in music.
• Praise the Lord not the flesh (Psalms 7:17)

THINK

Check out @nickygumbel's Tweet: https://twitter.com/nickygumbel/status/772892022319509504?s=09

Before you speak: THINK T : Is it true? H : Is it helpful? I : Is it inspiring? N : Is it necessary? K : Is it kind?

GB,
Essie

Why Read your Bible Final lesson

We must let go of the good to grab hold of the better. To live a better life, strive for wisdom. Don't let yourself be fooled by the so-called "wisdom" of the world, but instead focus on true wisdom that comes only from God. Proverbs 16:16 says, "How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!"

Read Proverbs 16

Gb
Essie

Why Read your Bible #15

In Proverbs 15 and Psalm 37, we find more thoughts about making the better choice of living with one handful, such as Proverbs 15:16, which says, "Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith." In other words, it's far better to have little with God than have much without Him.

Read Psalms 37

GB
Essie

Why Read your Bible #14

The Book of Proverbs offers some great thoughts on the value of living with one handful such as in Proverbs 13:7, which tells us that a plain and simple life is a full life.

Read Proverbs 13

GB
Essie

Why Read your Bible #13

Jesus said that our one handful should be focused on heavenly treasures instead of earthly ones. There is no need to store up earthly treasures. The better choice is to not worry because God will always meet our needs as long as we seek Him.

Read Matthew 6:19-34

Why Read your Bible #12

How do you make the better choice of living with one handful? You fight for what does matter. Paul tells Timothy in 1 Timothy 6 to flee from the love of money and possessions and instead pursue such simple things as righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.

Read Nehemiah 4:14

GB
Essie

Why Read you Bible #11

How do you begin to live a one-handful life? Start with Jesus's parable of the rich fool in Luke 12. Don't build bigger barns to accommodate all of the unnecessary things in your life. Instead, throw stuff away as if your life depended on it. There is no need to worry and put your trust in things that don't matter because God promises to meet your needs.

Read Luke 12:13-34

GB
Essie

Why Read your Bible #10

How do you make the better choice of living with one handful? You let go of what doesn't matter. Consider downsizing, throwing out, turning off, and unplugging. Be content with what you do have.

Read Psalms 131

GB
Essie

Why Read your Bible #9

We must let go of the good to grab hold of the better. To live a better life, it's better to have less of what doesn't matter and more of what does. Solomon tells us in Ecclesiastes 6, "Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind," meaning that it is better to live a life of simplicity. This week you will learn what God's Word says regarding the importance of living with one handful instead of two.

Read Proverbs 17

GB
Essie

Why Read your Bible #8

How do you have a day with God? You hunger and thirst for His presence.

Psalms 143

GB
Essie

Why Read your Bible #7

As you strive to live with an ongoing, unending awareness of God's presence, instill a desire for His presence just in the way that David desires to dwell in God's presence in Psalms 62 and 27.

Why Read your Bible #6

In order to live with an ongoing, unending awareness of God's presence, you must develop the habit of having a daily desperation for God.

Psalms 63:1-11

Thanks
GB

Why Read your Bible #5

Obedience to God, is what gives us the unending awareness of God's presence, you must develop the habit in order to live with God in your heart at all times.

John 14:15-31

Thanks,
GB

Why Read Your Bible #4

How do you begin to live with ongoing, unending awareness of God's presence? Well, you must start a habit of constant communication with God.

Luke 18:1-8

How do you ask? By daily Bible reading, and daily Prayer. This can not be accomplished unless you get into the word of God, and start understanding his word and what he wants us to do. But you must take the first step, It wont be easy, you will be tempted to quit, and you will think you cant understand. Always start with Prayer ask God for understanding of his word, confess your sins, praise him and you will see that he will come through. God tells us that he will not leave us nor forsake us in Hebrews 13:5 Believe it and start today.

Thanks,
GB

Why Read Your Bible #3

Choose better, Choose to live with a better name. So what does a life with integrity look like? This is given to us on Psalms 15: 1-5.

Do you feel overwhelmed, dissatisfied, and stuck in the rut? Wishing your day-to day life improves? God's WORD is your guide, use it to brighter days! I have 25 more why we should read our bibles so see with me and discover ways you can go from living just a good life to living the life God wants you to have.

Why Read Your Bible #2

If I was to ask you, How do you have a day with God? What would your answer be. According to Colossians 3: 1-17 read it with me. You should live with an ongoing, unending awareness of God's presence.

Why Read Your Bible #1

We must let go of the good to grab hold of the better. Living a better life begins with understanding this one key thought from Psalm 84: Is better one day with God than thousands elsewhere. Being with his ways are better than your ways. His love is better than life. His blessings are better than material possessions.

GB
Essie

Challenges - (In the Challenge Tab)

Go to the challenges tab to see our daily challenges;

Bible Challenge - #1 - What You'll Find Between the Covers

Bible Challenge - #2 - Hey, That's Mine!

Bible Challenge - #3 - It's All Good

Bible Challenge - #4 - Lovin' the Word

Do you understand the word?

Galatians 5: 16-26

What do you understand about this passage?

Who God is . . . L

July 15, 2016

Who is God . . . Lamb of God, Law-giver, Leader, Life, Light, Lily of the Valley, Lion of the Tribe of Judah, Long suffering, Living Word, Love, Lord

Old Testament: Lord-same as Jehovah, proper name (Adonay), sovereign-master, owner
Jehovah-self-existent or eternal. Jah-the sacred name--the Lord most vehement
Psalm 93:2 "Thy throne is established of old; thou art from everlasting."
New Testament: Lord-supreme in authority

Jehovah-Jirah-Genesis 22:14 "Jehovah will see to it"

Jehovah-Nissi-Exodus 17:15 "Jehovah is my banner"

Jehovah-Shalom-Judges 6:24 "Jehovah is my peace"

Text: Exodus 6:1-8

I. What's in a Name?

• Genesis 2:4 is first time Lord is used-"self-existent, eternal"
• Matthew 4:10-"supreme in authority"
• Psalm 68:4-JAH-sacred name-"the Lord most vehement" (Exodus 6:3, Psalm 83:18, Isaiah 12:2, 26:4)

II. In the Bible? 

• Over 7,000 times (1st time Genesis 2:4, last time Revelations 22:21)
• In every book except Esther, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, I and III John.
• In all but ten Psalms.
• In almost every verse of Psalm 118.

III. The Lord and Me?

• The Lord has done this for me (just in Romans)
• justified me by faith, given me peace (5:1)
• given me joy in my atonement (5:11)
• made me alive unto God (6:11)
• given me eternal life (6:23)
• keeps me in the love of God (8:38-39)
• saved me (10:9, 13)
• makes me His (14:8)
• We as Christians need to do these for the Lord
• serve the Lord (Rom 12:11)
• put him on (Rom 13:14)
• live or die for Him (Rom 14:8)
• bow my knee and confess with my tongue (Rom 14:11)
• glorify Him (Rom 15:6)
• praise Him, laud Him extol, lift up (Rom 15:11)
• love Him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength                                                       (Matthew 22:37, Mark 12:30, Luke 10:27)
• Psalms 138:2
• Yes, the Lord is self-existent
• Yes, the Lord is supreme in authority
• Yes, the Lord is most vehement
• And yes, the Lord has given us His Word, His truth, to be magnified above his name. Why?
• so that by his word He can make Himself known to us
• so that by his word we can trust Him
• so that by his word in this relationship, the Lord will never change Who He is.

Challenge:

1. Whenever you read "Lord" in your Bible, see Him as self-existent and eternal, as your supreme authority.
2. Thank Him for creating you, considering you, and for having a plan for you.
3. Trust Him as the Lord He has been, for the Lord He is, and for the Lord He always will be.

Who is God . . . K

June 25, 2016

Who is God . . . Keeper, King of all the earth, King of Kings, Kind, Kinsman Redeemer

(Kinsma) kindred, one who redeems (redeemer) avenger, deliverer, one who ransoms, rescuer, one who purchases to redeem, one who brings forth out of 

Kinsman:  blood relative, especially a male; relative by marriage; person of same nationality or ethnic group
Synonyms: folks, kin, relation

Redeemer: one who redeems
Redeem: to buy or pay off; clear by payment; to buy back; to recover; Theological-to deliver from sins and its consequences
Synonyms: purchase, ransom, reclaim, restore

Text: Ruth

I. Our Debt in Sin

• We are sinners (Romans 3:10, 23)
• We have incurred a penalty of debt (Romans 5:12, 6:23a)
• The debt is more than we can pay (Galatians 3:13)

II. Our Redemption in Christ 
(I Peter 1:18-19, Revelation 5:9)

• Redeemed from the slavery of sin (Exodus 6:6, Isaih 44:22, Romans 3:24, Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:14)
• Redeemed to inherit eternal and abundant life (Romans 6:23b, Hebrews 9:12, 15)
• Redeemed to have a relationship with God (Psalm 103:4, Romans 6:4, Galtians 4:5)

III. Our Relationship with God

• Trust (Proverbs 3:5, Isaiah 43:1, Jeremiah 50:34)
• Commitment (I Peter 4:19)
• Love (producing by doing His will) (John 15, Titus 2:14)

Background verses on the kinsman redeemer:

     Leviticus 25:25, 48-49, Numbers 27:11

Challenge:

1. Thank God for being your kinsman-redeemer.
2. Live the abundant life by strengthening your relationship with God.
3. Trust Him, Commit to Him, and Love Him.

Worship in the Midst of Storms

Worship in the Midst of Storms

What is the perfect setting for worshiping God? Imagine standing in a beautiful field of flowers with the sun shining and a cool breeze blowing. Wouldn't you be inspired to worship God for the wonder of His creation? Now imagine a storm blowing in. Do you realize that your worship would be just as effective in all of the display of His great power? Today, we'll hear about what happens when we worship during the storms of life. 

When we listen, read, hear or see the news they tell us about major storms or hurricanes. The people who go through these describe what it was like to be in the eye of that storm--how things had been so peaceful and calm, even though the front end of the storm had passed by. Now they were in the eye and the back end of the storm was still coming. But they describe the sense of calm and rest while they are in eye of that storm. That's kind of what I picture when I see David in Psalm 57 describing the condition of his heart even while the storm is raging all around him.

David is going through an incredibly difficult storm. Look at verse 7 and see what the condition of his heart is, even while the storm is going on. Now, this is not at the end of the storm, he's still in the middle of the storm. Let’s go to Psalm 57, verse 7, He says "My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed.” Isn’t that a great way to live?

Even while the storm is raging around you to find in the refuge, in the wings, in the presence of God--the eye of the storm--a place where your heart can be quiet and calm and at rest, even while everything around you is in a state of uproar--maybe a situation in your home, a situation in your workplace or something that perhaps your church is going through that's a difficult storm.

That's not to say that you become oblivious to the storm around you but that even while you're walking through the storm, your heart can be quiet, steadfast and at rest. And remember where David is, he told us in verse 4, "My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.”

This is not an easy time in his life. But he's saying, "even with these lions, these troublesome people, these enemies who are nipping at my heels and threatening to undo me, while I'm in the middle of that lion's den, my heart is fixed. My heart is calm and quiet." You see, real peace and joy does not mean the absence of problems.

It means the presence of the Lord Jesus in the midst of the pain, in the midst of the problems and in the middle of that storm. Now we've seen that David was honest about the storms that he was in. He took refuge in God. He ran in to the name of the Lord and he cried out to God. But I want to look at a fourth thing that David did as we look at this passage, verses 7 through 10 tells us, "I will sing and give praise."

Where is David? He's in a lion's den. I don't know about you, but in the middle of a lion's den I don't know that it would occur to me to sing. But David says, "I'm going to consciously make an effort to sing praise to the Lord. I will sing and give praise. Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early."

David says, "I'm going to have private worship services with the Lord. I'm going to waken the morning, as much as these storms are heavy on my heart and nothing has changed since last night." You turned on the news last night or you turned it on this morning. It's the same news, the same problems and the same storms. There are some storms going on in our nation right now. Nothing's changed overnight.

But David says, "Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds." Singing expresses faith and I think that's one of the reasons it's one of the most frequently repeated commands in all of God's Word. "Sing to the Lord, sing to the Lord." It's not just that we're to sing to the Lord when we're at church and everyone else is singing to the Lord, but when we're in the middle of that storm--David says, "Sing to the Lord."

We should try to sing often to the Lord, select a song you like memorize that song so you can worship and sing to the Lord. Now David says, "I'm not just going to sing privately before dawn, but I'm going to sing publicly." Verse 9, "I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations.” He's saying, "It is not just a private matter of praise; I'm going to make praise my public practice. I'm going to lift up the name of the Lord and sing."

Do you sing in your home? Do you sing quietly in your workplace? Are you known in your community and with your friends as a woman of praise? I've read before from John Wesley, who says, "Our task is to give the world a right impression of God."

When we praise the Lord verbally, even when we're going through storms, we say to the world, "God is God Most High. He's the God over the storms. He's the God over the waves. This is not too great for Him."

"The storms have lifted up their voice . . ." we read in Psalm 93:4". . . but the Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea." You know our storms can become an opportunity for us to tell the world, our little world, how good God is and how great He is, to praise Him for His love and His faithfulness that He sends as His provision for us in the storm, to thank Him publicly in front of other people for God's goodness.

Why is it when somebody asks us how we are doing, we're so prone to groan or to sigh and to be exasperated? (I try not too no matter the amount of pain I am in, I try to say I am better than I deserve) But don’t you look back and I think, "What impression were you giving others about our God?" Oh, life is so hard, oh this is so difficult, I am so tired and the storm is so great. It is great, don't deny it.

But even as you're walking through that storm and others may see the storm around you, what an opportunity to magnify the name of the Lord and to say, "God is still good. God is still great; He is the ruler over the storm." When we show our faith others want to follow, you lead others by example. Right?

When we sing to the Lord, when we praise Him, when we express faith--we defeat the enemy. I believe that Satan hates it when we sing. I think that's one of the reasons he tries to keep us so depressed and so discouraged that we won't sing. That's when we have to run right into the face of our despair, our depression, our discouragement and say, "I will sing to the Lord. I may be crying so hard you can't understand the words, but I will sing and praise the Lord even while the storm is raging around me."

When we sing and when we praise, Satan is defeated. He's trying to use that storm to keep us discouraged, to keep us under the weather, to keep us from praising the Lord. And when we say, "I'm going to praise Him regardless, even before I can see the outcome, I'm going to praise Him"--then Satan's lost that battle.

I think many times he just moves on and says, "I think I'll find somebody else to attack with that storm today." I love that passage in Habakkuk, chapter 3 and the last verses of the Book of Habakkuk. The prophet talks about a time when all visible means of support are removed. It's a time of great national tragedy in which he's speaking, but it can be applied to our times of personal tragedy.

Habakkuk, chapter 3, verse 17 says, "Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls:."

What he is saying is, "No matter what's going on around me, no matter how little food there is in our pantry, no matter how little money there is in our bank account, no matter how difficult this marriage is, no matter how desperate this physician's report is or the result of this physical test, no matter what, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior." "The Sovereign LORD," he says, "is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights."

So David says, "My heart is steadfast." The storms, they can rock my circumstances, but they can't shake my heart because my heart is rooted and founded and grounded in God. And so knowing Him, I will sing, I will praise, I will give thanks. I will be joyful in God my Savior.

There's someone in this room who needs to sing. You're in a storm and you've been groaning, moaning, whining and complaining. Let me tell you, I know how to do that. (been there done that) But I'm also learning to sing, learning to verbalize praise, worship in the midst of the storm. Just say, "O God, You are more real, You are more present than anything that's going on around me. So Lord, would You open my lips and open my mouth and let me sing Your praise." And when we do, God is glorified.

GB, Essie

Who God is ... J

May 3, 2016

Who is God . . . Jealous, Jehovah, (the Eternal One), Jesus, Joy, Judge, Justification, Jehovah-Jirah (Jehovah will see to it), Jehovah-nissi (Jehova is my banner), Just

Old Testament: lawful, righteous, equally right and even, pronounced judiciously, right sentence

New Testament: equitable, innocent, holy, meet, righteous

Just: 1. guided by truth, reason, justice, and fairness
2. done or made according to principle; equitable; proper
3. based on right; lawful
4. in keeping with truth or fact; correct
7. righteous (Biblical)

Synonyms: blameless, equal, equitable, honest, honorable, lawful, nondiscriminatory, right, righteous, true, trustworthy, upright, virtuous.
Antonyms: unjust, wrong, unjustified

Text: Zephaniah 3

I. God is Just in His Laws and Commandments

• Romans 7:12 "wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good."
• Revelation 15:3 "...just and true are thy ways, thou king of saints."

II. God is Just in His Judgments

• Nehemiah 9:33 "Howbeit thou art just in all that is brought upon us; for thou hast done right, but we have done wickedly."
• Zephaniah 3:5 "The just LORD is in the midst thereof; he will do no iniquity:..."
• John 5:30 "...my judgement are just, because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me."

III. God is Just in His Salvation and Rewards

• Zechariah 9:9 "...he is just, and having salvation;..."
• I John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

IV. God Requires Men to be Just

• Leviticus 19:36 just balances and just weights.
• Deuteronomy 16:18 judge the people with just judgments.
• II Samuel 23:3 He that ruleth over men must be just.
• Proverbs 11:1 a just weight is His delight
• Proverbs 16:11 a just weight and balance
• Deuteronomy 16:20 that which is altogether just shalt thou follow.

Challenge:

1. Realize that God is just in everything He says and does.
2. Look at your own life, and confess and repent.
3. Accept God's judgments as chatisement from your Heavenly Father.
4. Live justly as God would have you live, and watch God's blessings upon your obedience multiply.

Be Inspired

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8 KJV

Be Inspired

He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints. Proverbs 2:8 KJV

Be Inspired

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 1 Corinthians 16:23 KJV

Be Inspired

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Psalms 100:1 KJV

Be Inspired

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. 3 John 1:4 KJV

Be Inspired

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Philippians 1:6 KJV

Be Inspired

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. Romans 8:28 KJV

Be Inspired

Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

Hebrews 7:25 KJV

Be Inspired

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Ephesians 1:7 KJV

Be Inspired

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

John 10:10 KJV

Be Inspired

And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord , and his name one.

Zechariah 14:9 KJV

Be Inspired

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV

Be Inpired

In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. Psalms 56:4 KJV

Be Inspired

All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. John 6:37 KJV

Be Inspired

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Romans 8:35 KJV

Who God is . . . I

March 1, 2016

Who is God . . . I - I AM, Invisible, Image of God, Intercessor

Old Testament: one who would impinge by accident or by importunity - come between, cause to intreat, fall upon, lay light upon, meet together, reach, run

New Testament: an interview; supplication-prayer confer with; to entreat in favor or against-deal with to intercede in behalf of

Intercessor:  one who intercedes

Intercede: 1. to act or interpose in behalf of someone in difficulty or trouble, as by pleading or petition. 2. to attempt to reconcile differences between two people or groups.

Synonyms: arbitrator, judge, negotiator, mediator, advocate, intervene, negotiate, plead, reconcile.

Text: Romans 8:24-39

I. Jesus Intercedes on my Behalf

• Jesus interceded and saved me (Isaiah 53:12, Romans 5:8)
• Jesus righteousness keeps me in good standing with God the Father (Isaiah 59:16, Romans 8:34)
• Jesus understands my infirmities (frailties, maladies of my soul) (Hebrews 4:15-16, 7:25)

II. The Holy Spirit Intercedes for me and with me

• The Holy Spirit helps me in my praying to the Father (Romans 8:26)
• The Holy Spirit helps me pray for the Father's will (v.27)
• The Holy Spirit intercedes on the Father's behalf as He convicts me and guides me (Romans 8:13-14)

III. I Can Intercede on the Behalf of Others . . .

• Jesus' blood gives me confidence in my faith in the Father (Ephesians 3:12)
• The Holy Spirit gives me access to the Father (Ephesians 2:18)
• I should use my privilege of prayer to intercede for others (I Timothy 2:1)

Challenge:

1. Let God intercede for you.
2. Listen to the Holy Spirit as He intercedes on behalf of the Father.
3. Use your privilege of prayer to intercede on the behalf of others.
4. Think when you excepted God into your life?

Be Inspired

O give thanks unto the Lord ; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people.

Psalms 105:1 KJV

Be Inspired

Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Romans 4:7 KJV

Be Inspired

Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.

Proverbs 15:16 KJV

Be Inspired

The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. Proverbs 18:10 KJV

Be Inspired

Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2 KJV

Be Inspired

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.

Proverbs 21:2 KJV

Be Inspired

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

1 John 4:1 KJV

Be Inspired

Commit thy works unto the Lord , and thy thoughts shall be established.

Proverbs 16:3 KJV

Who God is...H

February 17, 2016

Who is God... H-Hallowed, Health of my countenance, Heir, Help, Highest, High Tower, Holy Spirit. Honorable, Hiding Place, High Priest, Holy

Old Testament: sacred; consecrated

New Testament: sacred, pure, blameless

Holy: 1. specially recognized as or declared sacred by religious use or authority; consecrated. 2. dedicated or devoted to the service of God, the church, or religion. 3. saintly, godly; pious, devout. 4. having a spiritually pure quality. 7. inspiring fear, awe, or grave distress.

Synonyms: divine, glorified, just, moral, perfect, pure, righteous, sublime, uncorrupt.

"Because God is Holy, He expects His people to be holy.
Since God is holy, He will do amazing and mighty things."

Text: Deuteronomy 32:51-52, Numbers 20:1-13, Psalms 90

I. God is Holy

• To Israil (Isaiah 43:15)
• To the heathen (Ezekiel 39:7)
• To Christians (IPeter 1:16)
• (to be shown holy) in our praises (Psalm 22:3)
• (to be shown holy) in our song (Psalms 71:22)
• (to be shown holy) in our worship (Psalm 99:5, 9)
• (to be shown holy) in our glorying (I Chronicles 16:10)
• (to be shown holy) in our thanks (I Chronicles 16:35)
• And will be for all of eternity (Revelation 4:8)

II. I am to be Holy

• Because God is holy (Leviticus 19:2, 20:26)
• By sanctifying myself (Leviticus 11:44-45, 21:8)
• By putting away strange gods and inclining my heart toward God (Joshua 24:19)
• By obeying His commandments (Deuteronomy 26:15-19)
• By walking in His ways (Deuteronomy 28:9)
• In my dress (Numbers 15:39-40)
• In my eating habits (Deuteronomy 14:21)
• In my mind (I Peter 1:13-16

III. When Before a Holy God . . .

• Isaiah 6:1-8
• seraphims covered their faces
• Isaiah saw how undone he was
• Leviticus 16:1-4, 21:1-6 (specifications for the priests)
• Isaiah 17:7 (I am to look to my Maker with respect)

IV. Christians and Holiness Today

• The part of God in us is the Holy Spirit (Acts 11:16-18, II Timothy 1:14)
• The Holy Spirit sanctifies me (Romans 15:16)
• I am not to grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30)
• I am to present myself holy before God (Romans 12:1)
• The Holy Spirit gives the love of God in my heart (Romans 5:5)
• I can abound in hope through the Holy Spirit's power (Romans 15:13)

Challenge:

1. See God as the holy God He is.
2. Yield to the Holy Spirit as He strives to make you holy.
3. Let God's holiness affect your day, your ways, your world.

Be Inspired

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20

Be Inspired

If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:

2 Timothy 2:12 KJV

Be Inspired

For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 KJV

Who God is...G

February 08, 2016

Who is God... G-Gift of God, Giving, God, Good, Good Shepherd, Glory of God, Governor, Great, Great Physician, Guide, Glorious, Gentle, Gracious.

Old Testament: to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor; bestow; have pity upon; show mercy upon

New Testament: the divine influence upon the heart and its reflections in the life; acceptable, favorably, joy, liberality; better, easy, good, gracious, kind

Gracious: pleasantly kind, benevolent, and courteous
Synonyms: charitable, compassionate, considerate, courteous, gallant, hospitable, loving, merciful, tender, well-mannered.

Antonyms: hateful, mean, nasty, rude, unkind, vulgar
Grace: favor or goodwill freely given; unmerited favor and love of God operating in humans to regenerate or strengthen them.

"Wondering if God's grace is sufficient for you is like a little fish wondering if the vast ocean is sufficient to supply its needs."

Being gracious is you showing the grace which you have so  freely received."

Text: II Kings 13:20-25

I. Verses Stating God's Graciousness

Ps 86:15, Ps 103:8, Ps 111:4, Ps 116:5, Jonah 4:2, Luke 2:40, Luke 4:22, John 1:14, I Peter 2:3

II. God's Grace Coupled

• With mercy (Ps 103:8)
• With truth (Jn 1:14)
• With compassion (Ps 111:4)
• With truth (Col 1:6)
• With peace (II Peter 1:2)

III. God is Gracious . . .

• In giving His law (Ps 119:29, Prov 1:9)
• In His wisdom (Prov 3:22b, 4:9)
• In His judgement (Is 30:18, Amos 5:15, Ezra 9:8, Jer 31:2)
• In the giving of His Son (I Cor 1:4, Eph 2:7)
• In salvation (Acts 15:11)
• When we are humble (Prov 3:24, Jms 4:6)
• When we beseech Him (Mal 1:9)
• beseech: when you are sick and tired of your sin and come to Him broken.
• When we repent (Joel 2:13, Prov 3:24)
• When we (re)turn to Him (II Chron 30:9, Hosea 14:1-2)
• When we are stiff-necked (Nehemiah 9:17, 31)
• To those we wrong (Ex 22:27)

IV. God's Grace . . .

     saves us (Eph 2:5, 8), gives us a godly inheritance (Acts 20:32, Titus 3:7), justifies us (Rom 3:24, Titus 3:7), redeems us (Rom 3:24), abounds more than sin (Rom 5:20), decreases sin (Rom 6:1, 14-15), gives different spiritual gifts (Rom 12:6), makes us His workmanship (I Cor 15:10), should not be received in vain (II Cor 6:1), makes our doing good works possible (II Cor 9:8), is sufficient (II Cor 12:9), must be shown forth in our speech (Col 4:6), is exceeding abundant (I Tim 1:14), was given before the world began (II Tim 1:9), brings strength (II Tim 2:1), brings salvation (Titus 2:11), is where we find mercy (Heb 4:16), helps us serve acceptable (Heb 12:28), establishes the heart (Heb 13:9), brings hope (I Pet 1:13), and gives room for growth (II Pet 3:18).

Challenge:

1. Accept God's graciousness in every way He shows it.
2. Let His grace influence your life; let it regenerate and strengthen you.
3. Be gracious to others as God has been gracious to you.

Be Inspired

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 KJV

Who God is... F

February 4, 2016

Who is God... F-Father, Faithful, First Fruits, First Begotten, Fire (Consuming), Forgiving, Fortress, Firm Foundation, Fountain of Living Water, Friend.

Old Testament: companion; one for whom affection is held

New Testament: familiar associate; comrade; neighbor; one of whom we are fond

Friend: person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard; one who gives assistance

Synonyms: ally, buddy, cohort, crony, mate, sidekick

Antonyms: enemy, foe

Text: Luke 11:5-9, Proverbs 18:24

I. Some Friends in the Bible

A. Job's Friends

      1. scorned him (Job 16:20)
      2. spoke flattery (17:5)
      3. forgot him (19:14)
      4. abhorred him (19:19)
B. Amnon's friend (II Sam 13:3)
C. David's friend Hushai (I Chron 27:33, II Sam 15:32, 37: 16:16-18)
D. Haman's friend (Esther 5:11-14, 6:13)
E. Palsied man's friends (Mark 2)
F. Jesus' friend Lazarus (Jn 11:11)
G. The disciples were called friend by Jesus (Jn 15:15)

II. Some Friendship Info

A. Making Friends
     1. get them to like you
     2. develop mutual consideration, see things from each other's perspective
     3. show unconditional support and encouragement; be clear about expectations
B. The Friendship Relationship
     1. Acquaintance-someone you know in passing
     2. Friend-someone with whom you spend time and bond
     3. Good Friend-someone who knows the most about your life, with whom you go through ups and           downs of life; someone in your inner circle
     4. Best Friends-someone with whom you spend a lot of time; the first your call when excited,                   upset...someone who is there during the important moments; the one you think about during                 those times if they are not there.

III. Some Friendship Verses

     Ex 3:11, Job 2:11, 42:10, Prov 17:17, 18:24, 19:6, 22:1, 24, 27:6, 9, 17, Is 41, 8, Mt 11:19, Lk              11:5, Jn 15:13-15, Acts 27:3, Jms 2:23, 4:4

IV. How to Be a Friend (God is . . . ) (I need to be . . .)

A. Be Available (Ps 119:151) (Ps 73:28)
B. Regarding Respect (Lev 10:10) (Rom 10:12, Ps 119:5-6)
C. Keep Focused (Heb 12:29, Is 28:10) (Mt 22:37, 39)
D. Trust (Ps 22:4, 18:30) (Ps 37:3, 5, 56:3, Prov 3:5)
E. Be Trustworthy (Prov 30:5) (I Thess 2:4, I Tim 1:11)
F. Have Fun Together (Jn 15:11) (Neh 8:10)
G. Think on Each Other (Ps 40:5, 17, 139:17) (Ps 94:19)
H. Understand God's Jealousy (Ex 34:14, Deut 4:24) (II Cor 11:2)
I. Make Your Friendship a Priority (Rom 8:95) (Mt 6:33)
J. Keep in Touch (Jn 15:26) (Jn 17:14, 17, 20)

Challenge:

1. Realize the steps God has taken to be your friend.
2. Let Him be your friend.
3. Work to be a friend to God like Abraham was a friend to God.

Be Inspired

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 KJV

Be Inspired

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, Lord , wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield. Psalms 5:11-12 KJV

Be Inspired

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 1 John 2:15-16 KJV

Be Inspired

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Hebrews 13:5-6 KJV

Be Inspired

Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:20-21 KJV

Be Inspired

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Ephesians 4:1-3 KJV

Be Inspired

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:6-8 KJV

Be Inspired

For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

John 3:20-21 KJV

Be Inspired

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. James 1:5-6 KJV

Be Inspired

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 1 Peter 5:8-9 KJV

Be Inspired

Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. 1 John 4:13-15 KJV

Be Inspired

But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Luke 6:35-36 KJV

Bible Challenge - Day 1

Bible Challenge

For 2016 lets get into the word of God, found this challenge and thought to share. Here is day 1;

Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.-Proverbs 30:5-

We hope you’re enjoying your time reading the Scriptures. No matter where you read, you’ll find that God’s Word is an extremely practical, relevant, and timeless book.

Use what you learn from Bible characters’ examples—good and bad—to challenge your own walk with God. Life’s struggles aren’t meant to discourage us, but to help us grow as we apply the truth of His Word. Some of the stories in the Bible will be familiar to you, but ask God to help you read with fresh eyes. You may see something you’ve never considered before! Let Scripture reading become your daily delight . . . the joy and song of your heart.

There’s so much to discover between the covers of God’s book, and it is all “profitable” for us (2 Tim. 3:16). It’s our prayer that your biggest discovery will be that God and His plan for the world is much bigger than you can imagine. Keep up your reading, with joy!

Action Step: Today as you read, look for something you never knew before or for something that speaks to a personal need.

30 Day Challenge - Day 1

I found this 30 day for Married couples challenge and thought to share. I just changed the bible verses to KJV and changed a few things to make more a bible believing 30 day challenge. So lets try it for 2016!!! Here is the first one, enjoy. GB Essie

Husband Challenge

Voice Your Gratitude

The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. —Proverbs 31:11–12

To help you get started, have you ever thanked your husband for choosing you above all other women? He found you attractive as a person and appreciated you. Though many circumstances in your marriage may have changed, let your husband know that you are glad God brought you together and that you want to be a blessing to him for the rest of your marriage. Let him know that he can trust you to be in his corner.

Action Step: Say it out loud. One of the best opportunities to express your gratitude is first thing in the morning. How do you greet your husband each morning? Is he confident in your love? Give him a wake-up call that he’ll never forget—a big “I love you” and an “I’m so glad I’m your wife!”

A Wife’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, I want to do good to my husband by encouraging him for the next thirty days. Soften my heart to the ways that he has chosen me. Show me how to voice my gratitude for him, and teach me how to be in his corner.

Wife Challenge

Love in Word and Deep

This is my beloved and this is my friend. - Song of Solomon 5:16

Friendship is something that is cultivated through the good time and the bad. Friends can share their hearts, but they don’t step on each others hearts. Friends can be completely honest with each other, but friendships are strained when truth is not spoke in love.

How are you speaking to your beloved? Are you so used to her that you don’t appreciate the wonder of her friendship? That is your challenge this month, to make sure your wife knows she is your sweetheart and best friend. Does she know this? Have you told her, or do you assume she just knows? Don’t assume. Everyone loves to hear that they are special. Take time to appreciate your wife by demonstrating it to her. Tell her with your kind words; show her with your kind acts.

Action Step: Love is an action word.

The way to have and be a good friend is to cultivate and celebrate the relationship. As you do the challenge, celebrate with your wife. Get alone, and reflect on your beloved friend. Write her a letter, listing the qualities you admire and appreciate about her. If you are creative with words, write and frame a poem about her.

Perhaps you can prepare a special meal, just for the two of you, and read the letter or poem to her. Ask if you can pray for her—if she is willing, thank God for your love and friendship, asking for Her blessing on your home.

A Husband’s Prayer: Lord Jesus, You have loved us with Your words as well as with Your deeds. Thank You for making it clear and help me to follow in Your footsteps so that the fullness of my love for my wife is clear. Let me continue to speak words of love and to show deeds of love in the days to come. Thank You for my wife, and thank You for growing me into an encouraging husband.

Be Inspired

Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Romans 13:10 KJV

Be Inpired

For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord , and he pondereth all his goings. Proverbs 5:21 KJV

Be Inspired

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. Matthew 22:37-38 KJV