Matthew 28: 19-20 says "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
I have a close friend who I had a long visit with some time back and he is a devoted Christian man, trying to be involved in church and wanting to be obedient to God and he said to me that he has been praying for some time now, searching for an answer from God as to what ministry He wants for him and just cannot seem to hear God's leadership at this point in his life. Well, I could not let it go unsaid, and so I said it. You don't have to pray for God's leadership in your life. It's naturally good practice to keep God in the loop, but He already commanded you in the verses above, and I might say, above everything else in ministry life to "spread the Word" of God! In most cases with Christians today, that seems to me to be just another method of delaying the obvious in our Christian walks. God has told us very plainly, in the above verses that we have an obligation to "GO" and "Share" and "Teach" EVERYONE "...to observe all that has been commanded to us..." People will say, "I'm too inexperienced in sharing the Gospel." Of course they don't seem to be too inexperienced to share EVERYTHING ABOUT THEMSELVES" on Facebook.
I look at this as what I was taught to be a "normal traffic pattern" of life. As we "Go" we "Share"; as we "Share" we "Teach"; as we "Teach" we "Win" the lost of the world over to the Lord and they become His disciples so He can command "Them" to "Go, Make, & Teach" the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sure there are other things that need to be done within and outside of the church, like feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, ministering to the lonely, (we delivered chemo "Goodies Baskets" to a handful of patients every time I went for treatment) but we didn't have to pray about that need. God just revealed it to us and we did it. He has made it very clear. "Go, Make & Teach" disciples about My love so they can go in return and do the same for someone else. What we fail to see is that God never said, as you fellowship within the confines of the church building "Go, Make, & Teach"
In the book of Acts, chapter 1:8 He says "...you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth". That pretty much covered the entire map at that time. Don't find yourself so "heavenly conscious that you are, no earthly good"! You don't have to pray about sharing your relationship with God. Everything you do inside and outside of the church is secondary to the action which Jesus gave to us when He said "GO".
So what does "Normal Traffic Pattern of Life" mean, anyway? Well, it means that when you are standing around the water cooler at work, the football game last night should not be the "hottest" topic. It means when you share lunch time with someone who is hurting, helping them find a "life mate" is not what God wants. It means that you must, without fear, and with the strongest conviction, open your mouth and introduce Christ as the "end all, fix all" to this life's difficulties and disasters. Don't be afraid to say what you know about Christ. The blind man who received his sight, knew ABSOLUTELY NOTHING and he walked away from that event declaring, "...all I know is that once I was blind and now I see." Do you see the events of the world today? They are one disaster after another and we all sit back and say, "Man, Jesus must be coming back soon." But do we believe it? Do we need to pray about it? I don't believe so.
Here's my story! All I know is Jesus! Once I was blind and then I could see (Jesus)...because someone introduced Him to me. I've knelt on a cold chemotherapy room floor in front of a chair of a lady receiving her treatment while I had a needle stuck in my chest receiving my own treatment and we prayed and asked Jesus to save her, and guess what? HE DID! Her discomfort turned to peace all at once and nothing else really mattered. I don't know how many people God has put in front of me but I have tried to be obedient to each and every command to "Go, Make, & Teach" every one about the Lord. Have you experienced that joy? In the "Normal Traffic Pattern of Life" God has commanded us to "Go". And when we "Go" tell His story.
What are you waiting for?
Have your friends search the scriptures. See if what I have said is not the truth. Then let them pass it on to their friends and tell them they got it from you. Wouldn't it be terrible on that day you stand before God and one of your closest friends stands along side of you and says "If you knew this truth, why didn't you share it with me?"
DON'T JUST SIT THERE AND WAIT FOR GOD TO SPEAK! HE HAS ALREADY SPOKEN! Study the scriptures. You'll find out that I am right.
Dave
Crazy Papa
I'll make 'um an offer
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Corner Bakery Church
Last night, Barb and I went to church at the corner of Bell Road and Paradise Lane at a little place called "The Corner Bakery" with some friends. It was a wonderful time. We prayed and eat a meal together and then we spent over 3 hours enjoying each other's company, talking and cutting up and enjoying the Lord in our time of fellowship.
We talked about how the Lord was helping us through some difficult times and even some good times and it was such a time of ministry and healing (even if just for a short while). We captured some Bible verses and facts and chewed on them for a while and just had an altogether great time of fun, food and fellowship.
We remembered in our hearts that the Bible tells us that "For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst" (Matt. 18:20 NASB). And so we honored God as we had communion with each other and the Lord, we had sweet fellowship together and also spent time ministering to one another and I know I said earlier that we went to a church, but truthfully, it was a little cafe that we sat at and worshipped the Father in heaven with these friends. One of the sweetest parts of the conversation was coming together in agreement on our deep, deep desire to see the return of our Lord, Jesus Christ. What a spiritual blessing the whole night was. There was not a church in the city, last night, that would have been able to compete with the fellowship and spiritual uplifting we received.
You see, you don't have to have or build a building and bring in a "Praise Band", add screens for "note taking" in the front and have a Pastor lead in a Biblical Exegetical study to find yourself "in church" and loving it.
You should try it sometime. Just find a few friends and sit down most anywhere and call upon the Lord to, not only sanction your fellowship together but to join in as well. What a blessing the Holy Spirit was as we communed together and I really enjoyed it. And don't be naive. In our 21st Century America, this may become the only church you will be able to achieve and the scripture you study may only be that portion that you have "hidden in your heart."
"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst." Yes, last night, Friday night, we went to church, and it was one of the best services I have ever attended. Praise the Lord in heaven.
Christian brothers and sisters, (better yet "fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ") I hope this little note inspires you enough to go out and find some "like minded" brothers and sisters to do the same.
Then he said to them, "Go, eat of the fat, drink of the sweet, and send portions to him who has nothing prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength" (Neh. 8:10).
Dave (blessed to the bone).
We talked about how the Lord was helping us through some difficult times and even some good times and it was such a time of ministry and healing (even if just for a short while). We captured some Bible verses and facts and chewed on them for a while and just had an altogether great time of fun, food and fellowship.
We remembered in our hearts that the Bible tells us that "For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst" (Matt. 18:20 NASB). And so we honored God as we had communion with each other and the Lord, we had sweet fellowship together and also spent time ministering to one another and I know I said earlier that we went to a church, but truthfully, it was a little cafe that we sat at and worshipped the Father in heaven with these friends. One of the sweetest parts of the conversation was coming together in agreement on our deep, deep desire to see the return of our Lord, Jesus Christ. What a spiritual blessing the whole night was. There was not a church in the city, last night, that would have been able to compete with the fellowship and spiritual uplifting we received.
You see, you don't have to have or build a building and bring in a "Praise Band", add screens for "note taking" in the front and have a Pastor lead in a Biblical Exegetical study to find yourself "in church" and loving it.
You should try it sometime. Just find a few friends and sit down most anywhere and call upon the Lord to, not only sanction your fellowship together but to join in as well. What a blessing the Holy Spirit was as we communed together and I really enjoyed it. And don't be naive. In our 21st Century America, this may become the only church you will be able to achieve and the scripture you study may only be that portion that you have "hidden in your heart."
"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst." Yes, last night, Friday night, we went to church, and it was one of the best services I have ever attended. Praise the Lord in heaven.
Christian brothers and sisters, (better yet "fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ") I hope this little note inspires you enough to go out and find some "like minded" brothers and sisters to do the same.
Then he said to them, "Go, eat of the fat, drink of the sweet, and send portions to him who has nothing prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength" (Neh. 8:10).
Dave (blessed to the bone).
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Checkin' For "Chinks" In The Armor!
Well, like Barb said in her email tonight, we are pleasantly "tucked' into our new residence in Surprise, Arizona at the Sunflower RV Resort. We left the beautiful mountains of Prescott Valley this morning and it was raining. Something we have not seen for a while now and it was a little disappointing to have to leave. However, the weather greeting us was NOT unpleasant and even more comfortable in the evening. Everything is plugged in and working as it should and I am looking forward to our stay here at Sunflower.
When we arrived at our RV spot, I parked the 5th wheel and then walked around it (as I always do after traveling) to make sure there were not "nicks" or "dings" in our home on wheels and of course, it is certainly holding up well (with a few inside exceptions which are being handled). Anyway, as I surveyed the RV checking it's sturdiness I was reminded of a passage of scripture in Ephesians:
Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Eph. 6:13-20 NASB).
So, as I walked around the RV I noticed that there were a couple of "nicks' probably caused by flying rocks on the highway and on the driver's side of the coach were a few minor scratches that were perhaps caused by the brushing by of tree branches as I drove out of the park, however no "dents" or real damage to the integrity of it's structure for which I was thankful (you have to see it; it is a BEAUTIFUL coach and just what God ordered for Barb and I).
Again God prompted me back to the above verses and this time He was telling me to take an inventory of my own "nicks" and "dings" as Barb and I have been driven through some very thick forests in the past and perhaps we needed to make sure our structural integrity was still "intact"!
So I looked again at the above verses and noticed that my "loins were still girded with the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ. I noticed also that my Breastplate of Righteousness was still on and straight. I did notice a few dents and scratches on it from being "hit" a number of times by the evil one, however it still maintained it's "shine" and sturdiness with the continued ability to deflect any of the darts that Satan would sling my way.
Then I looked down at my feet to see that they were still "shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The soles on the bottom of my shoes were a good bit worn but still capable of addressing anyone who wanted to know about God's presence. I also noticed that I still had hold of my "shield of faith" and even though it was somewhat "warped" from being banged on and protecting me, it was still shining and very much able to protect me in the "throws of battle". I also noticed a few black or "burned" marks on my shield but nothing to be concerned about. And still possessing my "helmet of faith" and the "sword" being the Word of God I was still completely ready in and out of season, to tell of the Good News of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Yes, today I took a good look and evaluation of my own "armor of faith" and found it "used" but still plenty able to be used much, much more for the Gospel of Christ. And to that end, we wear our suit of armor, deflecting the darts and arrows that might otherwise damage our ability to express our faith in Christ as we (all who are in Christ) have been called to do.
So, let's take a survey to see when the last time it was that you inspected your "armor of God" being ready "in season and out" to spread His Holy Word. A word to the wise: don't ever walk out the door without your suit of armor on. You never know who is lurking around the corner.
Dave
BTW, I have never made this request before but this is so very important. Please share this with a friend or loved one. Perhaps posting it on your Facebook page will really help to reach a lot of people who need this type of evaluation in their lives. You will be doing them a favor. God loves them too.
When we arrived at our RV spot, I parked the 5th wheel and then walked around it (as I always do after traveling) to make sure there were not "nicks" or "dings" in our home on wheels and of course, it is certainly holding up well (with a few inside exceptions which are being handled). Anyway, as I surveyed the RV checking it's sturdiness I was reminded of a passage of scripture in Ephesians:
Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Eph. 6:13-20 NASB).
So, as I walked around the RV I noticed that there were a couple of "nicks' probably caused by flying rocks on the highway and on the driver's side of the coach were a few minor scratches that were perhaps caused by the brushing by of tree branches as I drove out of the park, however no "dents" or real damage to the integrity of it's structure for which I was thankful (you have to see it; it is a BEAUTIFUL coach and just what God ordered for Barb and I).
Again God prompted me back to the above verses and this time He was telling me to take an inventory of my own "nicks" and "dings" as Barb and I have been driven through some very thick forests in the past and perhaps we needed to make sure our structural integrity was still "intact"!
So I looked again at the above verses and noticed that my "loins were still girded with the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ. I noticed also that my Breastplate of Righteousness was still on and straight. I did notice a few dents and scratches on it from being "hit" a number of times by the evil one, however it still maintained it's "shine" and sturdiness with the continued ability to deflect any of the darts that Satan would sling my way.
Then I looked down at my feet to see that they were still "shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The soles on the bottom of my shoes were a good bit worn but still capable of addressing anyone who wanted to know about God's presence. I also noticed that I still had hold of my "shield of faith" and even though it was somewhat "warped" from being banged on and protecting me, it was still shining and very much able to protect me in the "throws of battle". I also noticed a few black or "burned" marks on my shield but nothing to be concerned about. And still possessing my "helmet of faith" and the "sword" being the Word of God I was still completely ready in and out of season, to tell of the Good News of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Yes, today I took a good look and evaluation of my own "armor of faith" and found it "used" but still plenty able to be used much, much more for the Gospel of Christ. And to that end, we wear our suit of armor, deflecting the darts and arrows that might otherwise damage our ability to express our faith in Christ as we (all who are in Christ) have been called to do.
So, let's take a survey to see when the last time it was that you inspected your "armor of God" being ready "in season and out" to spread His Holy Word. A word to the wise: don't ever walk out the door without your suit of armor on. You never know who is lurking around the corner.
Dave
BTW, I have never made this request before but this is so very important. Please share this with a friend or loved one. Perhaps posting it on your Facebook page will really help to reach a lot of people who need this type of evaluation in their lives. You will be doing them a favor. God loves them too.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Better Is One Day!
I went to bed a short while ago and of course, I love to put on the headphones and listen to Steve Green. He was singing one of my favorite songs, "Broken and Spilled Out" and it made me think of a scripture verse (imagine that). Anyway the verse was Psalms 84:10 and it says "For a day in Thy courts is better than a thousand outside. I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God, than dwell in the tents of wickedness."
We use to sing a song about that verse: "better is one day in your court, better is one day in your house, better is one day in your court, than a thousand elsewhere." Anyway you get the picture. I find myself "yearning" for the Lord to return more and more each day. I don't know, perhaps it's just that all of these medical problems are a "drag" on the emotions but I believe that yearning for His return is a good thing.
So as I was listening to this song by Steve Green the line came along, "In sweet abandon, Lord You were spilled out, and used up for me," and I thought how precious that God did that for me, and even if I were the only one here, He still would have done that for me. I can somewhat relate. Sometime (most of the time) I feel broken and spilled all over the ground. So many non-functional body parts anymore from the cancer and chemotherapy thing. My bones are beginning to hurt (don't yet know if that is the cancer or just plain "old age" setting in).
However, there is still one thing in me that is still functioning perfectly. That is my spirit. I do so rejoice in the Lord and think of Him often. So one day I'll sit in His court and rejoice because the "thousand" that I'd spent outside of His court will be finally over.
Can you praise the Lord in the middle of your weakness? It's okay, you know! In fact, it takes my mind off all the other things that aren't doing quite as well. He loves you very much. Hope you can show Him your love in return tonight.
God bless,
Dave
We use to sing a song about that verse: "better is one day in your court, better is one day in your house, better is one day in your court, than a thousand elsewhere." Anyway you get the picture. I find myself "yearning" for the Lord to return more and more each day. I don't know, perhaps it's just that all of these medical problems are a "drag" on the emotions but I believe that yearning for His return is a good thing.
So as I was listening to this song by Steve Green the line came along, "In sweet abandon, Lord You were spilled out, and used up for me," and I thought how precious that God did that for me, and even if I were the only one here, He still would have done that for me. I can somewhat relate. Sometime (most of the time) I feel broken and spilled all over the ground. So many non-functional body parts anymore from the cancer and chemotherapy thing. My bones are beginning to hurt (don't yet know if that is the cancer or just plain "old age" setting in).
However, there is still one thing in me that is still functioning perfectly. That is my spirit. I do so rejoice in the Lord and think of Him often. So one day I'll sit in His court and rejoice because the "thousand" that I'd spent outside of His court will be finally over.
Can you praise the Lord in the middle of your weakness? It's okay, you know! In fact, it takes my mind off all the other things that aren't doing quite as well. He loves you very much. Hope you can show Him your love in return tonight.
God bless,
Dave
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Ever Wonder About Crowns In Heaven?
Here's an interesting point of view: In the final day, as we stand before Christ He will not be saying "Well done, good and successful servant." No, He will say, "Well done, good and faithful servant..."
When we reach that day of judgement our acts on earth will NOT be judged on how successful we were in the tasks we handled for the Lord, so much as we will be judged for our faithfulness to Him and His call.
*A crown of rejoicing: Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy" (1 Thess. 2:19-20). Isn't it awesome when you read and realize that one of our crowns in heaven will be that of ourselves within the presence of the Lord. He will be so proud for all of your efforts. Again, success is not the issue but rather the faithfulness to follow His command.
*A crown of life: James wrote in James 1:12, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him". This would be the crown promised to the man or woman who has resisted temptation and has patiently endured testing and trials. There are people who suffer from physical infirmities or bad marriages or poverty or emotional trials that are no fault of their own. Others suffer for their testimony of Jesus Christ in different parts of the world. I kinda feel like I may fit into this category and maybe get a crown like this because most of the time I feel like I look like a "burnt match stick" from all the medical problems, blood draws, transfusions, tests, x-rays, chemotherapy and all that stuff. And sometimes it is very hard for me to hold my face up and glorify God, however I can say with assurance that I have done my very best. It's like God is saying, "I have a special crown for you who have endured difficult situations and consistently resisted temptation."
*A crown of righteousness: Shortly before Paul was executed in a Roman dungeon, he wrote these words to his good friend Timothy: "The time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing" (2 Tim. 4:6-8). I think this crown will go out to those who specifically served God with a heart looking toward heaven.
Do you long for the return of Jesus Christ our Lord? If so, I believe that there is a crown waiting for you. There is also a crown waiting for you if you have remained faithful to the Lord, and finished the race he set out before you. I am slow and continuing to get slower, however, I will remain on the race track until I have "finished the race" regardless of the place in which I finish. My hearts desire and God's prompting is to finish the race.
So make every day of your life count folks. Keep one of your feet in heaven and the other on the earth, and be ready to meet your God. He's coming soon!
Dave
*excerpts from "Signs of the Times" by Pastor Greg Laurie.
When we reach that day of judgement our acts on earth will NOT be judged on how successful we were in the tasks we handled for the Lord, so much as we will be judged for our faithfulness to Him and His call.
*A crown of rejoicing: Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy" (1 Thess. 2:19-20). Isn't it awesome when you read and realize that one of our crowns in heaven will be that of ourselves within the presence of the Lord. He will be so proud for all of your efforts. Again, success is not the issue but rather the faithfulness to follow His command.
*A crown of life: James wrote in James 1:12, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him". This would be the crown promised to the man or woman who has resisted temptation and has patiently endured testing and trials. There are people who suffer from physical infirmities or bad marriages or poverty or emotional trials that are no fault of their own. Others suffer for their testimony of Jesus Christ in different parts of the world. I kinda feel like I may fit into this category and maybe get a crown like this because most of the time I feel like I look like a "burnt match stick" from all the medical problems, blood draws, transfusions, tests, x-rays, chemotherapy and all that stuff. And sometimes it is very hard for me to hold my face up and glorify God, however I can say with assurance that I have done my very best. It's like God is saying, "I have a special crown for you who have endured difficult situations and consistently resisted temptation."
*A crown of righteousness: Shortly before Paul was executed in a Roman dungeon, he wrote these words to his good friend Timothy: "The time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing" (2 Tim. 4:6-8). I think this crown will go out to those who specifically served God with a heart looking toward heaven.
Do you long for the return of Jesus Christ our Lord? If so, I believe that there is a crown waiting for you. There is also a crown waiting for you if you have remained faithful to the Lord, and finished the race he set out before you. I am slow and continuing to get slower, however, I will remain on the race track until I have "finished the race" regardless of the place in which I finish. My hearts desire and God's prompting is to finish the race.
So make every day of your life count folks. Keep one of your feet in heaven and the other on the earth, and be ready to meet your God. He's coming soon!
Dave
*excerpts from "Signs of the Times" by Pastor Greg Laurie.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
How Can I?
A couple of days ago, I received a question from a precious niece of mine and I tried, with the blessed Word of God, to answer her question with conviction, courage toward the truth as written by God, and easy to understand. I hope I have done that for her. I recently met her husband and they are a precious couple with beautiful children and grand child. I appreciate when someone ask questions concerning the Word of God because it prompts more and more study of His Word for me. Thank you, sweet Jackie.
As I thought about that tonight I was prompted about another question that I am sure is asked over and over again, not only in America but all over the world and that question is: "How can I have my sins forgiven and live with Jesus Christ for all of eternity?" I would like to address this question tonight because it can never be given enough attention before the return of our Lord and Savior. And as the events of the world identify with His soon return, it seems really applicable now.
"How can I have my sins forgiven and live with Jesus Christ for all of eternity?"
B. Once we have come to that point in our lives then we have to be willing to repent, or turn from our sins. Repent means to "turn around and go in the opposite direction." The Bible tells us in Acts 3:19, "Repent therefore, and return, that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." After we recognize our sin, it is necessary for us to be willing to "turn" from that sin in order to come to God.
C. After repentance comes believing: Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross and rose from the grave. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." That comes from John 3:16 and is probably the most popular Bible verse around the world. You see, it's not just enough to recognize sin in your life and then turn from that sin. There is this powerful Hope that our God has provided for us and that was to give up the One He loved most so that He could love you just as much. And praise the Lord, He was willing to die not only for you and I, but for everyone who would someday fall to his/her knees and ask Jesus into their lives.
D. Finally, there is a "gift receiving" ceremony that takes place. You see, God is offering you a gift. The gift of eternal life and security in heaven with Jesus Christ. But in order to complete the process you must reach out and accept that gift. In the Gospel of John 1:12, John explains it like this: "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name." It is through prayer that we invite Jesus Christ to come into our lives and control our life through the Holy Spirit.
So to sum up: We must "Confess, Repent, Believe and Receive!"
Here is a simple little prayer you can use right now to come to God and have all of your sin forgiven for all of eternity: "Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I now receive You into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name, Amen." You see, you may be reading this and think like my big brother thinks, "I'm too bad for God to help me. He'll never forgive me for all the bad things I've done so why bother." Well, I know a lot of people who have been much worse than my big brother and God saved them. He can save you too. No matter how bad you believe you are. Go back and read through these thoughts again and then go before a Holy and Loving God and ask Him. Remember too that we don't go looking for God. He came to us to offer His Son as a sacrifice for however bad you think you have been.
I hope, with God's Love, that you take this message serious. Your very eternity depends on it. And if you are reading this and are already "set up" in the Kingdom of God, then pray for others as they take the time to find out for themselves, what it is like to be in Love with God.
Dave
As I thought about that tonight I was prompted about another question that I am sure is asked over and over again, not only in America but all over the world and that question is: "How can I have my sins forgiven and live with Jesus Christ for all of eternity?" I would like to address this question tonight because it can never be given enough attention before the return of our Lord and Savior. And as the events of the world identify with His soon return, it seems really applicable now.
"How can I have my sins forgiven and live with Jesus Christ for all of eternity?"
A. The Bible prompts us to admit that we have a need. We all are sinners and in need of a savior. Romans 3:23 says "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." From all the way back in the Garden of Eden, inherited sin has been a human issue and flaw in our ability to relate to our Father in heaven. And so Paul tells us simply that "All" have sinned! In order for us to clear a path to forgiveness, we must first recognize that we ARE sinners.
B. Once we have come to that point in our lives then we have to be willing to repent, or turn from our sins. Repent means to "turn around and go in the opposite direction." The Bible tells us in Acts 3:19, "Repent therefore, and return, that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." After we recognize our sin, it is necessary for us to be willing to "turn" from that sin in order to come to God.
C. After repentance comes believing: Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross and rose from the grave. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." That comes from John 3:16 and is probably the most popular Bible verse around the world. You see, it's not just enough to recognize sin in your life and then turn from that sin. There is this powerful Hope that our God has provided for us and that was to give up the One He loved most so that He could love you just as much. And praise the Lord, He was willing to die not only for you and I, but for everyone who would someday fall to his/her knees and ask Jesus into their lives.
D. Finally, there is a "gift receiving" ceremony that takes place. You see, God is offering you a gift. The gift of eternal life and security in heaven with Jesus Christ. But in order to complete the process you must reach out and accept that gift. In the Gospel of John 1:12, John explains it like this: "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name." It is through prayer that we invite Jesus Christ to come into our lives and control our life through the Holy Spirit.
So to sum up: We must "Confess, Repent, Believe and Receive!"
Here is a simple little prayer you can use right now to come to God and have all of your sin forgiven for all of eternity: "Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I now receive You into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name, Amen." You see, you may be reading this and think like my big brother thinks, "I'm too bad for God to help me. He'll never forgive me for all the bad things I've done so why bother." Well, I know a lot of people who have been much worse than my big brother and God saved them. He can save you too. No matter how bad you believe you are. Go back and read through these thoughts again and then go before a Holy and Loving God and ask Him. Remember too that we don't go looking for God. He came to us to offer His Son as a sacrifice for however bad you think you have been.
I hope, with God's Love, that you take this message serious. Your very eternity depends on it. And if you are reading this and are already "set up" in the Kingdom of God, then pray for others as they take the time to find out for themselves, what it is like to be in Love with God.
Dave
Friday, September 10, 2010
I Can Count All Of My Bones!
There are 31 verses below. Please read them and ponder the message given:
My God, my God, why have You forsaken me? Far from my deliverance are the words of my groaning. O my God, I cry by day, but You do not answer; And by night, but I have no rest. Yet You are holy, O You who are enthroned upon the praises of Israel. In You our fathers trusted; They trusted and You delivered them. To You they cried out and were delivered; In You they trusted and were not disappointed. But I am a worm and not a man, A reproach of men and despised by the people. All who see me sneer at me; They separate with the lip, they wag the head, saying, " Commit yourself to the LORD; let Him deliver him; Let Him rescue him, because He delights in him." Yet You are He who brought me forth from the womb; You made me trust when upon my mother's breasts. Upon You I was cast from birth; You have been my God from my mother's womb. Be not far from me, for trouble is near; For there is none to help. Many bulls have surrounded me; Strong bulls of Bashan have encircled me. They open wide their mouth at me, As a ravening and a roaring lion. I am poured out like water, And all my bones are out of joint; My heart is like wax; It is melted within me. My strength is dried up like a potsherd, And my tongue cleaves to my jaws; And You lay me in the dust of death. For dogs have surrounded me; A band of evildoers has encompassed me; They pierced my hands and my feet. I can count all my bones. They look, they stare at me; They divide my garments among them, And for my clothing they cast lots. But You, O LORD, be not far off; O You my help, hasten to my assistance. Deliver my soul from the sword, My only life from the power of the dog. Save me from the lion's mouth; From the horns of the wild oxen You answer me. I will tell of Your name to my brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will praise You. You who fear the LORD, praise Him; All you descendants of Jacob, glorify Him, And stand in awe of Him, all you descendants of Israel. For He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; Nor has He hidden His face from him; But when he cried to Him for help, He heard. From You comes my praise in the great assembly; I shall pay my vows before those who fear Him. The afflicted will eat and be satisfied; Those who seek Him will praise the LORD. Let your heart live forever! All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD, And all the families of the nations will worship before You. For the kingdom is the LORD'S And He rules over the nations. All the prosperous of the earth will eat and worship, All those who go down to the dust will bow before Him, Even he who cannot keep his soul alive. Posterity will serve Him; It will be told of the Lord to the coming generation. They will come and will declare His righteousness To a people who will be born, that He has performed it. (Psa 22:1-31 NASB)
Ever have a day when you feel something like this. I don't propose to know how deeply our Lord suffered however, I do feel days like it says in verse 17 when "I can count all of my bones" because it is so painful. I have friends today and others who have already gone home to be with the Lord who have expressed this level of pain in their bodies and I pray.
I have been up all night unable to sleep because of the "bone counting" going on in my body. Sometimes it feels like someone is twisting them and allowing them to "fling" back into position which really hurts. I have taken enough pain and sleeping aids to put a horse to sleep and my guess is that God had a message for me.
Although, on a daily basis, the pain develops more and more, I continue to trust in God, who is, indeed, the Author and Finisher of my Faith, for my final outcome in this life. And at the appointed time which God has set for me, it is my hope that people would have found me enjoyable to be with, funny, candid, and just an all around good fellow. But my greatest desire is that those people would recognize the "God Man" within me and the earnest desire to share His love with others.
This world is hurting like nothing we have ever experienced before in any of our live times and I see this as a signal from our Father in Heaven, to look up, and call out His name. Maybe you are in such pain that you cannot utter a word. Our Lord hears your groaning and loves and desires to minister to you.
Won't you turn to God and receive His grace; even as you suffer terrible afflictions tonight. I have. And now that I have shared this with you, I feel better. Tonight I feel the need to lift up my children and grandchildren to the Lord for His blessing.
You've heard it said before, "Let go and let God." Well I say "Let go and experience the results of His Glory."
I pray for your suffering this very night. God bless you,
Dave
My God, my God, why have You forsaken me? Far from my deliverance are the words of my groaning. O my God, I cry by day, but You do not answer; And by night, but I have no rest. Yet You are holy, O You who are enthroned upon the praises of Israel. In You our fathers trusted; They trusted and You delivered them. To You they cried out and were delivered; In You they trusted and were not disappointed. But I am a worm and not a man, A reproach of men and despised by the people. All who see me sneer at me; They separate with the lip, they wag the head, saying, " Commit yourself to the LORD; let Him deliver him; Let Him rescue him, because He delights in him." Yet You are He who brought me forth from the womb; You made me trust when upon my mother's breasts. Upon You I was cast from birth; You have been my God from my mother's womb. Be not far from me, for trouble is near; For there is none to help. Many bulls have surrounded me; Strong bulls of Bashan have encircled me. They open wide their mouth at me, As a ravening and a roaring lion. I am poured out like water, And all my bones are out of joint; My heart is like wax; It is melted within me. My strength is dried up like a potsherd, And my tongue cleaves to my jaws; And You lay me in the dust of death. For dogs have surrounded me; A band of evildoers has encompassed me; They pierced my hands and my feet. I can count all my bones. They look, they stare at me; They divide my garments among them, And for my clothing they cast lots. But You, O LORD, be not far off; O You my help, hasten to my assistance. Deliver my soul from the sword, My only life from the power of the dog. Save me from the lion's mouth; From the horns of the wild oxen You answer me. I will tell of Your name to my brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will praise You. You who fear the LORD, praise Him; All you descendants of Jacob, glorify Him, And stand in awe of Him, all you descendants of Israel. For He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; Nor has He hidden His face from him; But when he cried to Him for help, He heard. From You comes my praise in the great assembly; I shall pay my vows before those who fear Him. The afflicted will eat and be satisfied; Those who seek Him will praise the LORD. Let your heart live forever! All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD, And all the families of the nations will worship before You. For the kingdom is the LORD'S And He rules over the nations. All the prosperous of the earth will eat and worship, All those who go down to the dust will bow before Him, Even he who cannot keep his soul alive. Posterity will serve Him; It will be told of the Lord to the coming generation. They will come and will declare His righteousness To a people who will be born, that He has performed it. (Psa 22:1-31 NASB)
Ever have a day when you feel something like this. I don't propose to know how deeply our Lord suffered however, I do feel days like it says in verse 17 when "I can count all of my bones" because it is so painful. I have friends today and others who have already gone home to be with the Lord who have expressed this level of pain in their bodies and I pray.
I have been up all night unable to sleep because of the "bone counting" going on in my body. Sometimes it feels like someone is twisting them and allowing them to "fling" back into position which really hurts. I have taken enough pain and sleeping aids to put a horse to sleep and my guess is that God had a message for me.
Although, on a daily basis, the pain develops more and more, I continue to trust in God, who is, indeed, the Author and Finisher of my Faith, for my final outcome in this life. And at the appointed time which God has set for me, it is my hope that people would have found me enjoyable to be with, funny, candid, and just an all around good fellow. But my greatest desire is that those people would recognize the "God Man" within me and the earnest desire to share His love with others.
This world is hurting like nothing we have ever experienced before in any of our live times and I see this as a signal from our Father in Heaven, to look up, and call out His name. Maybe you are in such pain that you cannot utter a word. Our Lord hears your groaning and loves and desires to minister to you.
Won't you turn to God and receive His grace; even as you suffer terrible afflictions tonight. I have. And now that I have shared this with you, I feel better. Tonight I feel the need to lift up my children and grandchildren to the Lord for His blessing.
You've heard it said before, "Let go and let God." Well I say "Let go and experience the results of His Glory."
I pray for your suffering this very night. God bless you,
Dave
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
You Are The Light Of The World!
Listen to this passage of scripture. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do men light a lamp, and put it under the peck-measure, but on the lamp stand; and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (Matt. 5 14-16 NASB)
Here's another one. "...if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin." (1 John 1:7 NASB)
Hang with me, I'm going somewhere with this. Here's a good one. "for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light..." (Ephesians 5:8 NASB)
Let's just add one more to the mix. "And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving, that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." (2 Cor. 4:4 NASB)
Thanks for sticking with me. What do all these verses have in common? They talk about the "light of the world." And what would that light be? That light is the Lord Jesus Christ living within you. You don't "hide the light" so that it cannot be seen; you don't fail to "expose" the light as you fellowship with one another; even though you used to be in darkness, your light shines brightly for others to witness; and your light is not covered to discount the light of Jesus in your life. You, as a fully devoted follower of Jesus Christ "cannot" hide it, you "cannot" help but expose it, you shine with Christ's love to those around you and you "do not" discount your light in Christ as you share with others.
When Paul was speaking to the servants of Christ in the church at Corinth he said, "Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God." (1 Cor. 4:5 NASB)
I've taken some verses of scripture that focus specifically on "the light of the world" and I want to make a comparison here. We do, daily what we do, as Christian men and women because the light of God lives within us and we cannot help ourselves. Take a moment and think about it. Has there ever been a time when someone has walked up to you and said, "there's something different about you!" What is it that makes you smile when the doctor tells you that the news is not good? Why do you live life like everything is really OK?" You can't tell me it hasn't happened to you.
Well what it is specifically is the "light" of God being exposed as you live your life. That's right. In your everyday, normal traffic pattern of life, God is shining through the pours in your body as He testifies of Himself to the world. Let me take you to another verse of scripture and see if it makes all of this come together better.
Go all the way back to the beginning. Look at the first book of the Bible - Genesis. Look in the first chapter and in the 3rd recorded verse of God's Marvelous Word He declares "Let there be light; and there was light." Okay, now one more passage and I'm going to tie this all together. In Genesis 1:14-19 God creates the Sun and Moon. One to govern by day (the sun) and one to govern the night (the moon).
Okay so you all can count and now you realize that the 3rd verse of the Bible tells us that God turned on the light but He didn't create the light-bearing vehicles until the 4th day. So we understand that "From God" we receive the light of the world which is different from the light of day. Well, that's what the other verses above are associated with. We are the "light of the world" (we expose the darkness) because we walk around illuminating the light of God all the way back from the beginning. When Jesus says that you are "the light of the world" back in Matthew 5, He's not calling you a lamp or lantern or even a spotlight. He is telling you that you, as a walking, talking, breathing, born again, believer in Jesus Christ are emitting the "light of God" as you share your life with others.
SO! If you are truly what you say you are (a fully-devoted follower of Jesus Christ, otherwise known as a Christian) you are a walking, talking, breathing, born again, believing "light" to a dark and dying world. You need to see this for what it is because you are truly the light that God intended to use to share Himself to the world with. And your job is to shine, even though you have no "light-bearing" capability.
I am the light of the world. That is what I understand the Bible to say to me. So I want to be guilty of exposing the darkness in every room I enter, every moment of every day of my life. There is no need to flip a switch. Sometimes I don't feel "so bright", sometimes I'm rather sickly from all of the things my body experiences however, that is not my concern. God said I am the light of the world. So what is my goal? "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
All of the above verses lead us back to the beginning with God when He says "Let there be light; and there was light!"
Okay, the lights are on...is anybody home?
Dave
Here's another one. "...if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin." (1 John 1:7 NASB)
Hang with me, I'm going somewhere with this. Here's a good one. "for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light..." (Ephesians 5:8 NASB)
Let's just add one more to the mix. "And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving, that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." (2 Cor. 4:4 NASB)
Thanks for sticking with me. What do all these verses have in common? They talk about the "light of the world." And what would that light be? That light is the Lord Jesus Christ living within you. You don't "hide the light" so that it cannot be seen; you don't fail to "expose" the light as you fellowship with one another; even though you used to be in darkness, your light shines brightly for others to witness; and your light is not covered to discount the light of Jesus in your life. You, as a fully devoted follower of Jesus Christ "cannot" hide it, you "cannot" help but expose it, you shine with Christ's love to those around you and you "do not" discount your light in Christ as you share with others.
When Paul was speaking to the servants of Christ in the church at Corinth he said, "Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God." (1 Cor. 4:5 NASB)
I've taken some verses of scripture that focus specifically on "the light of the world" and I want to make a comparison here. We do, daily what we do, as Christian men and women because the light of God lives within us and we cannot help ourselves. Take a moment and think about it. Has there ever been a time when someone has walked up to you and said, "there's something different about you!" What is it that makes you smile when the doctor tells you that the news is not good? Why do you live life like everything is really OK?" You can't tell me it hasn't happened to you.
Well what it is specifically is the "light" of God being exposed as you live your life. That's right. In your everyday, normal traffic pattern of life, God is shining through the pours in your body as He testifies of Himself to the world. Let me take you to another verse of scripture and see if it makes all of this come together better.
Go all the way back to the beginning. Look at the first book of the Bible - Genesis. Look in the first chapter and in the 3rd recorded verse of God's Marvelous Word He declares "Let there be light; and there was light." Okay, now one more passage and I'm going to tie this all together. In Genesis 1:14-19 God creates the Sun and Moon. One to govern by day (the sun) and one to govern the night (the moon).
Okay so you all can count and now you realize that the 3rd verse of the Bible tells us that God turned on the light but He didn't create the light-bearing vehicles until the 4th day. So we understand that "From God" we receive the light of the world which is different from the light of day. Well, that's what the other verses above are associated with. We are the "light of the world" (we expose the darkness) because we walk around illuminating the light of God all the way back from the beginning. When Jesus says that you are "the light of the world" back in Matthew 5, He's not calling you a lamp or lantern or even a spotlight. He is telling you that you, as a walking, talking, breathing, born again, believer in Jesus Christ are emitting the "light of God" as you share your life with others.
SO! If you are truly what you say you are (a fully-devoted follower of Jesus Christ, otherwise known as a Christian) you are a walking, talking, breathing, born again, believing "light" to a dark and dying world. You need to see this for what it is because you are truly the light that God intended to use to share Himself to the world with. And your job is to shine, even though you have no "light-bearing" capability.
I am the light of the world. That is what I understand the Bible to say to me. So I want to be guilty of exposing the darkness in every room I enter, every moment of every day of my life. There is no need to flip a switch. Sometimes I don't feel "so bright", sometimes I'm rather sickly from all of the things my body experiences however, that is not my concern. God said I am the light of the world. So what is my goal? "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
All of the above verses lead us back to the beginning with God when He says "Let there be light; and there was light!"
Okay, the lights are on...is anybody home?
Dave
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)