John 11 NLT
7 Finally, He said to His disciples, “Let’s go back to Judea.” 8 But His disciples objected. “Rabbi,” they said, “only a few days ago the people in Judea were trying to stone You. Are You going there again?” 9 Jesus replied, “There are twelve hours of daylight every day. During the day people can walk safely. They can see because they have the light of this world. 10 But at night there is danger of stumbling because they have no light.” 11 Then he said, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but now I will go and wake him up.” 12 The disciples said, “Lord, if he is sleeping, he will soon get better!” 13 They thought Jesus meant Lazarus was simply sleeping, but Jesus meant Lazarus had died. 14 So He told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. 15 And for your sakes, I’m glad I wasn’t there, for now you will really believe. Come, let’s go see him.” 16 Thomas, nicknamed the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let’s go, too—and die with Jesus.”
Are you ready to die? If death happened for you today would you go willingly or kicking and screaming, fighting it every inch of the way, trying to hang on to this world? Have you signed a "Do Not Resuscitate" or do you refuse to give up? I guess it depends on the circumstance. I know a 90+ year old man who refuses to sign a "Do Not Resuscitate". Even at this time in his life he wants every effort made to keep him alive.
When the Lord calls you home are you willing to go? I am. Sure there are people that will miss me but I will be with Jesus! Don't morn for me, I will be in the presence of the Creator! Free from emotional and physical pain, free from the struggles of this world and no more sickness. What a glorious day that will be!
If you're not ready to "go too-and die with Jesus" you need to examine your heart, examine your faith and examine your life. Christians are "Not Of This World". This life is just a dress rehearsal for the best life to come.
Blessings, Cecilia
Sunday, July 31, 2016
Better to fear God than man!
Matt10:28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the
soul; but rather be afraid of Him who can destroy both soul and body in
hell.32 “Therefore, the one who confesses and acknowledges Me before men[as
Lord and Savior, affirming a state of oneness with Me], that one I will
also confess and acknowledge before My Father who is in heaven.33 But the
one who denies and rejects Me before men, that one I will also deny and
reject before My Father who is in heaven.39 Whoever finds his life [in this
world] will [eventually] lose it [through death], and whoever loses his
life [in this world] for My sake will find it [that is, life with Me for
all eternity].
soul; but rather be afraid of Him who can destroy both soul and body in
hell.32 “Therefore, the one who confesses and acknowledges Me before men[as
Lord and Savior, affirming a state of oneness with Me], that one I will
also confess and acknowledge before My Father who is in heaven.33 But the
one who denies and rejects Me before men, that one I will also deny and
reject before My Father who is in heaven.39 Whoever finds his life [in this
world] will [eventually] lose it [through death], and whoever loses his
life [in this world] for My sake will find it [that is, life with Me for
all eternity].
Evangelism - the spreading of the Christian gospel by public preaching or
personal witness. Simply said, letting others know about why you love Jesus
and what He came to do.The disciples were warned that there would be
persecution and to not be afraid of those that can kill the body.
Evangelism is illegal in Russia. In China and the Middle East it can be a
death sentence. Today in the United States, it is so easy to do without
the threat of harm, and yet people are afraid for one reason or another.
Jesus' words were simple and true, "confesses and acknowledges Me before
men[as Lord and Savior, affirming a state of oneness with Me], that one I
will also confess and acknowledge before My Father who is in heaven." Not
everyone will go to heaven, if we deny Jesus as a part of our life, we
definitely will not go, whatever circumstance you are in, better to fear
God than man.
Douglas
Romans 11:14-36 What areas in your life need pruning?
14if somehow I might move to jealousy my fellow countrymen and save some of them. 15For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? 16If the first piece of dough is holy, the lump is also; and if the root is holy, the branches are too.
17But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them and became partaker with them of the rich root of the olive tree, 18do not be arrogant toward the branches; but if you are arrogant, remember that it is not you who supports the root, but the root supports you. 19You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” 20Quite right, they were broken off for their unbelief, but you stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but fear; 21for if God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare you, either. 22Behold then the kindness and severity of God; to those who fell, severity, but to you, God’s kindness, if you continue in His kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off. 23And they also, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24For if you were cut off from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these who are the natural branches be grafted into their own olive tree?
25For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery—so that you will not be wise in your own estimation—that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in;
26and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written,
“THE DELIVERER WILL COME FROM ZION,
HE WILL REMOVE UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB.”
27“THIS IS MY COVENANT WITH THEM,
WHEN I TAKE AWAY THEIR SINS.”
28From the standpoint of the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but from the standpoint of God’s choice they are beloved for the sake of the fathers; 29for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. 30For just as you once were disobedient to God, but now have been shown mercy because of their disobedience, 31so these also now have been disobedient, that because of the mercy shown to you they also may now be shown mercy. 32For God has shut up all in disobedience so that He may show mercy to all.
33Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! 34For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, OR WHO BECAME HIS COUNSELOR? 35Or WHO HAS FIRST GIVEN TO HIM THAT IT MIGHT BE PAID BACK TO HIM AGAIN? 36For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.
Paul uses the analogy of an olive tree as Jesus did, describing pruning the dead branches. He tells how the Gentiles were grafted into the roots through the death of Jesus Christ on the cross and the rejection of the Jews. They understood this well as olive trees were their livelihood.
God made a promise to Israel because of their fathers, salvation will come. He will "TAKE AWAY THEIR SINS.”
32For God has shut up all in disobedience so that He may show mercy to all.
Let this sink in, pause and think about it.
Paul finishes with;
36For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.
When you go through your day ask yourself; what areas in your life need pruning? Make a commitment today to God and hand over the pruning shears to the Holy Spirit.
Blessings David
17But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them and became partaker with them of the rich root of the olive tree, 18do not be arrogant toward the branches; but if you are arrogant, remember that it is not you who supports the root, but the root supports you. 19You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” 20Quite right, they were broken off for their unbelief, but you stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but fear; 21for if God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare you, either. 22Behold then the kindness and severity of God; to those who fell, severity, but to you, God’s kindness, if you continue in His kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off. 23And they also, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24For if you were cut off from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these who are the natural branches be grafted into their own olive tree?
25For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery—so that you will not be wise in your own estimation—that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in;
26and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written,
“THE DELIVERER WILL COME FROM ZION,
HE WILL REMOVE UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB.”
27“THIS IS MY COVENANT WITH THEM,
WHEN I TAKE AWAY THEIR SINS.”
28From the standpoint of the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but from the standpoint of God’s choice they are beloved for the sake of the fathers; 29for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. 30For just as you once were disobedient to God, but now have been shown mercy because of their disobedience, 31so these also now have been disobedient, that because of the mercy shown to you they also may now be shown mercy. 32For God has shut up all in disobedience so that He may show mercy to all.
33Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! 34For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, OR WHO BECAME HIS COUNSELOR? 35Or WHO HAS FIRST GIVEN TO HIM THAT IT MIGHT BE PAID BACK TO HIM AGAIN? 36For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.
Paul uses the analogy of an olive tree as Jesus did, describing pruning the dead branches. He tells how the Gentiles were grafted into the roots through the death of Jesus Christ on the cross and the rejection of the Jews. They understood this well as olive trees were their livelihood.
God made a promise to Israel because of their fathers, salvation will come. He will "TAKE AWAY THEIR SINS.”
32For God has shut up all in disobedience so that He may show mercy to all.
Let this sink in, pause and think about it.
Paul finishes with;
36For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.
When you go through your day ask yourself; what areas in your life need pruning? Make a commitment today to God and hand over the pruning shears to the Holy Spirit.
Blessings David
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Jesus Knows Best John 11:1-6
John 11
1 A man named Lazarus was sick. He lived in Bethany with his sisters, Mary and Martha. 2 This is the Mary who later poured the expensive perfume on the Lord’s feet and wiped them with her hair. Her brother, Lazarus, was sick. 3 So the two sisters sent a message to Jesus telling Him, “Lord, your dear friend is very sick.” 4 But when Jesus heard about it He said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” 5 So although Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, 6 He stayed where He was for the next two days.
When I received the call my father was sick I dropped everything and was on a plane from Arizona to Michigan in just a few hours.
When my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer I kept my promise to be there for her every step of the way.
It's what we do. We are there for the people we love. We go through the trials and hardships with them. We give support, we help in any way we can. We express our love to them.
So why, when Jesus heard Lazarus was sick did He wait two days before He traveled to him? We know the answer because scripture tells us "it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” What else was Jesus trying to teach Mary, Martha and us through Lazarus death?
What we want for ourselves is not always what's best for us. Jesus knows what's best for us. I believe Jesus is trying to teach us through this example that He has a plan and when trials and hardships come, He is there with us, expressing His love to us. He was with me as my father was dying, giving me peace, helping me through that heart breaking time. He was with my sister as she had surgery, went through chemotherapy and now radiation giving her strength when she thinks she can't take anymore. He is with you in whatever you are going through right now, offering help, expressing His love.
All we have to do is trust Him. All we have to do is accept His help. All we have to do is love Him back. Because really, Jesus knows best.
Blessings, Cecilia
1 A man named Lazarus was sick. He lived in Bethany with his sisters, Mary and Martha. 2 This is the Mary who later poured the expensive perfume on the Lord’s feet and wiped them with her hair. Her brother, Lazarus, was sick. 3 So the two sisters sent a message to Jesus telling Him, “Lord, your dear friend is very sick.” 4 But when Jesus heard about it He said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” 5 So although Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, 6 He stayed where He was for the next two days.
When I received the call my father was sick I dropped everything and was on a plane from Arizona to Michigan in just a few hours.
When my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer I kept my promise to be there for her every step of the way.
It's what we do. We are there for the people we love. We go through the trials and hardships with them. We give support, we help in any way we can. We express our love to them.
So why, when Jesus heard Lazarus was sick did He wait two days before He traveled to him? We know the answer because scripture tells us "it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” What else was Jesus trying to teach Mary, Martha and us through Lazarus death?
What we want for ourselves is not always what's best for us. Jesus knows what's best for us. I believe Jesus is trying to teach us through this example that He has a plan and when trials and hardships come, He is there with us, expressing His love to us. He was with me as my father was dying, giving me peace, helping me through that heart breaking time. He was with my sister as she had surgery, went through chemotherapy and now radiation giving her strength when she thinks she can't take anymore. He is with you in whatever you are going through right now, offering help, expressing His love.
All we have to do is trust Him. All we have to do is accept His help. All we have to do is love Him back. Because really, Jesus knows best.
Blessings, Cecilia
Do you want to burn brighter than the dawn?
Mark 4:18 And others are the ones on whom seed was sown among the thorns;
these are the ones who have heard the word, 19 but the worries and cares of
the world [the distractions of this age with its worldly pleasures], and
the deceitfulness [and the false security or glamour] of wealth [or fame],
and the passionate desires for all the other things creep in and choke out
the word, and it becomes unfruitful.
these are the ones who have heard the word, 19 but the worries and cares of
the world [the distractions of this age with its worldly pleasures], and
the deceitfulness [and the false security or glamour] of wealth [or fame],
and the passionate desires for all the other things creep in and choke out
the word, and it becomes unfruitful.
Life is short; I wanna live it well One life, one story to tell...'Cause I
can't take none of that through the door Yeah, I'm living for more than
just a funeral I wanna burn brighter than the dawn - lyrics from a song by
Switchfoot. When the Word of God is spread, different types of people hear
and are affected different ways. The seed falls in 4 ways, the road, rocky
ground, thorns, and good soil. The enemy knows how get get people caught up
in the desires for worldly pleasure. We all want to be desired, loved and
cared for. All to often God is not enough, we want more. By being sold out
for Jesus, that desire can be and is fulfilled. Think about, What will
people think When they hear that I'm a Jesus Freak? What will people do
When they find that's it's true? - DC Talk. We cannot let world and its
desires "creep in and choke out the Word".
Douglas
Romans 11:1-13 USA is not cast away?
Israel Is Not Cast Away
1I say then, God has not rejected His people, has He? May it never be! For I too am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. 2God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel? 3“Lord, THEY HAVE KILLED YOUR PROPHETS, THEY HAVE TORN DOWN YOUR ALTARS, AND I ALONE AM LEFT, AND THEY ARE SEEKING MY LIFE.” 4But what is the divine response to him? “I HAVE KEPT for Myself SEVEN THOUSAND MEN WHO HAVE NOT BOWED THE KNEE TO BAAL.” 5In the same way then, there has also come to be at the present time a remnant according to God’s gracious choice. 6But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise grace is no longer grace.
7What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened;
8just as it is written,
“GOD GAVE THEM A SPIRIT OF STUPOR,
EYES TO SEE NOT AND EARS TO HEAR NOT,
DOWN TO THIS VERY DAY.”
9And David says,
“LET THEIR TABLE BECOME A SNARE AND A TRAP,
AND A STUMBLING BLOCK AND A RETRIBUTION TO THEM.
10“LET THEIR EYES BE DARKENED TO SEE NOT,
AND BEND THEIR BACKS FOREVER.”
11I say then, they did not stumble so as to fall, did they? May it never be! But by their transgression salvation has come to the Gentiles, to make them jealous. 12Now if their transgression is riches for the world and their failure is riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their fulfillment be! 13But I am speaking to you who are Gentiles.
Paul reminds us here that God sees all, and knows the heart of men. Like the Pharaoh, if men reject God He hardens their heart. God adopted the nation of Israel but over time as a nation they rejected God. The same is happening with our nation. May it never be! But we see the rejection everyday from our highest offices, courts and military. What then, will God turn His back on us? Not the believers! But; "and the rest were hardened;"!
“GOD GAVE THEM A SPIRIT OF STUPOR,
EYES TO SEE NOT AND EARS TO HEAR NOT, DOWN TO THIS VERY DAY.”
All we have to do is read the bible and we will see that history is being repeated. What happened to the nation of Israel when they rejected God?
We must pray for our nation! Only a revival will save her. We must elect godly leaders. We must elect people that want to serve, not people that believe they deserve to be elected.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Friday, July 29, 2016
My Father's Work John 10: 22-42
John 10
Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God
22 It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. 23 He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 The people surrounded Him and asked, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe Me. The proof is the work I do in My Father’s name. 26 But you don’t believe Me because you are not My sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow Me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from Me, 29 for My Father has given them to Me, and He is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.” 31 Once again the people picked up stones to kill him. 32 Jesus said, “At my Father’s direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone Me?” 33 They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.” 34 Jesus replied, “It is written in your own Scriptures that God said to certain leaders of the people, ‘I say, you are gods!’ 35 And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people who received God’s message were called ‘gods,’ 36 why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set Me apart and sent Me into the world. 37 Don’t believe Me unless I carry out my Father’s work. 38 But if I do His work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe Me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I am in the Father.” 39 Once again they tried to arrest Him, but He got away and left them. 40 He went beyond the Jordan River near the place where John was first baptizing and stayed there awhile. 41 And many followed Him. “John didn’t perform miraculous signs,” they remarked to one another, "but everything he said about this man has come true.” 42 And many who were there believed in Jesus.
When we become Christians we are told to read our Bible, attend church, go to Bible Study and fellowship with other believers. We are told to do these things to keep us focused so we will build our faith and not fade back to where we were before we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior. If we do what we are told to do, God can make the changes in us He desires. We stop listening to certain music because we realize the lyrics aren't very meaningful. We stop watching certain shows on television because we realize they are expressing things that go against what we are learning. We stop going to certain places because we realize it's contrary to our new beliefs. We stop using certain language because it no longer sounds good to our ears.
When we do the things we are told to do as Christians, we grow in our faith. We start wanting to please God and do the things that honor Him. For me, that brought me to the "read your Bible" part. Even though I have been a Christian for about 16 years, I still wasn't reading the Bible everyday. Sure I read SOMETHING related to scripture, but not actually studying it myself. God was convicting me. That's why I started doing this email devotion. You all hold me accountable. I love how if I don't get it out I get text messages or emails asking where it is, asking if I am doing ok, and expressing how much you look forward to it and enjoy it.
David and I felt the Lord urging us to take it one step further then just our own personal devotion emailed to a few of our friends. He urged us to make it public. That's what the Bible has taught us in Acts 1:8b "And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
That's why we started the blog.
http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
We don't need to see if it has an impact, we don't need to know if through it anyone is led to Christ we just have to do our part, follow His calling and share the Gospel. How will you share the Gospel today?
“Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.”
St. Francis of Assisi.
Blessings, Cecilia
Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God
22 It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. 23 He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 The people surrounded Him and asked, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe Me. The proof is the work I do in My Father’s name. 26 But you don’t believe Me because you are not My sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow Me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from Me, 29 for My Father has given them to Me, and He is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.” 31 Once again the people picked up stones to kill him. 32 Jesus said, “At my Father’s direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone Me?” 33 They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.” 34 Jesus replied, “It is written in your own Scriptures that God said to certain leaders of the people, ‘I say, you are gods!’ 35 And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people who received God’s message were called ‘gods,’ 36 why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set Me apart and sent Me into the world. 37 Don’t believe Me unless I carry out my Father’s work. 38 But if I do His work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe Me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I am in the Father.” 39 Once again they tried to arrest Him, but He got away and left them. 40 He went beyond the Jordan River near the place where John was first baptizing and stayed there awhile. 41 And many followed Him. “John didn’t perform miraculous signs,” they remarked to one another, "but everything he said about this man has come true.” 42 And many who were there believed in Jesus.
When we become Christians we are told to read our Bible, attend church, go to Bible Study and fellowship with other believers. We are told to do these things to keep us focused so we will build our faith and not fade back to where we were before we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior. If we do what we are told to do, God can make the changes in us He desires. We stop listening to certain music because we realize the lyrics aren't very meaningful. We stop watching certain shows on television because we realize they are expressing things that go against what we are learning. We stop going to certain places because we realize it's contrary to our new beliefs. We stop using certain language because it no longer sounds good to our ears.
When we do the things we are told to do as Christians, we grow in our faith. We start wanting to please God and do the things that honor Him. For me, that brought me to the "read your Bible" part. Even though I have been a Christian for about 16 years, I still wasn't reading the Bible everyday. Sure I read SOMETHING related to scripture, but not actually studying it myself. God was convicting me. That's why I started doing this email devotion. You all hold me accountable. I love how if I don't get it out I get text messages or emails asking where it is, asking if I am doing ok, and expressing how much you look forward to it and enjoy it.
David and I felt the Lord urging us to take it one step further then just our own personal devotion emailed to a few of our friends. He urged us to make it public. That's what the Bible has taught us in Acts 1:8b "And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
That's why we started the blog.
http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
We don't need to see if it has an impact, we don't need to know if through it anyone is led to Christ we just have to do our part, follow His calling and share the Gospel. How will you share the Gospel today?
“Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.”
St. Francis of Assisi.
Blessings, Cecilia
When I get to heaven.
Romans7:15 For I do not understand my own actions [I am baffled and
bewildered by them]. I do not practice what I want to do, but I am doing
the very thing I hate [and yielding to my human nature, my worldliness—my
sinful capacity].19 For the good that I want to do, I do not do, but I
practice the very evil that I do not want. 24 Wretched and miserable man
that I am! Who will [rescue me and] set me free from this body of death
[this corrupt, mortal existence]? 25 Thanks be to God [for my deliverance]
through Jesus Christ our Lord!...
bewildered by them]. I do not practice what I want to do, but I am doing
the very thing I hate [and yielding to my human nature, my worldliness—my
sinful capacity].19 For the good that I want to do, I do not do, but I
practice the very evil that I do not want. 24 Wretched and miserable man
that I am! Who will [rescue me and] set me free from this body of death
[this corrupt, mortal existence]? 25 Thanks be to God [for my deliverance]
through Jesus Christ our Lord!...
When I get to heaven, after meeting Jesus, seeing God in His glory, really
understanding Holy Spirit and His power, There are a few other people I
want to meet and have some questions for. I want to ask Adam was it worth
it? To Noah, How was it on the arc for all that time? To Daniel, Did you
pet the lions? To Paul, What was your struggle? The Bible says that we all
have the same type of struggles. Paul was a mighty man of God and yet he
battled doing and not doing. Paul realized how wretched he was compared to
Jesus. There are so many people that believe that they are "good people".
The Bible states that there are not any righteous people on earth, in right
standing with God. We must all be thankful for freedom, freedom from sin
and death through Jesus Christ OUR Lord!
Douglas
Romans 10:14-21 Are your feet beautiful?
The Word of Faith Brings Salvation
14How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? 15How will they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, “HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS!”
16However, they did not all heed the good news; for Isaiah says, “LORD, WHO HAS BELIEVED OUR REPORT?” 17So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.
18But I say, surely they have never heard, have they? Indeed they have;
“THEIR VOICE HAS GONE OUT INTO ALL THE EARTH,
AND THEIR WORDS TO THE ENDS OF THE WORLD.”
19But I say, surely Israel did not know, did they? First Moses says,
“I WILL MAKE YOU JEALOUS BY THAT WHICH IS NOT A NATION,
BY A NATION WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING WILL I ANGER YOU.”
20And Isaiah is very bold and says,
“I WAS FOUND BY THOSE WHO DID NOT SEEK ME,
I BECAME MANIFEST TO THOSE WHO DID NOT ASK FOR ME.”
21But as for Israel He says, “ALL THE DAY LONG I HAVE STRETCHED OUT MY HANDS TO A DISOBEDIENT AND OBSTINATE PEOPLE.”
Paul prays for their salvation! What else can we do for those who won't listen to the Word of Jesus Christ? For those who run astray or runaway like Jonah? Everyday we pray for our son that he returns to Jesus.
Paul tells us we must be a preacher. How else can they hear? Are your feet beautiful? And who has believed your report of Jesus Christ? Don't be discouraged! If only one believes is it not by faith? Will you still earn a gold crown?
I have heard it said that when we die and go to heaven, those whom we led to Christ and went before us will greet us as we enter through the narrow gate!
The word of Jesus goes throughout the whole world, by many means. Maybe even by this blog. Heaven only knows who may be led to it. Maybe someone who wasn't seeking Jesus, and maybe God will manifest himself in this lost soul?
But what about the nation of Israel? God is still stretching out His hand.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Christians are NOT saved to be silent!
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and
also for the Greek.
power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and
also for the Greek.
Christians are NOT saved to be silent! Charles Spurgeon said, "Every
Christian is either a missionary or an imposter." I have heard it said that
2 things you should never talk about is politics and religion. It seems
that more people are sharing about the good and bad information about our
countries candidates, than about Jesus. The Good news is the only
information that has eternal value. Many do not understand what the Gospel
is, Spurgeon said, "I will put it in four words for you: Christ died for
me." Presidents, dictators, politicians, come and go, but Jesus will always
be King. Brethren, time is short. If we are to busy taking care of the
things of this world and not focusingy on the kingdom when Jesus comes back,
would you be ashamed? May God give believers boldness to preach the Gospel
to this lost and dying world and NOT be ashamed of it! In Jesus name, amen.
Douglas
The Unforgivable Sin John 10:17-21
John 10
17 “The Father loves me because I sacrifice My life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take My life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.” 19 When He said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about Him. 20 Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of His mind. Why listen to a man like that?” 21 Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
The imagery in the New Testament of Jesus and sheep is so powerful. In the Old Testament sacrifices of pure unblemished lambs were needed to cleanse the people of their sins. Jesus was the final sacrifice, pure and unblemished by sin. After His death and resurrection there was no longer a need for sacrifice to cleanse us from our sin. Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice.
Don't ever let anyone tell you your sins are unforgivable. The only sin God will not forgive is the one you will not confess. The Bible is full of examples on how God used sinners to do His work. God used Abraham's doubt and he became the "Father of Faith". God used David's sins to bring King Solomon, the smartest and wealthiest king, into power. Also through this family line He brought us Jesus. Jesus also came through the blood line of Rahab, the prostitute at Jericho. In the New Testament Saul hunted and killed Christians. After Jesus spoke to him on the road to Damascus, Saul converted and became Paul, one of the key figures in forming the church we know today.
Don't ever think your sins cannot be forgiven. Don't ever think because of your past God can't use you. Turn to Him, confess your sins and wait and see what joy He has in store for you.
Blessings, Cecilia
17 “The Father loves me because I sacrifice My life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take My life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.” 19 When He said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about Him. 20 Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of His mind. Why listen to a man like that?” 21 Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
The imagery in the New Testament of Jesus and sheep is so powerful. In the Old Testament sacrifices of pure unblemished lambs were needed to cleanse the people of their sins. Jesus was the final sacrifice, pure and unblemished by sin. After His death and resurrection there was no longer a need for sacrifice to cleanse us from our sin. Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice.
Don't ever let anyone tell you your sins are unforgivable. The only sin God will not forgive is the one you will not confess. The Bible is full of examples on how God used sinners to do His work. God used Abraham's doubt and he became the "Father of Faith". God used David's sins to bring King Solomon, the smartest and wealthiest king, into power. Also through this family line He brought us Jesus. Jesus also came through the blood line of Rahab, the prostitute at Jericho. In the New Testament Saul hunted and killed Christians. After Jesus spoke to him on the road to Damascus, Saul converted and became Paul, one of the key figures in forming the church we know today.
Don't ever think your sins cannot be forgiven. Don't ever think because of your past God can't use you. Turn to Him, confess your sins and wait and see what joy He has in store for you.
Blessings, Cecilia
Are you willing to be led by Him?
Proverbs3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own
understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your
paths.
understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your
paths.
There are many questions that the believer is faced with every day. Ones
that seem to be difficult to understand, "What is my purpose in life and am
I in God's will." The relationship with God is real, and yet for so many,
it is difficult to acknowledge Him, to have the understanding of what His
plan is. The Bible says that God will direct your path, He will remove
obstacles to ensure that you accomplish what He wants you to do. Trust ends
up being the issue. There was a time that God spoke clearly to me and told
me to fight a battle and that He would be there with me. I told Him that I
did not trust Him, I didn't know Him well enough. I took a plea bargain and
ended up with 3 years probation. God did make sure that I was counted as
innocent 1 1/2 years later though. Brethren, we must get to know God and
listen to His voice, trust, understand, acknowledge and be willing to be
led by Him. Then we will know what our purpose is and see His will for our
lives.
Douglas
Romans 10:1-13 Jesus Saves
The Word of Faith Brings Salvation
1Brethren, my heart’s desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation. 2For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge. 3For not knowing about God’s righteousness and seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God. 4For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
5For Moses writes that the man who practices the righteousness which is based on law shall live by that righteousness. 6But the righteousness based on faith speaks as follows: “DO NOT SAY IN YOUR HEART, ‘WHO WILL ASCEND INTO HEAVEN?’ (that is, to bring Christ down), 7or ‘WHO WILL DESCEND INTO THE ABYSS?’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).” 8But what does it say? “THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART”—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, 9that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; 10for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. 11For the Scripture says, “WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.” 12For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; 13for “WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.”
"For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes."
The law could only show you your sin, but faith in Jesus Christ saves you from your sin.
“THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART”
Do you recall the first time in your life you heard about Jesus Christ?
This Word is powerful and it saves more lives than any other word or religion.
"9that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;"
How can I add to Pauls words? "10for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation." You have to confess your belief in Jesus Christ.
Why is it easy for us to curse God.
Why is it so hard for some to confess?
“WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.” “WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.”
Grace is simple, it requires no works of man for salvation. All you have to do is believe , "WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.”
What is holding you back? Believe, call and experience a peace no other god can give you.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Romans 9:19-33 Are you disappointed?
19You will say to me then, “Why does He still find fault? For who resists His will?” 20On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers back to God? The thing molded will not say to the molder, “Why did you make me like this,” will it? 21Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for common use? 22What if God, although willing to demonstrate His wrath and to make His power known, endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction? 23And He did so to make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory, 24even us, whom He also called, not from among Jews only, but also from among Gentiles.
25As He says also in Hosea,
“I WILL CALL THOSE WHO WERE NOT MY PEOPLE, ‘MY PEOPLE,’
AND HER WHO WAS NOT BELOVED, ‘BELOVED.’”
26“AND IT SHALL BE THAT IN THE PLACE WHERE IT WAS SAID TO THEM, ‘YOU ARE NOT MY PEOPLE,’
THERE THEY SHALL BE CALLED SONS OF THE LIVING GOD.”
27Isaiah cries out concerning Israel, “THOUGH THE NUMBER OF THE SONS OF ISRAEL BE LIKE THE SAND OF THE SEA, IT IS THE REMNANT THAT WILL BE SAVED; 28FOR THE LORD WILL EXECUTE HIS WORD ON THE EARTH, THOROUGHLY AND QUICKLY.”
29And just as Isaiah foretold,
“UNLESS THE LORD OF SABAOTH HAD LEFT TO US A POSTERITY,
WE WOULD HAVE BECOME LIKE SODOM, AND WOULD HAVE RESEMBLED GOMORRAH.”
30What shall we say then? That Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, attained righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith; 31but Israel, pursuing a law of righteousness, did not arrive at that law. 32Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as though it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone,
33just as it is written,
“BEHOLD, I LAY IN ZION A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE,
AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED."
He called you and now He calls you beloved! For if you believe you are a son of the living God.
Look around you Christian and see how fast this world if falling into the abyss. I read an article yesterday about a minister who recited an opening prayer at the democratic national convention, she was jeered, booed and the chant turned into Bernie, Bernie, Bernie. The article went on to say at the previous DNC convention they tried to remove God from their national platform. The author went on to say after each night of these conventions there was a very loud thunderstorm. Was it Gods response to their ungodly behavior?
Paul went on to explain the Gentiles didn't seek righteousness but obtained it through faith.
Did you?
He also said those who seek righteousness through works didn't obtain it because they didn't have faith.
Do you?
Do you believe in Him? Then you will not be disappointed!
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Sheep! John 10:1-16
John 10
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
1 “I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! 2 But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. 5 They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” 6 Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what He meant, 7 so He explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before Me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. 9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through Me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices His life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, 15 just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
The following explains precisely what I wanted to express this morning about the above passage. Also, I recommend "A Shepherd's Look At Psalm 23" by W. Phillip Keller. Be careful when shopping for this, there's a copycat "A Shepherd's Look ON Psalm 23" by Hezekiah Fatoki.
Excerpted from gotquestions.org
"In order to understand what Jesus intended to convey with sheep/shepherd imagery, we must understand the Middle Eastern shepherd of biblical times. His job was a dirty and dangerous one. Many times all the shepherd had to fight off lions and other wild animals was a staff with a crook. He willingly put his life on the line for his flock. At night, he would put the flock in a makeshift pen that had only one way in and out. The shepherd would open to door to the pen, call the sheep by name, and they would come in and settle safely for the night. Sheep are skittish animals and “spook” easily. Because they knew the shepherd's voice, they would calm down and follow him and nobody but him. Several flocks can mix together, and when the flocks’ true shepherd speaks, they separate and follow him. If a thief comes, the sheep will not follow him because they do not know his voice. At night the shepherd lies down at the gate to the pen, to give his life if necessary to protect his flock. And the thief can only climb in over the fence because the shepherd is guarding the gate. Jesus is the True Shepherd to the sheep (true believers) who are His. We know Him, we recognize His voice, and we follow only Him (John 10:27–28). What Jesus is saying here ties right into John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.” Jesus is not only the Good Shepherd who gives His life willingly for His sheep (John 10:11), but He is the also the "gate" or "door" of the sheep (John 10:9). The Greek word for “door” means literally “a door or opening,” but, when used in a parable such as here, it is a metaphor for one who gives salvation, who opens the door to heaven. So, Jesus is the True Shepherd who guards His sheep, the Good Shepherd who gives His life for them, and the Doorway to heaven for the sheep who know Him and are known by Him. Jesus also says there were many who came before Him pretending to be good shepherds. But, He says, they are thieves and robbers who come in among the flock. He is alluding to the false shepherds of Israel, the Pharisees who did not love the people, nor were they willing to sacrifice for them. These self-appointed and self-righteous false shepherds led the sheep of Israel astray from the true knowledge of the Messiah, clinging to a works-based religion that could not lead to salvation (Ezekiel 34:1–31). These leaders were not the true shepherds of Israel but were like thieves that plundered the flock for their own gain. Sadly, such false shepherds still abound today, more interested in fleecing the flock for their own personal gain, than in feeding and protecting the sheep as true under-shepherds to the True Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ."
Blessings, Cecilia
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
1 “I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! 2 But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. 5 They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” 6 Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what He meant, 7 so He explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before Me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. 9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through Me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices His life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, 15 just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
The following explains precisely what I wanted to express this morning about the above passage. Also, I recommend "A Shepherd's Look At Psalm 23" by W. Phillip Keller. Be careful when shopping for this, there's a copycat "A Shepherd's Look ON Psalm 23" by Hezekiah Fatoki.
Excerpted from gotquestions.org
"In order to understand what Jesus intended to convey with sheep/shepherd imagery, we must understand the Middle Eastern shepherd of biblical times. His job was a dirty and dangerous one. Many times all the shepherd had to fight off lions and other wild animals was a staff with a crook. He willingly put his life on the line for his flock. At night, he would put the flock in a makeshift pen that had only one way in and out. The shepherd would open to door to the pen, call the sheep by name, and they would come in and settle safely for the night. Sheep are skittish animals and “spook” easily. Because they knew the shepherd's voice, they would calm down and follow him and nobody but him. Several flocks can mix together, and when the flocks’ true shepherd speaks, they separate and follow him. If a thief comes, the sheep will not follow him because they do not know his voice. At night the shepherd lies down at the gate to the pen, to give his life if necessary to protect his flock. And the thief can only climb in over the fence because the shepherd is guarding the gate. Jesus is the True Shepherd to the sheep (true believers) who are His. We know Him, we recognize His voice, and we follow only Him (John 10:27–28). What Jesus is saying here ties right into John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.” Jesus is not only the Good Shepherd who gives His life willingly for His sheep (John 10:11), but He is the also the "gate" or "door" of the sheep (John 10:9). The Greek word for “door” means literally “a door or opening,” but, when used in a parable such as here, it is a metaphor for one who gives salvation, who opens the door to heaven. So, Jesus is the True Shepherd who guards His sheep, the Good Shepherd who gives His life for them, and the Doorway to heaven for the sheep who know Him and are known by Him. Jesus also says there were many who came before Him pretending to be good shepherds. But, He says, they are thieves and robbers who come in among the flock. He is alluding to the false shepherds of Israel, the Pharisees who did not love the people, nor were they willing to sacrifice for them. These self-appointed and self-righteous false shepherds led the sheep of Israel astray from the true knowledge of the Messiah, clinging to a works-based religion that could not lead to salvation (Ezekiel 34:1–31). These leaders were not the true shepherds of Israel but were like thieves that plundered the flock for their own gain. Sadly, such false shepherds still abound today, more interested in fleecing the flock for their own personal gain, than in feeding and protecting the sheep as true under-shepherds to the True Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ."
Blessings, Cecilia
Romans 9:1-18 Do you have Jesus' sacrificial love?
Solicitude for Israel
1I am telling the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience testifies with me in the Holy Spirit, 2that I have great sorrow and unceasing grief in my heart. 3For I could wish that I myself were accursed, separated from Christ for the sake of my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh, 4who are Israelites, to whom belongs the adoption as sons, and the glory and the covenants and the giving of the Law and the temple service and the promises, 5whose are the fathers, and from whom is the Christ according to the flesh, who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen.
6But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For they are not all Israel who are descended from Israel; 7nor are they all children because they are Abraham’s descendants, but: “THROUGH ISAAC YOUR DESCENDANTS WILL BE NAMED.” 8That is, it is not the children of the flesh who are children of God, but the children of the promise are regarded as descendants. 9For this is the word of promise: “AT THIS TIME I WILL COME, AND SARAH SHALL HAVE A SON.” 10And not only this, but there was Rebekah also, when she had conceived twins by one man, our father Isaac; 11for though the twins were not yet born and had not done anything good or bad, so that God’s purpose according to His choice would stand, not because of works but because of Him who calls, 12it was said to her, “THE OLDER WILL SERVE THE YOUNGER.” 13Just as it is written, “JACOB I LOVED, BUT ESAU I HATED.”
14What shall we say then? There is no injustice with God, is there? May it never be! 15For He says to Moses, “I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOM I HAVE MERCY, AND I WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON WHOM I HAVE COMPASSION.” 16So then it does not depend on the man who wills or the man who runs, but on God who has mercy. 17For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE I RAISED YOU UP, TO DEMONSTRATE MY POWER IN YOU, AND THAT MY NAME MIGHT BE PROCLAIMED THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE EARTH.” 18So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires.
Pauls heart grieves for his fellow Israelites, he would gladly sacrifice himself for them. If only they would receive Christ!
But I find myself as Paul! I would sacrifice my salvation for others also! For my unsaved brothers and sisters. Is this not the love Jesus teaches us?
But we ask, Why does God not call everyone to Him? "BUT ESAU I HATED.”
Could it be God see's something in their heart He doesn't like? But we continue to ask, Why me Lord? Why do you love me? I am not worthy! If only I could give my place in heaven to my brother! Do you have this kind of love that Paul and Jesus teaches?
God is God. For He said to Moses ; “I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOM I HAVE MERCY, AND I WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON WHOM I HAVE COMPASSION.”
It's not your will or mine! But on God who has mercy!
So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires.
So we ask ourselves, why are we here?
“FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE I RAISED YOU UP, TO DEMONSTRATE MY POWER IN YOU, AND THAT MY NAME MIGHT BE PROCLAIMED THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE EARTH.”
To be His light! Pray for the unsaved, and just maybe, God may change the hard heart of those we would sacrifice ourselves for. As He did for the righteous in Sodom and Gomorrah before He destroyed the city as written in Genesis 18.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%2018&version=NIV
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for my unsaved family. My heart grieves for them. Please unharden their hearts, have mercy on them and draw them close to you. In Jesus name I pray.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Monday, July 25, 2016
Blinded By The Light John 9:35-41
John 9
Spiritual Blindness
35 When Jesus heard what had happened, He found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36 The man answered, “Who is He, sir? I want to believe in Him.” 37 “You have seen Him,” Jesus said, “and He is speaking to you!” 38 “Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And He worshiped Jesus. 39 Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.” 40 Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard Him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?” 41“If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.
Knowledge can be a dangerous thing if not used correctly. The Pharisees, with all their knowledge of scripture were blind to the truth about who the Messiah would be. They placed themselves above everyone else. They believed themselves to be better because of their knowledge. They were blinded by their knowledge.
Sometimes when we read the Bible or hear a sermon we can think of someone who needs to hear that message. We think "I wish Johnny was here, he really needs to hear this." Maybe we pray for an opportunity in the near future to share this message with Johnny. What if we listen and instead think "O.K. Lord, what are you trying to tell ME through this message?" Those are the times the Lord reveals something that needs to change in me. It turns my prayer for Johnny to a prayer that I will love Johnny the way Jesus does. And ultimately, that's what Jesus wants us to do. Love others the way He does, with a humble heart instead of eyes blinded by knowledge.
Blessings, Cecilia
Spiritual Blindness
35 When Jesus heard what had happened, He found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36 The man answered, “Who is He, sir? I want to believe in Him.” 37 “You have seen Him,” Jesus said, “and He is speaking to you!” 38 “Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And He worshiped Jesus. 39 Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.” 40 Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard Him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?” 41“If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.
Knowledge can be a dangerous thing if not used correctly. The Pharisees, with all their knowledge of scripture were blind to the truth about who the Messiah would be. They placed themselves above everyone else. They believed themselves to be better because of their knowledge. They were blinded by their knowledge.
Sometimes when we read the Bible or hear a sermon we can think of someone who needs to hear that message. We think "I wish Johnny was here, he really needs to hear this." Maybe we pray for an opportunity in the near future to share this message with Johnny. What if we listen and instead think "O.K. Lord, what are you trying to tell ME through this message?" Those are the times the Lord reveals something that needs to change in me. It turns my prayer for Johnny to a prayer that I will love Johnny the way Jesus does. And ultimately, that's what Jesus wants us to do. Love others the way He does, with a humble heart instead of eyes blinded by knowledge.
Blessings, Cecilia
Lives changed? I am living proof!
Acts4: 7 When they had put the men in front of them, they repeatedly asked,
“By what sort of power, or in what name [that is, by what kind of
authority], did you do this [healing]?” 10 let it be known *and* clearly
understood by all of you, and by all the people of Israel, that in the name
of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you [demanded be] crucified [by the
Romans and], whom God raised from the dead—in this name [that is, by the
authority and power of Jesus] this man stands here before you in good
health.
“By what sort of power, or in what name [that is, by what kind of
authority], did you do this [healing]?” 10 let it be known *and* clearly
understood by all of you, and by all the people of Israel, that in the name
of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you [demanded be] crucified [by the
Romans and], whom God raised from the dead—in this name [that is, by the
authority and power of Jesus] this man stands here before you in good
health.
There was a story of an Atheist that wanted to debate a Pastor. The Pastor
responded, if the Atheist could find 100 people that have had their lives
changed because of Atheism, he would debate. The Pastor stated, that he
could find 1000's of people that have had their lives changed because of
Jesus Christ. I, personally can stand and say that I am alive today because
of Jesus. I look at my life B.C. and see who I was. I was the chief of all
sinners. I was an alcoholic, a drug addict, sexually immoral, an idolater,
suicidal, and many other things that I am too ashamed to mention. I stand
before this world whole to the glory of God, healed and complete in Jesus,
by the power of the Holy Spirit, The miracles that happened 2000 years ago,
are still happening today. I pray that more and more people will have the
faith and understanding to be able to use the authority given to the
believers to change our own worlds. The authority and power of Jesus
changes lives, for I am living proof.
Douglas
Romans 8:26-39 Claim your Victory
Our Victory in Christ
26In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; 27and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
28And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. 29For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; 30and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
31What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? 33Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies; 34who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. 35Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36Just as it is written,
“FOR YOUR SAKE WE ARE BEING PUT TO DEATH ALL DAY LONG;
WE WERE CONSIDERED AS SHEEP TO BE SLAUGHTERED.”
37But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
30and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
God touched your heart and drew you to Him. Why? Because of His love for you, He saw some glimmer in your heart that appealed to Him. So you were called, justified and glorified!
Christ intercedes for us! Who can separate the love of Christ?
Paul goes on to say; 38For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
What kind of love is this? No one on earth can love like this everlasting love. When things get tough people will desert you, but Christ won't!
When all else fails remember Jesus' everlasting love! He is waiting for you, what are you waiting for? Claim your victory in Christ.
26In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; 27and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
28And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. 29For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; 30and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
31What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? 33Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies; 34who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. 35Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36Just as it is written,
“FOR YOUR SAKE WE ARE BEING PUT TO DEATH ALL DAY LONG;
WE WERE CONSIDERED AS SHEEP TO BE SLAUGHTERED.”
37But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
30and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
God touched your heart and drew you to Him. Why? Because of His love for you, He saw some glimmer in your heart that appealed to Him. So you were called, justified and glorified!
Christ intercedes for us! Who can separate the love of Christ?
Paul goes on to say; 38For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
What kind of love is this? No one on earth can love like this everlasting love. When things get tough people will desert you, but Christ won't!
When all else fails remember Jesus' everlasting love! He is waiting for you, what are you waiting for? Claim your victory in Christ.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 24, 2016
John 9:13-34 Physical Healing
John 9
13 Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14 because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15 The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!” 16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for He is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them. 17 Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this Man who healed you?” The man replied, “I think He must be a prophet.” 18 The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19 They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?” 20 His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21 but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23 That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.” 24 So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this, because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.” 25 “I don’t know whether He is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!” 26 “But what did He do?” they asked. “How did He heal you?” 27“Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become His disciples, too?” 28Then they cursed him and said, “You are His disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29 We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this Man comes from.” 30 “Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where He comes from? 31 We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but He is ready to hear those who worship Him and do His will. 32 Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, He couldn’t have done it.” 34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
Why does God heal some people and not others? Is it because of sin in their life? No. Is it because some have more faith then others? No. Is it because some love Him more? No. Maybe it's because some lead better lives then others? No.
I have seen irreproachable, faithful, loving and genuinely good people die from illness and others just as righteous healed. Why does God heal some and others He takes? I don't know. We can't even begin to understand God's reasons for such things. We just have to accept its all part of His plan.
When you face adversity in your life (and you will) don't let anyone tell you you need more faith. You just need to pray and trust God knows what He's doing.
Blessings, Cecilia
Maybe this? David
13 Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14 because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15 The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!” 16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for He is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them. 17 Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this Man who healed you?” The man replied, “I think He must be a prophet.” 18 The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19 They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?” 20 His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21 but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23 That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.” 24 So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this, because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.” 25 “I don’t know whether He is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!” 26 “But what did He do?” they asked. “How did He heal you?” 27“Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become His disciples, too?” 28Then they cursed him and said, “You are His disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29 We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this Man comes from.” 30 “Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where He comes from? 31 We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but He is ready to hear those who worship Him and do His will. 32 Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, He couldn’t have done it.” 34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
Why does God heal some people and not others? Is it because of sin in their life? No. Is it because some have more faith then others? No. Is it because some love Him more? No. Maybe it's because some lead better lives then others? No.
I have seen irreproachable, faithful, loving and genuinely good people die from illness and others just as righteous healed. Why does God heal some and others He takes? I don't know. We can't even begin to understand God's reasons for such things. We just have to accept its all part of His plan.
When you face adversity in your life (and you will) don't let anyone tell you you need more faith. You just need to pray and trust God knows what He's doing.
Blessings, Cecilia
Maybe this? David
Isaiah 57:1 NLT: Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come.
Where do you want to go? Heaven or Hell?
John14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real]
Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
Hebrews9:27 And just as it is appointed and destined for all men to die
once and after this [comes certain] judgment
Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
Hebrews9:27 And just as it is appointed and destined for all men to die
once and after this [comes certain] judgment
Heaven or hell is a choice that every person makes on their own. For the
Christian, there is no middle ground, no other choices. This is the reason
many are so determined to share the good news of Jesus Christ to everyone
they come into contact with. To have even a small understanding of what
hell is all about should keep the believer sharing the Gospel even with
their worst enemies. Lifestyles today can reflect your eternal
destiny.Where is your heart, is it fixed on things of heaven or on things of
the world? The shows you watch, the music you listen to, the words you say,
do they glorify God or bring Him shame? If a person doesn't want anything
to do with God here on earth, why would they want anything to do with Him
after death? Everyday we are all one day closer to death, also one day
closer to heaven or hell, where do you want to go?
Douglas
Romans 8:18-25 Do you have faith?
18For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 19For the anxious longing of the creation waits eagerly for the revealing of the sons of God. 20For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope 21that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. 23And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. 24For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? 25But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.
Paul tells us our sufferings here on earth are not worthy to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed to us! With our pain and suffering here on earth, "we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body." I can't wait! No more pain, no more scratching out dirt and dust to survive as we go about our daily struggles. I can't wait for the redemption of my body! Can you?
Lets take these verses and replace the word "hope" with faith;
24For in faith we have been saved, but faith that is seen is not faith; for who has faith for what he already sees? 25But if we have faith for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.
Do you have faith for what you do not see? Do you have faith in Jesus? With faith and perseverance we eagerly await for it, redemption of our corrupt bodies! Come Jesus come, take away our painful bodies and give us our heavenly bodies! Where no more pain, no more tears exist, just joy and love! Come Jesus come!
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 23, 2016
Do you stand in the gap?
2Cor1:11 while you join in helping us by your prayers. Then thanks will be
given by many persons on our behalf for the gracious gift [of deliverance]
granted to us through *the prayers of* many [believers].
Ezekiel22:30 I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall
and stand in the gap before Me for [the sake of] the land, that I would not
destroy it, but I found no one [not even one].
given by many persons on our behalf for the gracious gift [of deliverance]
granted to us through *the prayers of* many [believers].
Ezekiel22:30 I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall
and stand in the gap before Me for [the sake of] the land, that I would not
destroy it, but I found no one [not even one].
Prayers are answered everyday because of faithful individuals that "stand
in the gap", that pray for others, sometimes those that they will never
meet till we get to heaven. Thank you all for prayers for my family. My
daughter, Tiasia and soon to be born baby, Theia Grayc are doing well. As
God searches our hearts, may we be found a faithful generation, one that
understands the power of prayer. God can only work through His children if
they are willing to step out in faith, believing that He is able to do the
impossible. We must not become so distracted with the things of the world,
politics, money, looking for love, that we as believers forget what our
mission is here on earth, to share the gospel, the good news of Jesus
Christ, with this broken world that is abandoning the ways of God more and
more everyday, The world needs to know that Jesus loved them enough to go
to the cross for them.
Douglas
Punishment vs Discipline John 9:1-12
John 9
Jesus Heals the Man Born Blind
1 As Jesus was passing by, He saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened that the works of God would be displayed in him. 4 While it is daytime, we must do the work of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6 When Jesus had said this, He spat on the ground, made some mud, and applied it to the man’s eyes. 7 Then He told him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came back seeing. 8 At this, his neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging began to ask, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some claimed that he was, but others said, “No, he just looks like him.” But the man kept saying, “I am the one.” 10 “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. 11 He answered, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and anointed my eyes, and He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed and received my sight.” 12 “Where is He?” they asked. “I do not know,” he answered.
Faith healers. We've all heard about them. Maybe we've watched them on television or seen them in person. They claim to have special power from God to heal. If they truly can heal the sick, why aren't they at a hospital using their power there? If they can't heal you, it's your fault. You don't have enough faith in God or this healers power. If you only had more faith, you'd be healed.
There are also the group that believes illness is a result of sin. We ourselves may have thought when health problems hit God is punishing us for some sin in our life. God doesn't work that way. God doesn't punish, God disciplines. Punishment is rough, it makes one suffer, it is mistreatment, abuse, damaging and harmful. It is undeserved in proportion to a crime. Discipline is a direct consequence for misbehavior. Discipline teaches, strengthens, produces order, instructs and trains. Discipline produces self control.
Whether it's today or in the future, when illness or hard times hit, instead of asking "What have I done to deserve this?" Ask "What are you trying to teach me Lord?" It's more likely He is preparing you to use you for His glory.
Blessings, Cecilia
Jesus Heals the Man Born Blind
1 As Jesus was passing by, He saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened that the works of God would be displayed in him. 4 While it is daytime, we must do the work of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6 When Jesus had said this, He spat on the ground, made some mud, and applied it to the man’s eyes. 7 Then He told him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came back seeing. 8 At this, his neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging began to ask, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some claimed that he was, but others said, “No, he just looks like him.” But the man kept saying, “I am the one.” 10 “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. 11 He answered, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and anointed my eyes, and He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed and received my sight.” 12 “Where is He?” they asked. “I do not know,” he answered.
Faith healers. We've all heard about them. Maybe we've watched them on television or seen them in person. They claim to have special power from God to heal. If they truly can heal the sick, why aren't they at a hospital using their power there? If they can't heal you, it's your fault. You don't have enough faith in God or this healers power. If you only had more faith, you'd be healed.
There are also the group that believes illness is a result of sin. We ourselves may have thought when health problems hit God is punishing us for some sin in our life. God doesn't work that way. God doesn't punish, God disciplines. Punishment is rough, it makes one suffer, it is mistreatment, abuse, damaging and harmful. It is undeserved in proportion to a crime. Discipline is a direct consequence for misbehavior. Discipline teaches, strengthens, produces order, instructs and trains. Discipline produces self control.
Whether it's today or in the future, when illness or hard times hit, instead of asking "What have I done to deserve this?" Ask "What are you trying to teach me Lord?" It's more likely He is preparing you to use you for His glory.
Blessings, Cecilia
Romans 8:9-17 Are you a heir of God and Christ?
9However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. 10If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness. 11But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.
12So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— 13for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” 16The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, 17and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.
Are you a son of God? Does the Spirit dwell in you? Do you have the Spirit of Christ? Only you can answer these questions.
Do you believe that Jesus was born of a virgin, suffered, died on the cross and resurrected on the third day for you?
If so brethren, then you are a son of God. He is your adoptive Father. We have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!”
Then my fellow brothers and sisters, let this sink in!
"The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, 17and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ,"
Also, "if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him."
Heirs: a person legally entitled to the property or rank of another on that person's death.
Yes, we are heirs of God and Christ.
My father and mother had six children. When my parents died all their children became heirs to their estate. Or so I thought. Two of my sisters accused my older brother of trying to finagle, my parents money and possessions. Within a year these two sisters did the same thing that they accused my brother of trying to do. When my father died, they took everything. Nullifying their rightful heirs. I have forgiven them but they have not accepted responsibility for their actions.
We as adoptive children of God, heirs of God and Christ are forever His.
John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.
Becoming earthly heirs doesn't matter. All they can give you are earthly goods that will perish or go to another. But as heirs of God and Christ, you will receive a heavenly reward that will last an eternity. No one can nullify you as His rightful heir, not even Satan himself.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Friday, July 22, 2016
Do you say words that Speak Life?
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]. 1Thes5:14 We [earnestly] urge you,
believers, admonish those who are out of line [the undisciplined, the
unruly, the disorderly], encourage the timid [who lack spiritual courage],
help the [spiritually] weak, be very patient with everyone [always
controlling your temper].
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]. 1Thes5:14 We [earnestly] urge you,
believers, admonish those who are out of line [the undisciplined, the
unruly, the disorderly], encourage the timid [who lack spiritual courage],
help the [spiritually] weak, be very patient with everyone [always
controlling your temper].
There was a time when I tore down a section of a wall and years later
needed to put it back up. The only problem is I knew how to tear down and
did not know how to build up. I have a friend that does, and he helped me.
Throughout my life I have been bullied and shamed, I allowed people and the
devil, to tear me down to the point that I wanted to die. I learned how to
tear someone else down as well, even myself in front of others, by words
and attitude. As a Christian, I have tried to be an encouragement to others
and build them up, helping others to understand what God is calling
Christians to do and how He is calling us to live. Brethren, we are to live
in way that glorifies God in all that we say and do. We are called to be
selfless and not selfish. We must be patient, encourage and be a blessing
to all that we are around. For some people, it will only take one word to
drive them over the edge to take their own life, or one word to bring them
to Jesus Christ. May we always say words that Speak Life, and it may just
be, Jesus loves you and I love you too.
Douglas
Make My Day John 8:31-59
John 8
Jesus and Abraham
31 Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly My disciples if you remain faithful to My teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?” 34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. 37 Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill Me because there’s no room in your hearts for My message. 38 I am telling you what I saw when I was with My Father. But you are following the advice of your father.” 39 “Our father is Abraham!” they declared. “No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example. 40 Instead, you are trying to kill Me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing. 41 No, you are imitating your real father.” They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.” 42 Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on My own, but He sent Me. 43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear Me! 44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe Me! 46 Which of you can truthfully accuse Me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe Me? 47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” 48 The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that You were possessed by a demon?” 49“No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in Me. For I honor My Father—and you dishonor Me. 50 And though I have no wish to glorify Myself, God is going to glorify Me. He is the true judge. 51 I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys My teaching will never die!” 52 The people said, “Now we know you are possessed by a demon. Even Abraham and the prophets died, but you say, ‘Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!’ 53 Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?” 54 Jesus answered, “If I want glory for Myself, it doesn’t count. But it is My Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,i’ 55 but you don’t even know Him. I know Him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know Him and obey Him. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to My coming. He saw it and was glad.” 57 The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can You say you have seen Abraham?” 58 Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!” 59 At that point they picked up stones to throw at Him. But Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple.
Satan roams the earth looking for who he can destroy. That is his main goal, to destroy anyone and everyone he can. It's a victory to Him when we sin and go against God. It makes his day. He is the father of lies and that's his weapon of choice. He tells you stuff like "you're a failure, your not good enough, no one loves you".
Jesus on the other hand is truth. He tells you you can do anything with His strength (Phillipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"), you are good enough because He created you (Psalm 139:13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.) And He loves you (Ephesians 3:18 And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. ).
When we accept Jesus and His truth and stop listening to the lies of Satan, when we turn from our sin and and start walking with Christ it makes His day. Who do you want to please? I choose Jesus.
Blessings, Cecilia
Jesus and Abraham
31 Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly My disciples if you remain faithful to My teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?” 34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. 37 Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill Me because there’s no room in your hearts for My message. 38 I am telling you what I saw when I was with My Father. But you are following the advice of your father.” 39 “Our father is Abraham!” they declared. “No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example. 40 Instead, you are trying to kill Me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing. 41 No, you are imitating your real father.” They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.” 42 Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on My own, but He sent Me. 43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear Me! 44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe Me! 46 Which of you can truthfully accuse Me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe Me? 47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” 48 The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that You were possessed by a demon?” 49“No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in Me. For I honor My Father—and you dishonor Me. 50 And though I have no wish to glorify Myself, God is going to glorify Me. He is the true judge. 51 I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys My teaching will never die!” 52 The people said, “Now we know you are possessed by a demon. Even Abraham and the prophets died, but you say, ‘Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!’ 53 Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?” 54 Jesus answered, “If I want glory for Myself, it doesn’t count. But it is My Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,i’ 55 but you don’t even know Him. I know Him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know Him and obey Him. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to My coming. He saw it and was glad.” 57 The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can You say you have seen Abraham?” 58 Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!” 59 At that point they picked up stones to throw at Him. But Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple.
Satan roams the earth looking for who he can destroy. That is his main goal, to destroy anyone and everyone he can. It's a victory to Him when we sin and go against God. It makes his day. He is the father of lies and that's his weapon of choice. He tells you stuff like "you're a failure, your not good enough, no one loves you".
Jesus on the other hand is truth. He tells you you can do anything with His strength (Phillipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"), you are good enough because He created you (Psalm 139:13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.) And He loves you (Ephesians 3:18 And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. ).
When we accept Jesus and His truth and stop listening to the lies of Satan, when we turn from our sin and and start walking with Christ it makes His day. Who do you want to please? I choose Jesus.
Blessings, Cecilia
Romans 8:1-8 Mind set of Spirit or flesh?
Deliverance from Bondage
1Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, 4so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, 7because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, 8and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Are you in the mind set of the flesh or the mind set of the Spirit? True Christianity offers something no other religion offers. The God of creation offering up His Son in your place thereby giving you peace, joy and everlasting life.
If you believe in Jesus then you are in the mind set of the Spirit. The Spirit in you looks forward to the day of being with Jesus in heaven. You have an inner peace that no man or spirit can rob from you.
But on the other hand, if you are of the spirit of flesh, nothing on this earth will satisfy your thirst. Everything you strive for and grasp in the flesh will not satisfy the God made hole in your heart. Mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God;
Today's study reminds me of this Psalm of David.
Psalm 63New American Standard Bible (NASB)
The Thirsting Soul Satisfied in God.
A Psalm of David, [a]when he was in the wilderness of Judah.
63 O God, You are my God; I shall seek You [b]earnestly;
My soul thirsts for You, my flesh [c]yearns for You,
In a dry and weary land where there is no water.
2 Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.
3 Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips will praise You.
4 So I will bless You as long as I live;
I will lift up my hands in Your name.
5 My soul is satisfied as with [d]marrow and fatness,
And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips.
6 When I remember You on my bed,
I meditate on You in the night watches,
7 For You have been my help,
And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.
8 My soul clings [e]to You;
Your right hand upholds me.
9 But those who seek my [f]life to destroy it,
Will go into the [g]depths of the earth.
10 [h]They will be [i]delivered over to the power of the sword;
They will be a [j]prey for foxes.
11 But the king will rejoice in God;
Everyone who swears by Him will glory,
For the mouths of those who speak lies will be stopped.
May our Lord bless you today and may your mind set in the Spirit bring you peace in today's troubling world.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
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