TO THE CHRISTIAN, THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK IS SON DAY A DAY SET ASIDE TO REMEMBER THE SON OF GOD.
Matthew 26: 26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. 27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; 28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. (Church)
We find examples of the early Christians meeting on the first day of the week, It was when Jesus Christ was resurrected from the dead as a sacrifice for the sins of the world.
Acts 20: And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. 8 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.
1 Corinthians 16: 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
We are thankful for His birth, but can become a Child of God because of His death, and are directed to remember that on the first day of the week.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
December 21, 2014
Time spent in the presence of the Master will radically alter our lives.
Observe how the lives of the chosen 12 apostles changed and developed. Matthew 4: 23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. Mark 3: 14 And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, 15 And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils: They learned his teaching methods: The common people heard Jesus gladly because He spoke their language. Parables were His main method of teaching. He applied Scripture to Himself. Time spent in scripture is time spent with Jesus! We need to read the Scriptures, explain the Scripture, and apply the Scriptures—first to ourselves then, to others. Preaching is a proclamation: Matthew 4: 17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Jesus taught on the coming Kingdom:, John 18: 36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Paul emphasized what the Kingdom was—and what it was not: Romans 14: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Jesus went about doing good, let us do the same: Acts 10: 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
December 14, 2014
BY HUMILITY AND THE FEAR OF THE LORD ARE RICHES, AND HONOUR, AND LIFE. (Proverbs 22:4) PATIENT HUMILITY—Genesis 50:15-21 Joseph spent about 13 years in prison though he was innocent. He did not question God. He remained humble the entire time PERSONAL HUMILITY—2 Samuel 7:18 David asked a simple question. “Who am I? He did not say “Look who I am” Humility never thinks of self. POWERFUL HUMILITY—Matthew 8:5-13 The centurion said he was not worthy to have Christ even enter his home. PARDONING HUMILITY—1 Timothy 1:15-17 Paul, the chief of sinners, was saved by the grace of God. PRACTICAL HUMILITY—John 1:27 John was not worthy to unloosen the shoe laces of Jesus. HUMILITY IS SOMETHING WHEN YOU HAVE IT, YOU DON’T KNOW IT. WHEN YOU THINK YOU HAVE, YOU’VE LOST IT.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
December 07, 2014
IF GOD’S LOVE COULD BE MEASURED? Do we really comprehend how much God loves us: Ephesians 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. BREADTH—John 3: 16 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. 1 John 2: 1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. LENGTH—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. DEPTH—1 Tim 1: 15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. HEIGHT—JOHN 14: 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.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
November 30, 2014
Each time of life requires a new study in patience.
Patience is grown in many of life’s stages, patience with each other in a family, getting through school, learning a job, waiting for the right mate, waiting for children and then waiting for them to grow up, Trusting in God’s timing does take patience.
Gaining patience is a process, such as growing a crop needs preparing the soil, planting the seed, watering and weeding and then the harvest. Weather and time restrictions lead to needing patience to wait for each stage. James likens gaining patience in our personal life to growing a garden.
James 7: 7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
God continues to give opportunities to learn His power and wisdom, but we have to be patient to see and learn the great lessons for life. He planted His seed in us. He will send the rain and He will bring us to harvest. As our reading in James indicates, God has patience in waiting for man to bear fruit.
Hebrews 11: 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
November 23, 2014
Everyone thinks forgiveness is a lovely virtue until they have something to forgive.
Mankind from the beginning of time have difficulties with each other, Jesus teaches us to love each other and forgive. This stops the process of the difficulties and lets one go on to perfection like as Christ did.
Matthew 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.
Matthew 18: 21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
34 And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. 35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.
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.
If you follow Jesus’ word and have forgiveness to others in your heart you will not have to face the consequences of not receiving forgiveness from the Father
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
November 16, 2014
Lost time is never found. Every moment of time is an opportunity to show our love to God by learning and doing his will, by loving, teaching and doing good to others. Putting off till a later time that opportunity may never come again. Never be too busy to not look for or take advantage of these opportunities. Our home and family is our first missionary field, serve with fervor. Give God and others priority in your use of your time. Be a valuable servant as Jesus who was our greatest example. Matthew 5: 13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Mark 9: 41 For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 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. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
November 09, 2014
Keep your record clean Heaven’s bookkeeper makes no mistakes.
Rev 20: 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. Rev 21: 27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life. 1 Cor 4: 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
November 02, 2014
Faith is the daring of the soul to go farther than it can see Jesus” stories often made a point that the state of strong belief or faith is the prerequisite of getting what is desired. Matt 9: 20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: 21 For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. 22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour. Matt 9:27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us. 28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord. 29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. 30 And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it. Acts 14: 8 And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked: 9 The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, 10 Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
October 26, 2014
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)
It is unfortunate that people fail to see it is in their own best interest to submit to God. Young children often feel that Mom & Dad are unfairly preventing them from doing something they want to do. In reality, loving parents restrict their children—“Don’t touch the stove”; “Don’t run into the street”; “Don’t go anywhere with a stranger”—not because they don’t love them but because they do. When children break those rules, they usually end up learning the hard way that their parents were only trying to keep them from getting hurt.
So it is with God’s rules. His commandments are designed to protect and preserve us from the harm that comes when we yield to our own sinful desires.
John tells us: 1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
When we refuse to obey God, we’re only hurting ourselves. Our loving father knows what’s best for us. Is way is the only right way, and it is the best and blessed way.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
October 19, 2014
The kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. (Matt 13:45-46) We all enter the world as treasure seekers; the search is natural and good. Jesus spoke of it but as that invaluable treasure of the soul that is more valuable than the entire world. Many of the things we seek are detrimental to us and to the world. The majority of our suffering is the direct result of our improper and misguided searches. When we go looking in all the wrong places we end up in with all the wrong outcomes. Take Judas Iscariot for an example. It is never too late to find satisfaction. We just have to turn our attention to the true treasure of the soul, search in the right place (the word of God) and we can end up with the right results. Matthew 6: 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
October 12, 2014 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7) The key to defeating Satan is truly believing he exists and recognizing we’re utterly powerless against him without God’s intervention. Being aware of this and actually doing it is one of the most challenging and difficult undertakings a believer faces in securing a victorious Christian life. Submitting to anyone, even God goes against our innate human nature, as Christians we want to do God’s Will, but we still want to be in control and decide how and when we do it. When it comes to resisting Satan? We can’t win a battle if we don’t believe the enemy exists. Thinking we can defeat Satan with our own power, is like trying to put out what appears to be a small fire at the edge of a forest by stomping on it with our feet. Too late we realize it’s much stronger than we think, with the velocity to not only destroy the forest abut consume us as well. Fortunately God, out of love, made a way through Christ for us to return to Him and His power. Remember what Christ went through to make this alliance with God possible. The choice is ours!! Jesus tells us: Matthew 16: 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
October 07, 2014 But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest anyone of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. (Hebrews 3:13) The thing needed is the ingredient every person must have to live a faithful Christian life and gain the great reward is “ENCOURAGEMENT”. The mission of the church is to save souls. Our obligation is to lost souls: that is, those who have never heard the soul saving message and to those who have heard, obeyed, but have wandered away. A third category which deserves our attention are those who are saved, “Keeping the saved” is accomplished in part by encouragement. Seeking to keep every child from dangerously swerving from the path of righteousness. Encouragement can be given by simply saying, “Thanks for a job well done.” It can also be expressed with a statement such as, “I think what you are doing is wonderful:, or “You have been a great encouragement to me.” Many times it is stated like this “I love you and appreciate so much all you are doing.” We must come together so that there can be encouragement given and received. Heb 10: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. So EXHORT, BROTHER and help to keep the saved, saved. MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
September 28, 2014
The Lord never promises to shield us from challenges, But we can become confident that if we have to run, He’ll strengthen us as we go.
When we wait upon Him, believing that He is able and willing to come to our aid, anything is possible.
Mark 9: 21 Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?" "From childhood," he answered. 22 "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." 23 "'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." 24 Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
Luke 18: 27 Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." 28 Peter said to him, "We have left all we had to follow you!" 29 "I tell you the truth," Jesus said to them, "no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God 30 will fail to receive many times as much in this age and, in the age to come, eternal life."
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
September 21, 2014
When we do all that we can, God will do what we can’t!!
Illustration: See several people of different heights lift up their hands doing their best to reach the goal of eternal life, they cannot reach all the way, but no matter how far they can reach, God can reach down and by His grace lift them the rest of the way. Mark 9: 23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. 24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. 1 Cor 15: 9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.
DO YOUR BEST AND GOD WILL DO THE REST!!
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
September 14, 2014
LOST TIME IS NEVER FOUND
Jesus’ parable teaches a good use of time and the consequences of wasting time.
Matthew 25: 1 "At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6 "At midnight the cry rang out: 'Here's the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!' 7 "Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.' 9 "'No,' they replied, 'there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.' 10 "But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. 11"Later the others also came. 'Sir! Sir!' they said. 'Open the door for us!'12"But he replied, 'I tell you the truth, I don't know you.'13"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.
MAY GOD BLESS, JEFF & JOAN
September 07, 2014
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. (Psalm 118:1)
1 John 4: 16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. 17 In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. God brings us from darkness to a bright light of good as we have faith and trust in him. God wants His children to be happy because He wishes above all things that we be blessed. When we intentionally “count our blessings” we find we are truly blessed, and we are thankful to God who knows our needs and cares for us. Psalm 100: 3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his ; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
August 31. 2014
A GOOD WOMAN’S HEART IS MANS’ MOST PRICELESS POSSESSION.
Proverbs 31: 10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. 12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
1 Peter 3: 7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
Eph 5: 28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
MAY GOD BLESS
JEFF & JOAN
August 24. 2014
HAPPINESS IS NOT A DESTINATION. IT IS A WAY OF LIFE.
Philippians 1: 27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved--and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. (NIV) James 3: 13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.(NIV) Matthew 25: 21 "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'(NIV) Psalms 68: 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. (NIV)
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF and JOAN
August 17. 2014
THERE IS HOPE FOR THE WEAK AND THE SINNER BUT THERE IS NO HOPE FOR THE COMPLACENT. (N.E. Rhodes, Jr.)
John was given the revelation to warn the church at Laodicea against complacency or being lukewarm. Revelations 3: 14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; 15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. To be satisfied with your own plans and decisions and not giving God’s Will priority in your life puts your soul in jeopardy. The closed mind is Satan’s workshop. The closed minds of the Jewish Chief Priests led to the crucifixion of Jesus on the cross. Mark 15: 13 And they cried out again, Crucify him. 14 Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him. Don’t let your closed mind crucify Him anew. Since we are all weak and sin, know that there is hope in the redemption of Christ if we follow His will and receive His promise.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
August 10. 2014
YOU DO NOT CHOOSE WHEN YOU’RE GOING TO DIE OR HOW-- YOU CAN DECIDE HOW YOU’RE GOING TO LIVE.
Romans 6: 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. Eccl 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; John 6: 66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. 1 Timothy 6: 9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
August 03. 2014
COURAGE IS GRACE UNDER PRESSURE. David, as a young lad, had great courage, knowing the grace of God was with him offered to kill Goliath of the Philistines. Under great pressure. 1 Sam 17: 33 And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. 37 David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee. Vs 45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Vs 49 And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. 50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. 51 Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled. You too can have great courage in the midst of life’s challenges if you have God with you.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
July 27, 2014
OUR CHARACTER IS THE SUM TOTAL OF ALL OF OUR THOUGHTS.
Psalm 94: 17 Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence. 18 When I said, My foot slippeth; thy mercy, O LORD, held me up. 19In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul. Prov 12: 5 The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit. 1 Cor 3: 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. 21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; 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. Develop good character with good thoughts and actions. 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. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
July 20, 2014
NEVER THINK THAT WHEN YOU SIN IT INJURES YOU ONLY.
Though Judas Iscariot we learned that his sin not only injured himself but also Jesus, his master.
Matthew 27: 3 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
4 Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that. 5 And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.
Ananias influenced his wife, letting greed cause them to sin and both lost their lives.
Acts 5: 7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. 8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. 9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. 10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.
We can never know when our sin will affect others and how far down the line it’s influence is felt. It is our responsibility for our own lives and the effects that it causes for another.
MAY GOD BLESS
JEFF & JOAN
July 13, 2014
IF YOU STUDY THE BIBLE “HIT AND MISS”, YOU WILL LIKELY MISS MORE THAN YOU HIT.
A constant study of God’s word leads us in the right way that we might receive the Gift of God, GRACE and ETERNAL LIFE.
The story of the Ethiopian Eunuch shows us an example of focusing and reading the scriptures to gain understanding. Our soul is at stake.
Acts 8: 26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. 27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, 28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. . . .
35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. 36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
1 Peter 2: 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
Matt 6: 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
A daily focused study of the scriptures, seeking, learning, listening, hearing the word gives us the blessings of Christianity more than just thinking about them whenever we feel like it or think we have time. The business of life limits us unless we plan to study, Satan takes advantage of every opportunity to keep you too busy to have time for God’s Word. TAKE CHARGE-STUDY AND LEARN.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
July 06, 2014
When God measures a man, he puts the Tape around his heart not his head.
Psalms 15:1 A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? 2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. 3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. 4 In whose eyes a vile person is condemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. 5 He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.
Matt 12: 34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. 35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. 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.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
June 29, 2014
HE HELPS EVEN WHEN IT IS OUR FAULT.
Sometimes we as Christians encounter tough situations that feel insurmountable. Those situations may even be our fault. However, no matter what we are facing, our Heavenly Father has promised to give us all the wisdom we need to handle our problems well.
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.
Learn the beautiful truth of this promise. God does not condemn us. He knows we need help. He knows we need mercy. He knows we do not know how to handle the problems we encounter—even those of our own making.
Out of His great love he extends his hand to rescue us. He is happy to give us all the direction and guidance we need to get through tough times, and He does not make fun of us for needing His help.
Romans 8: 31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
MAY GOD BLESS
JEFF & JOAN
June 15, 2014
A THOUGHT FOR EVERY DAY
Is anybody happier because you passed this way?
Does anyone remember that you spoke to him today?
This day is almost over, and its toiling time is
Through, Is there anyone to offer a kindly word of you?
Did you give a friendly greeting is the friend who came along, or a churlish sort of “howdy” and then vanish in the throng. Were you selfish, pure and simple, as you rushed along your way, or is someone mighty grateful for a deed you did today?
Can you say tonight Is parting with the day that’s slipping fast, that you helped a single brother of the many that you passed? Is a single heart rejoicing ever what you did or said? Does a man whose hopes are fading now with courage look ahead?
Did you waste the day or lose it; was it well or poorly spent?
Did you leave a trail of kindness or a scar discontent?
As you close your eyes is slumber do you think that God would say you have earned one more tomorrow by the work you did today?
(Author unknown)
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
June 08, 2014
WHY DO SOME PEOPLE GET ANSWERS TO PRAYER’S
AND SOME DON’T?
1. UNFORGIVENESS—Mark 11: 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.
2. DISOBEYING GOD’S WORD—1 John 3: 22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
3. SELFISH PRAYERS—James 4: 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
4. BIBLE DOES NOT SANCTION—1 John 5: 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
5. HONOR PARENTS—Eph 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;
MAY GOD BLESS
JEFF & JOAN
June 01, 2014
Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, But they have never failed to imitate them.
It behooves us as being older or elderly to control our thoughts and actions and follow righteousness for our own souls sake in our lives, and be good examples to those who are younger, especially in the case of parents. Children love wearing mother or daddy’s shoes when playing “grown-up”, so show them love and good attitudes as examples to imitate.
It is a promise of God to reward us according to our righteousness!
Psalms 118: 20 The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me. 21 For I have kept the ways of the LORD, and have not wickedly departed from my God. 22 For all his judgments were before me, and I did not put away his statutes from me. 23 I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity. 24 Therefore hath the LORD recompensed me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight.
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
May 25, 2014
FORGIVENESS IS NOT AN OPTION IF WE WANT TO BE SAVED.
Jesus lived a perfect earthly life whereby he taught forgiveness, and was our example by forgiving those who were crucifying him.
Luke 23: 34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.
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.
Matt 18: 21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
Luke 6: 36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. 37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
Eph 4: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
MAY GOD BLESS,
Jeff & Joan
May 18, 2014
To share joy is to show love,
To show love is to know God
To know God is to do good.
To do good is to spread happiness!
Acts 15: 3 And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren. 4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.
Romans 5: 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.
Romans 8: 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
1 Timothy 6: 17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
May 11, 2014
HE WHO IS BORN OF GOD IS CERTAIN TO RESEMBLE HIS FATHER!
Paul, in teaching Timothy to become Christ-like in his efforts to serve God.
1 Timothy 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. 13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. In our obedience to Christ’s desire for us to become like Him as He was like His Father, we have gained the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide us. Gal 5: 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law 24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 1 John 3: 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
May 04, 2014
Goodness consists not in the outward things we do, but in the inward thing we are.
God is our best example of “goodness” and He found goodness in Moses and guided him into great things. Exodus 33: 17 And the LORD said to Moses, "I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name." 18 Then Moses said, "Now show me your glory." 19 And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 2 Cor 4: 15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. 16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. Eph 3: 16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; 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.
MAY GOD BLESSJEFF & JOAN
April 28, 2014
There cannot be joy in salvation without sorrow for sin.
Psalm 38: 18 For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin. 19 But mine enemies are lively, and they are strong: and they that hate me wrongfully are multiplied. 20 They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is. 21 Forsake me not, O LORD: O my God, be not far from me. 22 Make haste to help me, O Lord my salvation. Hebrews 2:1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. 2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; 3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; Romans 5: 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
April 20, 2014
People take your example far more seriously than your advice.
Prov 20: 11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right. 12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them. Prov 21: 8 The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the innocent is upright. Eph 4: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. 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; Heb 13: 5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. 7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. 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. 13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
MAY GOD BLESS, JEFF & JOAN
April 13, 2014
People take your example far more seriously than your advice. Prov 20: 11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right. 12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them. Prov 21: 8 The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the innocent is upright. Eph 4: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. 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; Heb 13: 5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. 7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. 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. 13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
April 6:2014
The Lord does not care so much for the importance Of our works as for the love with which they are done.
Romans 13: 8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." 10 Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. 1 Corinthians 13: 1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. . .
MAY GOD BLESS, JEFF& JOAN
March 29. 2014
The trouble with most of us is that we would rather
be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.
John 5: 37 And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, 38 nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. 39 You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, 40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life. 41 "I do not accept praise from men, 42 but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. 43 I have come in my Father's name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. 44 How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God ?
Jesus was critical of their understanding:
Mark 4: 21 He said to them, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand? 22 For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear." 24 "Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you--and even more. 25 Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him."
MAY GOD BLESS
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
March 23, 2014
When God measures a man, he puts the
tape around his heart not his head
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.
Psalms 7:9 Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins. 10 My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart. 11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.
Matt 15:7 Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, 8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. 9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
Happiness can be thought, taught, and caught--
But not bought.
In Acts 8th chapter, we read of Simon, known for his sorcery, He heard the gospel, believed and was baptized. Upon seeing that by the laying on of the hands of the apostles that one could receive the Holy Ghost.
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.
Prov 3:13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.
1 Pet 4:14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of non essentials.
Solomon, the wisest man of all, learned through experience that lots of things were nonessential to happiness.
Eccl 2:9 “So I was great, and increased more than all that were before me in Jerusalem: also my wisdom remained with me. 10 And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them, I withheld not my heart from any joy; for my heart rejoiced in all my labour: and this was my portion of all my labour. 11 Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun.”
Jesus, when tempted by the devil answered that the things he offered were non essential but evil.
1 Cor 10: 8 “Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.”
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
You quickly lose interest in the church
if you have nothing invested.
Matthew 25:.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. 29 For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. 30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
By our interest and activity in the church we gain and like the one given 5 talents whose usury gained five more we will be rewarded.
Vs 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
Jim Williams here:
It's been a few years since I have written on ABBA. Ken and Barbara made a surprise visit to our home, here in Glendale, last summer. Ken was sick then, so for him to drive all the way to Glendale to visit was actually more then a welcomed surprise. I expected my old friend to say hello and return home in a few minutes because I knew he was not medically able to be away from his home for more then an hour or more, but that is not what happened.
We talked for hours about the Lord's Word, the church and our feelings about how a Christian should live. Many in the church say that if a subject matter in the church's philosophy does not seem to agree with God's word, then they will go with the Word of God. Most will just put that particular subject matter to the side, and hide their true feelings "for the good of the majority." Not Ken. It did not matter what anyone taught, nor how many backed him up, if what they said did not agree with what Ken read in the Bible then Ken followed the Bible. His favorite subject was how the Holy Spirit can and should be an active part in every Christian's life. He didn't care if you attended a church that had a kitchen, or Sunday school, or if they passed around one cup or two. He didn't even care what the name read on the building. Ken looked into each person's heart. He felt their were just as many Christians and hypocrites in every building, and he befriended all who sought the Lord equally. Ken's visit lifted my heart.
After a small snack, Ken reminded me that Glendale was one of the towns he grew up in. He wanted to show me the farm he lived on, so we went for a drive. Ken had excitement in his voice when he pointed out the old white two story home he lived in as a boy. He showed me how the building of Highway 99 split his property and years later Interstate 5 split it again. He pointed to an empty field as he explained where the main barn used to sit. As we drove away, Ken named every neighbor and told a little story about each family.
Ken was a true Saint, solid to the core. He paid no attention to what the world considered acceptable. He carried a communion case which included bread and grape juice, and he carried a small bottle of Holy Oil. He visited the sick, anointed them with oil and shared the Lord's supper with them. When his own sickness caused pain, Ken gave it to the Lord in prayer and continued to do all he was capable of doing.
I fell so sad that I will miss Ken's funeral. I have cancer. I am going in for my second operation on the day of Ken's services, but I will see him soon enough. I thank the Lord that I was able to befriend Ken and Barbara. Their scripture studies with us, as well as their many stories about their lives will stay with us forever.
In Christ's Love, Jim
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
February 23, 2014
Commitments are keys that unlock doors
To great opportunities.
Psalms 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: 6 He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.7 Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Prov 16:2 All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD. 3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. 4 The LORD works out everything for his own ends-- even the wicked for a day of disaster.
1 Peter 4:17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?" 19 So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
February 16, 2014
If God handed us everything we want, He’d be taking from us our greatest prize---JOY OF ACCOMPLISHMENT!
The apostle Paul wrote that suffering for Christ brought a sense of accomplishment and the lasting promise of Christ to take care of them to God’s purpose.
Rom 5:5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Acts 5:38 Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God." 40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
MAY GOD BLESS JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
February 09, 2014
NIGH DEATH BECAUSE OF LIFE’S UNCERTAINIES
Isaac spoke of not knowing the day of his death.
Gen 27:27:1 When Isaac was old and his eyes were so weak that he could no longer see, he called for Esau his older son and said to him, "My son." "Here I am," he answered. 2 Isaac said, "I am now an old man and don't know the day of my death.
David spoke of a step between him and death.
1 Sam 20:3 But David took an oath and said, "Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said to himself, 'Jonathan must not know this or he will be grieved.' Yet as surely as the LORD lives and as you live, there is only a step between me and death."
James wrote of the futility of assurance of a year on earth when one does not know what will be on tomorrow.
James 4:13 Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."
People die without warning signals every day. Death is ever before us, It is always at the door. Accidents, crimes, poor choices of our own and of others, and health related problems keep death ever nigh for all people no matter what age. PREPARE TO MEET YOUR GOD.
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
February 02, 2014
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)
Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me (Jesus), because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
Galatians 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. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.)
1 Timothy 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.12Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
January 26, 2014
Choice not chance, determines destiny.
It is our choice to love & fear God and do His Will, salvation comes from obedience of choosing this.
Acts 10:34 Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism 35 but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.
Romans 12:17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.
2 Cor 8:18 And we are sending along with him the brother who is praised by all the churches for his service to the gospel. 19 What is more, he was chosen by the churches to accompany us as we carry the offering, which we administer in order to honor the Lord himself and to show our eagerness to help. 20 We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. 21 For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.
1 John 3:10 This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother. 11 This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another.
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
January 19, 2014
There was a time when the whole world was in bondage to sin and death.
GOD MADE A DIFFERENCE
Galatians 4:4 But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5 to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.
Romans 8:21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Acts 13:30 But God raised him from the dead,
(The price for sin was forever settled and done, so that God, in full righteousness and mighty power could raise His beloved Son, alive forever more.)
Yes, we ourselves are still sinful—still dying, Our very human nature keeps us in bondage to sin, even though the price for our deliverance has been fully paid.
Ephesians 2:4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--
True faith is to believe, receive and obey.
Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you.in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
January 12, 2014
As we enter a new year, let us reason together and promote the priorities in life that Jesus Christ brings to our attention.
Matthew 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Matthew 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.
Jesus told Satan that “Man will live on every word that comes from the mouth of God”, That we must not put the Lord your God to the test”, and that we should “worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.
Where are your priorities?
MAY GOD BLESS,
JEFF & JOAN
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
January 05, 2014
“Most people are about as happy as they make their minds to be.”
(Abraham Lincoln)
Seven Recommendations for Happiness:
Trust in God-Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Relish the scriptures—2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Live righteously—Titus 2:11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope--the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,
Worship God with regularity—Acts 20:6 But we sailed from Philippi after the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and five days later joined the others at Troas, where we stayed seven days.7 On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight.
Keep a clean conscience—Acts 24:16 So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.
Learn contentment—Philippians 4:11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
Keep busy and constructive—Romans 12;11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
