Will you stand up in the face of the enemy?

Psalms 116:15 Precious [and of great consequence] in the sight of the Lord
Is the death of His godly ones [so He watches over them]. Phil 1:21 For to
me, to live is Christ [He is my source of joy, my reason to live] and to
die is gain [for I will be with Him in eternity].

Rachel Joy Scott is not a name that very many people know. If I mention,

Cassie Bernall and Columbine, it may come together. Rachel was the second

shooting victim, she saw what happened to Cassie and still stood faithful.

Through out the ages there have been many that have been tortured and

killed because of their faith in Christ. John the Baptist was beheaded,

James the brother of John was killed with the sword, Stephen was stoned,

Peter was crucified upside down. There is a song by Rich Mullins that says,

"But when I leave I want to go out like Elijah With a whirlwind to fuel my

chariot of fire", but if I can't do that, I pray that I am strong enough in

my faith to go out boldly as those who have been martyred in the past.

Brethren as the new year is upon us, may God give us boldness to stand up

in the face of the enemy and proclaim Jesus with all that we are, no matter

the consequences. I pray this in Jesus precious and powerful name, amen.

Douglas 

Ephesians 5 Celebrate New Years Eve with the Lord!

15Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, 19speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; 21and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

Do not be unwise making the most of your time. These verses are fitting for New Year's Eve!
Don't be foolish, do not get drunk with wine or high on drugs but be filled and led by the Spirit!

While the world will tonight drown their sorrows we can lift our spirit to the Most High!

"speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; 21and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ."!!!!!!!!
What a way to celebrate New Year's Eve!

Blessings, David

May we all shine bright!

Matthew 5:14 “You are the light of the world...16 Let your light so shine
before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in
heaven. John8:12 Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of
the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light
of life.”

Why does God have you where you are at in life? Why do you have the job you

do, or why are you in school? Have you ever looked around at the people in

your life and seen how you have affected them? Before I came to know Jesus,

I helped people, sometimes it was to see what I could get from it. When I

was in the world, I shared worldly things. Since becoming a Christian, all

I have wanted to do is share the one thing that means the world to me,

Jesus. He is the light of the world, He is the light of my world, and I

want all who know me to see that light in me and glorify my Father in

heaven. It is not easy to stay positive all the time. There are times that

all I feel is the darkness all around me and even at times lose a little

hope. Then something happens, an encouraging word from someone that was

changed a little, someone that saw my Jesus in me and wants more of Jesus

in them. Brethren, may we all shine bright where ever we are and brighten

up our world. In Jesus name, amen.

Douglas 

Escape Plan Romans 12:1-2

Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV)

Living Sacrifices to God
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

A wise person once told me "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." How true is that! You wouldn't build a house without a plan and you shouldn't start your day without one either. 

Sometimes we face difficult decisions. Sometimes we end up in difficult situations. Temptation makes it easy to fall from the path we should be on. We get angry and loose our temper, get stressed and react in ways we shouldn't. 

The best way to keep from ending up regretting our actions is to have an escape plan. 

As we plan our day, we must keep an eye out for stumbling blocks in our path that can make us fall. Stumbling blocks that take us away from God's will in our lives. What is your escape plan? 

Blessings, Cecilia

Ephesians 5 Are you awake?

11Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. 13But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light.
14For this reason it says,
            “Awake, sleeper,
            And arise from the dead,
            And Christ will shine on you.”

Wow, Paul has a way with words!

Unfuitful deeds of darkness: Sins are terminated in themselves, and therefore are called "works," not "fruits" (Ga 5:19, 22). Their only fruit is that which is not in a true sense fruit (De 32:32), namely, "death" (Ro 6:21; Ga 6:8). Plants cannot bear "fruit" in the absence of light. Sin is "darkness," and its parent is the prince of darkness (Eph 6:12). Graces, on the other hand, as flourishing in "the light," are reproductive, and abound in fruits; which, as harmoniously combining in one whole, are termed (in the singular) "the FRUIT of the Spirit" (Eph 5:9)
http://biblehub.com/commentaries/jfb/ephesians/5.htm

"expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them".
Before you came to Jesus Christ did you fit in this category?

All things will be exposed by the Light.
Yes, one day we will kneel before God, "every knee will bow" and all our sins will be exposed.
Will you be ashamed?
Php 2:10 so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

 “Awake, sleeper,
            And arise from the dead,
            And Christ will shine on you.”

Are you awake?
Arise from your deadness in darkness!
Go and sin no more.
John 8:11 "No, Lord," she said. And Jesus said, "Neither do I. Go and sin no more."
May the light of Christ shine on you!

Blessings, David

Two Wolves. Romans 7:18-25

Romans 7:18-25 NLT
And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. 19 Iwant to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.20 But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

21 I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. 22 I love God’s law with all my heart. 23 But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. 24 Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? 25 Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.

I know I've shared this story before but is so aptly explains these verses I just had to share it again. 

Two Wolves.  A Cherokee Indian Legend

An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy.

“It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.” He continued, “The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.”

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?”

The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”

Which one will you feed? 

Blessings, Cecilia

Ephesians 5 Are you reading your bible today?

6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not be partakers with them; 8for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light 9(for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), 10trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.

Let no one deceive you! This is the reason you need to be consistently in the Word, reading your bible and understanding how God desires you to live.
How did Jesus deal with Satan? With Bible verses! Follow His example!

Yes, the wrath of God will be poured out on those who rejected His Son. Please don't be one of the sons of disobedience.

When you came to Christ, you were born again, leaving behind your evil ways. Why would you tempt yourself to return by hanging around with the sons of disobedience?
Walk in the Light, as children in the Light because you are now in the Light of the Lord!
Bear fruit by being good, being righteous, being truthful!
Read your bible so you can learn what is pleasing to the Lord.

Are you reading your bible today?

Blessings, David

You Have To Believe. Romans 4:1-5

Romans 4 (NLT)

The Faith of Abraham
Abraham was, humanly speaking, the founder of our Jewish nation. What did he discover about being made right with God? 2 If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. 3 For the Scriptures tell us, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”

4 When people work, their wages are not a gift, but something they have earned. 5 But people are counted as righteous, not because of their work, but because of their faith in God who forgives sinners.

No matter how many good works we do, no matter how much money we give to charity, no matter how hard we work for the Kingdom of God, we cannot buy our way into Heaven. Heaven is not something to be earned. 

Then how do we get there? It's easy, really, it's not a secret. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Not just that He exist, you have to believe with every fiber of your body the Jesus is the Son of God. You have to believe that He was born of a virgin and lived a sinless life. You have to believe He died for your sins, was buried and came back to life. You have to believe He walked again in the flesh on the earth and then, ascended to Heaven to reign and rule with God. 

That's the only way, that's the truth and that's the eternal life God wants with you. 

Blessings, Cecilia

Who are you serving?

Gal 1:10 Am I now trying to win the favor *and* approval of men, or of God?
Or am I seeking to please someone? If I were still trying to be popular
with men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.

Who are you trying to please and win the approval of, men or God? There

have been many times throughout my life that I needed affirmation that I am

doing good. I looked for that from my father, my wife, my children, my

employers, and so many other people. When I became a Christian, I

discovered that the one and only person I really need to please is God, and

if I pleased God, I will be what I need to be to others. People serve God

for many different reasons. The apostle Paul served God as a bond-servant,

a servant without wages. Our jobs and other responsibilities are "got

too's", we need to do certain things to survive. Church, ministry, loving

the people, has always been a "get too", for me. God's army is majorly

volunteer. Bob Dylan wrote, "But you're gonna have to serve somebody, yes

Indeed you're gonna have to serve somebody Well, it may be the devil or it

may be the Lord But you're gonna have to serve somebody". Who are you

serving and why?

Douglas 

Ephesians 5 Guard your heart!

   3But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; 4and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

Paul says you are a saint, so act like one!
You can no longer be immoral, impure, filthy, silly talk, course jesting, which are not fitting.

But rather (instead) giving of thanks. That is be thankful for everything God gives you. A roof over your head, the food in your belly, the clothes on your back.

Then Paul gives this warning:
"For this you know with certainty,"
that (no) immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.
No means no!

May we examine ourselves today and live our life as Jesus would want us to live without all the things that God detests.

I recall while working, fellow workers would start gossiping or telling crude jokes. As a Christian you have a choice to make. Listen or walk away. I would walk away.

If you listen, you are not guarding your heart.
Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

Blessings, David

I am not who I use to be!

Luke 5:31 And Jesus replied to them, “It is not those who are healthy who
need a physician, but [only] those who are sick. 32 I did not come to call
the [self-proclaimed] righteous [who see no need to repent], but sinners to
repentance [to change their old way of thinking, to turn from sin and to
seek God and His righteousness].”

I was the drug addict that Jesus came to save. I was also a drunkard,

sexually immoral, a thief, a liar, and a few other things that I am not

proud of. I know that I am a sinner, I desired something different, my

righteousness is in Christ alone. I am very thankful that God got me away

from that lifestyle. I recently read about a couple that overdosed on drugs

and died, a few days later their baby died from neglect. There are stories

like this we hear about almost everyday. There are people that I lived that

lifestyle with, that are still caught up in it. I know of one that was

baptized the same night that I was, almost 16 years ago, that went back, or

maybe never really left. My heart breaks for them and seeing the pain and

misery that they are suffering. Dear Lord, please, please help those that

You love come to You in complete surrender. Please help and protect the

innocent that are affected by the sins of those around them. In Jesus name,

amen. I am living proof that God is alive and active, I may not be who I

want to be, but one thing is for sure, I am not who I use to be.

Douglas 

Its My Pity Party......Romans 3:10-12

Romans 3:10-12

10 As the Scriptures say,

“No one is righteous—not even one.

11 No one is truly wise; no one is seeking God.

12  All have turned away; all have become useless.
No one does good, not a single one.”

Psalm 14:1-3 NLT

For the choir director: A psalm of David.

1 Only fools say in their hearts, "There is no God.”

They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; not one of them does good!

2 The LORD looks down from heaven on the entire human race;

He looks to see if anyone is truly wise, if anyone seeks God.

3 But no, all have turned away; alll have become corrupt.

No one does good, not a single one!I

Psalm 53 NLT

For the choir director: A meditation; a psalm of David.

1 Only fools say in their hearts, "There is no God.”

They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; not one of them does good!

2 God looks down from heaven on the entire human race;

He looks to see if anyone is truly wise, if anyone seeks God.

3 But no, all have turned away; all have become corrupt.

No one does good, not a single one!

Ever feel like you can't do anything right? No matter how hard you try, you always mess up. Someone once told me "If you're having a pity party in your head, go do something nice for someone". It was good advice. Just think of all the people in the world who have pity parties in their head every day. If each of them did something nice for someone, the world would be a much nicer place. 

The next time you have a pity party in your head, go do something nice for someone, anyone, the next person you see, the lady behind you in line at the checkout,  the elderly man in the parking lot. You have no idea how you might effect that person's day. Maybe, just maybe, they were having their own pity party and will now pay it forward. 

Blessings, Cecilia

Ephesians 5 Be imitators of God!

      1Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
     
How can we be imitators of God? When we believe in Jesus Christ and His gift of Salvation, that is accept His free gift we were adopted into the family of God as one of His children. And do not children imitate their parents striving to be like them?

We should try to imitate Gods love for us, that is, imitate His love love towards others.
How can you display Gods love towards others today?
How can you walk in love today?

"just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma."
You can love as Christ, putting others first, sacrificing time and resources for the kingdom of God and you too will be a fragrant aroma.
Be an imitator of Christ!
Abide in Christ!

http://www.abideinchrist.com/selah/sep29.html

Blessings, David

What keeps you busy?

Luke2:46 Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple,
sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking
them questions. 47 And all who heard Him were astonished at His
understanding and answers. 48 So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and
His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your
father and I have sought You anxiously.” 49 And He said to them, “Why did
you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?”

What keeps you busy, the works of the spirit or the works of the flesh?

Most people have full time jobs, family, hobbies, and responsibilities that

are time consuming. For me, it is difficult to find a good balance with

everything that I have going on. Most parts of my life, I try to

incorporate my love for Jesus into. I try to find ways to bless people as

much as I can whenever I can in Jesus name. An encouraging word, a prayer

in passing, sometimes just saying Jesus loves you. At age twelve, Jesus

stated that, " I must be about My Father’s business". Brethren, may desire

to have the same heart. Jesus sat listening to the teachers and asking

questions. Lord help us to understand what you would have us do to help

further the kingdom and may we be about our Father's business in every

aspect of our lives. In Jesus name, amen.

Douglas 

The Only Relationship. John 21:14-19

John 21:14-19 (NKJV) 

14 This is now the third time Jesus showed Himself to His disciples after He was raised from the dead.

Jesus Restores Peter
15 So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?”

He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”

He said to him, “Feed My lambs.”

16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?”

He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”

He said to him, “Tend My sheep.”

17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?”

And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.”

Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. 18 Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.” 19 This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, “Follow Me.”

Three times Peter denied Jesus, three times Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him. Peter had failed Jesus and he knew it. Now, Jesus would start the restoration process in Peter. 

Restoration can be a long, difficult process. When we've hurt others, when we've been deeply hurt, restoration takes time. Sometimes, restoration never comes. Sometimes we just have to forgive in our heart and move on. 

Forgiveness and restoration are not the same thing. We can forgive those who have hurt us but choose not to allow them access to hurt us again. In the same way, we can be forgiven by others and not be allowed access to hurt them again

We can't change others, we can only change how we view them. We can hold bitterness in our heart and  become bitter. We can stay angry at others and become angry. Or, we can forgive others and be forgiven. 

Thankfully, every single time we turn back to Jesus, He forgives us. He is the only relationship we will ever have that will not fail us. He is the only relationship we will ever have that will never hurt us. Jesus is the only relationship we will ever have that will allow us access back to Him. 

Blessings, Cecilia

Ephesians 4 Guilty!

25Therefore, laying aside falsehood, SPEAK TRUTH EACH ONE of you WITH HIS NEIGHBOR, for we are members of one another. 26BE ANGRY, AND yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27and do not give the devil an opportunity. 28He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need. 29Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. 30Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

Let's examine these verses:

Laying aside falsehood, speak truth! I'm guilty, are you?

We are members of one another, yes even your neighbor! One of my neighbors is a bully, yells and screams all the time, is unreasonable while claiming I'm unreasonable. All I can do is pray for him. Do you love your neighbor?

Be angry and do not sin! I'm guilty are you? Don't let the sun go down on your anger. I have, have you?

Do not give the devil opportunity. Guilty! Are you?

He who steals must steal no longer! Guilty! Have you ever stolen anything? Paid a cheaper price for something mis-marked?

Do you labor and share with those who have need? Sometimes, but I need to do more. What about you?

Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth! Guilty! I spilled a cup of coffee this morning and the "d" word came out, my old background as a mechanic reared its ugly head. Allot of mechanics cuss, swear and it's hard when your around them daily. Do you ever swear? What about when someone cuts you off in traffic?

"word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear." Hard to do but I try when I see a need. Do you?

Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
Grieve: cause great distress to (someone):(Holy Spirit). Why, by our actions would you cause grief to someone who loves you? Guilty! Are you?

bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, slander and malice be put away from you! Guilty! When I catch myself falling into these I pray the Lord to remove the bitterness from my heart. Are you guilty?

"Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you." This is hard and I'm guilty, are you? This is a command, because if you don't forgive the Father won't forgive you!

May we all try to be better examples of Christ striving to be a better Christian.

Blessings, David

Happy Birthday Jesus. Isaiah 9:6

Isaiah 9:6 NKJV
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Love came down from Heaven to Earth. God left His throne to be born human, an infant, small, vulnerable and dependant. Not in a castle, not born in warmth, not in comfortable surroundings but in a cold, dark, stinky cave with animals in attendance. Isn't it fitting the Good Shepherds birth was first announced to shepherd's in the field with their flock? Isn't it fitting the King of Kings was born in humble surroundings as an example of humility for us?

Happy Birthday Jesus!
Merry Christmas Everyone!

Blessings, Cecilia

Happy birthday Jesus!

Isaiah 9:6 For to us a Child shall be born, to us a Son shall be given;
And the government shall be upon His shoulder, And His name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Luke
2:10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you
good news of great joy which will be for all the people. 11 For this day in
the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the
Lord (the Messiah).

Merry Christmas, these words have a different meaning for me since becoming

a Christian. When I was a child, I knew it was a special day, we had a

tree, gifts were given, went to church all dressed up. I was taught, it was

about Jesus, and yet there was still something missing, something I didn't

understand, the reason behind it all. Fulfilled prophecy and the truth of

God's word. Isaiah spoke as to the future and Luke documented it in the

present. I have seen a lot of different controversy about Christmas.

Things, that I believe are a distraction from the purpose of this day. When

was Jesus actually born? Why have a tree? Why the gifts? You know that

Christmas is from a pagan holiday? And so many others. Setting a day apart

to celebrate the birth of Jesus has the significance of bringing His name

out into the world for all to hear. There is power in the name of Jesus!

The greatest gift to mankind was foretold and fulfilled. Brethren, may we

truly celebrate today what Christmas is all about, Happy Birthday Jesus!

Thank You for everything!

Douglas 

Ephesians 4 God is with us!

20But you did not learn Christ in this way, 21if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, 22that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, 23and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.

As we celebrate Christmas today, that is the birth of Christ, remember the sacrifice He made for you so that you could lay aside your old self with its corruption, to become renewed in the spirit of your mind, putting on your new self in the likeness of Jesus.
In LOVE!

Are you physically alone today? God is with us (you)!
Matthew 1:23 "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us").
Celebrate with God today for your salvation through His Son.
He is with you, you are not alone. Set a plate for Him at your table, talk to Him, thank Him for your blessings. He's waiting to hear from you.

May the peace and love of our Lord Jesus be with you today.

Merry Christmas, David

Ephesians 4 We sin less

17So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, 18being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart;19and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness.

Do you remember how you used to be before coming to Christ?
Don't these verses describe it to a tee?
And who among you after learning the way, the truth, the life could turn back to the old way of life, the old you?

Brethren you have been given a reprieve, forgiven and are now white as snow in Gods eyes. It doesn't mean that we are sinless, it just means we sin less, and when we do we repent and ask forgiveness.

Don't let Satan throw dirt on your white robe by dredging up your past, remind him of your spiritual future with Christ and he's the one who will be thrown into the Lake of Fire, not you!

Rejoice as you celebrate the Lord Jesus Christ birthday and remember the gift He gave you!
Pray for those you know with a hard heart that if it's His will, He will soften them as He did yours.
Merry Christmas!

Blessings, David

The Devil Made Me Do It. John 8:30-36, 43-44

John 8:30-36, 43-44
As He spoke these words, many believed in Him.
Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.
And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?”
Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.
And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever.
Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.
Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word.
You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.
Satan, the father of lies. No good can come from him because there is no good in him. 
When Satan whispers in your ear "you're no good" God tells us "you are perfect just the way I made you". When the devil tells you "go ahead, do it, no one will ever know" Jesus says "walk with Me and if you need, I will carry you. When Satan says "you're a failure, you never do anything right" Jesus says "do it My way, with Me you will have the strength ". 
I first heard this story attributed to Martin Luther. I love it because it shows how Satan has no power over us.  

One night Martin Luther heard a noise downstairs. He got out of bed, lit a lamp and went to see what was going on. When got to the bottom of the stairs, he looked to see Satan rocking in his rocking chair just glaring at him. Luther, looked at him and said, “Oh, it’s just you”,  blew out the lamp, and went back to bed! 

The next time Satan knocks on your door, send Jesus to answer it!

Blessings, Cecilia 

What will you do?

Acts 4:18 So they sent for them, and commanded them not to speak [as His
representatives] or teach at all in the name of Jesus [using Him as their
authority]. 19 But Peter and John replied to them, “Whether it is right in
the sight of God to listen to you and obey you rather than God, you must
judge [for yourselves]; 20 for we, on our part, cannot stop telling
[people] about what we have seen and heard.”

You are not allowed to speak the name of Jesus or there will be severe

consequences! What do you do? For some, they will continue living a life of

boldness and suffer the consequences. Others will will go into hiding. And

still others will walk away completely. There are many people throughout

the world that die everyday in Jesus name. Genocide, civil wars, ISIS, are

just a few ways that this is happening. Christian persecution is not new.

For those of us in the "Civilized" nations, we do not see the pain and

sacrifice of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Recently I have seen a

video of Christians being beaten to death and people stood by and just

watched. My heart broke. If it ever gets to the point where it becomes

illegal to speak the name of Jesus, what will YOU do? I pray that my

response will be the same as Peter and John, that I cannot stop telling

people about what I have seen and heard. What about you?

Douglas 

Ephesians 4 What individual part can you supply?

15but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, 16from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.

How often do we not speak in truth and love? I'm guilty, there are times when I'm busy doing a repair or project and my wife asks me what I'm doing and my response is not in love.
As Paul has written in Romans 7:15
For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.

Christ is the head of the church, we are part of the body being fitted together where the Holy Spirit desires us to be. Everyone has their own spiritual gifts and together our gifts supply the church to become whole, supplying the needs to everyone building ourselves up in the love of Christ.
Where do you fit into the body of Christ? Start with prayer. You can volunteer with something as simple as a greeter, or maybe you have a special love for children, then you can supply a need in the children's ministry.
What individual part can you supply that causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love?

Blessings, David

What is a soul worth?

Acts14:21 They preached the good news to that city and made many disciples,
then they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch,22 strengthening
and establishing the hearts of the disciples; encouraging them to remain
firm in the faith, saying, “It is through many tribulations and hardships
that we must enter the kingdom of God.”

Does anybody really care? Have you ever seen someone and knew that they

needed a word of encouragement and just walked on by? I have been guilty of

this very thing, and it has happened to me far to often. There are people

that come in and out of our lives all the time that need to be strengthened

and get an encouraging word, a prayer, to help them remain firm in their

faith or help them to develop it. In Acts 14 it says, “It is through many

tribulations and hardships that we must enter the kingdom of God.” Death,

divorce, adultery, alcoholism, drug addiction, loneliness are just a few of

the hardships people all around us are dealing with. To simply take a few

minutes out of your day, to talk to someone, may be just what they need to

have hope to survive and realize that Jesus really does love them and you

love them too. What is a soul worth? Whatever it takes to save it. There

are two things that most people hold onto tightly, time and money. What are

you investing in with what God has given you, your earthly kingdom or our

heavenly one? May we preach the good news in love with boldness and see

who's life will be changed.

Douglas 

Your Simon State. Luke 22:31-34

Luke 22 (NKJV)
Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”
33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.”
34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”

A couple of things about these verses. First, Jesus refers to Peter by his first name here, Simon. Jesus hadn't called Peter by Simon after he started following Him. Peter was his "after" name. Simon was his "before" name. Yet here, Jesus calls him Simon. Why? Because Jesus knew his faith would falter.
Second Jesus says "Simon, Simon". When Jesus said something twice, it meant "listen up". "Martha, Martha", "truly, truly", "verily, verily". He was saying "listen up , Peter, your faith is waning Satan will attack you and shake you to the core. When you are restored, strengthen your brothers". To which Peter replied "I'll follow you in death if I have to". I don't think Peter heard Jesus. If Jesus had just told me Satan was going to sift me as wheat, but don't worry, I prayed that when he is done, you will return to me" my response would be "What!? Thanks a lot Jesus, why couldn't you pray it wouldn't happen in the first place! Some friend!"
Third, Jesus tells Peter he will deny Him, not just once but three times! We call this a "Peter moment". We've all done it, had that opportunity to share Jesus but not used it because we didn't want people to think we are Jesus freaks. The aftermath doesn't feel good and we become bolder because we don't want to repeat it, ever. That's the returning Jesus mentions to Peter.
Peter had to return to his Simon state so that Jesus could use him the way Jesus intended. Peter had to return to his Simon state to see what he was losing, what life would be like without Jesus. Now that Peter had experienced life with Jesus, Jesus wanted Peter to remember what life without Him had been like.
Now that you've experienced life with Jesus, could you go back to your Simon state? I couldn't.
Blessings, Cecilia

Ephesians 4 Are you a mature Christian?

11And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; 13until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. 14As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming;

Becoming a Christian, you are like a child until you mature like an adult. You study scripture, understanding the word of God so you won't be carried away by doctrine, trickery, craftiness, deceitful scheming or Satan himself. You are no longer a child being carried from wave to wave.

As a mature Christian, God has a plan for you and your spiritual gifts. You have a salvation story, you were once dead in your sins but now are "saved", born again as a new man in Christ Jesus!

What is your plan? It's actually Gods plan! Start by telling others about your salvation and pray that God will show you how and where to use your spiritual gifts in the work of service, building up the body of Christ. Keep praying and He will open a door for you. Trust Him where He leads you remembering that He uses the weak to confound the wise.

Blessings, David

Jesus love you and I love you too!

Eph6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only
with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers,
against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual
*forces* of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) *places*.
John 10:10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I
(Jesus) came that they may have *and* enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to
the full, till it overflows].

Flashbacks have become common place in my life recently due to one thing or

another. Triggers have set off a PTSD type of thought process in me. I look

at what I have gone through and to some it seems extreme and to others it

is nothing. I have dear friends that have gone to war and some of the

things they have done haunt them continually. I know that what I have gone

through has a lot to do with poor choices that I have made in the past and

that I will deal with the consequences of them for the rest of my life. The

enemy has a purpose, to steal and kill and destroy. Jesus came that all

people may have and enjoy life and have it in abundance [to the full, till

it overflows]. For myself, my brethren and friends that are facing battles,

we need to know without a doubt that we are not alone. Jesus is with us. I

am also willing to help whosoever needs it as much as I can through prayer

and any other way that is possible for me to do. Jesus loves you and I love

you too.

Douglas 

Check mate. Luke 17:1-4

Luke 17:1-4
Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!
It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.
Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.
And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.”


If someone sinned against us seven times in one day and repented, we could forgive them in word but would we forgive in truth?
Would our heart really embrace them with true forgiveness? I don't think so. I think we would be guarded after that, unable to trust that person again.
Yet Jesus forgives us. We sin against Him multiple times every day and He wholeheartedly forgives us each and every time. And aren't you glad He does?
Oh, wait, you don't sin against Jesus multiple times a day? Really? Do you have negative thoughts about people you pass in public? Do you criticize the way other people drive? Do you think the cashier at the store is an idiot? Do you use angry words or tone of voice on your spouse or children? Do you loose your temper? Cuss?
Check mate.
Blessings, Cecilia 

Ephesians 4 Do you believe, gibberish or the Word of God?

      7But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.

8Therefore it says,
            “WHEN HE ASCENDED ON HIGH,
            HE LED CAPTIVE A HOST OF CAPTIVES,
            AND HE GAVE GIFTS TO MEN.”

9(Now this expression, “He ascended,” what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.)


Every Friday when my father was in assisted living I would take him dinner. We would discuss life, the Bible and things in general. When my father was near the end of his life he expressed to me he was worried he would have to spend three days in hell as Jesus did. He was Catholic and because of the Creeds Prayer he became worrisome about hell.
http://www.catholicplanet.com/catholic/creed.htm

So we had a bible study about it. We examined scripture and discussed it.

We see here in Ephesians that he descended into the lower parts of the earth. Christ did that because He fulfilled the Law, and the saints (believers) were waiting for the savior.

There is Hell (Lake of fire) for the unbelievers and Sheol (Waiting place for believers).

With Abraham in Luke 16:19-31 we learn there is a big divide (a great chasm) between Hell and Sheol (waiting place for believers).
https://www.gotquestions.org/did-Jesus-go-to-hell.html

I explained to my father that Jesus went to Sheol to take believers to heaven and since he believed that Jesus suffered and died for his sins on the cross and resurrected from the dead on the third day he would go straight to heaven.
My father was relieved that he wouldn't have to spend time in hell before going to heaven.

The Bible has the answers to life and death on earth, spiritual life and spiritual death.
When we believe in Jesus and His death on the cross for our sins we become a temple of God. The Holy Spirit enters us. It's the Holy Spirit that helps us understand the Bible.

To unbelievers the Bible is gibberish, to believers it's the Word of God written by men with guidance from the Holy Spirit.

What do you believe, gibberish or the Word of God?

Blessings, David

Through The Eye Of Love. Luke 7:27-36

Luke 7 NKJV

Love Your Enemies
27 “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. 29 To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30 Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. 31 And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.

32 “But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.

Love your enemies, pray for those who spitefully use you. That is contrary to what our society today teaches. But what happens when you follow this commandment is a change of your heart. You begin to see people as Jesus does. Through the eyes of love.

When we pray for our enemies we not only change our heart but our prayers, through Jesus Christ, might just change their heart too. Isn't that the goal of this life? To bring as many as possible to salvation?

Jesus loves the sinner and the saint and He loves them both the same. Jesus doesn't have favorites. If Jesus can love the sinner, we certainly can too.

Which of your enemies can you pray for today to bring them to salvation?

Blessings, Cecilia

What will your answer be?

Matt 9:9 As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man named Matthew (Levi)
sitting in the tax collector’s booth; and He said to him, “Follow Me [as My
disciple, accepting Me as your Master and Teacher and walking the same path
of life that I walk].” And Matthew got up and followed Him. Mark 1:17 And
Jesus said to them, “Follow Me [as My disciples, accepting Me as your
Master and Teacher and walking the same path of life that I walk], and I
will make you fishers of men.”

FACEBOOK settings - Follow, Default, Unfollow, Unfriend, Block. With these

settings, you can pick and choose the information and the people you want

to deal with. If you have worldly friends, you can set it where they can

see yours and you don't have to see theirs. There are also some people that

you just do not want to deal with, because of one reason or another. As I

think about these settings, I see the different ways I have treated my own

relationship with Jesus. Some days I follow close, desiring to deeply

worship. Other days, it has been more like a default, if something happens,

great? In my past, when I knew I was sinning, it was more like, unfollow.

Then, the times before I knew Jesus, it was definitely unfriend and block.

Jesus is asking everyone to simply, "“Follow Me [as My disciples, accepting

Me as your Master and Teacher and walking the same path of life that I

walk]". What will your answer be? What setting are you going to pick?

Douglas 

Ephesians 4 Walk in unity of the Spirit

1Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, 2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, 3being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.

Are you a prisoner of the Lord? Or do you just find time for Him on Sunday?
If you are not seeking Him with all your heart, mind and soul 24/7 then you are falling short!
How are you called? It's simple, follow the prodding of the Lord, follow your heart!

Have you ever had someone ask you to pray for them? Was your response, can I pray for you now? Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the words.

Remember to walk daily 24/7 in this manner worthy of the calling in which you have been called with humility, gentleness, patience, tolerance for one another in love being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
If you are lacking in any one of these pray that Jesus will give it to you.

"As we are passionate about the unity of the spirit we will be passionate about Jesus and His purpose. Both are connected and one cannot operate without the other. In closing, unity is first through the common conviction, the knowledge of the Son of God. The second is a common confidence or faith in Christ. The last thing is the common care of one another by Holy Spirit. These three things all in operation of love produce the spirit of unity in the body with a bond of peace and there in that place the Lord will command a blessing over our lives."
Read more here:
http://spiritualcleansingroot.org/unity-spirit-bond-peace/

Remember! 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.

May our one Lord, one God and Father of all, bless you and your family today.
Blessings, David

Jesus is the Living Bread!

John6:53 And Jesus said to them, “I assure you and most solemnly say to
you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood [unless
you believe in Me as Savior and believe in the saving power of My blood
which will be shed for you], you do not have life in yourselves. 66 As a
result of this many of His disciples abandoned Him, and no longer walked
with Him.

Have you ever seriously thought about walking away from Jesus after all

that you have been through because you do not understand or found difficult

to believe what He said? Have you ever had someone close to you, that was

on fire for the Lord, that has walked away and is living for the world?

Billy Graham and Charles Templeton were evangelists in the 40's, Billy

stayed the course, and very unexpectantly Charles became an atheist. Jesus'

followers saw the miracles and believed, then heard the words to difficult

to understand. Jesus is the Living Bread that came down out of heaven. If

anyone eats of this Bread he will live forever. For those who have walked

away and those that are living a life of compromise, my heart breaks.

Brethren, may we stand strong and united, encourage those that have walked

away, and truly understand that Jesus alone has the words of eternal life.

Douglas 

Ephesians 3 All means all!

20Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us,21to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

Him (God) can do anything, more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think! He is the power that works within you!
Do you question wether that is true? Look at and examine yourself, the old you, verses the new you in Christ! Do you really think anyone else has the power to perform that change?

He created the heavens and the earth. Look around and ask how else did this come to be?
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
"to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen."!

To ALL (all means all) generations forever and ever!
Go forth and tell the world how He changed you according to the power that works within you!

Blessings, David

Purify me!

Malachi 3:2 But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand
when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like launderer’s soap
[which removes impurities and uncleanness].

Purify me! Have you ever been at a celebration where you knew there were

some other Christians there, and there was no mention of Christ? Did you

feel out of place, like you did not belong there? God works in all of His

children a little bit differently and still has the same goal, to help us

become the reflection of Jesus to our worlds. Sometimes the problem is that

we are so caught up in the joy of the world that we do not share the joy of

our Lord with the people of our world's. The refining process of gold is

simple. Heat up the gold until the dross (impurities) come to the top,

scrape it off, heat it up again and scrape off some more of the dross.This

can be a long and painful process. The process is complete when the refiner

can look into the gold and see his perfect reflection. Jesus is coming back

and His children need to be ready. May all of God's children desire to be

purified and cleansed before Him, not get caught up in the ways of the

world, stay focused on our Lord, in Jesus name, amen.

Douglas 

the Weight Of The Cross. Matthew 16:24-26

Matthew 16: 24-26 NKJV
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 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? 

I use to tell our son he was the cross I had to bear. He would respond "And I'm the bear you have to cross". 
He wasn't joking! Especially at 7:00 am when it was time to get up for school!

But seriously, what value does anything in this world have if by gaining it, you loose eternal life with Christ? 
I can't think of anything I would rather have then a forever life with Jesus. I think we can agree, any hardship this world throws at us can be endured for this short time we have on this earth. When we look at the span of a life compared to eternity, we are here just a little while. 

Whatever you are facing today, take heart, it does have an end. Someday it will be over and you will be free of the pain, no longer weary, no longer straining under the weight of that cross. Free to live eternally as God intended.

Blessings, Cecilia

The blessing and fullness of His love for you!

14For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, 16that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.

Paul's blessings in this scripture are many, let's examine them.
First he acknowledges the Father God, the creator of the heavens and earth. Paul does so in submission on his knees.

Grants to you, from the riches of His (Gods) glory, to be strengthened by the power of the Holy Spirit in your inner man (your soul) so that Christ Jesus may dwell in your heart (His love) that you may be rooted and grounded in love (love of Christ) comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth (beyond measure) and to know the love of Christ (His love for ALL, including sinners) which surpasses knowledge, (beyond our comprehension) that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. (Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.) His fruit and fullness.

I pray that today you may realize the fullness of His love for you, that He gave His Son for you so that you could be considered sinless and spend eternity with Him. May His love find a way into your heart and soul and reflect (shine) out of you onto others so that they know you are His!
Blessings, David

Depend On Him. Matthew 15:22-28

Matthew 15:22-28 (NKJV)

22 And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed.”

23 But He answered her not a word.

And His disciples came and urged Him, saying, “Send her away, for she cries out after us.”

24 But He answered and said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

25 Then she came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, help me!”

26 But He answered and said, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.”

27 And she said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.”

28 Then Jesus answered and said to her, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed from that very hour.

This woman would be satisfied with the crumbs. She knew the crumbs would heal. She knew He had the power to heal and she asked for that healing power, not for herself but for her daughter.

Are you satisfied with the crumbs or do you want the whole loaf? Are you satisfied with what God has given you or are you striving for more? More money, more toys, more control. It's a sad state to be in. It's a crumbling heart of desire. Look around at what you have. Be content. God gives us only what we can handle to keep us dependant on Him. Depend on Him today.

Blessings, CecIlia

Ephesians 3 Are you humble, but bold for Christ?

8To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, 9and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things; 10so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places. 11This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him. 13Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory.

Paul was humble: "the very least of all saints". Are you humble?
Grace was given: to Paul and to us!
To preach: "unfathomable riches of Christ". Are you spreading the Word?
To bring light: "what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things". God had foreknowledge, a plan to bring salvation through Christ.
To be made known: wisdom of God! Is there anyone wiser?
The eternal purpose: "He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord,". Salvation!
In whom we: "have boldness and confident access through faith in Him". Are you bold for Jesus?
 I ask you: "not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory." Are you enduring tribulations preaching Christ? Remember they (tribulations) are for His glory. You will be rewarded and blessed by God.

Blessings, David

Time Before We Move Forward. Matthew 6:9-15

Matthew 6:9-15 (NKJV) 9 In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. 14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. What keeps us from forgiving those who have hurt us? I'm thinking of the people in my life right now I am angry with. Yeah, it's plural. I hold on to my anger like a life line, unwilling to loosen my grip. What am I afraid of? The fall. The pain. The healing process. If I hang on to my anger a little longer, I won't have to deal with the aftermath of forgiveness. I can keep the walls around my heart intact and not see the brokenness that lies behind it.  Maybe later today I will forgive, maybe tomorrow. I will though, because I have to. I'm commanded to. I want Jesus to forgive me so I will forgive them. Sometimes we just need time. Time to process the hurt. Time to come to terms. Time to soak in what we have learned. Time before we move forward. Blessings, Cecilia

Binded him, blinded him and grinded him!

Gen39:7 Then after a time his master’s wife looked at Joseph with desire,
and she said, “Lie with me.” 8 But he refused and said to his master’s
wife...9How then could I do this great evil and sin against God [and your
husband]?Gen39:4 After this he (Samson) fell in love with a [Philistine]
woman [living] in the Valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah. 21 Then the
Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes; and they brought him down
to Gaza and bound him with [two] bronze chains; and he was forced to be a
grinder [of grain into flour at the mill] in the prison.

temp-ta-tion: a desire to do something, especially something wrong or

unwise. There are many people that we can compare and contrast throughout

the scriptures and two of the easier ones to do is Joseph, the son of Jacob

and Samson from Judges.From Joseph we see a man of integrity, a man that

was more concerned about displeasing God than pleasing his flesh. Samson on

the other hand was all about the flesh and what it would take to please it.

For Samson, his desires to please the flesh, binded him, blinded him and

grinded him. Sin is easy, easy to find and easy to do. Sexual temptation,

loneliness, be abandoned by a spouse, all can lead one of two directions,

closer to heaven or to hell. My mother gave me great words of wisdom at a

point of my life where the wrong decision could have had very bad

consequences, "Don't walk run". Her thought was about how to handle the

situation and leave. My thought was, Don't walk to God, run to His loving

arms. Final thought, Heb4:15 For we do not have a High Priest who is unable

to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who

has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every

respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin.

Douglas 

Ephesians 3 How are you ministering?

6to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel, 7of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to the working of His power. 

To be specific, (clearly defined or identified). Gentiles are fellow heirs, members and partakers of the Promise! 

Do you understand how radical this was for their time in history? Jews thought of themselves as the only blessed race on earth. It was "their" God! He favored them!

Gentiles couldn't be associated with because they were considered unclean (dirty). A Jew couldn't even share a meal with a Gentile for   he was unclean (uncircumcised). Remember the Samaritan woman at the well? John 4

Or Paul withstanding Peter to his face? http://www.jesusalive.cc/ques302.htm

If this took place today in today's society Paul would be labeled "fake news"! In regards to today, I find it interesting that the people decrying fake news are themselves the perpetrators of the false stories! 

But Paul wasn't lying or speaking falsely, he had an encounter with Jesus he would never forget. 

He was blinded by the Light! 

I'm not referring to a song here!

At that instant, salvation knocked on his door (heart). Paul became, after his maturity in Christ, 

quote: "which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to the working of His power".

Brethren, you are partakers in the Promise. How are you ministering to the lost and dying world?

Blessings, David 

Stay Strong. Matthew 4:1-11 NKJV

Matthew 4:1-11 (NKJV) Satan Tempts Jesus 4 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. 3 Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” 4 But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” 5 Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, 6 and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you,’ and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.’” 7 Jesus said to him, “It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’” 8 Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. 9 And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” 10 Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” 11 Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. When we are weak, when we are tired, when we are hungry, that's when our defences are down the most. That's when the future seems bleak, the sky gray, the day dark. That's when movement doesn't seem worth the effort. That's when temptation is at it strongest, when we are at our weakest. Satan knows that now and he knew that back then. That's why he waited until Jesus was at His weakest. Stay strong, feed on the word of the Lord, rest and keep the trumpeter at bay. If Satan does taps you on the shoulder, use Jesus's words "Away with you, Satan"! And the angels will minister to you too. Blessings, Cecilia

Do you humble yourself before God?

Dan10:12 Then he said to me, “Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first
day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself
before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to your
words. 13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was standing in
opposition to me for twenty-one days... Eph6:12 For our struggle is not
against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but
against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this
[present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the
heavenly (supernatural) places.

There are battles that we face everyday that we do not understand. For

some, their worlds fall apart because of poor choices made in the past and

the consequences that they are dealing with. For others it is dealing with

someone else's poor decision. And sometimes things just happen. My life

seems to have been over run with all of the above. Then there are the

internal battles. Suicide is on the increase, it is a permanent solution to

a temporary problem. Adultery and divorce is happening in the church as

much as outside. In John10:10 it says that, "The thief comes only in order

to steal and kill and destroy." Some people do not acknowledge and seem to

be oblivious to the spiritual battles that are raging all around us. Daniel

set his heart towards God, and God acted on that first day. I am not sure

"why" certain things happen. Death of parents in a car accident, sickness

of a child, unfaithfulness to a spouse and even more unfaithfulness to God.

I have confidence in God's word. Romans 8: 28 And we know [with great

confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things

to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who

are called according to His plan and purpose.

Douglas 

Ephesians 3 Are you a prisoner?

  1For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— 2if indeed you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace which was given to me for you; 3that by revelation there was made known to me the mystery, as I wrote before in brief. 4By referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit;

A prisoner of Christ, a captive in the service of the redeemer!
Are you a captive in the service of the redeemer? That is Jesus Christ.

"stewardship of God’s grace"
What is stewardship?
Stewardship is managing God’s blessings God’s ways for God’s glory.
http://www.stewardship.com/articles/understanding-stewardship-changes-everything?ictid=73EEK2168

"revelation there was made known to me the mystery"
A “mystery” in the New Testament is something that had at one time been hidden but is now revealed to God’s people. Jesus told His disciples, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted” (Matthew 13:11, NASB). The apostle Paul often spoke of such “mysteries”: Jesus’ incarnation (1 Timothy 3:16), the indwelling of the Spirit (Colossians 1:26–27), the unity of the church (Ephesians 3:4–6), the rapture (1 Corinthians 15:51–52), and the gospel itself (Colossians 4:3). All these truths were “hidden” from the prophets of old but have been revealed plainly to us today. They are “mysteries” that are no longer mysterious to the child of God. “The mystery of faith” is the divinely revealed truth about grace, redemption, and forgiveness in Christ.
https://gotquestions.org/mystery-of-faith.html

Are you a prisoner of Christ?
How is your stewardship of Gods grace in your life?
Are you spreading the mystery of faith to the unsaved?

Blessings, David

What will your obituary say?

John3:3 Jesus answered him, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you,
unless a person is born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed,
renewed, sanctified], he cannot [ever] see and experience the kingdom of
God.” 2Cor5:17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in,
joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and
renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and
spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come
[because spiritual awakening brings a new life].

My own obituary: Father's Day 2000, June 18th, Douglas Blaser came to an

end of himself. Alcoholic, drug addict, thief, liar, and so many more

things. His wife had left him and took their children with her. He was all

alone and Jesus saved him in his children's bedroom. The next day, he gets

arrested for domestic violence, reckless endangerment with firearms. Police

officer shares Christ with him. News paper article read, "Man holds wife at

gunpoint". Douglas, thought he lost everything, no job, no home, no contact

orders for wife and children, everything earthly was gone. God got Douglas'

attention. Everything began to change. A relationship with Jesus became

real, grew and flourished. Flash forward. Douglas has become a church going

man. Follows after Jesus more than he did anything of the world. June 30,

2010 ordained as a Pastor. Douglas was not perfect, made some mistakes

along the way and at one point even became disqualified for ministry. God

restored him and Douglas is planning on serving God till death. Main desire

is to go to heaven and take as many people with him as he can. Born again

and all things new. Praise Jesus!

Douglas 

Childhood bible songs...

Matt18:2 He called a little child and set him before them, 3 and said, “I
assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless you repent [that is, change
your inner self—your old way of thinking, live changed lives] and become
like children [trusting, humble, and forgiving], you will never enter the
kingdom of heaven.

Childhood Bible songs seemed so simple and pure, and as we grow up,

sometimes too simple to believe and follow. Jesus loves me! This I know,

For the Bible tells me so. This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it

shine. Jesus was very direct and straight forward about what it takes to

enter the kingdom of heaven, repentance, humility and a childlike faith. As

I look at my grandchildren, I can see a faith in God that is true, pure and

innocent. I want to go back to that simple faith that believes without

having to understand, and still knowing that God holds the universe in the

palm of His hand. There is another song for the saints to reflect upon, I

may never march in the infantry Ride in the cavalry Shoot the artillery I

may never fly o'er the enemy But I'm in the Lord's army! Yes sir! I am not

sure about anyone else, I want to go back to believing and sharing a simple

message, back to the power of God to save through Jesus Christ's death upon

the cross.

Douglas 

Because of those words I am here today.

Ps19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be
acceptable and pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my [firm, immovable] rock
and my Redeemer. Eph4:29 Do not let unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless,
vulgar] words ever come out of your mouth, but only such speech as is good
for building up others, according to the need and the occasion, so that it
will be a blessing to those who hear [you speak].

Words have power, power to heal and power to hurt, power to build up and

power to tear down. The way that people talk shows their heart. It seems

almost weird that someone can carry on a conversation without using any

vulgarity these days. David's desire was to, "Let the words of my mouth and

the meditation of my heart Be acceptable and pleasing in Your sight, O

Lord. In Ephesians, we are instructed what not to say, "Do not let

unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless, vulgar] words ever come out of your

mouth". To build someone up takes love, concern and a genuine care. The

words that you speak may even be just the right words to save a life. A few

of the most important words we can ever say are also the simplest, Jesus

loves you and I love you too. I know personally that hearing those words at

a difficult part of my life helped me make through to the next day. And

because of those words, I am here today.

Douglas