12-25-2011 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:(1 Pet 1:22) There are many exhortations in the Scriptures urging Christians to love one another, but none give more explicit directions as to the character of this love than this verse. Jesus, in His position as the true son of God tells us in:Matt 5:44 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; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. This love is to be “agape love” (sacrificial love), a love like that of Christ. 1 John 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.1 Pet 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: 23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: 25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 12-18-2011 Unless sin is confessed—it will fester.Put germs (sins) in the right environment and they will multiply, correct the environment to cleanliness and to the right temperature and stop the growth of these germs (sins), confession of our sins and living in obedience to God’s Will, will lead us to righteousness and allow God to be in our presence to guide and bless us. He cannot be around sin so strive to keep your life clear of sin. Psalm 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. 6 For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him. 7 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. 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. John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 12-11-2011 If your life looks cloudy—Maybe the windows of your soul need washing. 1 Cor 6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. Heb 10:19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; 21 And having an high priest over the house of God; 22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:Keep sin out of your life by repenting of it and ask forgiveness of our Father and let him wash our souls clean.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 12-04-2011 THE PERSON WHO KILLS TIME HASN’T LEARNEDTHE VALUE OF LIFE. Matt 10:27 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. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Matt 13:14 And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: 15 For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. 16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. Acts 24:24 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. 25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 11-13-2011 Read the instructions!!How many times does one buy a toy or tool that need to be assembled? How many times doe we think we are smart and can figure it out but have to give up and read the instructions and follow them to complete the project. Many times we do the same thing with God’s Word. Instead of using it as a manual to live by, we glance at it occasionally until we get to a point of not knowing what to do next. Listen to David. Psa 119:9 .... Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. 10 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 12 Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. 13 With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. 14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. 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.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 11-06-2011 Speak where the Bible speaksSilence where the Bible is silent. The Christian mind that knows the scriptures is concerned about all the divisions and separations in the religious world, because Jesus in the scriptures tell us that all 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 Word 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 10-30-2011 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEKOCTOBER 30, 2011Mistakes are teachers in the school of experience. Eccl 1:14 I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit. 15 That which is crooked cannot be made straight: and that which is wanting cannot be numbered. 16 I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great experience of wisdom and knowledge. 17 And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit. 18 For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow. Jude 1:11 Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. 12 These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots 13 Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. Cain made a mistake in following after Balaam and reaped the consequences, we can learn from his experience, as we can from Peter’s mistake when he denied knowing Jesus and wept bitterly, learning much from his experience.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-23-2011 Kind words are the product of “Kind Thoughts” Eph 4:31 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. 1 Cor 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,Strive to be Christ-like in kindness and share it. Tit 3:4 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.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-16-2011 I am free to do as I please but I am not freeTo choose the consequences.Example of consequences for doing something wrong.Acts 5:5:1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it, at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. 5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. Example of doing right.Matt 24:20 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.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-09-2011 A perfect church meansThat there are no members.Jesus came to establish His Kingdom, the church, to save sinners.Matt 9:12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. 3 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.Acts 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.Acts 28:23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. 24 And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.Rev 2:23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.It is Satan’s intention to do his best to hinder the children of God and that means he works his hardest in the churches to discourage and tempt the members, so we know that all members are not perfect thus the Church cannot be perfect but as members we should always strive towards perfection.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 10-02-2011 If you want multiplied happiness,Share it with others. Prov 3:11 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: 12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. 14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. 15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. 16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. 17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace John 13:14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. 16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. 17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. 1 Pet 3:14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
09-25-2011 It is not the greatness of my faith that moves mountains,But my faith to the greatness of God Mark 11:22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. 23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. 1 Cor 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. Matt 8:8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. (Faith that Jesus could heal his servant)Vs 10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.Vs 13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour. 1 John:5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 09-18-2011 We can make the future different by changing the present. Luke 18:29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30 Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. Rom 7:22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. 24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 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 8:38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matt 6:44 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; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Do what is right and have no regrets tomorrow!!MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 09-11-2011 For sin shall not have dominion over you;For ye are not under law, but under grace.Romans 6:14The largest slave owner in history is “sin”, for multitudes are still enslaved thereby.Rom 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Sin is a hard master, its dominion is vast, and its reward is fearful,Rom 16:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Many are content to remain in its bondage to any of a thousand varieties of moral slavery. There is deliverance, however, for those who desire to be set free, because the grace of God can break the dominion of sin. As the psalmist prayed:Psa 119:133 Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.Psa 19:13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Liberty from sin’s bondage is thus mediated by instructions from God’s word, but the incentive and power to obey it is God’s gracious gift through faith in Jesus Christ, who Himself received sin’s wages on our behalf. Rom 6:9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.Rom 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 09-04-2011 A Christian’s life requires a forgiving spirit, Make a practice of forgiveness in your life and let the Holy Spirit decide in regards to Righteousness and Judgment.John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:Rom 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount lets us know in no uncertain terms our obligations in regards to forgiveness.Matt 6:14 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. Forgiveness is an act of God’s grace to forget forever and not hold people of faith accountable for sins they confess. To a lesser degree it is the gracious human act of not holding wrong acts against another person. Jesus is the perfect and final sacrifice through which God’s forgiveness is mediated to every child of God. Heb 10:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. LOVE GOVERNS FORGIVENESS:Luke 6:27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-28-2011 Gentle words fall lightly but they have great strength. 1 Thes 2:7 “But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: 8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.” 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.” 1 Peter 2:18 “Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. 19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.” MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-21-2011 Commitments are keys that unlockDoors to great opportunities. Psalms 31:5 Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth. Prov 16:3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. When we as Christians commit out lives to God we can trust Him to protect and lead us in our endeavors to spread His word. The Apostle Paul showed us by his commited life that he trusted in God to lead him through rough waters and difficult times. We can accomplish twice the projects with confidence with God on our side. 2 Tim 2:2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. 3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Gal 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. 1 Peter 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-14-2011 You do not choose when you’re going to die or how.You can decide how you’re going to live. Romans 6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Rev 3:3 Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 08-07-2011 Show me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the Godof my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.Psalm 25:4-5 Just let Him know you need Him.Are you trying all aloneTo solve your daily tasksIn know someone who will help,If you but stop and ask!He’ll lift the clouds away;Tell Him of your problemsAt the beginning of he day.He will help to ease your load,Make your burdens lighter;He will point a better roadTo make a dark day brighter.(Ruth Gilmour)Consider these thoughts carefully all week MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 07-31-2011 It is better to look forward with hopethan to look back with regret. Psalm 39:6 Surely every man walketh in a vain show: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them. 7 And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee. 8 Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish. Psalm 71:4 Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. 5 For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. 6 By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother's bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee. 7 I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. 1 Cor 9:9 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? 10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 07-24-2011 But my God shall supply all your needaccording to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.Philippians 4:19 God promised to supply all our needs, and yet sometimes fulfillment is slow in coming. What could be the problem? Perhaps we are. When our Father fails to meet our expectations, we generally look outside ourselves for the reasons. But while the Lord’s love is unconditional, many of His promises are not. As in our verse above, is a “family promise,” it can be claimed only by those who rightly call the sovereign of the universe “my Father.” His unlimited resources are not available to men and women who reject salvation through Jesus Christ. Moreover, when we look at the whole framework of Scripture, we see that the Lord makes our obedience a condition for His fulfilling needs.Psalm 81:10 I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it. 11 But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me. 12 So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels. He will not condone sin by blessing us while we rebel against Him. Our willful disobedience allows Satan to cut our supply line for the Lord.. Restoring that connection is a matter of repentance. Those who walk in God’s way are protected, provided for and satisfied. Psalm 81:13-16MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 07-17-2011 Having desires is natural and good. Believers can have wrong desires. In fact if we work hard enough—by pressing ahead of divine timing, manipulating our circumstance, and even acting dishonestly—we may be able to make those wishes reality. But anything gained apart from God will prove to be empty and disappointing. Psalms 145:18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. 19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. 20 The LORD watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy. 21 My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise his holy name forever and ever. Having desires is good—goals drive us and set the direction for our life. But we want our objectives to match the ones God has for us. Longings contrary to His purposes have the power to corrupt the body, mind or spirit and can also cause believers to fall into temptation. 2 Tim 6:9 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 07-10-2011 Idleness is an idol upon which we sacrifice our time! Idleness is not a Christian way of life. Anything we say or do without considering the consequences, anything not positive and righteous, leaves our time open to Satan, open to temptation, and down a path that can lead us to ways not conducive to a life that leads us to good ways whereby we can gain the promises of God, of Salvation and Eternal life. Nor will we be good examples to those around us, especially our children. Prov 19:15 Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger. Matt 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. 2 Thes 3:9 Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. 10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. 11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. 12 Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. Daily, study and seek God’s way, allow your life to be open to His purpose for your life, watch for opportunities to help and teach others and you won’t have time to be IDLE.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 7-3-2011 Freedom is worth the price whatever the cost. Psalms 105:17 He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant: 18 Whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron: 19 Until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him. 20 The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free. 21 He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance: Rom 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. 20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. 21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. 22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Rom 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 6-12-2011 You can never give a kindness too soon.Because you never know how soon it may be too late. Life is fleeting and we never know when the end of our life or the end for those we come in contact with, we should always be ready with a kind word or action. God and Jesus are always ready to help us and never to forsake us so we should accept that man is in the image of God and should be ready to help others in kindness at all times. Eph 2:5 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: Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. 16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. 17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 6-5-2011 Prejudice which sees what it pleases—Cannot see what is plain. Since God created all mankind, those who seek His way and obey His Will are guided to His purpose for them regardless of color or background. Acts 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:Romans 2:10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: 11 For there is no respect of persons with God. Eph 6:8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. 9 And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him. Col 3:24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. Prejudice only gets us in trouble and is a bad example to show to those around us. Many souls have been killed or lost because of prejudice. Paul lets us know that Love is the answer: Romans 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 5-29-2011 Selfishness is like a dirty face it isMuch easier to see on the other fellow.Jesus tells us: Matt 5:30 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. 31 If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true. (KJV) 1 Pet 2:3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. (NIV) James 3:14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. (NIV) Thinking of self first most of the time can get one in trouble We dislike listening to others who always talk about themselves. They monopolize the conversation with “I did this, I want this, My problem is, everything is always worse for them than for anyone else, or they always know of a better way to do something.” The prodigal son is a example of one who thought of himself first and he acted upon it and got into deep trouble. The Pharisee’s were very vain and thought they were the best, putting others down. This built a wall into their heart so that they could not see or hear the truth about Jesus, Their jealousy of his acceptance by the people directed them to try to put him down, they instigated His death on the cross. To point the finger at others selfishness often finds two fingers pointing back to self. We must be careful about our judgments. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN TSUNAMI for the Lord! I know that we all have been amazed at the destruction that the power and suddenness of the TSUNAMI that hit Japan caused. I want us to start a TSUNAMI for the Lord. I want us to start a wave that will reach to the ends of this old earth. Many of us cannot go to foreign Mission fields and many do not feel comfortable with door knocking, and I know that few if any would take our Bibles and into main street and preach the word. However God has blessed us with one of the greatest tools in this old planet. Our computers. How many friends do you know? Maybe your next-door neighbors or close quaintness? Can you just imagine what would happen if we used our computers and let all the people we know about Jesus? With ABBA, facebook and any other program we use daily, lets start a wave that will reach all over the world. We all have heard of Churches closing or declining in numbers for several years now so lets turn that around and believe the words of Jesus in Mathew 16:16-19-- And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 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. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. We have gotten been discouraged and said well that's our world today. But I believe in the words of Jesus when He said that the gates of hell shall not prevail against it, but He did not say that we can destroy the Church with neglect. I know that I am not much of a writer, so some of you guys that are good with words get on the band wagon for the Lord and lets get this wave going. It is such a simple idea some will say it won't work but it will if we get off our duff and use these great tools, the computer, facebook or twitter, when your in contact with friends and family, always send a word of hope and encouragement from God's Word. Political parties and candidates used technology to great advantage during the last election, Satan really uses it. SO CAN WE. Jesus gives us a great tool, prayer!! Matt 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Brother Alphia started this great tool of ABBA to spread God’s word and to encourage others. Well, we have been quiet too long so let's use our abilities and opportunities for furthering the gospel of Jesus Christ. Please don't let this idea die and not use it for the Lord. Not because it is my idea but I just firmly believe that we can reach many souls by this method. As for me and my house we are going to follow Joshua's advice Joshua 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 05-22-2011 It is seldom as hard to tell the truth,As it is to hide a lie. 1 John 3:18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. 19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. 1 John 4:5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. Col 3:7 In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. 8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:1 Tim 4:4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; 3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 05-15-2011 ...Set your affections on things that are above… Every forward step in the progress of a saint in Christian living can be measured by resolutions. One is a saint because he has set his life apart to belong to the Lord. The word saint means, “set apart for God, to be, as it were, exclusively His” (Thayer). This dedication of a life is the result of man’s resolution to obedient faith, and God’s acceptance of unmerited favor. We are not saints by sinless perfection in living. The Hebrew Christians were called saints (“holy brethren) in Hebrews 3:1; but later in the epistle they were exhorted, “Let us go unto perfection”Heb 6:1. Although they had not reached perfection, they were pressing on toward it. That was their goal. So must we likewise resolve and these good purposes will set us in the right direction. Resolve in your heart that you will do good to your fellow man. Fix your attention upon personal improvement. Keep Christ and His example as your constant pattern. Col 3:1-3 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. Paul’s prayer for those in Rome and could be for all mankind.Rom 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 05-14-2011 Jesus said in Matt. 28:18-20-And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 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. When we think of the command it seems like it is just not feasible, the command is just too big for us. But think of all the equipment that we have today that the Apostles did not have at their disposal in their day, that bigness appears to shrink down a bit. Just think they had nothing close to what we have today to travel about the world, no automobiles, planes, trains, no satellites or television, radio or phone systems. Compared to us today the apostles were solely handicapped but that did not deter them, why should it seem an impossible job for us today? Consider the job that Gideon was given when God took away all his army except the three hundred with which to fight tens of thousands. God told Gideon in Judges 7:7 And the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place. It would have been literally impossible for Gedion to have won the battle without God's help. The same is true with us today, we can not accomplish the task of spreading the gospel to the whole world without God's help. But I believe that when God gives us a job to do He also gives us the tools to do it with. It takes a loving, obedient heart for God and mankind and the desire and zeal to share God's Word so that others may have the opportunity for salvation. Eph 6:6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; So once more I ask that we use what God has given us, the computer and all other current technology to the full potential for spreadingHIS GOSPEL OF GRACE AND SALVATION TO ALL THE WORLD. PLEASE PRAY! MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 05-08-2011 Few things are as powerful as customs and habits!Satan uses them to great advantage. Levi 18:29 For whosoever shall commit any of these abominations, even the souls that commit them shall be cut off from among their people. 30 Therefore shall ye keep mine ordinance, that ye commit not any one of these abominable customs, which were committed before you, and that ye defile not yourselves therein: I am the LORD your God. We need to press forward with the new covenant to God’s people that Jesus died on the cross for, to leave the old behind as Abraham did when God directed him and moved to a new land that God showed him. Acts 16:14 . . . . this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us. Mark 8:33 But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men. When we committed our lives to God, sealing that commitment in baptism, which put to death the man of sin, and left worldly customs and habits behind so to live a new life in Christ. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 05-01-2011 “...FOR LACK OF KNOWLEDGE” Most people will be about as good as they know how to be. The real problem today is getting people to seek and accept knowledge. To many people are willing to accept the status quo, play the game of life according to the rules laid down by their peers, and let things continue as they are, because “that the way the world is.” This approach to life is considered by too many to be the only reasonable attitude, and the only way to get along in this world in which we live. This “acceptance of the way things are” is not reasonable; it is a selling out to the enemy. What this surrender really amounts to is a matter of “willing ignorance”. We need to correct this attitude. Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. Paul said in Rom 10:2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. Paul to the church:1 Cor 1:4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; 5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; 6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: Jesus said: John 14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
04-24-2011 There’d no use singing about the “Sweet By and By,”If we don’t take care of the nasty now. Matt 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 4 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Acts 8:18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, 19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. 23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. 24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me. We must clean up our lives, putting to death the carnal man and live close to God with our whole being!! MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 04-17-2011 Developing an unwavering faith is the keyTo living abundantly and becoming aPowerful witness for the Lord Jesus Christ. Our faith is the most important aspect of our Christian walk! Without it, we can’t receive Jesus as Savior, trust God to supply our needs, or develop the spiritual fruit that is so important to our growth However, there’s an important “companion” of faith that Christians often overlook. By that, I simply mean something that should be a natural outgrowth of what we believe—something that comes alongside an active and mature commitment to God. That companion is works.James 2:14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?Do consider this thought. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 04-10-2011 Compassion is what makes a person feel painwhen another person hurts! Psalm 145:8 The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. 9 The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. Matt 9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people .36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Luke 10:33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. Jude 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. God & Jesus feels our pain and has compassion and gives mercy and is always there to help us when we seek for it. We in turn must follow their examples and reach out to others with compassion as Christians.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 04-03-2011 Trouble is not always a sign that a person is wrong,But that something is wrong. Adversity removes the cloak of ‘what we are supposed to be’ to reveal the truth of what we are. And as painful as it may be, it is only then that God can complete what he has begun. In the facing the problems brought about by a natural disaster we often become aware of what is really important in our lives, not money or fame but to learn of God’s care and purpose for us. We get to know God better, to know he is aware of our situation and cares. This gives us a security and through our prayer and trust we are strengthened and are able to face our trouble and to share this help to each other.2 Cor 1:3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. The Lord’s prayer puts it best: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. God knows you and is always there, open your heart and mind and learn of Him and the blessings He can provide for you.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 03-27-2011 People take your example far more seriouslyThan they take your advice. 1 Tim 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. James 5:10 Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. 2 Cor 8:10 And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.11 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. 2 Cor 8:24 Wherefore show ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.9:1 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: 2 For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many. 3 Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready: MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 03-20-2011 Many people tailor their religion toFit the pattern of their prejudices and traditions. Paul explains that the traditions of his fathers was no longer expedient. Gal 1:13 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: 14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood Mark 7:7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. 9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. 10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: 11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. 12 And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; 13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. We must be careful to not let traditions and/or prejudices that we allow not to surpass the intentions of keeping righteousness and Godliness in our lives.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 03-13-2011 Love is the key that fits the door to other hearts. 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. 1 John 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. 13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit The having, or giving of love is as important to us human beings as water and air is to our physical bodies. Babies have died due to lack of love, marriages don’t last due to lack of true love of one or the other parties. Single live-alones who do not have some social outlet often develop physical or mental problems due to lack of having or giving love to others. Church congregations do not thrive when there is a lack of love among the members. Neighborhoods are hard to live in where there is hate, prejudice or selfishness where with love developed it can become a wonderful place to live. Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 03-06-2011 Why is it that opportunities alwayslook larger coming than going. Gal 6:7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Heb 11:11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. 13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. Psa 24:4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. 6 This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, Seek your opportunities to serve others and spread God’s Word.MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 02-27-2011 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psa 27:14 Paul showed much courage in his preaching because he believed that the Power of the Spirit of God and Jesus was with him. 1 Cor 2:And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 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. 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: Acts 11:21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Let us be encouraged that God is with us and have courage to do what we know is right, Courage is standing firm when doubt or fear suggests otherwise. Courage trusts, Courage does not give up. Let us have the courage to live righteously and spread the Word as commanded. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 02-20-2011 Let not your heart be troubled:ye believe in God, believe also in me. JESUS OUR SAVIOUR SAID: John 14:14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. 4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. VS 27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 28 Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. 30 Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. 31 But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. . . . 2 Cor 3:2 Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: 3 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart. 4 And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 02-13-2011 Let the light of loveShine in the window of the heart. Luke 6:45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; . . .for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. 1 Pet 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: 23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. Paul gives thanks for the love shown to him and his co-workers as well as explaining how Jesus’s love shows through to all mankind. 2 Cor 8:7 Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. 8 I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. 9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. Matt 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 02-06-2011 To leave your mark in lifeMake it with God’s “Permanent” marker of service. Luke 14:10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Matt 23:12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. Gal 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. Luke 12:37 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. Jno 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01-30-2011 Never put a question mark where God puts a period. God means what he says. (period) God does not accept exceptions to his commands. When we question what he demands of us we put ourselves in a precarious position which separates us from God and His protection.Deut 12:32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.Josh 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. 9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. We should not question and go beyond God commands letting worldly ways gain pre-eminence in our lives. We often let doubt cloud our minds and say “if they can do it why can’t I.” Luke gives us reasons why that is not wise.Luke 17:26 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. 27 They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. 28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; 29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. 30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01-23-2011 The man is worse than a quitter who refuses to start. If a man does not do anything worthy we consider him not worth anything to anybody, in otherwise we consider him lazy or a quitter. He must begin or start to do what his creator purposed him to do, never quiting but using the strength god gave him. Our greatest example was Jesus who told His Father in:John 17:4 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. Luke 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 9 And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.1 Pet 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? 19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.Heb 6:11 And we desire that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: 12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. MAYGOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01-16-2011 There is no right way to do the wrong thing. Col 3:24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. 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. John 9:31 Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. James 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01-09-2011 The best exercise is walking with God. Jer 9:23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: 24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD. 1 Tim 4: 6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. 7 But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. 8 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. Rev 3:4 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. 5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. 6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN 01-02-2011 The thought behind giving is often more valuable than the gift. 2 Cor 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. Proverbs 19:6 Many will entreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts. Rom 12:8 . . . : he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness. 2 Cor 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. Rom 4:20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. 22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. 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; 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. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
