The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life;and he that winneth souls is wise. (Prov 11:30) Prov 13:11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. 12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life. 13 Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. Rev 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. Rev 22:14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. Heb 12:9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? 10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. 11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.READ THE WORD, SHARE THE WORD, BE RIGHTEOUS AND WISE. SAVE YOURSELF FROM THE WORLD AND LEAD OTHERS TO CHRIST—A CHRISTIAN OBLIGATION! THINK ON THESE THINGS.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 12-19-2010 Serious meditation is the parent of inspiration Job 32:8 But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. 2 Tim 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: Psa 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 1 Tim 4:15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. Psalm 119:15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. 16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. Phil 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. Meditate on the inspired Word of God, follow his instructions and commands which can turn your life around. Gain inspiration by the fact that with God all things are possible, and with Him & Christ we are never alone or forsaken.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 12-12-2010 Our character is a sum total of all of our thoughts. Psalm 92:5 O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deepWe need to be like God and consider out thoughts with deep consideration., for they can lead us in respected ways or destroy us. Gen 6:5 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. Proverbs 12:5 The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit. 6 The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them. 7 The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand. 8 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised. Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee. 1 Cor 3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. 20 And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 1 Cor 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.Phil 1:27 Only let your conversation (way of life) be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 12-05-2010 Avoiding a few hypocrites in church may result inspending eternity with all of them in the hereafter. Hypocrites versus hypocrites—not what we should be. James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. Titus 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. 10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: 11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. 12 One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. 13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. 2 Tim 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. 2 Tim 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 11-28-2010 In the daytime hours, we will be exposed to the day’s demands. It is now that we must make a choice.Because of Calvary, we are free to choose. Choose love...No occasion justifies hatred; no injustice warrants bitterness.Choose joy...Invite god to be the God of circumstances. Refuse to be cynical...the tool of the lazy thinker. Refuse to see people as anything less than human beings, created by God. Refuse to see any problem as anything less than an opportunity to see God.Choose peace...Live forgiven, Forgive that we might live.Choose patience...Overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing one who takes our place, invite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, thank God for a moment to pray. Instead of clenching my fist at new assignments, face them with joy and courage.Choose goodness...Go without a dollar before taking a dishonest one. Accept being overlooked before boasting. Confess before accusing. Choose goodness.Choose faithfulness...Keep your promises. Let not your debtors not regret their trust. By your actions and example your word will not be questioned. Let your family and friends be assured of your ability to keep your word. Choose gentleness...Nothing is won by force. Choose to be gentle, let my demands be only of myself.Choose self-control...You are a spiritual being. After this body is dead your spirit will soar. Refuse what will rot not to rule the eternal. Be drunk only by joy and impassioned only by your faith. Be influenced only by God, taught only by Christ. Choose self-controlLove, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these commit each day. Give thanks when you succeed, seek His grace if I fail. As each day ends place your head on your pillow and rest in God’s care. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 11-21-2010 Speak where the Bible speaks Silence where the Bible is silent. The Christian mind that knows the scriptures is concerned about all the divisions and separation in the religious world, because Jesus in the scriptures tell us that should be one. During the restoration movement many were wanting to return to what the scriptures gave authority for. Jesus’ prayer to God for his disciples:John 17:18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; 21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Any effort today to soften the demands of the Scriptures is destined for failure. Temporary victories may seem to be won, but the war itself will be lost. There cannot be final victory where the Word of the Lord does not reign supreme. Doctrines associated with Christian faith are to be interpreted in context with the whole of God’s Word. Love, sympathy, understanding, brotherhood and all such matter are included. Christian belief must grow by gaining knowledge of the Wor of God that was the basis for the establishment of the Kingdom of God or the Church which by the power of Jesus, Son of God, the disciples started on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2. The eyes of Christians are to be kept focused on the scriptures. Their gaze cannot wander onto that which may seem right at the moment, but will, with passing of time, prove fatal. To be acceptable to God we must “speak where the Bible speaks and be silent where the Bible is silenT”. We are not to add or take from the word of God. (Rev 22:18-19) MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 11-14-2010 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. (1 Tim 2:5-6) To redeem something or someone is to buy back; To get back or recover; To set free by paying a ransom;. to deliver from sin and it’s penalties, as by a sacrifice made for the sinner; to make amends or to atone for mistakes made. Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Eph 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Eph 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. 15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 11-07-2010 Power in the Christian life depends upon our connection with the source of power. Psalm 21:13 Be thou exalted, LORD, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power. Matt 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. John 1:9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. 11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Eph 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. 20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-24-2010 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works Hebrews 10:24 Any way you say it, it is a strong statement. To provoke is to strongly agitate.To spur implies the giving of mild pain to order to produce and appropriate action.(To spur a horse) Most humans do not like to be provoked or spurred. We do not want others digging their heels into our ribs. The Hebrew writer is not concerned with what we want but with what we need. We ought to study and pray, love and serve without being driven to it. But being weak we often find it difficult to stay on track. Part of the reason for the existence of the church is to keep us at our task. This is done gently, if possible—with spurs if necessary. How we react to the spurs of our brothers is up to us. Some take offense, some accept it, some appreciate it, some invite and encourage others to spur them on. In recent years it has become popular for those who want to grow in the Lord to invite someone to help them in this task. Sometimes they have been called prayer partners, or mentors, the concept is that we need each other Jesus taught his followers with strong admonition. John 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another Paul prompts the Christians to serve God by serving one another. 1 Cor 12:24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-17-2010 History takes us back to our roots And allows us to see that on which we have been built. An honest assessment of history reveals our mistakes and lauds our successes. God must have considered history important because so much of His scripture deals with the history of mankind and His people.Romans 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.1 Cor 10:6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. 7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. 8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. 9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. 10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Biblical History: 1. Provides examples 2. Teaches us to not crave evil things 3. Teaches against idolatry 4. Teaches against immorality 5. Teaches against trying the Lord. 6. Teaches against grumbling 7. Is for our instruction today There is a strange thing about history, we don’t seem to learn its lessons and we continue to repeat its mistakes. Prophets of old foretold of God’s promises of a savior which was fulfilled when Jesus, His Son was born and lived an earthly life, sacrificed His life to give us hope of eternal life with God. We need to search the scriptures daily to learn the lessons history gives us in what God wants of us. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-10-2010 Ask, and it shall be given you;Matt 7:7a No one ever asked Winston Churchill if they could do his film biography until Jack LeVein came along and did it. Afterwards, he asked Mr. Churchill why he was allowed to do it when there were so many other great photographers around. “No one else had ever bothered to ask me.” Was Churchill’s reply. And so we “receive not because we ask not.” Someone once said, “Heaven is full of un-asked-for blessings.” God wants us to ask, and ask in faith. Luke 11:9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 But many are afraid to ask him for things. How normal would it be for your kids to never ask you for anything? And, how disappointed would you be if they did not? God delights in giving his children good things. John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. 13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. Just think, there may be someone out there close to you just waiting for an invitation to study the Bible, or attend worship services, or listen to your story about Jesus. But unless you ask, they may never know the joy of a personal invitation. And it will compliment them that you thought enough of them to ask! MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-03-2010 Heaven is a bargain, however great the cost It is a deep desire to be with God, our creator. We are a part of Him as he gave us life. (Mankind does not always comprehend or realize they have this desire.) Psalm 11:4 The LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men. Isa 66:1 Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: We also want to be with Jesus Christ who loved us so much that he gave his physical life as the perfect sacrifice that allows us forgiveness of our sins and the opportunity to return with Him to God the Father.Jesus said: Matt 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. Mark 16:19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. Matt 25:31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: 32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: 33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:Vs 41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: Due to this viewpoint of the Judgment Day, it to our benefit to learn His word, be obedient to His Will, live a righteous life no matter the cost and trust in His promise that we might be with Him in Heaven. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 09-26-2010 We can’t put our faults behind us Until we face them. 1 Peter 2:19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. Psalms 32:5 I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. 1 John 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Psalms 51:1. . .Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. James1:23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 09-19-2010 The Church has the only cure for social ills. It alone deals with the disease—SIN—Rather than with symptoms. James 5:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.Col 1:7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; 8 Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. 9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.Acts 14:26 And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled. 27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. 28 And there they abode long time with the disciples.Phil 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. 16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. 17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 09-12-2010 We fear man so much, because we fear God so little. One fear cures another. Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe. Matt 10:26 Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. 27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. 28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 2 Cor 6:17-8:1—17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Eph 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Psalm 19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. Psalm 25:14 The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant. Prov 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction Acts 9:31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 09-05-2010 Worry is a poor substitute for prayer. Matt 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. King Herod was making havoc with the church, he killed James the brother of John, captured Peter and put him in prison with plans to bring him to the people after Easter. (Now we see the power of prayer.Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.Paul had much reason to worry about his safetyAn angel came, woke him up, released him from his bonds and led him out the prison.Vs. 12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. Phil 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. James 5:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Worry has never changed anything but prayer has changed many things.! MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-29-2010 The thing that makes men and rivers crooked Is following the line of least resistance. Rom 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. James 4:6 . . . Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. Rom 7:14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. 16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. 19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. 20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. 22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: Phil 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-22-2010 When we let God guide, He will provide! Psalms 25:8 Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. 9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. 10 All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. Psalms 4814 For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. Isa 58:11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. John the Baptist came to prepare the way for Jesus.Luke 1:76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.1 Cor 10:13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-15-2010 If God is kept outside Something must be wrong inside. Matt 23:27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. 28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Jesus realized that his time on earth was coming to an end, and he gave clues to his disciples but they didn’t comprehend it all. Matt 26:10 When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me. 11 For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. 12 For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. Outwardly Judas Iscariot appeared a loyal disciple but inwardly was full of iniquity. Matt 26:14:14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, 15 And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him. Matt 26:21 And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. 22 And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? Matt 26:25 Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said. Matt 26:47 And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. 48 Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. 49 And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.We must be sure and control our thoughts and keep them clean and purified so that a Christ-like attitude shows outwardly to those about us. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-08-2010 Never part without kind words,They might be your last. How many times have you heard someone say at someone’s death. “I wished I had told him that I loved him one more time”, “I should have let him know that I forgave him.” We could have eliminated much unhappiness and guilt if we had. Eph 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. 2 Cor 6:6 By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, 7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, Tit 3:3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, 5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 8-1-2010 NONE OF US ARE PERFECT! None of us are perfect, nor will we ever be perfect in this life. And we should all thank God that we don’t have to be perfect to go to heaven! However, imperfection is not an excuse for not being faithful to God. It’s heaven’s condition! 2 Corinthians 5:15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Psalms 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. 31 For who is God save the LORD? or who is a rock save our God? 32 It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. Psalms 37:37 Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. 38 But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off. 39 But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. Proverbs 11:5 The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. 6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness. 1 Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. 6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Phillipians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. 16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. 17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
07-25-2010 A smile is a curve that you throw at another,And it always results in a hit. We all know that it is more desirable to be around people who are cheerful and full of joy, their happy countenance is encouraging enough to pull us up from being discouraged and depressed, A smile from a parent or special friend can make our day. Proverbs 15:30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. Proverbs 15:13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. 14 The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly. 15 All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast. Proverbs 15:30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. Psalms 68:1 ... May God arise, may his enemies be scattered; may his foes flee before him. 2 As smoke is blown away by the wind, may you blow them away; as wax melts before the fire, may the wicked perish before God. 3 But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful. 4 Sing to God, sing praise to his name, extol him who rides on the clouds -- his name is the LORD-- and rejoice before him. Eccl 3:11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. 12 I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 07-18-2010 “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matt 7:13-14 It is hard to realize that the multitudes who believe that all people are “going to the same place” actually are all going to the same place, for they are all traveling the broad way to destruction. It was God, Himself, through Jesus Christ, who said that few (few!) ever find the way to eternal life. That narrow way to life is only through Christ who said: “I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6The word for “way” in both the Old and New Testaments, means a road, or journey. Figuratively, it is often used for a lifestyle. The bible makes it plain, again and again, that there are two ways and two destinies: “The Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish” Psalm 1:6The first “way” mentioned in Scripture is “the way of the tree of life,” guarded by mighty cherubin and a flaming sword (Gen 3:24) after Adam and Eve had rejected the authority of their Creator. The second “way” mentioned is when “all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth” and God had to decree “the end of all flesh” (Gen 6:12-13)The great tragedy is that while there are relatively few who “do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life” (Rev. 22:14) they way is freely open, through Christ, to all who will come to Him. Therefore, each sincere soul should pray: “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm139:23 - 24) HMM MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 07-11-2010 It isn’t the faith to move mountains we need— It is the faith to move us. Acts 17:24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. Paul shows us that his faith in God and and his dedication to his purpose as a worker for Him is more important than worldly afflictions and fleshly desires. Acts 20:23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. 24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. Matt 21:21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. 22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. Luke 7:44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 07-04-2010 Worry pulls tomorrow’s clouds over today’s sunshine. Matt 6:27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life ? 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Luke 21:10 Then he said to them: "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. 12 "But before all this, they will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. 13 This will result in your being witnesses to them. 14 But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. 15 For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. Phillipians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Study! Get to know the Lord and his love and care for you, allow your faith and obedience let him guide you and help you through all situations that you meet and gain the blessings and strength that these opportunities present to you. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 06-27-2010 Never part without kind words They might be your last. Many people have been so sorry that they let differences with others go unresolved, and harsh words in anger, jealousy or unforgiveness are left on our conscience. Many have lost parents, siblings or friends in death and wish that they had one more chance to say “I love you” or “I forgive you” but now it is too late. Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Col 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 2 Cor 5: 5 But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all. 6 Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many 7 So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. 8 Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. Phil 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Eph 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Resolve all differences as soon as possible, preferably before the sun goes down and as a result have a better nights sleep. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 06-20-2010 Life is similar to a boomerang What you give, you get. The Old Testament character, JOSEPH is a great example of one who loved and trusted God. Even though he faced many challenges, he trusted and continually served God and in this giving he received in return God’s protection, guidance, and countless blessings. He went from a shepherd boy to the high position of second in command in Egypt. JOSIAH was another example, He was considered as one of the good kings. He learned about the Law and returned to these dictates and led his people back to God in true service. 2 Kings 22:1 Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty and one years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah of Boscath. 2 And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in all the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left. 2 Kings 23:25 And like unto him was there no king before him, that turned to the LORD with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; neither after him arose there any like him. JESUS was the Son of God, he fulfilled his earthly purpose in the sacrifice of himself on the cross of Calvary for the forgiveness of the sins of mankind. He followed the Will of God and lived a perfect life, showing love to all, teaching and healing. He gave his all and was blessed to return to His Father in Heaven knowing that through Him mankind can have a relationship with God and through Him a home eternal with God. The more you give of yourself and your possessions to others the more God will bless you in amazing wonderful ways. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 06-06-2010 The real measure of a man’s wealth is what he hasInvested in eternity. We learn from Jesus’ parable of the talents how to use our life and abilities in insuring our future, by doing the best we can for God and all mankind. Matt 25:14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.Vs 19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.22 He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.24 Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strowed:25 And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strowed:27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 5-30-2010 The empty tomb proves Christianity,But and empty church denies it! THE EMPTY TOMB.Matt 27:58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. 59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth 60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.28:1 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. 2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: 4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. 5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. 6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. THE RISEN SAVIOR TOLD HIS DISCIPLES TO DO AS COMMANDED.Matt 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. THE CHURCH BEGAN ON THE DAY OF PENTECOSTActs 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and breaking of bread, and in prayers. THE CHURCH IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL1 THES 1:7 So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad: MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN May 23, 2010 The Bible is a reliable map on the road of righteousness!! Mission of John the Baptist to prepare the way of Jesus the Son of God. Luke 1:76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. Jesus tells us about our guide to all truth. John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. 15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall show it unto you. 16 A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father. Paul witnesses Christ: Acts 26:22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: 23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should show light unto the people, and to the Gentiles. Paul shows the importance in being members of the church! 1 Cor 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. Vs 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet show I unto you a more excellent way. Paul teaches Timothy the importance of learning the Word of God. 2 Tim 2:15 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN May 16, 2010 “Why did my savior come to earth” My savior came to earth because “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” (Heb 2:9) Jesus states His reason for coming to earth: “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10) Paul said: “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.” (Gal 4:4-5) Paul told that the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ (Gal 3:24-25) But when Christ came and gave us the gospelthe schoolmaster was no longer needed. The law has been nailed to the cross of Christ and taken out of the wayGal 1:14 "Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;" My Savior came to earth to redeem us with His blood. “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:” (1 Pet 1:18-19)“20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” (1 Cor 6:20) We are the Lord’s bondservants and our lives belong to Him, because He bought us. My Savior came to earth to build His church. “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matt 16:18) My Savior came to earth to provide us with a plan on Salvation designed by God. According to the gospel sinners must hear the gospel, believe on the Lord, repent of their sins, be baptized unto the remission of their sins and henceforth serve the Lord in a faithful life unto the end. 2 Thes 5:8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. 9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN May 09, 2010 There is great change involved in conversion,Brought about by God’s love for us. Do you need a spiritual makeover? The gospel is the “power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” Rom 1:16Tap into this power today and begin your makeover by obeying the gospel. Before conversion one is dead in sins, physical death separates body and spirit, Spiritual death separates a person from God. “This separation is caused by people “walking according to the course of this world.” After conversion, one is a child of God. He is reconciled to God—no longer separated, he has access to God and becomes a member of God’s household, a heir along with Jesus, the Son of God. Eph 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. Consider God’s love and power and what he has in store for you if you become obedient to His Will. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN May 02, 2010 The person who sows seeds of kindness enjoysa perpetual harvest!! Follow the example of God’s kindness to mankind and reap a bountiful harvest.Psalm 117:1 O Praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. 2 For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD.A PROMISE FROM GODIsa 54:7 For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. 8 In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer. 9 For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. 10 For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.HE PROVIDED HIS GRACE TO US THROUGH HIS SON, JESUS!Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7 That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:WE MUST EXTEND GOD’S PROMISE IN OUR KINDNESS TO OTHERS!2 Pet 1:5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN April 18, 2010 Jesus is the rock that doesn’t roll. JESUS TOLD THOSE WHO FOLLOWED HIM: John 10;27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one.Psalm 62:1 A Psalm of David. Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation. 2 He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved. Heb 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.Jesus refered himself as a solid rock that is stable on which believers and doers of his word are wise men. The opposite are in trouble. Matt 7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. 1 Cor 10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. 6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. LET US THEN BE WISE AND ANCHOR OUR LIFE ON THAT ROCK. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN April 11, 2010 Make an investment in eternity. Now with the economy in turmoil is a good time to consider long term investments. Not stocks and bonds but your spiritual destiny. Christians are to invest in the lives of others. All the material riches of this world will pass away; only believing souls will survive into eternity. So we must devote ourselves to helping as many as possible reach heaven. 1 Thessalonians 1:6 And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: 7 So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. God offers salvation to the entire world. However, there are people in every country who have not heard that Jesus loves them and died for their sins. (John 3:16) The word “unchurched” brings to mind those living under repressive regimes or in wilderness lives of little education. But in reality it may be your next-door neighbor who knows little or none of the Gospel of Christ. Person to person evangelism remains a most effective way of telling people about Jesus, as unbelievers can get their questions answered and concerns addressed. It is not enough to give money to missionaries on far off countries but “Nearby fields” are also ready to harvest but workers are few.. Matt 9:37) MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN April 04, 2010 “Much prayer, much power,Little prayer, little power.No prayer, no power.”Observe the power of prayer of the congregation praying for Peter in prison.Acts 12:4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. 5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. 8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. 10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. 12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.James 5:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.Keep prayer uppermost in your life!!! MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN March 28, 2010 There is no excuse for excusing sin. King Saul was commanded by God to utterly destroy the Amalekites and all that was theirs. (1 Sam 15:1-3) He gathered his army and they smote the Amalekites, taking hostage their King Agag and the best of their livestock, but destroying everyone and everything else.. When faced with the fact that he had not completely followed God’s commands he began making excuses for himself and his army. (vs 13-15) 13 And Samuel came to Saul: and Saul said unto him, Blessed be thou of the LORD: I have performed the commandment of the LORD. 14 And Samuel said, What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear? 15 And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed. Samuel told Saul that the excuses were not acceptable, their disobedience to God’s commands held consequences .(Sam 15:22-23) 22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams 23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being King. Adam and Eve found that by not obeying God’s command to not eat of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and that by placing blame on each other and satan was not excuse enough for God not to enforce the consequences which mankind still have to deal with. Our intentions can be reasonable to us in justifying or excusing ourselves or others in doing certain things, but unless it is within God’s Will we can jeopardize our souls salvation and that of others seeing our examples. SO STOP WITH THE EXCUSES AND EXCUSING!! MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN March 21, 2010 Those who fear the future are likely to fumble the present. Psalm 23: 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Paul shares with us that the law of our human nature struggles with our mind but with understanding and trust that God is with us, we can master this and do right today and not fear the future because God is with us and will never forsake us. Rom 7:20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 2 Cor 1:8 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: 9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:,,10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us; Matt 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Be patient and not in a hurry that you strive to meet your needs by sinful ways. Be obedient to His Will and ask for his help and He will answer in His time for your real needs. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 03/14/10 “Peace” It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise,Trouble, or work. It means to be in the midst of those things andStill be calm in your heart. To become Christ-like should be our goal, his belief, obedience and trust in His father show in his calmness during the storm. Let’s gain from His example.Mark 4:37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? Jesus said: 33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:22) Romans 5::1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 2 Cor 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 03/07/10 DOES JESUS LIVE AT YOUR HOUSE? The continued knock brought the mother to the door. A child stood there with a Bible in his hand. Without a word of introduction he asked “Does Jesus live here? The woman, although a member of the church, was so taken aback by the unexpected question that she did not answer. She didn’t even remember what she said next, but watched him slowly walk away. All the day the question kept going through her mind. That evening when her husband came home, she told him about it. He laughed and said, “Why didn’t you show him the church directory with our name in it? You could have told him that we nearly always send our children to Bible class and go sometimes ourselves. Why didn’t you remind him we give occasionally to the church, and look upon ourselves as a respected Christian family?” “Yes,” she said. “that is all true, and I could have told him all that. But he didn’t ask me the things you mentioned. He asked me if Jesus lives here and I have been wondering all day if he does.” WHAT WOULD YOUR ANSWER BE? I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (Abilene Tx-Bulletin Digest) MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 02/28/10 Faultfinders never improve things;They just make things seems worse than they really are. Matt 12:1 At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry and began to pick some heads of grain and eat them. 2 When the Pharisees saw this, they said to him, "Look! Your disciples are doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath." (found fault) 3 He answered, "Haven't you read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 4 He entered the house of God, and he and his companions ate the consecrated bread--which was not lawful for them to do, but only for the priests. 5 Or haven't you read in the Law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple desecrate the day and yet are innocent? 6 I tell you that one greater than the temple is here. 7 If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent. 8 For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath." Acts 11:11:1 The apostles and the brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him 3 and said, "You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them." 4 Peter began and explained everything to them precisely as it had happened: Matt 19:13 Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. (found fault) 14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. 15 And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence. James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. Most times we start criticizing or finding fault without the actual facts about the situation and is merely a display of our ignorance. Eph 4:4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF JOAN 02/21/10 The big question is:Where can we put our hatred while we say our prayers? Mark 11:24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. 25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses. Gal 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Matt 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Prov 10:12 Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins. We need to realize that when we have bad feelings towards others and do not forgive and do not resolve them, that person becomes between us and God. What a sorry state we, as so called Christians, put ourselves in. Our own salvation is put in jeopardy, , as well as those who taste or see our example. God is always with us unless we put sin or someone between us. Jesus said: Matt 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 02/14/10 “Verily God hath heard; He hath attended to the voice of my prayers.” Psalms 66:19 Prayer is our communication with God, to praise him, to give thanks for all he has provided for us, thanks for giving us Jesus, to voice our love for him, and to ask for our desires, for our needs and the needs of others. To pray in the spirit in humbleness, showing our great need for His listening to our petitions. Luke 2:37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. 1 Thes 5:17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. After the gospels, the bulk of the mentions of prayers is praying for others! Col 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 1 Thes 1:2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;We need to follow David’s example and constantly communicate with God whether times be good or bad!!! It is the Christians backbone. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 02/07/10 If your faith can’t be tested, it can’t be trusted. Rom 14:22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. 1 Cor 1:4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 1 Pet 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: 8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Rev 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. 1 Cor 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01/31/10John 1:6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. As a Christian, one of our designated tasks is to witness Jesus and His gospel plan of Salvation to those around us. Here is an example of how it works. After finding David Livingstone in Central Africa, and spending four month with him there, explorer Henry Stanley said: “I went to Africa as the biggest atheist in London, but there came a long time for reflection. I saw a solitary old man there and asked myself, ‘How on earth does he stay here? What is it that inspires him?” For months after we met, I found myself wondering at the old man carrying out all that was said in the Bible—”leave all things and follow me.’ But little by little my sympathy was aroused; seeing his piety, his gentleness, his zeal, his earnestness, and how he went about his business, I was converted by him, although he had not tried to do it.” Acts 26:15 And I (Paul) said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. 16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; 17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Let us be a faithful witness for Jesus in our attitudes, appearance and works!!! MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01/24/10 If some people preached what they practice,it would have to be censored.. Phil 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. Matt 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. 24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. 28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: 29 For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Stephen was an example of one who practiced what he preached, however because of his belief in Christ and his trust in God he preached Christ and his resurrection and it resulted in his being stoned to death but gaining eternal life which should be our desire and goal in life. So we need to share our understanding and belief in Christ in what we say and what we do. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01/17/10 He that would govern others must be lord of himself,And he only is lord of himself who is consciously and habituallyThe servant of God. Like Paul, we have a purpose “to be a servant of God”.Titus 1:1 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; 2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; 3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour; There are great consequences in being a servant of God:Hebrews 9:11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; 12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Share with others your God given gifts.1 Pet 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01/10/10 Spread out your petition before God, and then say“thy will, not mine, be done” The sweetest lesson learned in God’s schoolIs to let the Lord choose for me. David sought God’s will with all his heart.Psalm 40:8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.Psalm 143:7 Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit. 8 Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee. 9 Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies: I flee unto thee to hide me. 10 Teach me to do thy will;for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness. 11 Quicken me, O LORD, for thy name's sake: for thy righteousness' sake bring my soul out of trouble. 12 And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies, and destroy all them that afflict my soul: for I am thy servant. Jesus gave us an example and taught the disciples.Matt 26:40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01/03/10To open your mind, close your mouth. Matt 15:10 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: 11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.Luke 19:22 And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow:Proverbs 29:11 A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.Rom 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.Rom 15:6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01-01-2010 HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010TO ALL THE SUBSCRIBERS OF ABBA. This is a salutation we all will hear in the next few days, however to the Christian it is a greeting we should share every day of the year. As we anticipate the coming days we look forward to sharing the gospel of our Lord and we get to live triumphantly each day of our lives. As we face the future we have no idea what it may bring, but to a person faithfully following the Lord it will be a good day every day of the year. We know there will be some trials and some rough spots in our road but with the Lord to smooth them out life will be glorious. From our house to your house we simply say to live in the grace of God in 2010. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
