Tag: jesus

May God who gives us each patience, steadiness, and encouragement help us to live in complete harmony with each other—each with the attitude of Christ toward the other. Romans 15:6

Romans 15:5-7 Authorized (King James) Version

5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: 6 that ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of 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.

One of the greatest obstacles to the spread of the gospel today is divisiveness in the church. This problem is not new, but that doesn’t make it any less serious. Paul indicates that the division between Jew and Gentile followers of Jesus was problematic in the early church.

Though we need not agree or know about everything, the Bible emphasizes that all followers of Jesus Christ should demonstrate unity. We can achieve this by following the example of Jesus as we serve one another. We should pray that God will give us “the same attitude of mind toward each other that Jesus Christ had.” We should also praise God for the privilege of Christian relationships.

This will bring glory to God.

Paul instructs his readers to praise, rejoice, and sing hymns to express their unity and to glorify God for his mercies.

Shouldn’t we who have received God’s great salvation in the one Savior, Jesus Christ, lift up our voices to praise him in unity?

One of my great privileges has been to listen to that worship of God with sisters and brother from many different lands, but also to participate. Though often I cannot understand the words being sung nor the culture and traditions from which it is being inspired from, I know we are one in the Spirit and in the Lord.

It thrills my heart to no end to not just sing praises to God, but also to preach the Gospel with these believers because I was invited to. I know the fiery power of the Holy Spirit is 100% there with us as we worship Savior, Jesus, together.

What is the meaning of Romans 15 5?

All Christians must please each other and not themselves.

After all, Christ didn’t come to please Himself.

With God’s help and encouragement, everyone in the church can live together in harmony and glorify God with one, unified voice, as they all serve each other ahead of themselves.

What is the meaning of Romans 15 6?

Romans 15:6, “that with one accord you may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,” emphasizes the importance of unity, harmony among believers, calling them to praise God with a unified voice and heart. 

Unity of Mind and Voice: The verse highlights the need for Christians to be united in their thinking and expression, both in their hearts and in their words. 

  • Glorifying God: The ultimate purpose of this unity is to glorify God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
  • Harmony and Agreement: The verse suggests that Christians should strive for harmony and agreement in their worship and actions, reflecting the unity they share in Christ. 
  • Transcendence of Differences: This unity should transcend cultural, ethnic, and other differences, allowing believers to come together in praise and service to God. 
  • A Prayer for Unity: Some interpret this verse as a prayer from Paul, seeking that the church in Rome would be united in their faith and worship. 
  • Importance of Worship: The verse emphasizes the importance of public worship and the need for believers to come together to praise God with one voice. 
  • Serving God Together: The idea of unity in worship and service is also linked to the concept of serving one another, as Christians are called to live in harmony and support each other. 
  • Reflecting Christ’s Love: The unity called for in this verse is a reflection of the love and unity Christians share in Christ, and its intended to bring glory to God. 

In what ways do you and I strive for unity and community with other believers?

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Praying …

Psalm 133 Authorized (King James) Version

Psalm 133

A Song of degrees of David.

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is
for brethren to dwell together in unity!
2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head,
that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard:
that went down to the skirts of his garments;
3 as the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion:
for there the Lord commanded the blessing,
even life for evermore.

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.

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The Freedom of His Rule, Our witness to His truth, The Forever Freedom of His Way, and His Truth, and His Life. John 18:33-38

John 18:33-38 Common English Bible

Pilate questions Jesus

33 Pilate went back into the palace. He summoned Jesus and asked, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

34 Jesus answered, “Do you say this on your own or have others spoken to you about me?”

35 Pilate responded, “I’m not a Jew, am I? Your nation and its chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?”

36 Jesus replied, “My kingdom doesn’t originate from this world. If it did, my guards would fight so that I wouldn’t have been arrested by the Jewish leaders. My kingdom isn’t from here.”

37 “So you are a king?” Pilate said.

Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. I was born and came into the world for this reason: to testify to the truth. Whoever accepts the truth listens to my voice.”

38 “What is truth?” Pilate asked.

Release of Barabbas

After Pilate said this, he returned to the Jewish leaders and said, “I find no grounds for any charge against him.

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.

Jesus’ statement here about truth is in line with everything he has taught. Jesus stands before Pilate “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). He is the bread of life; the living water; the way, the truth, and the life; the only way to know God the Father (John 6:35; 7:38; 14:6).

As he stands before this Roman governor, Jesus offers Pilate the chance to experience the truth and enter into a relationship with him—like one of his disciples.

But doing that would be very costly for Pilate. If Pilate were to accept what Jesus has to say, he would have to make the truth more important than Rome. Or political power. Or wealth. If Pilate accepted Jesus’ claims and set Jesus free, he would be throwing away his credibility with the Jews, if not his entire career.

In this book John has been helping us to understand that all we possess on this earth—all our power, influence, and wealth—pales in comparison to the truth of Jesus. The offer Jesus extends is the chance to experience life with God the way we are created to live it. Nothing is more important than that.

Sadly, Pilate rejects Jesus’ offer.

By nature, we rigorously, vigorously believe we have the absolute right to rule and control every last facet of our own lives.

Like Pilate we think that absolutely nobody has the authority to tell us what to do or to rule over us. We legislate our own laws, make all of our own rules, we alone will decide for ourselves, define who we are, and mold our own future.

Yet this is a dreadful path, and it leads only to despair.

For when we let down our guards, look within ourselves, and decide we have to absolutely know what this thing called truth is, against however much we have been told to think positively and to believe in ourselves, we are still confronted by our true needs, our failure, our finite selves, our frailty, and our inadequacy.

And when we look without, we see a divided culture and flawed institutions.

To what, then, should we look?

The Old Testament records Israel’s repeated rebellion against God’s rule.

In an attempt to look just like the nations around them, the Israelites demanded an earthly king (1 Samuel 8:5).

Tragically, all of Israel’s kings eventually crumbled to dust: the mighty Saul, the great David, and the wisest of the wise Solomon, all had failed politically, morally, ethically, religiously and any and all other ways we corrupt our lives.

Surely, the people in the streets were making the same complaints that we hear today: “This is not what we were led to believe, nor to expect, when this person became our leader! There must be someone, anyone who is better than this!”

What about you?

Who or whom makes, legislates, enacts, enforces the rules of your life?

Your “Way, your Truth and your life” means what to you or anyone else?

What might you need to let go of in order to embrace the truth of Jesus?

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Praying …

Psalm 8 Living Bible

8 O Lord our God, the majesty and glory of your name fills all the earth and overflows the heavens. 2 You have taught the little children to praise you perfectly. May their example shame and silence your enemies!

3 When I look up into the night skies and see the work of your fingers—the moon and the stars you have made— 4 I cannot understand how you can bother with mere puny man, to pay any attention to him!

5 And yet you have made him only a little lower than the angels[a] and placed a crown of glory and honor upon his head.

6 You have put him in charge of everything you made; everything is put under his authority: 7 all sheep and oxen, and wild animals too, 8 the birds and fish, and all the life in the sea. 9 O Jehovah, our Lord, the majesty and glory of your name fills the earth.

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.

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Listening, Learning about Living in, with, the Family of Faith Hospitably. Hebrews 13:1-8

Hebrews 13:1-8 The Message

Jesus Doesn’t Change

13 1-4 Stay on good terms with each other, held together by love. Be ready with a meal or a bed when it’s needed. Why, some have extended hospitality to angels without ever knowing it! Regard prisoners as if you were in prison with them. Look on victims of abuse as if what happened to them had happened to you. Honor marriage, and guard the sacredness of sexual intimacy between wife and husband. God draws a firm line against casual and illicit sex.

5-6 Don’t be obsessed with getting more material things. Be relaxed with what you have. Since God assured us, “I’ll never let you down, never walk off and leave you,” we can boldly quote,

God is there, ready to help;
I’m fearless no matter what.
Who or what can get to me?

7-8 Appreciate your pastoral leaders who gave you the Word of God. Take a good look at the way they live, and let their faithfulness instruct you, as well as their truthfulness. There should be a consistency that runs through us all. For Jesus doesn’t change—yesterday, today, tomorrow, he’s always totally himself.

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.

True or False: Hospitality Bridges Barriers?

True or False: Hospitality Builds “easy for anyone – soggy paper bag, house of overused cards etcetera, to knock down, no prayer to God required” Barriers?

True or False: Hospitality Builds tall privacy fences between neighbors which promote “friendly but unseen, unheard, unbothered, anonymous relationships?

True or False: Hospitality Builds unknown, hidden, underwater, underground Minefields – waiting for any number of people to blindly, confidently, secretly (with sincerity, with the best of intentions, walk or run into or stumble upon?

True or False: Hospitality can only Build empty Abandoned Haunted Houses?

True or False: Hospitality builds magnificent palatial mansions nobody or just 1 somebody has financial, material resources, to actually occupy as their home?

True or False: Hospitality is a Chivalrous or Warlike White Knight riding a White Majestic Stallion in front of a heavily fortified Castle politely, or not so politely, asking or demanding for the drawbridge to be lowered by the evil Black Knight?

True or False: Hospitality has no self-confidence or self-esteem to even start a building project of any magnitude and stays behind, preferring its anonymity?

True or False: Hospitality is a malicious, evil, serial, malignant liar and a fraud?

True or False: Hospitality is serving a well deserved Life plus eternity, prison sentence in the ultimate inescapable underground maximum security prison?

True or False: We can authentically say with conviction that Hospitality is an authentic Best Friend Forever, or in reality, our very worst all time, enemy?

True or False: As Christians we can easily recognize Hospitality according to the Word of God for the Children of God – and to obediently listen, and learn about living in hospitality and with hospitality, among our neighbors, family of faith?

Hebrews 13:1-8 Amplified Bible

The Changeless Christ

13 Let love of your fellow believers continue. 2 Do not neglect to extend hospitality to strangers [especially among the family of believers—being friendly, cordial, and gracious, sharing the comforts of your home and doing your part generously], for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it. 3 Remember those who are in prison, as if you were their fellow prisoner, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body [and subject to physical suffering]. 4 Marriage is to be held in honor among all [that is, regarded as something of great value], and the marriage bed undefiled [by immorality or by any sexual sin]; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. 5 Let your character [your moral essence, your inner nature] be free from the love of money [shun greed—be financially ethical], being content with what you have; for He has said, “I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support, nor will I in any degree leave you helpless], nor will I forsake or let you down or relax My hold on you [assuredly not]!” 6 So we take comfort and are encouraged and confidently say,

“The Lord is my Helper [in time of need], I will not be afraid.
What will man do to me?”

7 Remember your leaders [for it was they] who brought you the word of God; and consider the result of their conduct [the outcome of their godly lives], and imitate their faith [their conviction that God exists and is the Creator and Ruler of all things, the Provider of eternal salvation through Christ, and imitate their reliance on God with absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness]. 8 Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday and today and forever.

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Praying,

Psalm 100 Amplified Bible

All Men Exhorted to Praise God.

A Psalm of Thanksgiving.

100 Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth.
2 
Serve the Lord with gladness and delight;
Come before His presence with joyful singing.
3 
Know and fully recognize with gratitude that the Lord Himself is God;
It is He who has made us, [a]not we ourselves [and we are His].
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

4 
Enter His gates with a song of thanksgiving
And His courts with praise.
Be thankful to Him, bless and praise His name.
5 
For the Lord is good;
His mercy and lovingkindness are everlasting,
His faithfulness [endures] to all generations.

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.

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Where is our Total Satisfaction with nothing but a young boy’s five loaves of bread and two fish? Mark 6:41-42

Mark 6:33-44 New American Standard Bible

Five Thousand Men Fed

33 The people saw them going, and many recognized them and ran there together on foot from all the cities, and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus went [a]ashore, He saw a large crowd, and He felt compassion for them because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and He began to teach them many things. 35 And when it was already late, His disciples came up to Him and said, “[b]This place is secluded and it is already late; 36 send them away so that they may go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves [c]something to eat.” 37 But He answered them, “You give them something to eat!” And they *said to Him, “Shall we go and spend two hundred [d]denarii on bread, and give it to them to eat?” 38 But He *said to them,  “How many loaves do you have? Go look!” And when they found out, they *said, “Five, and two fish.” 39 And He ordered them all to recline by groups on the green grass. 40 They reclined in groups of hundreds and fifties. 41 And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward heaven, He blessed the food and broke the loaves and He gave them to the disciples again and again to set before them; and He divided the two fish among them all. 42 And they all ate and were satisfied; 43 and they picked up twelve full baskets of the broken pieces of bread, and of the fish. 44  There were five thousand [e]men who ate the loaves.

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.

When Jesus directed the disciples to feed a crowd of 5,000 men, plus women and children, with nothing but a young boy’s five loaves of bread and two fish, they faced a seemingly impossible situation.

As Andrew questioned, “What are they for so many?” (John 6:9).

But the Twelve did as Jesus directed them: they sat the people down, separated them into groups, and then they divided the loaves and fish. And divided. And divided. And before they knew it, a miracle of satisfaction had just unfolded.

The five loaves and two fish managed to feed thousands—and not just with the tiniest servings of food but with such an abundance that “they all ate and were satisfied.”

In truth, in a rather miraculous turn of events, there were even twelve wicker baskets of leftovers – 1 for each of the disciples to carry over their shoulders and go among the roadways and back alleys of neighboring villages to feast upon.

Just as God had done centuries earlier with the manna in the barren wilderness (Exodus 16), here the Great Shepherd of Israel proved His identity and provided for His people’s needs, both literally and symbolically.

It should be impossible for us to consider this story and not recognize that God takes unmanageable situations and unbelievably limited resources and greatly multiplies them for the well-being of others and the glory of His name. And He can miraculously do this with our lives and with our neighbors lives as well.

Perhaps, if you are the only Christian, practicing Christian, in your family, in your class, or at your job, you may rigorously, vigorously wonder, like Andrew, “What am I to do among so many? What should I say? What can I hope do?”

Mark 12:41-44 New American Standard Bible

The Widow’s Coins

41 And Jesus sat down opposite the treasury, and began watching how the [a] people were putting [b]money into the treasury; and many rich people were putting in large amounts. 42 And a poor widow came and put in two [c]lepta coins, which amount to a [d]quadrans. 43 Calling His disciples to Him, He said to them, “Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all [e]the contributors to the treasury; 44 for they all put in out of their [f]surplus, but she, out of her poverty, put in all she owned, [g] all she had to live on.”

Jesus and His disciples watch a widow put coins into the treasury offering box.

But here is the real question to ask:

“Have I truly offered up my “meager” resources to God—my time, talents, my energy, gifts, and finances?” They may not be much. But He can multiply them!

https://www.google.com/search?q=Gladys+Aylward&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

Christian missionary Gladys Aylward lived in London with no education and no savings.

What she had, though, was a passionate longing to go to China to share the gospel.

This small-statured lady, who had long, straight, black hair, thus began a journey by train and then by ocean liner, and eventually ended up in Shanghai.

As she stood on the deck, looking out on the city, she saw all the small-statured Chinese people with their straight, black hair, and suddenly realized that God had had a plan and purpose for her all along.

He’d even established her DNA in such a way she would be perfectly suited to become the “Little Woman” who would reach countless tiny children with the gospel—because she offered up her life to God He multiplied it for His glory.

As you look out on your day and your week, offer yourself to God. Your inability is His opportunity. Your weaknesses and your sense of dependence will form the very basis upon which He shows Himself to be stronger. With nothing but mere loaves and fish, He satisfied thousands. Be in no doubt that He can use you to do great and miraculous things of eternal worth, if you will only pray to Him.

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Praying …

Psalm 23 Authorized (King James) Version

Psalm 23

A Psalm of David.

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul:
he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil: for thou art with me;
thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

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.

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Teamwork Triumph! There is such strength and a sense of community in working together with God toward a common goal. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Authorized (King James) Version

9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he ; for he hath not another to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? 12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

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.

What is Ecclesiastes trying to tell us?

Ecclesiastes explores the incomparably vast futility of ‘chasing’ worldly pursuits and the importance of fearing God and enjoying life’s simple gifts, ultimately suggesting that the truest meaning and purpose are found in a knotted relationship with God, not in material success or fleeting pleasures. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

  • The Futility of “Under the Sun”: The book uses the phrase “under the sun” to describe life without God, where everything seems meaningless and ultimately unsatisfying. 
  • Vanity and Meaninglessness: The author, traditionally believed to be Solomon, explores various aspects of life, including wisdom, knowledge, pleasure, work, and time, and concludes that they are all ultimately “vanity” or “meaningless” when considered apart from God. 
  • The Importance of Fearing God: Ecclesiastes emphasizes the importance of “fearing God” which means trusting, obeying, and serving God, rather than relying on oneself or worldly achievements. 
  • Enjoying Life’s Gifts: While acknowledging the limitations of life, the book also encourages people to enjoy the simple gifts of life, such as good food, good company, and the beauty of creation. 
  • Finding Meaning in God: The book suggests that true meaning and purpose are found in a relationship with God, not in material possessions, achievements, or fleeting pleasures. 
  • Hope for God’s Judgment: Ecclesiastes also reveals the surest hope for God’s judgment that will destroy evil and bring justice, which fuels a life of honesty and integrity, despite life’s mysteries. 

What is the main point of the book of Ecclesiastes?

The book reveals the necessity of fearing God in a fallen and frequently confusing and frustrating world. Humans seek lasting significance, but no matter how great their accomplishments, humans are unable to achieve the lasting significance they desire.

How do I apply Ecclesiastes to my life?

8 Lessons From Ecclesiastes

  1. Everyone Faces Challenging Times. …
  2. Be Cautious of Busyness. …
  3. Uncertainty Is a Part of Life. …
  4. A Relationship With God Gives Life Meaning. …
  5. Focus on God’s Gifts. …
  6. The End Is More Important Than Life. …
  7. God Is in Control. …
  8. Follow God’s Commandments.

Teamwork is important.

There is strength and a sense of community in working together toward a common goal.

Working together is essential in overcoming challenges and achieving shared objectives.

Matthew 28:16-20 Authorized (King James) Version

16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Teamwork develops synergy, where individual strengths complement each other, leading to greater productivity and creativity.

Through teamwork, various perspectives and skills contribute to thorough problem solving and innovation.

The Bible emphasizes the values of teamwork.

From Moses and Aaron leading the Israelites to Jesus sending out his disciples, cooperation and mutual support are foundational to God’s work. Together we can all encourage, support, and build each other up in faith and good works.

Looking way, way back, I see how teamwork has enriched my personal growth and accomplishments. It has taught me humility, patience, and the spirit filling joy of celebrating collective achievements. Glory to God! Each team effort has strengthened relationships and fostered a sense of community and belonging.

We can embrace collaboration in all areas of life, seeking opportunities to work alongside others, leveraging people’s strengths for the greater good.

Let’s strive to imitate Savior Christ’s example of unity and service, knowing that together we can accomplish far more than we could if we worked alone.

What do now hold is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12?

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 emphasizes, raises, the value of shared companionship and sound teamwork, stating two are better than one because they can help each other succeed, withstand challenges, and find warmth, while also highlighting the strength of a “threefold cord” (relationship with God) is not easily broken. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

  • “Two are better than one” (v. 9): This verse highlights the benefits of working and living together, as opposed to alone, emphasizing mutual support and shared success. 
  • “For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion” (v. 10): This illustrates the practical advantage of having someone to help when facing difficulties, emphasizing the importance of support and encouragement. 
  • “Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm, but how can one be warm alone?” (v. 11): This emphasizes the comfort and warmth of companionship, both physically and emotionally. 
  • “And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (v. 12): This verse introduces the concept of a “threefold cord”, often interpreted as a relationship with God, which adds a powerful layer of strength and resilience to a partnership or relationship. 
  • “Threefold cord”: This is a metaphor for a strong and unbreakable bond, often used to describe the strength of a marriage or friendship which includes God. 

What is the moral lesson of the book of Ecclesiastes?

It acknowledges that if we could understand why things happen, difficult circumstances would be easier to deal with somehow. Ecclesiastes helps us understand that the ups and downs of life are normal and part of God’s plan and that we each must keep an eternal perspective without having all the answers.

God did not create us to be alone — to be a solitary person trying to make it through life alone in a harsh world. 

When we read the Scriptures, we discover that some of God’s strongest servants had trouble when trying to serve Him when alone. 

Jesus intentionally sent out his disciples and apostles in pairs to do His work.  

In the Torah, God insisted that any legal testimony had to be established by at least two or three witnesses. 

In addition, the Lord Jesus emphasized the complete importance of two or three believers gathered together in His name to put aside hatted, sit with God, have tall, active fellowship involved forgiveness, reconciliation, discipline, daily. 

So, we shouldn’t be surprised by this insightful proverb found in our verses today. We are better off with a friend to share in our work, and they need us also.

We can help each other up when we’ve fallen, keep warm when it is cold, defend each other when under attack, be a solid and cohesive team when we weave our lives together with God.

And these principles apply to physical, emotional, and spiritual situations!

So, dear brother or sister in Savior Chris Jesus , please don’t try to do the Christian life alone on your own deserted island. Join with other believers and encourage each other. Our mutual support is vital to our faithfulness to Jesus!

In the name of God, the father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Psalm 84

To the chief Musician upon Gittith, A Psalm for the sons of Korah.

1 How amiable are thy tabernacles,
O Lord of hosts!

2 My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord:
my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.
3 Yea, the sparrow hath found an house,
and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young,
even thine altars, O Lord of hosts, my King, and my God.
4 Blessed are they that dwell in thy house:
they will be still praising thee. Selah.
5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee;
in whose heart are the ways of them.
6 Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well;
the rain also filleth the pools.
7 They go from strength to strength,
every one of them in Zion appeareth before God.

8 O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer:
give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah.
9 Behold, O God our shield,
and look upon the face of thine anointed.
10 For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand.
I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God,
than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.
11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield:
the Lord will give grace and glory:
no good thing will he withhold from them that walk upright

O Lord of hosts,
blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.

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.

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Redemptive Reflection: Take time to be holy, speak often with thy Lord; abide in Him always, and feed on His Word. Psalm 139:23-24

Psalm 139:23-24 Authorized (King James) Version

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart:
try me, and know my thoughts:
24 and see if there be any wicked way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.

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.

Engaging in meaningful personal reflection leads to self-discovery and growth. Taking quality and quantity of time to just explore our thoughts, emotions, and actions can lead us, move us to redemptive, healing, empowering outcomes.

Then came July 14 – 17th 2023 …

1 failed Cardiac Stress Test

Cardiac Catheterization showing 3 arteries greater than 90% blocked – the “widow making” artery being 99% blocked.

July 17, 2023 Triple Bypass Surgery …

5 and 1/2 hours surgery, 80 minutes of which my heart was deliberately stopped then kept sedated 24 hours in the CICU … woken up and I WAS alive! God is God!

In my own life, I’ve experienced the benefit of reflective practices. Through the examen of Ignatius, for example, I have learned to discern God’s presence in my daily life, identify those areas for improvement, seek God’s guidance for the future. This exercise has brought clarity, peace, and a deep sense of purpose.

https://stmargaretmary.org/ignatian-examen-of-consciousness

From praying Psalm 139:23-24 daily during my recovery, rehabilitation, taking a personal inventory was also very beneficial to me.

By honestly assessing my incoming strengths, weaknesses, and values, I’ve been able to make intentional decisions aligned with my beliefs and aspirations. This self-awareness has led to personal growth and a stronger sense of identity.

Imagination is important in reflective practices.

Envisioning different outcomes or a favorable future can inspire hope, motivate us, and build our resilience.

We can see beyond our current situation and consider new possibilities.

Psalm 139:23-24 reminds me to invite God into my self-reflection, asking him to reveal any areas in our lives that need attention redemption and guidance.

100% Honesty as the only process this process leads us on a path of healing and empowerment guided by the Lord’s wisdom and grace.

1. Take time to be holy,
speak oft with thy Lord;
abide in him always,
and feed on his word.
Make friends of God’s children,
help those who are weak,
forgetting in nothing
his blessing to seek.

2. Take time to be holy,
the world rushes on;
spend much time in secret
with Jesus alone.
By looking to Jesus,
like him thou shalt be;
thy friends in thy conduct
his likeness shall see.

3. Take time to be holy,
let him be thy guide,
and run not before him,
whatever betide.
In joy or in sorrow,
still follow the Lord,
and, looking to Jesus,
still trust in his word.

4. Take time to be holy,
be calm in thy soul,
each thought and each motive
beneath his control.
Thus led by his spirit
to fountains of love,
thou soon shalt be fitted
for service above.

Take Time to Be Holy, Text: William D. Longstaff, 1822-1894
Music: George C. Stebbins, 1846-1945

In the name of God, the father, God the son and God, the Holy Spirit,

Praying …

Psalm 15

A Psalm of David.

1 Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle?
who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
2 He that walketh uprightly,
and worketh righteousness,
and speaketh the truth in his heart.
3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue,
nor doeth evil to his neighbour,
nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned;
but he honoureth them that fear the Lord.
He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
5 He that putteth not out his money to usury,
nor taketh reward against the innocent.
He that doeth these things shall never be moved.

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.

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“Failure is never the opposite of ‘success’; it is a crucial part of it.” Proverbs 24:15-16

Proverbs 24:15-16 Christian Standard Bible

15 Don’t set an ambush, you wicked one,
at the camp of the righteous man;
don’t destroy his dwelling.
16 Though a righteous person falls seven times,
he will get up,
but the wicked will stumble into ruin.

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.

Learning Something From our Mistakes.

Learning Nothing From our Mistakes.

Living with the thought that we can, we will, never make Mistakes.

I can anticipate the response that is coming: “I know that all God’s commands are spiritual, but I’m not. Isn’t this also your experience?” Yes. I’m full of myself—after all, I’ve spent a long time in sin’s prison. What I don’t understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise. So if I can’t be trusted to figure out what is best for myself and then do it, it becomes obvious that God’s command is necessary.

But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can’t keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, but I can’t do it. I decide to do good, but I don’t really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don’t result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.

And so, our human condition moves us, trips us, face plants, us through life

I’ve come to appreciate the value of learning from mistakes and of reframing failures as opportunities for growth.

The insights shared by mentors, friends, and even strangers have profoundly shaped my understanding of resilience and perseverance.

When I was younger, I viewed failure as a reflection of my inadequacy.

But a mentor once told me, “Failure is never the opposite of success; it is a crucial part of it.”

That helped me to see mistakes not as automatic dead ends but as stepping stones toward improvement and wisdom.

A memorable example was a project I led that did not go as planned.

I immediately felt defeated, but a wise colleague encouraged me to analyze what went wrong and what could be done differently the next time.

That helped me to see the experience as a learning opportunity.

I also recall a Pastor sharing a story of his own failure in ministry.

His transparency, honesty and humility taught me that even the people we look up to experience setbacks.

This encouraged me to view failure as a shared human experience.

What does Proverbs 24:16 really mean?

Here, Solomon expresses true confidence that godly people can recover from setbacks. Those who do evil will surely fall when they are struck by adversity.

In an earthly sense, this is generally true yet not an absolute guarantee (Psalm 73:2–3). In an eternal sense, however, this principle is universal.

Proverbs 24:16 reminds us that setbacks are not the end. God calls us to keep getting up, to trust Him, and to move forward with hope. No matter how many times we fall, His grace is always sufficient, always there to help us rise again.

Righteous people are not those who will never fall. They do not escape the suffering that attends life in this fallen world (Proverbs 24:16).

Importantly, the righteous man or woman may fall as many as “seven times.”

The number seven often symbolizes completeness in Scripture.

Learning from our mistakes means our humbly acknowledging them, seeking that feedback, and making necessary adjustments. It involves humility and a true willingness to change. By reframing failure, we can grow in resilience, deepen our trust in God’s guidance, and continue moving forward with hope.

In the name of God, the Father God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Praying …

Psalm 121

A Song of degrees.

1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills,
from whence cometh my help.
2 My help cometh from the Lord,
which made heaven and earth.
3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved:
he that keepeth thee will not slumber.
4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel
shall neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The Lord is thy keeper:
the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.
6 The sun shall not smite thee by day,
nor the moon by night.
7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil:
he shall preserve thy soul.
8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in
from this time forth, and even for evermore.

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.

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One Seldom Acknowledged Pitfall of Lent: Man Supposes, Man Proposes, but God alone, Ultimately Disposes. Proverbs 19:21

Proverbs 19:21 New King James Version

21 There are many plans in a man’s heart,
Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.

Th 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.

Where is the wisdom hiding behind a man or woman’s eyes? Outside of God’s good and perfect plan, however, even the best plans of mankind can end up in disappointment and even defeat. It’s when we hold to God’s promises found in Holy Scripture, we remember that God’s plans are always greater than our own.

What does it mean when Solomon says ‘Many Are the Plans of a Person’s Heart’ but the advice of the Lord will stand ?

Goals are an essential part of human life.

Having something to aspire to and work towards is often what gives people purpose, motivation, and a reason to get up in the morning. Without goals, whether big or small, people can quickly stagnate and decline, losing a sense of purpose and even hope in life.

Of course, a goal can be as simple as wanting to finish a good book, learn a new skill, or go for a walk every morning.

Does God Give Us Goals?

For Christians, goals can include trying to spend a few minutes reading the Bible in the morning, getting involved more in their local church, or our memorizing more Scripture.

Even something as mundane as getting dressed to go to work or making breakfast gives us a reason to get up and get moving.

On the other hand, our goals can also be massive, long-term, and seemingly impossible. They may involve moving, starting a business, or making wildly significant life changes.

Dreaming beyond what is comfortable, easy, or safe is what inspired some of history’s greatest innovators, entrepreneurs, and dreamers to take risks, persevere through hardship, ridicule, and failure, and push the boundaries of what we once thought was humanly possible.

We tell their stories and marvel at their achievements, aspiring to reach new heights in our own lives because of their example. That’s not inherently a bad thing. Role models are essential to the health of the individual and the survival of any culture or society.

And while human examples are always going to be flawed and never perfect, God has given us the ultimate example to learn from and follow in Jesus Christ.

Likewise, many of God’s followers throughout Scripture set their hearts and minds on the things exclusively of God, pursuing both long-term and short-term goals in their own lives.

For example, the Apostle Paul longed to visit fellow believers and local churches in person even though he was often prevented or incapable of traveling due to imprisonment or the demands of his ministry.

As a long-term goal, Paul hoped to preach the gospel and minister to the believers in Rome (Romans 1:11; Acts 25:11-12)

And looking to eternity,

Ecclesiastes 3:11-14 Complete Jewish Bible

11 He has made everything suited to its time; also, he has given human beings an awareness of eternity; but in such a way that they can’t fully comprehend, from beginning to end, the things God does. 12 I know that there is nothing better for them to do than to be happy and enjoy themselves as long as they live. 13 Still, the fact that everyone can eat and drink and enjoy the good that results from all his work, is a gift of God. 14 I know that

whatever God does will last forever;
there is nothing to add or subtract from it;
and God has done it so that people will fear him.

Paul determined,

“I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them all mere  rubbish, so that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8).

Immediate, short-term, and long-term goals were always present in Paul’s heart throughout his ministry, with Christ at the center of all of them. The same should be equally true for Christians of all generations.

Many of the goals and dreams we have, as well as the plans we have developed to achieve them, are God-inspired, God-honoring, and God-oriented.

And when our passion merges with God’s good plan and purpose for the world, our dreams are in a wonderful place.

In fact, Jesus told His followers that “where the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).

That is God’s desire for our lives, something He often accomplishes through our goals and dreams.

Understanding the relationship, we share with God as children to a loving Father is essential for stepping into the abundant life God has for us.

Accordingly, there’s also good reason to move forward with joy when we know that God delights in our goals and dreams.

Is it Wrong to Have Plans?

In many instances, it was God who put those dreams and ideas in our hearts in the first place. (1 Kings 3:4-15)

The worst thing we could do is hesitate or sit back when God has given us the green light and the freedom to go for it.

However, though many of our dreams are God-inspired and pleasing to the Father, some are simply not.

Beyond our lowly sinful desires, which must be overcome and rejected, sometimes there is nothing inherently wrong or inherently sinful about our dreams and goals. Our priorities, however, are simply out of alignment.

Certain plans take precedence over the things God has asked us to do or wants for our life.

We get distracted by our many aspirations that we forget to pursue or make time for what truly matters most.

This is why Solomon, like many figures in the Bible, recognized the importance of calibrating plans and passions to God’s will and desire (Proverbs 19:21).

Big or small, our plans are ultimately subject to the will and sovereignty of God.

To put that into perspective, when the children of Israel returned from captivity in Babylon and Persia, God instructed the former exiles to begin rebuilding the temple.

Initially, they were eager to get started on a project many of them had probably dreamed about while in captivity.

However, after just two years of work, construction had ceased.

Rather than being motivated to finish, the people had become discouraged by opposition and distracted by other plans and projects in their lives.

And so, for the next 14 years, the temple was left unfinished while the Israelites worked on building their own houses and finishing other goals.

Some of those plans were good, fine, there was nothing wrong with their desire to build a home and take care of their families; their priorities, however, were out of alignment, prompting God to send the prophet Haggai to encourage His people to get back to work on the temple (Haggai 1:1-11).

In this instance, the Israelites hadn’t outright refused to work the temple, they had simply put it off for another day.

Seeking God’s advice on the matter would have given the Israelites the guidance they needed to know which task to start and finish first.

Accordingly, when God’s plans are put off, our plans often suffer. When God’s goals are pursued first, He often helps our plans fall into place.

In other Proverbs, Solomon also writes:

  • The plans of the heart belong to a person, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a person are clean in his own sight, but the Lord examines the motives. Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established(16:1-3).
  • The mind of a person plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps(16:9).
  • Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight(3:5-6)

It takes disciplined trust and humility to surrender to God’s way of doing things, especially when His plans aren’t always clear. However, in our goals and how we choose to pursue them, our priorities are ultimately revealed.

What Does This Mean?

Again, Christians would be wise to heed the counsel of the Lord and the wisdom of His Word.

Our plans are big.

They are many. Outside of God’s good and perfect plan, however, even the best plans of man can end in disappointment and even defeat.

It’s when we hold to God’s promises found in Scripture, we remember that all of God’s plans are always greater than our own. Best of all, they are 100% good.

As Jeremiah writes, “For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for prosperity and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).

In the name of God, the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Pray …

Psalm 100 Complete Jewish Bible

100 (0) A psalm of thanksgiving:

(1) Shout for joy to Adonai, all the earth!
2 Serve Adonai with gladness.
Enter his presence with joyful songs.

3 Be aware that Adonai is God;
it is he who made us; and we are his,
his people, the flock in his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
enter his courtyards with praise;
give thanks to him, and bless his name.
5 For Adonai is good, his grace continues forever,
and his faithfulness lasts through all generations.

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.

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Covetousness —our far over the top desire to possess for ourselves what God has chosen to give to another, or Humble Contentment Exodus 20:17

Exodus 20:17 Amplified Bible

17 “You shall not covet [that is, selfishly desire and attempt to acquire] your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

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 Ten Commandments end with a call to contentment, truly the other side of the bookends to where we started.  The Lord begins His commandments calling His people to love and worship only Him, to never worship any idols. God now finishes His commandments calling His people into a covenant of contentment with everything that God gifts to us, that their love and worship brings with it.  

This is a call to be thankful and content with the life that God has given you;  To not crave or desire what others have or despise what you have been given, but to be fully and utterly, perfectly thankful for the life that God designed for you.   

Excessive material consumption has become a way of life and no matter how much we obtain or have, it is never enough.  We obtain the job we thought was 100% right for us and quickly are 100% dissatisfied until we get the promotion. 

We buy the house to only desire one bigger and nicer. There is not one aspect of our life that we don’t desire more in.  Even in ministry we desire different gifts, a greater platform, or for God to bless more than He has chosen to do so.  

With all this desire never quenched, we become frustrated and ungrateful. 

It’s hard to live in peace and thanksgiving when you never have what you actually desire. 

In this frustration, sin takes root. 

We soon begin to miss all the great blessings that God has blessed us with because we are always focused on what others have or what we don’t have. 

In this 10th commandment God calls us to peace in contentment. If God wanted us to have more, we would have it.  If we needed different circumstances or abilities, we would have them.  Instead of always saying “if only this” and “if only that,” God calls us to rest in all that He has done in and through our life.  

There will always be someone who has more, is blessed differently, or is experiencing life from different angles than you.  However, there is only one you.  Only one you that He walks with daily in the exact way that He does. 

God chose you from the beginning of time. 

God desired you into existence. 

God sent His Son to die so that you one day would not.

He counts all the hairs on your head and gave you air to breathe today simply because He wants you live. Everything you have, no matter how much or little, is because God loves and cares for you.  That should be enough for true Shalom.  

The world will always gift us with disappointments and leave us thirsty. It will never provide you what you are looking for, even if you find it. 

They only part of life which truly offers peace is Christ! 

Jesus is where all of our joy comes from. 

That is why as believers we can smile while poor or rich, sick or healthy. 

We praise His name in all seasons because He is the only one that is worthy of praise. The only One that offers 100% Shalom and 100% contentment.  

In the name of God, the father and God the Son and God, the Holy Spirit,

Pray,

Psalm 23 Complete Jewish Bible

23 (0) A psalm of David:

(1) Adonai is my shepherd; I lack nothing.
2 He has me lie down in grassy pastures,
he leads me by quiet water,
3 he restores my inner person.
He guides me in right paths
for the sake of his own name.
4 Even if I pass through death-dark ravines,
I will fear no disaster; for you are with me;
your rod and staff reassure me.

5 You prepare a table for me,
even as my enemies watch;
you anoint my head with oil
from an overflowing cup.

6 Goodness and grace will pursue me
every day of my life;
and I will live in the house of Adonai
for years and years to come.

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.

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The Core Truth of the Matter forever Remains True: The reality is that God thoroughly Hates All Our Deception! exodus 20:16

Exodus 20:16 Living Bible

16 “You must not lie.[a]

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.

Quotes from Our first President of the United States George Washington:

https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/biography

“I hold the maxim no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is the best policy.”

Farewell Address to the People of the United States | Monday, September 19, 1796

“Truth will ultimately prevail where pains is taken to bring it to light.”

Letter to Charles M. Thruston | Sunday, August 10, 1794

“Still I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain (what I consider the most enviable of all titles) the character of an honest man.”

George Washington to Alexander Hamilton | Thursday, August 28, 1788

Every command of Scripture serves not only as an instruction for our lives but also as a reflection of who God is.

The command against adultery is rooted in His faithfulness.

The forbidding of murder flows from the life-giving Lord.

And so it is with the ninth commandment against bearing false witness, which comes from the promise-keeping God of all truth, who does not and cannot lie (Numbers 23:19).

What does the Lord have in view when He instructs us not to bear false witness?

It is surely safe to assume that this commandment concerns any form of speech that is far less than truthful.

There are many ways we fall short.

We do it by outright deceit, when we provide false information or withhold the truth in some way.

We do it when we participate in rumors, spreading gossip about others.

We do it by slandering and flattering others.

We do it when we exaggerate the truth, give false impressions, and are careless with the facts. All of this falls short of the divine standard.

In a Court of Law …

According to Maryland Code, Criminal Law §9-101, a person commits the crime of perjury if they “willfully and falsely” make a statement about a “material fact” after taking an oath or any other affirmation under state law.

What is the penalty for perjury in Maryland?

§1621 specifies that those found guilty of perjury may be imprisoned for up to five years or fined according to the statutory guidelines. These guidelines allow for fines of up to $250,000.

A vital component of fighting against the temptation to lie is to understand why we lie in the first place.

The source of lies is none other than Satan himself, about whom Jesus says, “When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44).

Deceit was his strategy in the Garden of Eden, when he approached Eve with a lying tongue.

Tragically, we are often driven by the same motives as the Evil One when we lie: pride, hatred, and fear. We lie out of pride when we want others to think highly of us. We deceive out of hatred because we want to tear down someone else.

We speak untruth out of a fear of the consequences that we think would result from the raw truth being known. In all of this, we lie because in those moments we love ourselves more than we love God and our neighbors.

The reality is that God hates deception (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Proverbs 6:16-19 Living Bible

16-19 For there are six things the Lord hates—no, seven: haughtiness, lying, murdering, plotting evil, eagerness to do wrong, a false witness, sowing discord among brothers.

In order for us to walk in the truth, we must crucify our pride and be more concerned with what God thinks of us than with what someone else thinks.

We must put away malice and pursue love for others, committing to never speaking slanderously or spreading gossip.

And we must fight an ungodly fear of man, replacing it with the fear of God, who came in flesh, declared Himself to be “the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).

The Lord Jesus has given His people His Spirit of truth (John 15:26), who empowers us to walk in the truth and put away falsehood.

Only by His power are we increasingly conformed into the image of Christ and ever more reflecting the character of the God who gave the 9th commandment.

Consider now in which situations and in what ways you are most often tempted to bear false witness.

On this first day of Lent consider, pray about how will the immutable truth about Jesus, His saving gospel, His indwelling Spirit motivate you to speak differently from now on—to speak the whole truth, as a follower of the truth?

In the name of God, the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Pray …

Psalm 15 Living Bible

15 Lord, who may go and find refuge and shelter in your tabernacle up on your holy hill?

2 Anyone who leads a blameless life and is truly sincere. 3 Anyone who refuses to slander others, does not listen to gossip, never harms his neighbor, 4 speaks out against sin, criticizes those committing it, commends the faithful followers of the Lord, keeps a promise even if it ruins him, 5 does not crush his debtors with high interest rates, and refuses to testify against the innocent despite the bribes offered him—such a man shall stand firm 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.

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