Blog: “Discovering His Living Hope”

Say What!? Who would dare have the audacity to say that there is comfort for a troubled mind? 1 Peter 1:3–7

1 Peter 1:3-7 Amplified Bible

3 Blessed [gratefully praised and adored] be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant and boundless mercy has caused us to be born again [that is, to be reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose] to an ever-living hope and confident assurance through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 [born anew] into an inheritance which is imperishable [beyond the reach of change] and undefiled and unfading, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are being protected and shielded by the power of God through your faith for salvation that is ready to be revealed [for you] in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice greatly, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 so that the genuineness of your faith, which is much more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested and purified by fire, may be found to result in [your] praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

In the normal course of life, setbacks happen. In anything worthwhile, whether it be a relationship, innovation, discovery, research, career, human experience dictates that setbacks are an indelible part of the process.

The good news is that setbacks can be overcome (John 16:33).

The bad news is we will rarely learn enough to put any good or bad lesson from that setback into any usable practical experience from which other’s can learn.

A common German folk saying says “We are too soon old and too late smart.”

This is often in reference that by midlife, we come to a realization we know very little about the world and that we aren’t actively seeking new knowledge.

What does that mean?

To me, it is all too true a statement. We get old faster than we get wise. If only we could become wise sooner and old later. The Tragedy, as Ben Franklin puts it, is that for the vast majority of us, age comes long before wisdom is realized.

To add to the tragedy, getting old is mandatory (to a certain extent, you can work to be healthy and active, but still…), however wisdom is always optional.

There are a great number of aged fools out there, just turn on the TV or Social media pages and it will not too take long before those fools reveal themselves.  

This quote also has a hidden statement, urging us to become wiser at a younger age, in so doing, “jump in with both sides of our brain,” ease “Life’s Tragedy.”

1 Peter 1:3-5 Christian Standard Bible

A Living Hope

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead 4 and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. 5 You are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

1 Peter 1:3–5 teaches us about the living hope in Christ.

We are born again to a living hope that through the resurrection of Jesus, we have an inheritance that is kept in heaven for us.

Then verse five says, For us who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 

And I just want to encourage you as a Christian. So for anyone who has put their faith in Jesus as Savior Lord of your life, right now you are being 100% guarded. (Psalm 23 and Psalm 121)

That’s what 1 Peter 1:5 is saying.

You are being guarded by the power of God for a salvation which is not yet complete.

Like yes, you are forgiven of your sin.

Yes, you are a child of God through faith in Jesus.

At the same time you are waiting.

We pray about this in light of James 5:13-20.

Followers of Jesus are waiting for the fulfillment of all of God’s promises.

For the consummation of our salvation.

The completion, the day when we are with Jesus, face to face.

With no more sin and no more sorrow no more suffering and no more death.

1 Peter 1:3–5 teaches us about the security of our salvation.

Right now in this world where the adversary is coming at us from all kinds of angles, all kinds of sides trying to distract, discourage, dishearten, destroy us.

The incomparable power of God is guarding us.

And I just want to encourage you with that today.

No matter what this world is hurling at you, you are guarded by the power of God himself.

And he will keep you.

Just keep your eyes fixed on him, trusting in him, looking to him, leaning on him, and he will guard you.

You are protected on all sides by God and not just around you, but in you.

You have the Spirit of Christ in you and in words we read later in Scripture, greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world. (1 John 4:4)

So please pray, “God, according to your Word, in 1 Peter 1:5, guard us today.

Amidst temptation, guard us from all the temptations we will face today to sin against you, to turn from you, turn against you. Guard us, we pray.

We, grievous sinners’ though we are, praise you for your promise to do that.

What God tells us specifically in His Word, that God will provide a way out, that sin does not, will not, have mastery power over us.

God has saved us all not just from sins penalty, but sins power in our lives.

This verse points us towards the culmination of our salvation.

And as we walk through suffering and trials and difficulties, God guards us from adversaries attempts to bring us down in them, destroy, pull us away from Him.

Praise God, as our guardian, our protector, our provider in every way we need for today as we wait for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time as we wait for the culmination of our salvation and the completion of our salvation.

No more sin, no more suffering, no more sorrow, no more death.

Long for that day, pray God would guard us every single day and every single moment until that far off day according to His Word.

Hebrews 4:12-13 Amplified Bible

12 For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged [a]sword, penetrating as far as the division of the [b]soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And not a creature exists that is concealed from His sight, but all things are open and exposed, and revealed to the eyes of Him with whom we have to give account.

We praise Him as our guardian.

We pray God would help us to lead others to you as their guard.

God alone can save people from the penalty and power of sin.

God alone saves people from ultimately suffering and death.

Our Triune God is our only authentic heavenly divine guard.

Acts 4:8-12 GOD’S WORD Translation

8 Then Peter, because he was filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and leaders of the people, 9 today you are cross-examining us about the good we did for a crippled man. You want to know how he was made well. 10 You and all the people of Israel must understand that this man stands in your presence with a healthy body because of the power of Jesus Christ from Nazareth. You crucified Jesus Christ, but God has brought him back to life. 11 He is the stone that the builders rejected, the stone that has become the cornerstone. 12 No one else can save us. Indeed, we can be saved only by the power of the one named Jesus and not by any other person.”

Pray that Lord Savior Jesus Christ helps us to lead others to salvation today.

In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit ….

Praying …..

Psalm 121 Complete Jewish Bible

121 (0) A song of ascents:

(1) If I raise my eyes to the hills,
from where will my help come?
2 My help comes from Adonai,
the maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip —
your guardian is not asleep.
4 No, the guardian of Isra’el
never slumbers or sleeps.

5 Adonai is your guardian; at your right hand
Adonai provides you with shade —
6 the sun can’t strike you during the day
or even the moon at night.

7 Adonai will guard you against all harm;
he will guard your life.
8 Adonai will guard your coming and going
from now on and forever.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Grace’s view of vision: you meant evil against me, but God had meant it for good to produce, reveal, this present result, so to keep many people alive. Genesis 50:15-21

Genesis 50:15-21 New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

Joseph Forgives His Brothers

15 Realizing that their father was dead, Joseph’s brothers said, “What if Joseph still bears a grudge against us and pays us back in full for all the wrong that we did to him?” 16 So they approached[a] Joseph, saying, “Your father gave this instruction before he died, 17 ‘Say to Joseph: I beg you, forgive the crime of your brothers and the wrong they did in harming you.’ Now therefore please forgive the crime of the servants of the God of your father.” Joseph wept when they spoke to him. 18 Then his brothers also wept,[b] fell down before him, and said, “We are here as your slaves.” 19 But Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid! Am I in the place of God? 20 Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good, in order to preserve a numerous people, as he is doing today. 21 So have no fear; I myself will provide for you and your little ones.” In this way he reassured them, speaking kindly to them.

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Joseph brought his father and all his brothers and their families to live in Egypt so that they would have plenty during the years of famine.

Their father, Jacob, died in Egypt, and after they buried him back at home in the land of Canaan, they all returned to Egypt (Genesis 46:1-50:14).

Now Joseph’s brothers began to worry that he still had a grudge against them.

While Jacob was alive, they thought they had a plausible line of defense to keep Joseph from seeking revenge for selling him as a slave, but now they wondered what would happen next – sold into a life of slavery or imprisonment or death .

The brothers sent a message to Joseph, in which they admitted their sins against him and pleaded for forgiveness.

Although they had been living near Joseph for several years now in Egypt, they were still not sure of his feelings toward them for their brazen act of betrayal .

Had he really forgiven them?

Had Joseph thought it through over the years?

Grudges?

Vengeance?

Proportional or disproportional Punishment?

God’s Unconditional Grace?

Joseph wept when he received their message.

Answer? He forgave his brothers, it took years for reconciliation to take shape.

When Joseph’s brothers came to him, he reassured them and helped them to see again that God had intended all of this for good.

Indeed, God was already working out his plan to make their family into a nation that would bring blessing to all others (Genesis 12:1-3).

This was a new, stunning kind of vision revealed by God to help all generations of people to testify to the amazing ways God works in our lives and in his world.

2 Corinthians 5:11-21 Common English Bible

Ministry of reconciliation

11 So we try to persuade people, since we know what it means to fear the Lord. We are well known by God, and I hope that in your heart we are well known by you as well.  12 We aren’t trying to commend ourselves to you again. Instead, we are giving you an opportunity to be proud of us so that you could answer those who take pride in superficial appearance, and not in what is in the heart.

13 If we are crazy, it’s for God’s sake. If we are rational, it’s for your sake. 14 The love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: one died for the sake of all; therefore, all died. 15 He died for the sake of all so that those who are alive should live not for themselves but for the one who died for them and was raised.

16 So then, from this point on we won’t recognize people by human standards. Even though we used to know Christ by human standards, that isn’t how we know him now. 17 So then, if anyone is in Christ, that person is part of the new creation. The old things have gone away, and look, new things have arrived!

18 All of these new things are from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and who gave us the ministry of reconciliation. 19 In other words, God was reconciling the world to himself through Christ, by not counting people’s sins against them. He has trusted us with this message of reconciliation.

20 So we are ambassadors who represent Christ. God is negotiating with you through us. We beg you as Christ’s representatives, “Be reconciled to God!”  21 God caused the one who didn’t know sin to be sin for our sake so that through him we could become the righteousness of God.

Joseph and his brothers’ reconciliation is the heart of the text we read for today.

While they aren’t roommates at the beginning of their story, they were rivals.

Their actions left indelible marks on each other’s lives.

Today’s reading shows us the pivotal moment where they turn back towards each other, restoring the relationship the brothers had so easily sacrificed in the years before.

At the beginning of the story, it’s not clear that these siblings have been changed for the better either.

It is fascinating that Joseph tells them than the change has been for the good.  

Joseph explained he felt God had turned what they intended for evil into good.

You see, in this story, God never says, “Joseph, I’m letting them do bad things to you so that you can one day do good things.”

That happens sometimes in other parts of the Bible.

Here, Joseph found meaning himself in the idea that God could help him work something deeply good out of the deeply troubling things that happened to him and also, the troubling things he did to other people.

In this case, Joseph saw that he had landed in a position that allowed him to save his family.

This act of re-membering , that is, putting the pieces of his life story together in a new way.

This new way points to a redemptive purpose, saving one’s family, and away from vengeance and more unnecessary death and destruction. 

Joseph remembers his own story for the better, choosing to walk away from the vengeance that was so close at hand and likely so tempting, and to walk towards reconciliation and renewed relationship.

What stories are you remembering, not to rationalize, hide away the bad things, you did to others, but to find an authentic way towards reconciliation with God?

Psalm 37:3-4 Revised Standard Version

3 Trust in the Lord, and do good;
    so you will dwell in the land, and enjoy security.
4 Take delight in the Lord,
    and he will give you the desires of your heart.

How are you finding yourself being changed, transformed, both for the better and being changed for good?

This is a season with great potential for destruction and delicious vengeance.

What lessons are you learning from Joseph reconciling with his brother’s that is helping you remember to reconcile a relationship, your relationship, with God?

A cross forms a bridge over the cliff into a bright landscape.

In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit ….

Praying ….

Ephesians 2:11-22 New King James Version

Brought Near by His Blood

11 Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands— 12 that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

Christ Our Peace

14 For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, 15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, 16 and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. 17 And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. 18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.

Christ Our Cornerstone

19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Loving each other without fear: My dear friends, if God loved us like this, we certainly ought to love each other. 1 John 4:7-12

1 John 4:7-12 Christian Standard Bible

Knowing God through Love

7 Dear friends, let us love one another, because love is from God, and everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 The one who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 God’s love was revealed among us[a] in this way: God sent his one and only Son into the world so that we might live through him. 10  Love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice[b] for our sins. 11 Dear friends, if God loved us in this way, we also must love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God. If we love one another, God remains in[c] us and his love is made complete in us.

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

As you scroll through social media, you will notice everyone is talking about manipulation, narcissism, gaslighting, avoidant attachment, and emotional unavailability.

It feels like we are living in a time where the primary relationship skill people learn is how to protect themselves with utmost diligence.

We are trained to look for red flags, to not be “too trusting,” to stay guarded, in control.

And sure, some of that is necessary. But we do not realize that we have become very good at protecting ourselves…and very bad at connecting with each other.

I have been blessed with a couple of “close” friends. It wasn’t always that way, though. There was a time when I didn’t share much about myself with others.

I went to great lengths to hide the “not pretty” part of my life in a figurative Fort Knox strong bank vault, with the bad memories boxed up on the top shelf.

There were things I had learned that you do not talk about.

All of this changed when I started a new season of small group at church.

Within those safe spaces, I learned I could risk sharing my life with others and be fully accepted.

This surprised me.

I realized the vault doors had to be opened, and the memories, one by one, taken off the shelf, boxes opened, and shared with others. What I learned was that friendship is a blessing and absolutely essential to the Christian life.

In friendship, we encourage each other and help each other grow.

I have a friend with a gift for encouragement. He has a great way of encouraging me in the Lord and reminding me of the Lord’s truth not my own. I can come with my hard circumstances and prayer requests and leave with a sense of hope.

In 1 Thessalonians 5, it says, “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 Amplified Bible

9 For God has not destined us to [incur His] wrath [that is, He did not select us to condemn us], but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died [willingly] for us, so that whether we are awake (alive) or asleep (dead) [at Christ’s appearing], we will live together with Him [sharing eternal life]. 11  Therefore encourage and comfort one another and build up one another, just as you are doing.

It is so critically important to encourage each other because life can get chaotic.

We need each other’s help to keep going.

As friends, we also help each other grow.

In Proverbs, it says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17).

We make each other better in Christ.

We help each other in times of need.

John 13:34-35 Amplified Bible

34 I am giving you a new commandment, that you [a]love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.”

1 John 4:11-12 “Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.”

As we put our love into action, we show each other trust and the love of Christ.

We confess our sins to each other.

In Galatians 6, Paul says, “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2).

1 John 1:5-9 Amplified Bible

God Is Light

5 This is the message [of God’s promised revelation] which we have heard from Him and now announce to you, that God is Light [He is holy, His message is truthful, He is perfect in righteousness], and in Him there is no darkness at all [no sin, no wickedness, no imperfection]. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness [of sin], we lie and do not practice the truth; 7 but if we [really] walk in the Light [that is, live each and every day in conformity with the precepts of God], as He Himself is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another [He with us, and we with Him], and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin [by erasing the stain of sin, keeping us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations]. 8 If we say we have no sin [refusing to admit that we are sinners], we delude ourselves and the truth is not in us. [His word does not live in our hearts.] 9 If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], will forgive our sins, cleanse us  continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].

What I found in surrendering, sharing these hard things with friends is we begin to confront, reality check, fight this battle together—I am no longer by myself in it. It also removes the shame that I feel, which causes me to hide sin.

Coming further into the light, my friends have been waiting and ready to help.

In James, it says,

“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16).

When we stop hiding our sin from each other and from God, He can heal us.

Intersecting Faith & Life:

As I’ve continued to learn about friendship, I’ve found that friends help pick each other up.

In Ecclesiastes, it says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

The writer continues, “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

I pray that you find these things to be true in your friendships as well.

Genesis 2:18-25 Amplified Bible

18 Now the Lord God said, “It is not good (beneficial) for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper [one who balances him—a counterpart who is] [a] suitable and complementary for him.” 19 So the Lord God formed out of the ground every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to Adam to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called a living creature, that was its name.  20 And the man gave names to all the livestock, and to the birds of the air, and to every animal of the field; but for Adam there was not found a helper [that was] suitable (a companion) for him. 21 So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam; and while he slept, He took one of his ribs, closed up the flesh at that place. 22 And the rib which the Lord God had taken from the man He made (fashioned, formed) into a woman, and He brought her and presented her to the man. 23 Then Adam said,

“This is now bone of my bones,
And flesh of my flesh;
She shall be called Woman,
Because she was taken out of Man.”

24 For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and shall be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. 25 And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed or embarrassed.

In Genesis 2 we find a close-up of the first wedding ever celebrated.

It took place in Paradise at the beginning of history, and it was one of the most impressive events ever.

The setting was more beautiful than at any other wedding.

The first bride and groom, Adam and Eve, were surrounded by the unstained, breathtaking beauty of God’s creation.

No modern-day florist or outdoor photographer could begin to capture the beauty of that setting.

Most impressive about that first wedding, though, was God himself conducted the ceremony: “the LORD God made a woman … he brought her to the man.”

This is the Bible’s way of teaching us coming together, being brought together, is from God, established as a creation ordinance.

1 John 1:1-4 Common English Bible

Announcement about the word of life

1 We announce to you what existed from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have seen and our hands handled, about the word of life. 2 The life was revealed, and we have seen, and we testify and announce to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us. 3 What we have seen and heard, we also announce it to you so that you can have fellowship with us. Our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We are writing these things so that our joy can be complete.

Fellowship was not invented by a human being; it was instituted by God when he created “male and female” (Genesis 1:27) brought Adam and Eve together.

Disciples of Jesus aren’t lost when they are right where God has told them to be.

And God the Father has told us to enjoy fellowship with him and Jesus and with the community of believers.

We are never really lost when we are connected in fellowship with God and with other Christians. We become lost when we think we can go it alone in this world.

God didn’t create us as an island to be alone or to walk out this life by ourselves.

In all sincerity I pray that God will bring you the right people at the right time to empower, inspire, prosper and strengthen the relationships you already have.

In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit ….

Praying ….

Acts 2:42-47 English Standard Version

The Fellowship of the Believers

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe[a] came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

When does a fool seriously consider the authentic God value of their soul? Luke 12:15-21

Luke 12:15-21 New American Standard Bible

15 But He said to them, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one is affluent does his life consist of his possessions.” 16 And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man was very productive. 17 And he began thinking to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’ 18 And he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and I will store all my grain and my goods there. 19 And I will say to  [a] myself, “You have many goods stored up for many years to come; relax, eat, drink,  and enjoy yourself!”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night [b]your soul is demanded of you; and as for all that you have prepared, who will own it now?’ 21  Such is the one who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich in relation to God.”

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

The Value of Our Soul

Foolishness and Wickedness of People.

14 The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.”
They are corrupt, they have committed detestable acts;
There is no one who does good.

Psalm 38:5New American Standard Bible
5 My [a]wounds grow foul and fester
Because of my foolishness.

Psalm 85:8 New American Standard Bible

8 [a]I will hear what God the Lord will say;
For He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones;
And may they not turn back to [b]foolishness.

A certain ungodly tavern-keeper who liked music decided to attend one of John Wesley’s meetings to hear the singing.

He had resolved however, not to listen to the sermon.

He sat with his head down and fingers in his ears.

But when God wants to speak to a man’s soul, He has His ways.

A fly flew on the man’s nose and when he attempted to drive it away, he heard nine words that changed his life.

He heard Mr. Wesley say,

“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

From that moment the ungodly tavern-keeper had no rest in his soul.

He returned the next night, listened intently and was converted.

Jesus said in the Gospel of Matthew,

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matthew 16:26

Matthew 16:24-26 The Message

24-26 Then Jesus went to work on his disciples. “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me, I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for?

The human soul is a priceless treasure; it is the real you.

In fact, the Bible teaches that your soul is more valuable than the whole world!

Yet, far too many people “sell their souls” for what surely are petty bargains, and temporary wealth.

We are far far more than just material beings and science and psychology has proposed; the Bible teaches that we are body, soul and spirit.

We also see that a great price was paid for the soul, but not in an earthly sense.

1 Peter 1:18-19 says,

“you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold,… but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

Jesus Christ allowed himself to die on a cross for your soul.

His death pays the penalty for the sins of those who believe on Him by faith.

But just as the man in this parable neglected and lost his soul.

It is possible for you to lose your soul forever.

I want to share with you 3 reasons why many people lose their soul in the end.

Three reasons why many people lost their souls:

I. WRONG PREPARATION (v. 16-18)

This man’s life was far too busy in pursuing the comforts of this life and not on pursuing God.

The farmer cares was about to BUILD BIGGER BARNS, but God brought in a new perspective.

The farmer won’t live to see them.

In fact, he won’t live to BUILD BIGGER BARNS. He made plans only for this life but not what comes after. God was not in his life. He did not consider God at all.

Jesus wants us to see things in the right perspective.

He told the young man who came to Him:

“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (12:15)

12:24 “Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them.”

12:27 “Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labour or spin…” and look how God clothes them.

You can lose your soul if you plan for yourself alone.

You were created to pursue a relationship with God; riches or sin can never satisfy your soul. (Mt. 6:33)

In the parable, God called this man a fool. He had amassed great wealth, but was poor toward God.

“Nothing is wrong in seeking great things. But it is wrong to seek great things for only yourself” – Oswald Sanders

Jesus reminds us of the need to remember God – the Source of all our blessings.

God wants us to invest in things that has eternal value.

We must invest our life – time, talent, knowledge – in the work of His Kingdom.

Lay up “treasures in heaven..” (cf.12:33).

Live life in the light of eternity and we shall be greatly blessed.

All that the farmer has – will not go to him, and will not go with him.

Life without God is meaningless.

Man finds true fulfilment in this world – we want to have “plenty of good things laid up for many years” and then we can “take life easy; eat, drink and be merry” (v.19)

Jesus says true fulfillment can only come through a relationship with our God.

“Security in life does not lie with barns but with God.”

II. WRONG INTENTION (v. 19)

The chairman of the community charity called on a notorious miser.

“Sir,” said the fund-raiser, “our records show that despite your wealth, you’ve never once given to our drive.”

“Do your records show that I have an elderly mother who was left penniless when my father died?” fumed the tightwad.

“Do your records show that I have a disabled brother who is unable to work?

Do your records show I have a widowed sister with four small children who can barely make ends meet?”

“No, sir,” replied the embarrassed volunteer.

“Our records don’t show those things.”

“Well,” said the miser. “I don’t give to any of them, so why should I give anything to you?”

This man’s heart was filled with pride and self-reliance – He was a self-made man read (verse 19)

There are 2 sins of a man that are bred in the bone: one is self-dependence and the other is self-exultation—Spurgeon

I Timothy 6:17-18 

“Tell those who are rich not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which will soon be gone, but their pride and trust should be in the living God who always richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and should give happily to those in need, always being ready to share with others whatever God has given them” (Living)

“All day long the wicked covets, but the righteous gives and does not hold back.”  Proverbs 21:26 (RSV)

The real issue here is not your possession (rich or poor), the issue here is your focus—self?

The command is general=“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:16 (RSV)

The problems today is perhaps, probably, most certainly, definitely…the church is poor because Christians do not give to the Lord???

Illustration: A pastor stood before his church and said,

“I’ve got some good news and some bad news. The good news is that the church has all the money it needs… The bad news is that it’s all still locked inside your wallets.”

Remember this:

“At the close of life, the question will not be how much have you got, but how much have you given. Not how much have you won, but how much have you done. Not how much have you saved, but how much have you sacrificed. Not how much have you honored, but how much have you served.”

Mark 10:35-45 New American Standard Bible

35 [a]James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, *came up to [b]Jesus, saying to Him, “Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You.” 36 And He said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?” 37 They said to Him, “[c] Grant that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory.”  38 But Jesus said to them,  “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” 39 They said to Him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you shall drink; and you shall be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized. 40 But to sit on My right or on My left is not Mine to give; but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.”

41 Hearing this, the other ten began to feel indignant with [d]James and John.  42 Calling them to Himself, Jesus *said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles domineer over them; and their [e]people in high position exercise authority over them. 43 But it is not this way among you;  rather, whoever wants to become [f]prominent among you shall be your servant; 44 and whoever wants to be first among you shall be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man  did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His [g] life as a ransom for many.”

III. WRONG VISION (v. 20)

This man had made good vision assuming that he would be around to enjoy his wealth – not knowing that that night would be his last. (James 4:13-14)

The pastor was invited to dinner in the home of a very wealthy man in Texas.

After the meal, the host led him to a place where they could get a good view of the surrounding area.

Pointing to the oil wells, he boasted, “Twenty-five years ago I had nothing. Now, as far as you can see, it’s all mine.”

Looking in the opposite direction at his sprawling fields of grain, he said, “That’s all mine.”

Turning east toward huge herds of cattle, he bragged, “They’re all mine.” Then pointing to the west and a beautiful forest, he exclaimed, “That too is all mine.”

He paused, expecting the pastor to compliment him on his great success.

The pastor, placing one hand on the man’s shoulder and pointing heavenward with the other, simply said, “How much do you possess in that direction?”

The man stared blankly for a moment, then hung his head and confessed, “I never thought of that.”

Most of us don’t realize we are just one breath away, one heartbeat away, or one accident away from eternity.

No one is ever prepared for that moment until they have made peace with God…

“We are always complaining that our days are few” – Seneca the Younger

Mark 8:36 – “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

Mark 8:34-37 New American Standard Bible

34 And He summoned the crowd together with His disciples, and said to them,  “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. 35 For whoever wants to save his [a]life will lose it, but whoever loses his [b]life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. 36 For what does it benefit a person to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? 37 For what could a person give in exchange for his soul?

What if you just heard those words: “Today, you will die.”

Are you ready for that?

Proverbs 9:1-6 New American Standard Bible

Wisdom’s Invitation

9 Wisdom has built her house,
She has carved out her seven pillars;
2 She has [a]prepared her food, she has mixed her wine;
She has also set her table;
3 She has sent out her attendants, she calls out
From the tops of the heights of the city:
4 “Whoever is naive, let him turn in here!”
To him who lacks [b]understanding she says,
5 “Come, eat of my food
And drink of the wine I have mixed.
6 [c]Abandon your foolishness and live,
And proceed in the way of understanding.”

Are you ready to give an account for the way you’ve raised or are raising your family?

Are you ready to give an account for what you’re doing with your talent and abilities?

Are you ready to give an account for the way you’re spending your time and energy?

Are you ready to give an account for what you’ve done with the money and wealth that God has blessed you with?

Are you ready to give an account for the way you’re using your body and managing your appetites?

Some day, there’s going to be a knock at your life’s door.

Death will be waiting outside.

The music will suddenly stop.

The frantic whirling of the dancers will cease.

And you and I must answer the door.

Soon thereafter, what we did with the gift of life will be required of us.

Heb. 9:27 “ It is appointed for a man to die once but after this the judgment.”

Hebrews 9:27-28 New American Standard Bible

27 and just as it is destined for people to die once, and after this comes judgment, 28 so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.

A popular musician-songwriter of the early seventies was Jim Croce.

One of his most famous recordings was ‘Time in a Bottle,’ a love song about his desire to save time in a bottle in order to spend it later with someone he loved.

The eerie thing about that piece was that by the time it hit the airwaves, Jim Croce was dead.

When God enters, this farmer realized that there was ONE THING he did not prepare.

He made good plan to store his crop, made good plan to save up for the future, he made plan to enjoy himself.

In fact, he has done many things good but he did not prepare for his own soul.

Death was not in his planning book.

A person does not know when his or her time is coming.

You can avoid being one of those people who lost their souls by:

· Admitting to God you are a sinner (Rom. 3:10 & 23)

· Believing that Jesus died for your sins (1 Peter 3:18)

· Fully Committing your life to Him as Savior and Lord (Acts 4:8-12)

In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit …

Praying …

Proverbs 3:1-12 The Message

Don’t Assume You Know It All

3 1-2 Good friend, don’t forget all I’ve taught you;
    take to heart my commands.
They’ll help you live a long, long time,
    a long life lived full and well.

3-4 Don’t lose your grip on Love and Loyalty.
    Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart.
Earn a reputation for living well
    in God’s eyes and the eyes of the people.

5-12 Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
    don’t try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
    he’s the one who will keep you on track.
Don’t assume that you know it all.
    Run to God! Run from evil!
Your body will glow with health,
    your very bones will vibrate with life!
Honor God with everything you own;
    give him the first and the best.
Your barns will burst,
    your wine vats will brim over.
But don’t, dear friend, resent God’s discipline;
    don’t sulk under his loving correction.
It’s the child he loves that God corrects;
    a father’s delight is behind all this.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Protecting our Life and our Future: Paying close attention, to what your father tells you; never forget what you learned at your mother’s knee. Proverbs 1:8-19

Proverbs 1:8-19 New American Standard Bible

The Enticement of Sinners

8 Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction,
And do not ignore your mother’s teaching;
9 For they are a graceful wreath for your head
And necklaces for your neck.
10 My son, if sinners entice you,
Do not consent.
11 If they say, “Come with us,
Let’s lie in wait for blood,
Let’s ambush the innocent without cause;
12 Let’s swallow them alive like Sheol,
Even whole, like those who go down to the pit;
13 We will find all kinds of precious wealth,
We will fill our houses with plunder;
14 Throw in your lot [a]with us;
We will all have one money bag,”
15 My son, do not walk on the way with them.
Keep your feet from their path,
16 For their feet run to evil,
And they are quick to shed blood.
17 Indeed, it is [b]useless to spread the baited net
In the sight of any [c]bird;
18 But they lie in wait for their own blood;
They ambush their own lives.
19 Such are the ways of everyone who makes unjust gain;
It takes away the life of its possessors.

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

These opening verses from Proverbs remind us how important it is to be wise and careful about the choices we make.

Our current lives and our future lives are gifts from God.

It is up to us to steward, to protect them by listening to His guidance and staying away from things that can hurt us.

As we learn from this part of God’s Word, we will find simple, helpful ideas to keep our hearts and minds safe so we can live in a way that pleases God and gives us hope for the future.

In this writing, we will see how God’s wisdom can help us stay away from temptation and bad influences.

The Bible warns us about hanging around people who try to lead us into doing wrong. It also teaches us to listen to both our parents and God’s instructions.

When we understand, take heed of these warnings and trust in God’s wisdom, we can make better choices and live a happy, meaningful life.

Let’s open our hearts to God’s Word today and ask Him to help us stay safe and wisely follow His way.

Proverbs 1:8-9

You protect your life when you…

1. Heed your parent’s wisdom.

This tells us to listen to our parents’ advice because it helps protect our lives and future.

Spiritually, this shows God’s plan for families and how important it is to respect the authority He has given to them as our parents.

When we follow their guidance, we are choosing prudence, wisdom and safety, which can keep us from making harmful choices.

In everyday life, this means really listening to our parents, respecting what they say, and using their advice when making decisions.

When we do this, we can avoid dangers like bad friends, reckless actions, or wrong choices that may hurt us physically, emotionally, or spiritually.

Practically, this teaches us to be humble and willing to learn from our parents’ experience.

It also reminds us that respecting our parents is a way of showing respect to God, since He put them in our lives to help guide us.

When we obey, honor our parents, we protect ourselves from many problems and open the way for God’s blessings. In the end, honoring our parents is a way of honoring God, helping us stay safe and make good choices for our future.

Proverbs 1:10-15

You protect your life when you…

2. Reject foolish and sinful influences.

The writer of Proverbs warns us not to give in to foolish and sinful influences that try to lure us away.

Spiritually, this shows us that obeying God’s wisdom and rules is the best way to stay safe and live fully.

Sinful influences can lead us away from God’s good path, causing harm to our hearts, minds, and even our bodies.

When we choose to resist these temptations, we are choosing God’s way, which promises protection, guidance, and a life full of purpose.

In everyday life, this means setting boundaries, establish clear limits, avoiding bad peer pressure, and being careful about what influences us, (media, friends, or environments) so we don’t fall into harmful behaviors that could hurt us now or in the future.

To put this into practice, rejecting wrong influences requires us to be rigorously intentional and disciplined.

It helps to read and study the Bible, pray regularly, and stay accountable to mature Christians who can guide us.

It also means choosing friends and activities that encourage us to do what is right, instead of those that tempt us to do wrong.

When we do this, we protect ourselves not just today; but also in the future- Spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Living this way helps us stay true to God’s plan for our lives, leading us to a safe and meaningful future.

Proverbs 1:16-19

You protect your life when you…

3. Choose wisdom over violence and rebellion.

The writer warns us not to give in to the temptation of violence and rebellion because they only lead to trouble and destruction.

Spiritually, God teaches us to seek wisdom and do what is right instead of fighting or rebelling.

This aligns with God’s desire for us to live peacefully, justly, and to value life.

In practical ways, this means that when we face problems or conflicts, we should respond with patience, prayer, and wise choices instead of trying to get revenge or fighting back.

Doing so helps protect our spiritual life and future, saving us from the harm that rebellion and violence can cause.

To put this into practice, we need to pray, read God’s Word, and ask for advice when we’re unsure what to do.

We should resist the urge to escalate conflicts or handle problems on our own, trusting that God will bring justice in His perfect time.

When we choose wisdom instead of violence or rebellion, we not only protect our physical lives but also keep our hearts healthy spiritually.

This shows we trust God’s plan and love, leading to a more peaceful and secure life that follows God’s purpose for us.

Conclusion:

Our text teaches us that it is very important to protect our lives and future by staying away from temptation and bad choices.

It reminds us to listen carefully to the wisdom of our parents and God’s Word, which help us make good decisions.

When we choose to walk in honesty and wisdom, we can have a life full of purpose, safety, and God’s blessing.

Remember, the decisions, the choices we make today will shape our tomorrow, so we need to stay alert and stay connected to God’s truth.

Now, I want to invite you to respond to God’s call today.

If you feel you need His help, protection, or guidance, open your heart to Him.

Jesus offers balance, forgiveness, fresh starts, strength to live wisely and safely.

In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit …

Praying ….

Psalm 119:9-24 Complete Jewish Bible

ב (Bet)

9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
don’t let me stray from your mitzvot.
11 I treasure your word in my heart,
so that I won’t sin against you.
12 Blessed are you, Adonai!
Teach me your laws.
13 I proclaim with my mouth
all the rulings you have spoken.
14 I rejoice in the way of your instruction
more than in any kind of wealth.
15 I will meditate on your precepts
and keep my eyes on your ways.
16 I will find my delight in your regulations.
I will not forget your word.

ג (Gimel)

17 Deal generously with your servant;
then I will live and observe your word.
18 Open my eyes, so that I will see
wonders from your Torah.
19 Though I’m just a wanderer on the earth,
don’t hide your mitzvot from me.
20 I am continually consumed
with longing for your rulings.
21 You rebuke the proud, the cursed,
who stray from your mitzvot.
22 Remove scorn and contempt from me,
because I observe your instruction.
23 Even when princes sit and plot against me,
your servant meditates on your laws.
24 Also your instructions are my delight;
they are my counselors.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Some impressions, some thoughts: wrestling all day and all night with God, instead of going toe to toe with Man for a change? Genesis 32:24-30

Genesis 32:24-30 New American Standard Bible

Jacob Wrestles

24 Then Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak. 25 When the man saw that he had not prevailed against him, he touched the socket of [a] Jacob’s hip; and the socket of Jacob’s hip was dislocated while he wrestled with him.  26 Then he said, “Let me go, for the dawn is breaking.” But he said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” 27 So he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” 28 Then he said, “Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but [b]Israel; for you have contended with God and with men, and have prevailed.” 29 And Jacob asked him and said, “Please tell me your name.” But he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” And he blessed him there. 30 So Jacob named the place [c]Peniel, for he said, “I have seen God face to face, yet my [d]life has been [e]spared.”

Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Life will often present moments when transformation requires intense engagement with God.

Jacob should have known better.

He knew what it was like to have a brother whom his father loved more than him (Genesis 25:27-28), but he favored his youngest son Joseph over his other sons anyway. Sadly, it led to jealousy and resentment among Joseph’s brothers.

When Joseph’s older brothers looked at him, blood pressures went up, hatred and jealousy filled their hearts. Still, they should have kept their emotions in check if Joseph hadn’t stirred the pot with notions about the dreams he had had.

God had provided the dreams, but Joseph took pride in them. He interpreted those dreams as showing he was better than his brothers, and even his father rebuked him for the self-centered nature of those interpretations.

The meaning of those dreams became clear later (Genesis 41-47), but all that the brothers knew now was that they didn’t want anything to do with Joseph!

In this story we eventually see God can take the human failings of these broken family members to bring about something good, despite the sinful attitudes locked inside each individual’s heart.

We also learn in life God intercedes, leads, guides, directs and works through the troubles in our world and in our hearts to make something new and better.

He is faithful to the purpose and plan that he holds and creates for us.

Jacob’s night-long struggle at Peniel illustrates that change is not always passive; sometimes we must wrestle spiritually to experience breakthrough.

This struggle can be with fear, destiny delays, or internal limitations.

Wrestling with God is not about overpowering Him but about encountering Him in a way that reshapes identity, perspective, and purpose.

It is in the intensity of confrontation, prayer, and dependence that God’s power brings transformation.

The encounter at Peniel shows that the most significant changes often occur during periods of discomfort, vulnerability, and persistence.

By wrestling with God, we are prepared for new identity, divine favour, and renewed purpose in life.

1. RECOGNISING THE NEED FOR DIVINE CHANGE

Transformation begins when we acknowledge areas where God’s intervention is essential.

a) Facing Fear (Genesis 32:7-8)

Jacob recognized the imminent threat of Esau wanting payback and felt fear.

Change often starts with confronting realities beyond our control.

b) Acknowledging Weakness (Genesis 32:9-10)

Jacob admitted his inadequacy and appealed to God’s mercy.

True change begins with humility and dependence on divine power.

c) Seeking Divine Intervention (Genesis 32:11)

Prayer becomes the arena where change is negotiated and requested.

d) Desire for Transformation (Genesis 32:12)

Jacob’s plea reveals that longing for God’s intercession initiates spiritual struggle.

Hannah’s desperate prayer for a child after years of barrenness and scorn in Shiloh demonstrates that determined self-same recognition of need and her persistent pleading lead to divine response (1 Samuel 1:10-20).

2. ENGAGING IN SPIRITUAL STRUGGLE

Spiritual breakthrough often requires persistence, discipline, and resilience in prayer and obedience.

a) Wrestling through the Night (Genesis 32:24)

Jacob physically wrestled with the angel, illustrating the highest intensity of Jacob’s spiritual struggle.

b) Refusing to Let Go (Genesis 32:26)

Persistence at all costs is essential; intercession is often released to those who remains steadfast and refuses to relent in faith.

c) Painful Transformation (Genesis 32:25)

Change can be minimally or hardcore uncomfortable; divine intervention often requires painful surrender and enduring pressure.

d) Seeking God’s Favour (Genesis 32:27)

Jacob’s insistence shows that breakthroughs require intentional engagement with God’s presence.

Moses wrestled in prayer and intercession for Israel, advocating persistently for mercy during rebellion (Exodus 32:11-14).

3. RECEIVING NEW IDENTITY

Transformation brings a redefinition of purpose and identity.

a) Name Change (Genesis 32:28)

Jacob became Israel, meaning “he wrestled with God.”

Divine encounters redefine identity.

b) Empowered for Destiny (Genesis 32:28)

New identity equips for new responsibilities and challenges.

c) Recognition of Divine Authority (Genesis 32:29)

Encounter teaches reverence and dependence on God’s sovereignty.

d) Witness of the Change (Genesis 32:30)

Jacob called the place Peniel, acknowledging God’s transformative power.

Saul of Tarsus became Paul after encountering Christ on the road to Damascus, receiving a new identity and purpose (Acts 9:1-19).

4. WALKING IN THE RESULTS OF STRUGGLE

Breakthrough demands action in alignment with the transformation received.

a) Living with Courage (Genesis 32:31)

Despite being limping from the encounter, Jacob walked forward strengthened in faith.

b) Pursuing Destiny (Genesis 33:1-4)

The struggle prepared him for reconciliation with Esau, illustrating that divine change impacts relationships and destiny.

c) Strengthened Faith (Romans 5:3-5)

Endurance through struggle produces character, hope, and spiritual maturity.

d) Continuous Dependence (Philippians 3:12-14)

Even after breakthrough, persistent faith is necessary to run the race of destiny.

Biblical Example: Daniel’s perseverance in the lions’ den demonstrates walking in faith and victory after trusting God through testing (Daniel 6:16-23).

CONCLUSION

Wrestling with God is not about confrontation in anger but persistent seeking, humility, and surrender.

Jacob’s night long struggle at Peniel resulted in new identity, empowerment, and readiness for destiny.

Believers are encouraged to embrace spiritual struggle, trusting that God meets intensity with transformation. Every heavenly encounter with divine struggle can redefine identity, establish faith, and prepare for destiny fulfilment.

 “highly suggested” PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, give me the strength to persist in prayer until breakthrough is achieved in Jesus name.

2. Lord, help me confront areas of my life that require divine transformation in Jesus name.

3. Father, teach me to wrestle with You in faith and humility in Jesus name.

4. Lord, redefine my identity according to Your purpose and glory in Jesus name.

5. Father, empower me to walk forward courageously after every spiritual encounter in Jesus name.

6. Lord, release divine blessings that result from persistence and struggle in Jesus name.

7. Father, help me endure trials with patience and perseverance in Jesus name.

8. Lord, strengthen my faith through every wrestling season in Jesus name.

9. Father, prepare me for destiny fulfillment through divine encounters in Jesus name.

10. Lord, let every struggle result in victory and testimony in Jesus name.

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

Praying …..

Psalm 16 New King James Version

The Hope of the Faithful, and the Messiah’s Victory
A Michtam of David.

16 Preserve[a] me, O God, for in You I put my trust.

2 O my soul, you have said to the Lord,
“You are my Lord,
My goodness is nothing apart from You.”
3 As for the saints who are on the earth,
“They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.”

4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god;
Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer,
Nor take up their names on my lips.

5 O Lord, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup;
You [b]maintain my lot.
6 The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places;
Yes, I have a good inheritance.

7 I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel;
My [c]heart also instructs me in the night seasons.
8 I have set the Lord always before me;
Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices;
My flesh also will [d]rest in hope.
10 For You will not leave my soul in [e]Sheol,
Nor will You allow Your Holy One to [f]see corruption.
11 You will show me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Jesus Throughout the Scriptures: The eunuch asked Philip, “About whom, I ask, does the prophet say this, about Just himself or about someone else?” Acts 8:26-40

Acts 8:26-40 Christian Standard Bible

The Conversion of the Ethiopian Official

26 An angel of the Lord spoke to Philip: “Get up and go south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (This is the desert road.[a]) 27 So he got up and went. There was an Ethiopian man, a eunuch and high official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of her entire treasury. He had come to worship in Jerusalem 28 and was sitting in his chariot on his way home, reading the prophet Isaiah aloud.

29 The Spirit told Philip, “Go and join that chariot.”

30 When Philip ran up to it, he heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you’re reading?”

31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the Scripture passage he was reading was this:

He was led like a sheep to the slaughter,
and as a lamb is silent before its shearer,
so he does not open his mouth.
33 In his humiliation justice was denied him.
Who will describe his generation?
For his life is taken from the earth.[b]

34 The eunuch said to Philip, “I ask you, who is the prophet saying this about—himself or someone else?” 35 Philip proceeded to tell him the good news about Jesus, beginning with that Scripture.

36 As they were traveling down the road, they came to some water. The eunuch said, “Look, there’s water. What would keep me from being baptized?” [c] 38 So he ordered the chariot to stop, and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, the eunuch did not see him any longer but went on his way rejoicing. 40 Philip appeared in[d] Azotus,[e] and he was traveling and preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea.

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Commenting on this Bible passage, a preacher noted that almost every day there’s someone, somewhere, who may need us. It could be someone who’s struggling with an addiction or who suffers from depression.

It could be someone who’s trying to make sense of life or a person who’s trying to find their way to the Lord.

It could be someone who doesn’t understand the teachings of the Bible.

That preacher challenged that congrgation to listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and to tune in to the needs of the people around us.

It happened to an evangelist named Philip.

He had been teaching about the Lord Jesus in Samaria when an angel of the Lord told him to leave there and go into the desert.

Philip did as he was told, and because he listened to the Spirit’s prompting, he was able to explain the suffering and death of Jesus predicted by prophet Isaiah.

As we journey through the Bible, we recognize that Jesus did not arrive out of nowhere. From start to finish, the Bible is a book about Him. Indeed, even the Old Testament prophets, under the inspiration of the Spirit, wrote about Jesus.

If we take our eyes off Savior Jesus Christ, then, however well we think we know the Scriptures, we will have missed its true central focus, its key, and its Author.

In the Gospels, Jesus pointed people back to the Old Testament to help them understand who He was.

Early in His ministry, at the synagogue reading from the scroll of Isaiah.

As He finished, Luke tells us, He “began to say” to His listeners,

“Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21).

Later, speaking to people who were especially interested and versed in the Old Testament Scriptures, Jesus warned them,

“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me” (John 5:39).

After His death and resurrection, when He encountered some of His confused dejected followers on the road to Emmaus, Jesus,

“beginning with Moses and all the Prophets … interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:27).

In other words, Jesus clearly taught that every part of the Old Testament finds its focus and fulfillment in Him.

When we read Scripture, we meet Jesus, because this book testifies to Him.

Even if our own studies and understanding of Old Testament passages provide us with good, important ethical truths about life, there’s still clear and present danger of us missing the Truth, Jesus.

The purpose of every page of our Bible is for us to meet Jesus, have a personal encounter, come to know Him, to proclaim His great name, all for His glory.

In every sermon you hear, every lesson you study, every passage of God’s word you read, ask yourselves, “Did it bring me to Christ? Did I discover Jesus in it?”

Do not stop listening, studying, and reading until you can answer yes, for it is in Him that the treasures of salvation, truth, wisdom, and comfort are to be found.

Reflecting on that unique encounter a high government official from Ethiopia went home baptized and rejoicing, able to share the good news with others.

Acts 2:37-41

Call to Repentance

37 When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”

38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” 40 With many other words he testified and strongly urged them, saying, “Be saved from this corrupt[a]  generation!” 41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand people were added to them.

Perhaps you are like the Ethiopian official we read about today.

You may describe yourself as a spiritual person, and you may be wondering which religion is best.

Maybe you’re exploring Christianity and have begun reading parts of the Bible–along with commentaries and diverse and various devotions, for example.

But, like the Ethiopian, you may find that some things you read are confusing or hard to understand.

There seems to be a continuous story, you aren’t sure how to connect the dots.

The journey you are on is a very important one.

It will lead you to see yourself as God sees you, a person who is deeply loved and valued by God. Jesus is the mortar that holds the foundational story together.

But you may do well to invite a “Philip” into your life.

Check out a church and start asking questions. Get into a small home group that studies the Bible, welcomes, cares about you as a person. Experience the reality of Christian community, allow for the Holy Spirit to work, to change your life.

Perhaps today you will meet some­one or a group of someone’s who needs you, folks Holy Spirit communicates need to have a random encounter with Jesus.

Someone you have never met or someone you have known for a long time.

Pray! Listen closely to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and follow his direction.

Holy Spirit is always eager and delighted to intercede, to work through you!

In the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit ….

Praying ….

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done;
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Forgiveness Forgiven and Forgiving LOL! Mercy for Me but Not for Thee. Matthew 18:21-35

Matthew 18:21-35 New International Version

The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant

21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”

22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.[a]

23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold[b] was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.

26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins.[c] He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.

29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’

30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.

32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.

35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Whenever I read Jesus’ parable of the unforgiving servant, my blood begins to boil.

I think,

“How cold, anti-social, ruthless, ungrateful, mean, and greedy this man is. There isn’t a kind bone in his body!”

Here was a man who owed more money than he could ever repay.

But after he was forgiven of his huge debt, he punished another man for owing him just a small amount.

The forgiven man had received mercy, but he did not show mercy to the other man.

It is not wrong to be angry about this.

In fact, this is the response Jesus is looking for.

But we must not stop there.

Jesus designed this story to help us think and act faithfully as children of God.

How should we respond to the kindness God has shown us?

God has forgiven our huge debt of sin; will we do the same for others who have sinned against us?

It is easy for us to ask for God’s forgiveness and yet carry grudges and ill will toward others.

It is easy to remember and resent what others have said and done against us.

But if we unconditionally accept God’s forgiveness and yet fail to forgive others, our Christianity is no different from the cold, ungrateful man in Jesus’ parable.

Jesus teaches us to forgive and to keep forgiving so we cannot remember how many times we have forgiven.

When we walk with the Spirit, we are changed.

God’s kindness begins to flow from us to others.

Forgiveness Forgiven and Forgiving

Matthew 18:26-35 New Living Translation

26 “But the man fell down before his master and begged him, ‘Please, be patient with me, and I will pay it all.’ 27 Then his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt.

28 “But when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars.[a] He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment.

29 “His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it,’ he pleaded. 30 But his creditor wouldn’t wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full.

31 “When some of the other servants saw this, they were very upset. They went to the king and told him everything that had happened. 32 Then the king called in the man he had forgiven and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. 33 Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’ 34 Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt.

35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters[b] from your heart.”

A forgiven person should be a forgiving person—and, since forgiveness does not come so easily or naturally to us, we need to hear this again and again.

In other words, we forgive because God, through Jesus, forgives us.

The Bible makes it perfectly clear that forgiveness doesn’t spring from any human merit and is not the result of our own endeavors to be gracious and forgiving towards others; rather it comes from the grace of God.

One of the chief evidences that someone has truly repented of their sins, therefore, is a forgiving spirit.

Conversely, if we continually harbor enmity, grudges, and bitterness in our hearts, we not only harm our own lives and jeopardize our relationships, but frankly we also call into question whether we have ever truly discovered or grasped the authentic nature of God’s forgiveness at all.

It’s impossible to extend genuine forgiveness unless we have experienced it ourselves, and impossible not to do so if we have.

It will only flow outward from our hearts once we have been changed by God’s grace and have considered the true enormity of our many offenses against Him.

When such a transformation takes place, the sin of others against us will carry less weight as God enables us to forgive as often as we have been forgiven.

This is the principle behind Jesus’ parable of the servant in Matthew 18, who, having been forgiven a debt that was the first-century equivalent of $8 billion, then harshly refused to forgive a debt of $20,000.

Jesus wants us to see the depths of unreasonableness of the servant who had been forgiven an enormous debt in refusing to forgive the debt owed to him.

Viewed on its own, that debt was substantial; set against the amount he himself had been forgiven, it was tiny.

Likewise, it is inconceivable that we, who have been forgiven such a vast debt of offense against God, should ever fail to reciprocate and callously fail to forgive.

If we have experienced God’s mercy, then we must certainly not neglect the exercise of forgiveness.

In forgiving others, we enjoy the fullness of God’s pardon.

Give up the records of sins that you’re tempted to hold on to.

When this is hard because the wrong you’re being called to forgive was serious, look at the debt for which God has forgiven you, and look at what He gave up to do so—and that will enable you to extend mercy in your turn.

Surely, God has forgiven you through His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. He will pour out His grace and mercy to help you walk in truest harmony with others.

Talking about forgiveness and mercy in the kingdom of God.

Forgiveness and mercy are very important to God.

How do I know this?

Because Jesus said so!

Forgiveness and mercy are not natural reactions when we get wronged or hurt.

But they are core values in Jesus’ kingdom.

In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit …..

Praying ….

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done;
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Fact or Fiction? God’s reputation is of the most purest, most absolute, most valuable twenty-four-carat gold with the most faithful lifetime guarantee. Psalm 19

Psalm 19 The Message

19 1-2 God’s glory is on tour in the skies,
    God-craft on exhibit across the horizon.
Madame Day holds classes every morning,
    Professor Night lectures each evening.

3-4 Their words aren’t heard,
    their voices aren’t recorded,
But their silence fills the earth:
    unspoken truth is spoken everywhere.

4-5 God makes a huge dome
    for the sun—a superdome!
The morning sun’s a new husband
    leaping from his honeymoon bed,
The daybreaking sun an athlete
    racing to the tape.

6 That’s how God’s Word vaults across the skies
    from sunrise to sunset,
Melting ice, scorching deserts,
    warming hearts to faith.

7-9 The revelation of God is whole
    and pulls our lives together.
The signposts of God are clear
    and point out the right road.
The life-maps of God are right,
    showing the way to joy.
The directions of God are plain
    and easy on the eyes.
God’s reputation is twenty-four-carat gold,
    with a lifetime guarantee.
The decisions of God are accurate
    down to the nth degree.

10 God’s Word is better than a diamond,
    better than a diamond set between emeralds.
You’ll like it better than strawberries in spring,
    better than red, ripe strawberries.

11-14 There’s more: God’s Word warns us of danger
    and directs us to hidden treasure.
Otherwise how will we find our way?
    Or know when we play the fool?
Clean the slate, God, so we can start the day fresh!
    Keep me from stupid sins,
    from thinking I can take over your work;
Then I can start this day sun-washed,
    scrubbed clean of the grime of sin.
These are the words in my mouth;
    these are what I chew on and pray.
Accept them when I place them
    on the morning altar,
O God, my Altar-Rock,
    God, Priest-of-My-Altar.

Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

We are going to talk about the perfection of God’s law, our search for moral values, and how we need to submit ourselves to God’s moral absolutes.

Navigating this world, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters in the chaos and noise, but as Christians, we have a perfect guide in the form of God’s law.

Lee Strobel once wrote, “If Jesus sets the divine standard for morality, I could now have an unwavering foundation for my choices and decisions, rather than basing them on the ever-shifting sands of expediency and self-centeredness.”

And that’s exactly what we will be digging into today.

We’ll be delving into Psalm 19, a beautiful passage that can enlighten us all.

Psalm 19:10 The Message

10 God’s Word is better than a diamond,
    better than a diamond set between emeralds.
You’ll like it better than strawberries in spring,
    better than red, ripe strawberries.

The Perfection of God’s Law

The perfection of God’s law is a testament to the divine wisdom and absolute righteousness of our Creator.

The law of the Lord, as described in Psalm 19, is perfect, trustworthy, right, radiant, pure, enduring, firm, and righteous. Each of these descriptors paints a deliciously vivid picture of the divine perfection that is inherent in God’s law.

God’s law is perfect:

We are acknowledging that it is complete, flawless, and without any deficiency.

It is a holistic guide for our lives, addressing every aspect of human existence.

It is not a set of arbitrary rules, but a comprehensive blueprint for righteous living. It is perfect because it originates from a perfect God.

It is a reflection of His character and His will for humanity.

It is a law that refreshes the soul, as it is aligned with our true purpose and the ultimate truth of the universe.

The trustworthiness of God’s law:

In a world where falsehoods and deceptions abound, the law of the Lord stands as the surest beacon of truth.

It is reliable and dependable, providing a solid foundation for our lives. It makes the simple wise, illuminating the path of righteousness for those who seek it. It is a law that we can stake our lives on, knowing that it will never lead us astray.

The righteousness of God’s law:

It is not just a set of rules, but a moral compass that guides us towards what is right and just.

It gives joy to the heart, as it aligns us with the divine will and leads us towards a life of righteousness and virtue.

It is a law that radiates light, dispelling the darkness of sin and ignorance.

The purity of God’s law:

It is untainted by sin, corruption, or any form of evil.

It is a law that endures forever, unchanging and eternal, just like God Himself.

It is firm and unyielding, standing as a bulwark against the shifting sands of moral relativism.

It is a law that’s righteous in all decrees, reflecting the absolute righteousness of God.

It’s a law we should strive to understand and obey, as it is the shortest route to spiritual perfection.

Our Search for Moral Values

Our search for moral values is a lifelong journey that begins the moment we become aware of the difference between right and wrong.

It’s a quest that requires us to constantly evaluate our actions, decisions, and attitudes in light of God’s perfect law.

This search is not just about knowing what is right or wrong, but also about understanding why certain actions are deemed right or wrong according to God’s law.

Acknowledge that our morality is not self-derived:

It is not something we create or decide upon ourselves, but rather, it is something that is given to us by God.

This is a crucial point to understand because it establishes the basis for our moral values.

As Christians, we believe that our moral values are not subjective or relative, but are absolute, unchanging because they are rooted in the character of God.

The Bible:

Matthew 7:12 The Message

12 “Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.

This is our primary source of moral values.

It provides us with clear guidelines on how we should live our lives, how we should treat others, and how we should relate to God.

It teaches us about love, justice, mercy, forgiveness, humility, and many other virtues that form the foundation of our moral values.

Not always easy:

We live in a world that often promotes values that are contrary to God’s law.

We are constantly bombarded with messages that encourage selfishness, greed, pride, and other sinful behaviors.

In such a world, it can be challenging to stay true to our Christian moral values.

The importance of community:

As Christians, we are not meant to navigate this world alone.

We are part of a community of believers who can support, encourage, and hold each other accountable in our continuous search for moral values.

We need to be surrounded by a community of people who live the Christian life, who encourage us, rebuke us, teach us, guide us in our search for moral values.

A continuous process:

It requires constant reflection, prayer, and study of God’s word.

It requires us to be humble, to admit when we are wrong, and to seek God’s forgiveness and guidance.

It requires us to strive to be more like Jesus, who is the perfect embodiment of God’s moral values.

Our ultimate goal:

It’s not just to know what is right or wrong, but to live in a way that honors and glorifies God.

As Paul wrote in Colossians 3:15-17,

15-17 Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. Cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of Jesus, thanking God the Father every single step of the way.

Submission to God’s Moral Absolutes

Submission to God’s moral absolutes is the conscious decision to align our lives with the standards and principles outlined in the Bible, God’s holy word.

This submission is not about losing our freedom or individuality, but rather about our gaining true freedom and peace in the knowledge that we are living according to God’s divine blueprint for our lives.

Not arbitrary rules designed to restrict us:

They are loving guidelines given by a wise and caring Creator who knows what is best for us.

They are the boundaries within which we can live, love, and serve in the most fulfilling and meaningful way.

They are the standards that help us to distinguish right from wrong, good from evil, and truth from falsehood.

Requires humility:

Isaiah 55:8-11 The Message

8-11 “I don’t think the way you think.
    The way you work isn’t the way I work.”
        God’s Decree.
“For as the sky soars high above earth,
    so the way I work surpasses the way you work,
    and the way I think is beyond the way you think.
Just as rain and snow descend from the skies
    and don’t go back until they’ve watered the earth,
Doing their work of making things grow and blossom,
    producing seed for farmers and food for the hungry,
So will the words that come out of my mouth
    not come back empty-handed.
They’ll do the work I sent them to do,
    they’ll complete the assignment I gave them.

It requires acknowledging that God’s wisdom is greater than ours, that His understanding is beyond our comprehension, and that His ways are higher than our ways. It requires trusting in His goodness and love, even when we do not fully understand His commands or when obeying them seems difficult or costly.

Requires a commitment to ongoing spiritual growth and transformation:

It involves daily reading and meditating on God’s word, seeking to understand His commands and principles, and asking the Holy Spirit to help us apply them in our lives.

It involves regular self-examination and repentance, as we recognize and confess our failures and shortcomings, seek God’s forgiveness and help to change.

A lifelong journey:

It is a process of growing in obedience and faithfulness, as we learn to love what God loves, hate what He hates, and value what He values.

It is a journey marked by challenges and struggles, but also by joy and peace, as we experience, we live the blessing of living in harmony with God’s perfect law.

Let’s strive to understand and obey God’s perfect laws.

Let’s seek His wisdom and guidance in our search for moral values. And most importantly, let’s submit ourselves to His moral absolutes. Remember, His laws are not burdensome, rather they are the narrow path to true freedom and joy.

In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit …

Praying …

119 1-8 You’re blessed when you stay on course,
    walking steadily on the road revealed by God.
You’re blessed when you follow his directions,
    doing your best to find him.
That’s right—you don’t go off on your own;
    you walk straight along the road he set.
You, God, prescribed the right way to live;
    now you expect us to live it.
Oh, that my steps might be steady,
    keeping to the course you set;
Then I’d never have any regrets
    in comparing my life with your counsel.
I thank you for speaking straight from your heart;
    I learn the pattern of your righteous ways.
I’m going to do what you tell me to do;
    don’t ever walk off and leave me.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Whether during the light of daytime, darkest of all nights, how disciplined, our gift of observing Christ loving us. Ephesians 5:1-10

Ephesians 5:1-10 New Living Translation

Living in the Light

5 Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us[a]  and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.

3 Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. 4 Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. 5 You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.

6 Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. 7 Don’t participate in the things these people do. 8  For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! 9 For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.

10 Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.

Word of God for the Children of God

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Apostle Paul calls his fellow Christians to imitate God in order to live up to the reputation of God’s family.

He challenges believers to “walk in the way of love,” as Christ did.

This is about loving the way Jesus loved.

And Jesus always acted in line with the Father’s will.

The love of Jesus embraced outcasts, pardoned sinners, healed the hopeless, challenged the complacent, and willingly sacrificed everything so we sinners could be reconciled with God.

Sacrificial love is our most visible and defining family trait.

The only reason we are in the family of God in the first place is because of God’s extravagant love.

As Paul calls us to imitate God’s love, he reminds us that we are all ultimately defined by it—we are “dearly loved children.”

Our own love emerges from the depths of that eternal love.

Our love is an overflow of the love God has personally shown to each of us.

Love is the DNA test that determines paternity with our Father God (1 John 4:7-8). God loves you because you are his child, and you are his child because he loves you. Children of God are caught up into the infinite circle of God’s love.

We are most like our Father, most godly, when we allow that love to flow from us into the lives of others.

Colossians 1:10-12 The Message

9-12 Be assured that from the first day we heard of you, we haven’t stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to his will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works. We pray that you’ll live well for the Master, making him proud of you as you work hard in his orchard. As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do  your work. We pray that you’ll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul—not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us.

Christians are to manifest the light of what glorifies the Lord.

Christians must constantly test the standards for pleasing the Lord.

The Christians is to ascertain by testing what pleases the Lord.

We need to know what and how scripture applies to the Christian walk.

The supreme end of the believer’s life is to glorify God.

The ultimate standard for testing what pleases the Lord, or what is His will, is the Word of God.

2 Corinthians 5:9-10 The Message

9-10 But neither exile nor homecoming is the main thing. Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, that’s what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions. Sooner or later we’ll all have to face God, regardless of our conditions. We will appear before Christ and take what’s coming to us as a result of our actions, either good or bad.

How do we prove what is pleasing to the Lord?

God is pleased when we put the entirety of our trust in Him and walk by faith.

He is pleased when we believe His Word, preach His Truth and His promises, live out our days acknowledging He is present with us and He is Lord over all.

However …. to avoid some of the debates

Intriguing Things that Make God Angry …..

This week I came across an intriguing phrase about Jesus in Mark 3:5: “He looked around at them with anger.”

This wasn’t the scene where Jesus throws over tables in the temple.

It was in the midst of a conversation about healing.

It got me wondering what other surprising references to God’s anger I might find in the Bible.

  • Pride and thinking oneself is better than another person (Isaiah 13:11-13)
  • Injustice – God tells the prophet, Amos (5:21-24), that God hates worship and worship services when God’s people don’t also act outside of worship with justice and righteousness.
  • Stubbornness about religious rules. The Mark 3:5 verse I mentioned at the beginning says that Jesus got angry with Pharisees – religious leaders – when they would not even engage in a conversation about whether it was right to heal someone (legal good work) on a Sabbath day (when the law said to do no work).
  • Complaining about misfortune that comes when following God (Numbers 11:1). This reminded me of Jesus telling his followers to expect (Matthew 5:11) and even seek (Luke 9:23) misfortune as part of following him.
  • Failing to trust God. In Numbers 32:11-13, God expresses anger that the people “have not unreservedly followed me.”

Jesus taught that he and the Father (God) are one (John 10:30).

Jesus then summarized what pleases the Lord this way:

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matthew 22:37-39)

So, there you have it.

Love God above all else, and love your neighbor as yourself.

But what if you don’t feel like loving God or others?

Worse, what if you don’t feel lovable? How do we please the Lord, then?

Fortunately for us, the kind of love Jesus looks for is not a feeling.

Don’t get me wrong!

It can be a feeling, but it doesn’t have to be.

Having a bad day?

Feeling down?

Do you feel sorry for yourself today because of _____ (fill in the blank)?

God understands.

He made our emotions.

He doesn’t want us to feel bad, but he understands if we do.

After all, we live in a corrupted world.

Worse, we live in corrupted bodies (See Genesis 2-3).

Anytime we take our eyes off Jesus, we see only our hurts, wants and needs.

In Jesus, we see solutions.

Without him, we see emptiness and frustration.

John 13:34-35 Amplified Bible

34 I am giving you a new commandment, that you [a]love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.”

What pleases the Lord?

Trusting him with His Truth, acknowledging our wants and needs pleases him.

Trusting him to take care of us.

Trusting him to decide what is important.

We are not the superheroes we aspire to be.

We are human, often with “feet of clay.”

Jesus is the superhero.

He is the one who stood up to the bullies, who called their bluff, and who let them try to call him.

Only Jesus wasn’t bluffing.

He died. Yes, that is true.

They killed him for standing up to them.

They killed him for being honest about who he is.

They killed him because he threatened the darkness they used to cover what they were really like.

Yes, Jesus died on a cross, crucified and humiliated.

And he was buried. And then … he rose from the dead.

What pleases the Lord?

Acts 4:8-12 New American Standard Bible

8 Then Peter, [a]filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “[b]Rulers and elders of the people, 9 if we are [c]on trial today for a benefit done to a sick man, as to [d] how this man has been made well, 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel, that [e]by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—[f]by [g]this name this man stands here before you in good health. 11 [h]He is the stone which was rejected by you, the builders, but which became the chief cornerstone. 12 And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.”

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/