Yesterday we looked at some powerful Scripture verses that describe how Jesus provided for our physical healing. We will look at another one today. The Apostle Peter had this to say:
1 Peter 2:24 (KJV)
24Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
We see almost the same things said of Jesus here that we found in Isaiah 53. "His own self" refers to the Lord Jesus. He "bare", the Greek word, anaphero, which means: to take up, to take upon oneself. What did He take? He took upon Himself our sins while on the cross. Why did He do that? So that we could have sin removed (be dead to) and to live as a righteous one (one in right-standing with God through the Blood of Jesus). And one more thing: By whose (His) "stripes",( the Greek word, molops, which means: a wound that trickles blood), we were (past tense) "healed", (the Greek word "iaomai", which means: healed or made whole.
Do you get the picture that God WANTS you healed and made whole? If not, you need to meditate some more until His Word gets inside of you to the point where you really believe it! Then you can begin to act on God's word and watch Him confirm that Word!
Mark 16:20 (Amplified)
20And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord kept working with them and confirming the message by the attesting signs and miracles that closely accompanied [it]. Amen (so be it).
God WILL confirm or establish His Word with signs (miracles) following our speaking that Word! We need to find out what God has to say about every area of our lives and then believe His Word and begin to SAY it, so that He CAN confirm it with "signs" and attesting miracles! Really pay attention to this next verse, it could and should change your life!
John 15:7 (Amplified)
7If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.
That's one of the ways to receive healing from the Lord and His Word. Spend time in fellowship with Him and get His Word in you in abundance, then YOU can speak to every symptom of sickness and disease and command it to leave your body, in Jesus Name! And that sickness and disease HAS TO leave!
Keep meditating on the Word for yourself so that you can better understand what God has prepared for you! And then speak out of your own mouth exactly what the Word says about you. Then you BEGIN to walk in what He has promised in His Word.
Shalom in Him!
Monday, October 29, 2007
Shalom,
I want to look at some very powerful verses today that talk about Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One. The verses we will look at are found in the book of Isaiah:
Isaiah 53:4-5 (KJV)
4Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
The word "surely" in verse 4 is the Hebrew word "aken", which means: firmly, truly, certainly, indeed (strong assertive force). There is no doubt about it! Surely what? He (Jesus) has (already) "borne", which is the Hebrew word "nasa", which means: lifted, carried off, taken away. What has He taken away? Our "griefs", the Hebrew word "choliy", which means: malady, disease, sickness. Jesus also, according to Isaiah 53:4, "carried", which is the Hebrew word, "cabal", which means: to bear a load. What did He carry? He carried our "sorrows", the Hebrew word "mak'-ob", which means: pain (both physical and mental). In spite of all that, the Bible says, mankind thought that He was stricken and smitten of God because of what He said about Himself. The entire time he was going through all of that for US! For YOU and for ME!
Verse 5 says He was wounded for OUR "transgressions", the Hebrew word, "pesha", which means our sin and rebellion. He was "bruised", Hebrew word, "daka", which means beat to pieces! For what? For OUR "iniquities", Hebrew "avon":sin. The chastisement of OUR peace was upon Him and "with His stripes", Hebrew chabbuwrah: bruise, stripe, wound, blow, "we ARE healed", the Hebrew word "rapha", which means: mended, cured, healed, made whole. It is summed up, really, in the previous word, peace. That word is the Hebrew word "shalom", which we discussed in the first post on this blog. It means: completeness, safety, soundness, welfare, health, prosperity, peace. The Amplified Bible says this:
Isaiah 53:4-5 (Amplified)
4Surely He has borne our griefs (sicknesses, weaknesses, and distresses) and carried our sorrows and pains [of punishment], yet we [ignorantly] considered Him stricken, smitten, and afflicted by God [as if with leprosy]
5But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our guilt and iniquities; the chastisement [needful to obtain] peace and well-being for us was upon Him, and with the stripes [that wounded] Him we are healed and made whole.
As you can see by these verses, Jesus has already paid the price for our complete and total health, healing, deliverance in every area of life! We will talk more tomorrow about how to take advantage of what Jesus has provided for us. In the meantime, meditate on these 2 verses over and over until they get inside of you!
Shalom in Him!
I want to look at some very powerful verses today that talk about Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One. The verses we will look at are found in the book of Isaiah:
Isaiah 53:4-5 (KJV)
4Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
The word "surely" in verse 4 is the Hebrew word "aken", which means: firmly, truly, certainly, indeed (strong assertive force). There is no doubt about it! Surely what? He (Jesus) has (already) "borne", which is the Hebrew word "nasa", which means: lifted, carried off, taken away. What has He taken away? Our "griefs", the Hebrew word "choliy", which means: malady, disease, sickness. Jesus also, according to Isaiah 53:4, "carried", which is the Hebrew word, "cabal", which means: to bear a load. What did He carry? He carried our "sorrows", the Hebrew word "mak'-ob", which means: pain (both physical and mental). In spite of all that, the Bible says, mankind thought that He was stricken and smitten of God because of what He said about Himself. The entire time he was going through all of that for US! For YOU and for ME!
Verse 5 says He was wounded for OUR "transgressions", the Hebrew word, "pesha", which means our sin and rebellion. He was "bruised", Hebrew word, "daka", which means beat to pieces! For what? For OUR "iniquities", Hebrew "avon":sin. The chastisement of OUR peace was upon Him and "with His stripes", Hebrew chabbuwrah: bruise, stripe, wound, blow, "we ARE healed", the Hebrew word "rapha", which means: mended, cured, healed, made whole. It is summed up, really, in the previous word, peace. That word is the Hebrew word "shalom", which we discussed in the first post on this blog. It means: completeness, safety, soundness, welfare, health, prosperity, peace. The Amplified Bible says this:
Isaiah 53:4-5 (Amplified)
4Surely He has borne our griefs (sicknesses, weaknesses, and distresses) and carried our sorrows and pains [of punishment], yet we [ignorantly] considered Him stricken, smitten, and afflicted by God [as if with leprosy]
5But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our guilt and iniquities; the chastisement [needful to obtain] peace and well-being for us was upon Him, and with the stripes [that wounded] Him we are healed and made whole.
As you can see by these verses, Jesus has already paid the price for our complete and total health, healing, deliverance in every area of life! We will talk more tomorrow about how to take advantage of what Jesus has provided for us. In the meantime, meditate on these 2 verses over and over until they get inside of you!
Shalom in Him!
Friday, October 26, 2007
Shalom,
We're going to look at another verse today that, if we meditate on it until it becomes real to us, will absolutely change our lives. That verse is:
John 10:10 (KJV)
10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
We all know what a thief does. The thief referred to here is the devil, our adversary (1 Peter 5:8) and our enemy (Matthew 13:39). He comes for the sole purpose of stealing from us, killing us, and destroying our lives. But Jesus Himself said that He came for a different purpose! He said that He came so that we may have life. That "life" is the Greek word: zoe, which means real and genuine life, active and vigorous life, the absolute fullness of life. In other words, it's life as God has it in Himself! The Amplified bible says it very well:
John 10:10 (Amplified)
10The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
He wants us to have and enjoy the same "life" force that He has in Himself! God's life in us will put us in a position to be blessed, prosperous, healthy, whole, filled with peace, confident, delivered and able to deliver others! That's why Jesus came, but not everyone will be able to take advantage of that life. This verse tells us who qualifies:
1 John 5:11-13 (KJV)
11And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
13These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
The Amplified bible says:
1 John 5:11-13
11And this is that testimony (that evidence): God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
12He who possesses the Son has that life; he who does not possess the Son of God does not have that life.
13I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God, so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life.
This "eternal life" is "zoe", the life that God has in Himself! That life belongs to every born again believer! If you have received Jesus of Nazareth as your personal Savior, then you have His life in you. If you haven't, then you don't! Is there ANY reason you can't receive Jesus as your personal Savior right now? Pray this prayer:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now you are a child of God and you have His life in you. Get into His Word and find out who you are in Him! Get into a good local church and be taught the Word of God and fellowship with like-minded believers. If you need help to find a church, please click on The Spoken Word Church website and we will be glad to direct you to one in your area! Your life will never be the same!
Shalom in Him!
We're going to look at another verse today that, if we meditate on it until it becomes real to us, will absolutely change our lives. That verse is:
John 10:10 (KJV)
10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
We all know what a thief does. The thief referred to here is the devil, our adversary (1 Peter 5:8) and our enemy (Matthew 13:39). He comes for the sole purpose of stealing from us, killing us, and destroying our lives. But Jesus Himself said that He came for a different purpose! He said that He came so that we may have life. That "life" is the Greek word: zoe, which means real and genuine life, active and vigorous life, the absolute fullness of life. In other words, it's life as God has it in Himself! The Amplified bible says it very well:
John 10:10 (Amplified)
10The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
He wants us to have and enjoy the same "life" force that He has in Himself! God's life in us will put us in a position to be blessed, prosperous, healthy, whole, filled with peace, confident, delivered and able to deliver others! That's why Jesus came, but not everyone will be able to take advantage of that life. This verse tells us who qualifies:
1 John 5:11-13 (KJV)
11And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
13These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
The Amplified bible says:
1 John 5:11-13
11And this is that testimony (that evidence): God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
12He who possesses the Son has that life; he who does not possess the Son of God does not have that life.
13I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God, so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life.
This "eternal life" is "zoe", the life that God has in Himself! That life belongs to every born again believer! If you have received Jesus of Nazareth as your personal Savior, then you have His life in you. If you haven't, then you don't! Is there ANY reason you can't receive Jesus as your personal Savior right now? Pray this prayer:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now you are a child of God and you have His life in you. Get into His Word and find out who you are in Him! Get into a good local church and be taught the Word of God and fellowship with like-minded believers. If you need help to find a church, please click on The Spoken Word Church website and we will be glad to direct you to one in your area! Your life will never be the same!
Shalom in Him!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Shalom,
We have been talking about wisdom. Walking in the fear of the Lord, loving Him, praising Him, worshipping Him, being aware and in awe of His presence is the first step to obtaining the wisdom we need to operate successfully in this life. The next step is a very simple one, just ask!
James 1:5
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.(KJV)
To "ask" is the Greek word: aiteo, which means to ask, beg, call for, crave, desire, require. How much do you really want wisdom? Make it your strong desire, then ask of God! This verse tells us that he will give to all who ask "liberally". That's the Greek word: haplos, which means bountifully, liberally, simply, openly, frankly and sincerely. He WANTS us to have the wisdom that comes from Him alone, but it won't just fall on us. We must go about it the way He tells us in the Word and then our generous and bountiful Lord will give it to us and will not "upbraid" us for asking. The word "upbraideth" is the Greek word: oneidizo, which means to chide, reproach or revile. He will not chew us out for asking for wisdom! The Amplified bible says it very clearly:
We have been talking about wisdom. Walking in the fear of the Lord, loving Him, praising Him, worshipping Him, being aware and in awe of His presence is the first step to obtaining the wisdom we need to operate successfully in this life. The next step is a very simple one, just ask!
James 1:5
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.(KJV)
To "ask" is the Greek word: aiteo, which means to ask, beg, call for, crave, desire, require. How much do you really want wisdom? Make it your strong desire, then ask of God! This verse tells us that he will give to all who ask "liberally". That's the Greek word: haplos, which means bountifully, liberally, simply, openly, frankly and sincerely. He WANTS us to have the wisdom that comes from Him alone, but it won't just fall on us. We must go about it the way He tells us in the Word and then our generous and bountiful Lord will give it to us and will not "upbraid" us for asking. The word "upbraideth" is the Greek word: oneidizo, which means to chide, reproach or revile. He will not chew us out for asking for wisdom! The Amplified bible says it very clearly:
James1:5 (Amplified)
5If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him.
Keep meditating on the Word of God and you will grow in knowledge. Then as you spend time in His presence with a worshipful heart, begin to ask Him for wisdom, which is the ability to USE the knowledge you have obtained, and He will give it to you. Then you have the choice to be obedient and obedience brings blessings!
Shalom in Him!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Shalom,
We began looking at wisdom yesterday. We found that the "fear" of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. It is the place where wisdom starts to operate in our lives. We saw that the "fear" of the Lord is reverance, awe, respect, honor and being in an attitude of worship. We encouraged everyone to meditate on the greatness of our Lord. We want to help with that today by looking at some Scriptures that discuss His greatness. The word we will be looking at today is "Almighty".
Gen 17:1
1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.(KJV)
Gen 35:11
11 And God said unto him, I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall be of thee, and kings shall come out of thy loins;(KJV)
Exod 6:3
3 And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them.(KJV)
Job 37:23
23 Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict.(KJV)
Ps 91:1
1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.(KJV)
In all of these verses the "Almighty" is the Hebrew word: Shadday or Shaddai. It means all mighty or most powerful. He is ALL we will ever need! The New Testament also has some references to the Almighty:
Rev 1:8
8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.(KJV)
Rev 15:3
3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.(KJV)
The word "Almighty" here means:the Almighty, Omnipotent, all powerful, all ruling, referring to God as the absolute and universal Sovereign! It also means: He Who holds sway over all things, the Ruler of all.
As you meditate on these things you will begin to realize the Scripture that says:
Mark 10:27
27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.(KJV)
The Lord we love and the God we serve is powerful and mighty and CAN DO all that He says He can and will do! Keep meditating, you're getting wiser by the moment!
Shalom in Him!
We began looking at wisdom yesterday. We found that the "fear" of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. It is the place where wisdom starts to operate in our lives. We saw that the "fear" of the Lord is reverance, awe, respect, honor and being in an attitude of worship. We encouraged everyone to meditate on the greatness of our Lord. We want to help with that today by looking at some Scriptures that discuss His greatness. The word we will be looking at today is "Almighty".
Gen 17:1
1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.(KJV)
Gen 35:11
11 And God said unto him, I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall be of thee, and kings shall come out of thy loins;(KJV)
Exod 6:3
3 And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them.(KJV)
Job 37:23
23 Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict.(KJV)
Ps 91:1
1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.(KJV)
In all of these verses the "Almighty" is the Hebrew word: Shadday or Shaddai. It means all mighty or most powerful. He is ALL we will ever need! The New Testament also has some references to the Almighty:
Rev 1:8
8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.(KJV)
Rev 15:3
3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.(KJV)
The word "Almighty" here means:the Almighty, Omnipotent, all powerful, all ruling, referring to God as the absolute and universal Sovereign! It also means: He Who holds sway over all things, the Ruler of all.
As you meditate on these things you will begin to realize the Scripture that says:
Mark 10:27
27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.(KJV)
The Lord we love and the God we serve is powerful and mighty and CAN DO all that He says He can and will do! Keep meditating, you're getting wiser by the moment!
Shalom in Him!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Shalom,
Today I want to talk about wisdom. We all need it, we should want it and we're going to look at how to get it and use it! First things first:
Psalm 111:10 (KJV)
10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)
10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
If we want wisdom, these two verses say, the first thing we need to understand is the fear of the LORD! Lets look at some word meanings:
fear: the Hebrew word, yir'ah, which means: respect and reverence. It comes from the Hebrew word, yare', which means reverant, to stand in awe of, to show reverence, honor and respect.
The word fear simply means to be in awe of how wonderful, powerful, majestic, almighty, all-knowing, all-seeing, glorious and on and on...that our Lord really is! The Amplified Bible says it very well:
Psalm 111:10 (Amplified)
10The reverent fear and worship of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom and skill [the preceding and the first essential, the prerequisite and the alphabet]; a good understanding, wisdom, and meaning have all those who do [the will of the Lord]. Their praise of Him endures forever.
Proverbs 9:10 (Amplified)
10The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning (the chief and choice part) of Wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight and understanding.
The first step in gaining godly wisdom is to meditate on the Lord. Find out what the Word has to say about Him. Study His attributes, His nature, His power, His glory. Realizing the "bigness" of God will cause Him to be a big God in your life! And you will BEGIN to be wise!
We'll look at this more tomorrow. In the meantime, discover Him! You want to be like Moses:
Psalm 103:7 (KJV)
7He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.
The Lord made his ways (Hebrew:derek: character and manner of life) known to Moses and only His acts (Hebrew:'aliylah: deeds, doings) to the rest of the people. I want to know Him, His character, how He thinks and what pleases Him! Seek Him and you WILL find Him!
Shalom in Him!
Today I want to talk about wisdom. We all need it, we should want it and we're going to look at how to get it and use it! First things first:
Psalm 111:10 (KJV)
10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)
10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
If we want wisdom, these two verses say, the first thing we need to understand is the fear of the LORD! Lets look at some word meanings:
fear: the Hebrew word, yir'ah, which means: respect and reverence. It comes from the Hebrew word, yare', which means reverant, to stand in awe of, to show reverence, honor and respect.
The word fear simply means to be in awe of how wonderful, powerful, majestic, almighty, all-knowing, all-seeing, glorious and on and on...that our Lord really is! The Amplified Bible says it very well:
Psalm 111:10 (Amplified)
10The reverent fear and worship of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom and skill [the preceding and the first essential, the prerequisite and the alphabet]; a good understanding, wisdom, and meaning have all those who do [the will of the Lord]. Their praise of Him endures forever.
Proverbs 9:10 (Amplified)
10The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning (the chief and choice part) of Wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight and understanding.
The first step in gaining godly wisdom is to meditate on the Lord. Find out what the Word has to say about Him. Study His attributes, His nature, His power, His glory. Realizing the "bigness" of God will cause Him to be a big God in your life! And you will BEGIN to be wise!
We'll look at this more tomorrow. In the meantime, discover Him! You want to be like Moses:
Psalm 103:7 (KJV)
7He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.
The Lord made his ways (Hebrew:derek: character and manner of life) known to Moses and only His acts (Hebrew:'aliylah: deeds, doings) to the rest of the people. I want to know Him, His character, how He thinks and what pleases Him! Seek Him and you WILL find Him!
Shalom in Him!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Shalom,
Yesterday we looked at the fact that at the new birth the Holy Spirit recreates the human spirit and then indwells the new believer. Jesus said this to His disciples:
John 20:22 (Amplified)
22And having said this, He breathed on them and said to them, Receive the Holy Spirit!
We also see this in the Epistles:
1 Corinthians 3:16 (KJV)
16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Godhead, dwells inside of believers, those who have received Jesus Christ as personal Savior. He is ever present to help us. This verse in the Amplified bible shows Who he wants to be to us:
John 14:26 (Amplified)
26But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will cause you to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you.
We see here that the Holy Spirit lives in believers and wants to operate as our Helper, Comforter, Counselor, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby and Teacher. He will operate in us to the extent that we allow Him to!
But what we want to look at today is the fact that the Holy Spirit wants to do even more. Check out what Jesus said to His disciples:
Acts 1:4-5 (KJV)
4And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
5For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
And also in this verse:
Acts 1:8
8But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Notice that this is AFTER He breathed on them to receive the Holy Spirit. Jesus told them what would come to pass and we see the fulfillment of this here:
Acts 2:4 (KJV)
4And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Acts 4:8 (Amplified)
8Then Peter, [because he was] filled with [and controlled by] the Holy Spirit, said to them, Rulers of the people and members of the council (the Sanhedrin),
Acts 4:31 (Amplified)
31And when they had prayed, the place in which they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they continued to speak the Word of God with freedom and boldness and courage.
Acts 6:3 (Amplified)
3Therefore select out from among yourselves, brethren, seven men of good and attested character and repute, full of the [Holy] Spirit and wisdom, whom we may assign to look after this business and duty.
Acts 8:12-17 (KJV)
12But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
13Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
14Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
15Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
16(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
17Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
Acts 10:45-46 (Amplified)
45And the believers from among the circumcised [the Jews] who came with Peter were surprised and amazed, because the free gift of the Holy Spirit had been bestowed and poured out largely even on the Gentiles.
46For they heard them talking in [unknown] tongues (languages) and extolling and magnifying God.
We see from all of these Scriptures that there is an additional experience with the Holy Spirit, AFTER the new birth, that God has planned for believers. What is the purpose of this "Baptism" with the Holy Spirit? Here are a few examples:
Jude 1:20 (KJV)
20But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, or:
Jude 1:20 (Amplified)
20But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit;
I've heard it put this way: "When we talk to God in English, He comes down to our level. When we talk to God in our heavenly language, we come up to His level". I like that!
1 Corinthians 14:14-15 (Amplified)
14For if I pray in an [unknown] tongue, my spirit [by the Holy Spirit within me] prays, but my mind is unproductive [it bears no fruit and helps nobody].
15Then what am I to do? I will pray with my spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me], but I will also pray [intelligently] with my mind and understanding; I will sing with my spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me], but I will sing [intelligently] with my mind and understanding also.
Notice that Paul also says:
1 Corinthians 14:18 (Amplified)
18I thank God that I speak in [strange] tongues (languages) more than any of you or all of you put together;
The purpose for the Baptism with the Holy Spirit is to give us the power to be His living witnesses, to communicate with our Lord spirit to spirit, to walk in the same power that Jesus walked in on earth in order to set people free, and so that we could do what Jesus said:
John 14:12 (KJV)
12Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.
John 14:12 (Amplified)
12I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.
When God the Father took Jesus back to heaven to sit at His right hand, He didn't leave us alone! He planned for the Holy Spirit to live in us and also to fill us to overflowing with all that we would need to be overcomers in this life and to set others free, the same way that Jesus did! If you have received Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, but have never received the "Infilling" of the Holy Spirit, I invite you to pray this prayer, believing:
Father, I am Your child. I desire to be filled with Holy Spirit and speak with other tongues as the Holy Spirit gives me the utterance. By faith, I receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit. As I lift my hands to praise You, I fully expect to speak in my heavenly prayer language. Amen.
Now open your heart and mouth in praise to Him and allow the Holy Spirit to give you that powerful, personal, prayer language. If you have further questions, please check out The Spoken Word website at the top left and contact us there. We will be happy to help you in your spiritual growth. Have a great and wonderful day!
Shalom in Him!
Yesterday we looked at the fact that at the new birth the Holy Spirit recreates the human spirit and then indwells the new believer. Jesus said this to His disciples:
John 20:22 (Amplified)
22And having said this, He breathed on them and said to them, Receive the Holy Spirit!
We also see this in the Epistles:
1 Corinthians 3:16 (KJV)
16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Godhead, dwells inside of believers, those who have received Jesus Christ as personal Savior. He is ever present to help us. This verse in the Amplified bible shows Who he wants to be to us:
John 14:26 (Amplified)
26But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will cause you to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you.
We see here that the Holy Spirit lives in believers and wants to operate as our Helper, Comforter, Counselor, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby and Teacher. He will operate in us to the extent that we allow Him to!
But what we want to look at today is the fact that the Holy Spirit wants to do even more. Check out what Jesus said to His disciples:
Acts 1:4-5 (KJV)
4And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
5For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
And also in this verse:
Acts 1:8
8But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Notice that this is AFTER He breathed on them to receive the Holy Spirit. Jesus told them what would come to pass and we see the fulfillment of this here:
Acts 2:4 (KJV)
4And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Acts 4:8 (Amplified)
8Then Peter, [because he was] filled with [and controlled by] the Holy Spirit, said to them, Rulers of the people and members of the council (the Sanhedrin),
Acts 4:31 (Amplified)
31And when they had prayed, the place in which they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they continued to speak the Word of God with freedom and boldness and courage.
Acts 6:3 (Amplified)
3Therefore select out from among yourselves, brethren, seven men of good and attested character and repute, full of the [Holy] Spirit and wisdom, whom we may assign to look after this business and duty.
Acts 8:12-17 (KJV)
12But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
13Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
14Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
15Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
16(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
17Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
Acts 10:45-46 (Amplified)
45And the believers from among the circumcised [the Jews] who came with Peter were surprised and amazed, because the free gift of the Holy Spirit had been bestowed and poured out largely even on the Gentiles.
46For they heard them talking in [unknown] tongues (languages) and extolling and magnifying God.
We see from all of these Scriptures that there is an additional experience with the Holy Spirit, AFTER the new birth, that God has planned for believers. What is the purpose of this "Baptism" with the Holy Spirit? Here are a few examples:
Jude 1:20 (KJV)
20But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, or:
Jude 1:20 (Amplified)
20But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit;
I've heard it put this way: "When we talk to God in English, He comes down to our level. When we talk to God in our heavenly language, we come up to His level". I like that!
1 Corinthians 14:14-15 (Amplified)
14For if I pray in an [unknown] tongue, my spirit [by the Holy Spirit within me] prays, but my mind is unproductive [it bears no fruit and helps nobody].
15Then what am I to do? I will pray with my spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me], but I will also pray [intelligently] with my mind and understanding; I will sing with my spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me], but I will sing [intelligently] with my mind and understanding also.
Notice that Paul also says:
1 Corinthians 14:18 (Amplified)
18I thank God that I speak in [strange] tongues (languages) more than any of you or all of you put together;
The purpose for the Baptism with the Holy Spirit is to give us the power to be His living witnesses, to communicate with our Lord spirit to spirit, to walk in the same power that Jesus walked in on earth in order to set people free, and so that we could do what Jesus said:
John 14:12 (KJV)
12Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.
John 14:12 (Amplified)
12I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.
When God the Father took Jesus back to heaven to sit at His right hand, He didn't leave us alone! He planned for the Holy Spirit to live in us and also to fill us to overflowing with all that we would need to be overcomers in this life and to set others free, the same way that Jesus did! If you have received Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, but have never received the "Infilling" of the Holy Spirit, I invite you to pray this prayer, believing:
Father, I am Your child. I desire to be filled with Holy Spirit and speak with other tongues as the Holy Spirit gives me the utterance. By faith, I receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit. As I lift my hands to praise You, I fully expect to speak in my heavenly prayer language. Amen.
Now open your heart and mouth in praise to Him and allow the Holy Spirit to give you that powerful, personal, prayer language. If you have further questions, please check out The Spoken Word website at the top left and contact us there. We will be happy to help you in your spiritual growth. Have a great and wonderful day!
Shalom in Him!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Shalom,
Today I want to share a very powerful Scripture that, when we really get it inside of us, will change our lives forever! We will never be discouraged or held back by the enemy of our souls again! That Scripture is this:
Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Do you understand what that means, that we can do ALL things? The words "can do" here is the Greek word, ischuo, which means: to have or exercise force, be strong, have power, have strength to overcome. Do you understand HOW Christ strengthens you and me? The word "strengtheneth" here is the Greek word, endunamoo, which means: to empower, enable, endue with strength. It comes from the Greek word, dunamis, which means: miraculous power or inherent power. I want to show you the Amplified translation and see if that doesn't clear some things up!
Philippians 4:13 (Amplified)
13I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].
This says I have the strength or the power to overcome in every situation! I am up to the task! Where does this power or strength come from? From Him Who infuses me with His strength, His power, His ability. The word infuse means: to cause to be permeated with something that alters usually for the better. The example would be like a tea bag in a cup of hot water. What happens to that clear water when the tea is "infused" into it? It changes that water. That water is filled with the smell and flavor of the contents of the tea bag. That is what happens to our inner man. When we are born again, the Spirit of God recreates our old, dead spirit and makes it completely new and in the image of God. We look like Him! The Holy Spirit lives in us from that time on. All of the ability of God lives in us, but we have to learn how to release it. When we meditate on God's Word until the understanding comes, then we can act on it or obey it. As a born again believer in Jesus Christ, you NOW have all the power of God residing in you to accomplish everything He has called you to do!
If you are not a born again believer in Jesus Christ, if you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, then you DO NOT have this power available to you. You are at the mercy of the world, the devil and his demon spirits. Is there really ANY reason you can't accept and receive Jesus Christ as your personal Savior right now? Believe in your heart and pray this prayer with me right now:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now you are a child of God. You have the Spirit of God living inside of you and you CAN DO anything and everything He calls you to do!
Have a wonderful day filled with thanksgiving and praise for Who He is and all that He has done for you!
Shalom in Him!
Today I want to share a very powerful Scripture that, when we really get it inside of us, will change our lives forever! We will never be discouraged or held back by the enemy of our souls again! That Scripture is this:
Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Do you understand what that means, that we can do ALL things? The words "can do" here is the Greek word, ischuo, which means: to have or exercise force, be strong, have power, have strength to overcome. Do you understand HOW Christ strengthens you and me? The word "strengtheneth" here is the Greek word, endunamoo, which means: to empower, enable, endue with strength. It comes from the Greek word, dunamis, which means: miraculous power or inherent power. I want to show you the Amplified translation and see if that doesn't clear some things up!
Philippians 4:13 (Amplified)
13I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].
This says I have the strength or the power to overcome in every situation! I am up to the task! Where does this power or strength come from? From Him Who infuses me with His strength, His power, His ability. The word infuse means: to cause to be permeated with something that alters usually for the better. The example would be like a tea bag in a cup of hot water. What happens to that clear water when the tea is "infused" into it? It changes that water. That water is filled with the smell and flavor of the contents of the tea bag. That is what happens to our inner man. When we are born again, the Spirit of God recreates our old, dead spirit and makes it completely new and in the image of God. We look like Him! The Holy Spirit lives in us from that time on. All of the ability of God lives in us, but we have to learn how to release it. When we meditate on God's Word until the understanding comes, then we can act on it or obey it. As a born again believer in Jesus Christ, you NOW have all the power of God residing in you to accomplish everything He has called you to do!
If you are not a born again believer in Jesus Christ, if you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, then you DO NOT have this power available to you. You are at the mercy of the world, the devil and his demon spirits. Is there really ANY reason you can't accept and receive Jesus Christ as your personal Savior right now? Believe in your heart and pray this prayer with me right now:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now you are a child of God. You have the Spirit of God living inside of you and you CAN DO anything and everything He calls you to do!
Have a wonderful day filled with thanksgiving and praise for Who He is and all that He has done for you!
Shalom in Him!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Shalom,
Today I want to take a look at Pastors. Jeremiah has this to say:
Jeremiah 23:1-4 (KJV)
1Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.
2Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.
3And I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all countries whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their folds; and they shall be fruitful and increase.
4And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD.
The Hebrew word for pastors and for shepherds here is the same word: ra'ah, which means : to tend, to feed, to shepherd, to rule, to teach. Pastors are to be as shepherds to the sheep. A natural shepherd is responsible for looking out for the sheep, for keeping them safe, for providing access to food and water. A spiritual shepherd, a pastor, is responsible for all of these things and also to teach the people God's Word so they can learn to feed themselves and so help other people. God says here that He was upset with the pastors (shepherds) that were not feeding His people. They were neglecting His sheep! He says He would deal with those evil pastors according to their deeds and He would give His people, His sheep, good shepherds (pastors) who would do the job right! Those who would feed the sheep!
We read in Ephesians that after Jesus rose to heaven, gifts were given to men and those gifts included these:
Ephesians 4:11-12 (KJV)
11And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
The Greek word for pastors here is: poimen, which means the same as the Hebrew word above! The meaning is clearer here, though, in that the word "and" in verse 11 means "an added thing" or "a continuing thought", except in the first and last instances. In those cases the word is the Greek word: kai, which has the idea of "accumulation". It means "both", so that what we really have here is that God has given us pastors who are also teachers! You cannot really pastor a congregation if you can't teach them the Word of God so that they really can grow up in the things of God. The reason for giving all of these ministry "gifts" was for the perfecting (the complete furnishing or equipping) of the saints (all born again believers are saints!) for the work of the ministry. We've got work to do and pastors are to do their part in preparing us for that work!
So what are we saying today? We are saying that the main job of a pastor today is the same as it was then, to feed, guide, teach and train the sheep! If you are attending a church where the pastor does not teach the Word of God, you need to find yourself another church! You need to prayerfully ask your heavenly Father where He wants you to attend so that you can be properly prepared for the ministry He has called you to. Every believer is called to minister the simple Gospel of Jesus Christ, some from the pulpit, most just one on one with people we come in contact with. If you don't attend any church and you think you will just learn on your own, you are also wrong! God Himself gave pastors who teach His Word because that's how He wants it to be! There are some things you will never learn until you are submitted to the teaching ministry of a pastor.
Find out where God wants you to be. Study to show yourself approved unto God. Be about the business that He has called you to and you won't be able to stop the blessings!
Have a great day in His love!
Shalom in Him!
Today I want to take a look at Pastors. Jeremiah has this to say:
Jeremiah 23:1-4 (KJV)
1Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.
2Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.
3And I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all countries whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their folds; and they shall be fruitful and increase.
4And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD.
The Hebrew word for pastors and for shepherds here is the same word: ra'ah, which means : to tend, to feed, to shepherd, to rule, to teach. Pastors are to be as shepherds to the sheep. A natural shepherd is responsible for looking out for the sheep, for keeping them safe, for providing access to food and water. A spiritual shepherd, a pastor, is responsible for all of these things and also to teach the people God's Word so they can learn to feed themselves and so help other people. God says here that He was upset with the pastors (shepherds) that were not feeding His people. They were neglecting His sheep! He says He would deal with those evil pastors according to their deeds and He would give His people, His sheep, good shepherds (pastors) who would do the job right! Those who would feed the sheep!
We read in Ephesians that after Jesus rose to heaven, gifts were given to men and those gifts included these:
Ephesians 4:11-12 (KJV)
11And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
The Greek word for pastors here is: poimen, which means the same as the Hebrew word above! The meaning is clearer here, though, in that the word "and" in verse 11 means "an added thing" or "a continuing thought", except in the first and last instances. In those cases the word is the Greek word: kai, which has the idea of "accumulation". It means "both", so that what we really have here is that God has given us pastors who are also teachers! You cannot really pastor a congregation if you can't teach them the Word of God so that they really can grow up in the things of God. The reason for giving all of these ministry "gifts" was for the perfecting (the complete furnishing or equipping) of the saints (all born again believers are saints!) for the work of the ministry. We've got work to do and pastors are to do their part in preparing us for that work!
So what are we saying today? We are saying that the main job of a pastor today is the same as it was then, to feed, guide, teach and train the sheep! If you are attending a church where the pastor does not teach the Word of God, you need to find yourself another church! You need to prayerfully ask your heavenly Father where He wants you to attend so that you can be properly prepared for the ministry He has called you to. Every believer is called to minister the simple Gospel of Jesus Christ, some from the pulpit, most just one on one with people we come in contact with. If you don't attend any church and you think you will just learn on your own, you are also wrong! God Himself gave pastors who teach His Word because that's how He wants it to be! There are some things you will never learn until you are submitted to the teaching ministry of a pastor.
Find out where God wants you to be. Study to show yourself approved unto God. Be about the business that He has called you to and you won't be able to stop the blessings!
Have a great day in His love!
Shalom in Him!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Shalom,
Yesterday we looked at the Psalms and found out that God is GOOD! Today we want to look at that just a little more! You can't ever get too much of a good Word from God! Today we will look again at Psalms:
Psalms 107:1-2 (Amplified)
1 O GIVE thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever! 2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
We are told here, again, to give thanks! To laud (applaud!) and praise (to revere and worship Him with hands lifted up)! Why? Because He (the Lord Jehovah!) is good, and all the meanings of it! And His mercy (loving kindness) endures forever, never stops, is ALWAYS available to us! We are also told in the Psalm for today that the redeemed of the Lord (every born again believer in the Lord Jesus Christ) should SAY so! Say what? That we are redeemed, bought back, saved, delivered, made new! If we don't tell them, how will they know! That word, say, is the Hebrew word, amar, which means to speak, to utter, to avow, to boast! If you are the redeemed, let your voice be heard! Brag and boast about what He has done in and for you! Another verse we want to look at today is found in the book of Jeremiah:
Jeremiah 9:24 (KJV)
24But 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.
The Amplified Bible says this:
Jeremiah 9:24 (Amplified)
24But let him who glories glory in this: that he understands and knows Me [personally and practically, directly discerning and recognizing My character], that I am the Lord, Who practices loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord.
What should we "glory" in? What should we "boast" about? That we are the redeemed of the Lord and that we are progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him! Knowing Him more every day! Understanding Him and His wonderful "Goodness", so that we can tell others and they will want to know Him, too!
Have a very blessed day filled with thanksgiving and praise to our wonderful Lord and bragging and boasting about Him to everyone you come in contact with. GOD IS GOOD, all the time!
Shalom in Him!
Yesterday we looked at the Psalms and found out that God is GOOD! Today we want to look at that just a little more! You can't ever get too much of a good Word from God! Today we will look again at Psalms:
Psalms 107:1-2 (Amplified)
1 O GIVE thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever! 2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
We are told here, again, to give thanks! To laud (applaud!) and praise (to revere and worship Him with hands lifted up)! Why? Because He (the Lord Jehovah!) is good, and all the meanings of it! And His mercy (loving kindness) endures forever, never stops, is ALWAYS available to us! We are also told in the Psalm for today that the redeemed of the Lord (every born again believer in the Lord Jesus Christ) should SAY so! Say what? That we are redeemed, bought back, saved, delivered, made new! If we don't tell them, how will they know! That word, say, is the Hebrew word, amar, which means to speak, to utter, to avow, to boast! If you are the redeemed, let your voice be heard! Brag and boast about what He has done in and for you! Another verse we want to look at today is found in the book of Jeremiah:
Jeremiah 9:24 (KJV)
24But 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.
The Amplified Bible says this:
Jeremiah 9:24 (Amplified)
24But let him who glories glory in this: that he understands and knows Me [personally and practically, directly discerning and recognizing My character], that I am the Lord, Who practices loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord.
What should we "glory" in? What should we "boast" about? That we are the redeemed of the Lord and that we are progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him! Knowing Him more every day! Understanding Him and His wonderful "Goodness", so that we can tell others and they will want to know Him, too!
Have a very blessed day filled with thanksgiving and praise to our wonderful Lord and bragging and boasting about Him to everyone you come in contact with. GOD IS GOOD, all the time!
Shalom in Him!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Shalom,
If there was one message that I feel it is vital for people to really get inside, it would be this: GOD IS GOOD! If you can understand the real, powerful goodness of God, you would have a better understanding of the Bible as a whole, and of why God tells us to do some of the things He tells us in His Word. These Scriptures tell us this:
Psalm 118:1-4, 29
1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever.
2 Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
3 Let the house of Aaron now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
4 Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
29 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
The Amplified Bible says this:
Psalm 118:1-4, 29
1 GIVE thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!
2 Let Israel now say that His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
3 Let the house of Aaron [the priesthood] now say that His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
4 Let those now who reverently and worshipfully fear the Lord say that His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
29 O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
"Give thanks" is the Hebrew word yadah, which means to give thanks, to laud or praise, to revere or worship with extended hands. "The Lord" is the Hebrew name Yehovah (Jehovah) which means the Eternal, self-existing One. "Good" is the Hebrew word towb, which means good in the widest sense, excellent, pleasant, agreeable, glad, happy, prosperous, rich, valuable, and more. "His mercy" is the Hebrew word checed, which means favour, good deed, mercy, beauty, goodness, kindness, faithfulness.
When we truly understand the goodness of God, we will be so quick to obey His Word, knowing that His plans for us are only good, all the time!
Have a wonderful day, fully celebrating the goodness of God with all that is within you! You'll be surprised how His Word will come alive to you like never before!
Shalom in Him!
If there was one message that I feel it is vital for people to really get inside, it would be this: GOD IS GOOD! If you can understand the real, powerful goodness of God, you would have a better understanding of the Bible as a whole, and of why God tells us to do some of the things He tells us in His Word. These Scriptures tell us this:
Psalm 118:1-4, 29
1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever.
2 Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
3 Let the house of Aaron now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
4 Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
29 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
The Amplified Bible says this:
Psalm 118:1-4, 29
1 GIVE thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!
2 Let Israel now say that His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
3 Let the house of Aaron [the priesthood] now say that His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
4 Let those now who reverently and worshipfully fear the Lord say that His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
29 O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.
"Give thanks" is the Hebrew word yadah, which means to give thanks, to laud or praise, to revere or worship with extended hands. "The Lord" is the Hebrew name Yehovah (Jehovah) which means the Eternal, self-existing One. "Good" is the Hebrew word towb, which means good in the widest sense, excellent, pleasant, agreeable, glad, happy, prosperous, rich, valuable, and more. "His mercy" is the Hebrew word checed, which means favour, good deed, mercy, beauty, goodness, kindness, faithfulness.
When we truly understand the goodness of God, we will be so quick to obey His Word, knowing that His plans for us are only good, all the time!
Have a wonderful day, fully celebrating the goodness of God with all that is within you! You'll be surprised how His Word will come alive to you like never before!
Shalom in Him!
Friday, October 12, 2007
Shalom,
I want to talk today about fellowship. I once heard a minister say that what most Christians call fellowship, isn't really fellowship at all. He said that fellowship is not around the coffee cup or the potluck supper, it must be around the Word of God. This Scripture shows that:
1 John 1:1-5
1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
2(For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
3That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
4And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
5This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
The Amplified Bible says this:
1 John 1:1-5
1[WE ARE writing] about the Word of Life [in] Him Who existed from the beginning, Whom we have heard, Whom we have seen with our [own] eyes, Whom we have gazed upon [for ourselves] and have touched with our [own] hands.
2And the Life [an aspect of His being] was revealed (made manifest, demonstrated), and we saw [as eyewitnesses] and are testifying to and declare to you the Life, the eternal Life [in Him] Who already existed with the Father and Who [actually] was made visible (was revealed) to us [His followers].
3What we have seen and [ourselves] heard, we are also telling you, so that you too may realize and enjoy fellowship as partners and partakers with us. And [this] fellowship that we have [which is a distinguishing mark of Christians] is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ (the Messiah).
4And we are now writing these things to you so that our joy [in seeing you included] may be full [and your joy may be complete].
5And this is the message [the message of promise] which we have heard from Him and now are reporting to you: God is Light, and there is no darkness in Him at all [no, not in any way].
Our first fellowship priority is with our Father God and our Lord Jesus through the Holy Spirit. When we spend time in their presence, then we have something to give in fellowship with other believers. But our fellowship should ALWAYS be around the Word of God. No matter what we're doing, watching sports, watching movies, playing games, the Holy Spirit will always teach us something through that if we're open to be taught. Then when we share that with each other, THAT'S true Christian fellowship! I plan on doing that a lot this weekend. How about you?
Have a great weekend in great fellowship!
Shalom in Him
I want to talk today about fellowship. I once heard a minister say that what most Christians call fellowship, isn't really fellowship at all. He said that fellowship is not around the coffee cup or the potluck supper, it must be around the Word of God. This Scripture shows that:
1 John 1:1-5
1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
2(For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
3That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
4And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
5This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
The Amplified Bible says this:
1 John 1:1-5
1[WE ARE writing] about the Word of Life [in] Him Who existed from the beginning, Whom we have heard, Whom we have seen with our [own] eyes, Whom we have gazed upon [for ourselves] and have touched with our [own] hands.
2And the Life [an aspect of His being] was revealed (made manifest, demonstrated), and we saw [as eyewitnesses] and are testifying to and declare to you the Life, the eternal Life [in Him] Who already existed with the Father and Who [actually] was made visible (was revealed) to us [His followers].
3What we have seen and [ourselves] heard, we are also telling you, so that you too may realize and enjoy fellowship as partners and partakers with us. And [this] fellowship that we have [which is a distinguishing mark of Christians] is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ (the Messiah).
4And we are now writing these things to you so that our joy [in seeing you included] may be full [and your joy may be complete].
5And this is the message [the message of promise] which we have heard from Him and now are reporting to you: God is Light, and there is no darkness in Him at all [no, not in any way].
Our first fellowship priority is with our Father God and our Lord Jesus through the Holy Spirit. When we spend time in their presence, then we have something to give in fellowship with other believers. But our fellowship should ALWAYS be around the Word of God. No matter what we're doing, watching sports, watching movies, playing games, the Holy Spirit will always teach us something through that if we're open to be taught. Then when we share that with each other, THAT'S true Christian fellowship! I plan on doing that a lot this weekend. How about you?
Have a great weekend in great fellowship!
Shalom in Him
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Shalom,
I want to share with you today from 1 John chapter 5 about answered prayer. First, though, we need to establish who these verses are addressed to. 1 John 5:11-13 tells us this:
1 John 5:11-13
11And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
13These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
The Amplified Bible says this:
I want to share with you today from 1 John chapter 5 about answered prayer. First, though, we need to establish who these verses are addressed to. 1 John 5:11-13 tells us this:
1 John 5:11-13
11And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
13These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
The Amplified Bible says this:
1John5:11-13 11And this is that testimony (that evidence): God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
12He who possesses the Son has that life; he who does not possess the Son of God does not have that life.
13I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life.
So we see from these Scriptures that the verses we will be looking at are directed to born again believers. Those who have received Jesus as Lord and personal Savior. Let's look, then, at 1 John 5:14-15:
1 John 5:14-15
14And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
15And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
The Amplified Bible says:
1 John5:14-15 14And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
15And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
What we see here in 1 John is that what we have to do to get our prayers answered is to find out what God's will is. We know that His Word reveals His will, so what we are really saying is: find out what God's Word has to say. Ask according to His Word (His will) and he hears and when He hears, we HAVE IT! What a powerful promise!
Spend time today finding out what God has promised YOU! Then you can pray in faith believing and KNOWING that you have the answer. If you are not a believer, then this does not include you. Is there any reason you can't receive Jesus as your Lord and personal Savior today? Pray this prayer, believing, and receive:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord. Amen!
Have a wonderful day filled with His love and His Word!
Shalom in Him!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Shalom,
Today I want to talk a little more about meditation. We saw yesterday that Joshua was instructed by God to meditate on His Word day and night. I want to share some other Scriptures that talk about meditation:
Josh 1:88
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.(KJV)
Ps 1:1-3
1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.(KJV)
Ps 63:5-65
My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.(KJV)
Ps 77:11-1311
I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.12 I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.13 Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?(KJV)
In all of these examples the word meditate is the Hebrew word:
Today I want to talk a little more about meditation. We saw yesterday that Joshua was instructed by God to meditate on His Word day and night. I want to share some other Scriptures that talk about meditation:
Josh 1:88
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.(KJV)
Ps 1:1-3
1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.(KJV)
Ps 63:5-65
My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.(KJV)
Ps 77:11-1311
I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.12 I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.13 Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?(KJV)
In all of these examples the word meditate is the Hebrew word:
hagah (daw-gaw');
a primitive root, to murmur (in pleasure or anger); to ponder:
KJV-- imagine, meditate, mourn, mutter, roar, speak, study, talk, utter.
It also means: to moan, to growl, to utter, to muse, to devise, speak, to imagine
These Scriptures also talk about meditating:
Ps 119:1515
I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.(KJV)
Ps 119:2323
Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.(KJV)
Ps 119:4848
My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.(KJV)
Ps 119:7878
Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts.(KJV)
Ps 119:148148
Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word.(KJV)
In all of these references, the word meditate is the Hebrew word:
siyach (see'-akh);
a primitive root; to ponder, i.e. converse (with oneself, and hence, aloud) or utter: KJV-- commune, declare, meditate, muse, pray, speak, talk (with).
It also means: to put forth, to ponder, to sing, to study, to ponder, to talk, to sing, to put forth thoughts
In all of these references we see that there is so much more to our study of God's Word than just reading. I have read through the Bible myself more than 20 times and some books of the Bible hundreds of times. But reading and memorizing is not what will change us or renew our souls. It is the continual meditation, the thinking about, pondering, imagining, speaking to ourselves and others, allowing the Holy Spirit Who is our Teacher to paint those pictures for us of what the Word is actually saying that will change our thinking and cause the Word of God to come alive to us. That is what will cause faith to rise in our hearts! When God's Word becomes real to us, it will not be hard to separate the Truth from the lies of the world!
Begin to really study what you read in the Word, after asking the Holy Spirit to teach you, and you will be amazed at how logical the Word will become. You will wonder why everyone doesn't see it as clear! That's when this life in the Spirit becomes full and fun and productive!
Until tomorrow, have a great day in the Word! I can't think of a better place to spend my time!
Shalom in Him!
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Shalom,
Today we want to look at renewing our souls. Remember that the soul is made up of the mind, emotions and will. The Bible tells us what to do with our minds:
Romans 12:2 (KJV)
2And 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.
The word transformed here is the Greek word, metamorphoo, which means to change or transform. Renewing is the Greek word, anakainosis, which means renovation or a complete change for the better. In fact the Amplified translation makes that more clear:
2Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
Our souls, our mind, emotions and will, are changed progressively, day by day. James tells us this:
James 1:21 (KJV)
21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
The Amplified Bible says this:
James 1:21 (Amplified)
21So get rid of all uncleanness and the rampant outgrowth of wickedness, and in a humble (gentle, modest) spirit receive and welcome the Word which implanted and rooted [in your hearts] contains the power to save your souls.
The engrafted word is the Word of God that you put in you. It has the power to change us into His image as we learn it, believe it and obey it!
Even Old Testament believers were told to do this. God Himself told Joshua this:
Joshua 1:8 (Amplified)
8This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
Meditating on the Word of God will change us, IF we do what the Word says to do. As we are changed, day by day, we will begin to think like God. When we think like God we will speak like God. When we think and speak like God, then we will act like God. And that IS His plan for us! Jesus said:
John 4:12 (Amplified)
12I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.
Our heavenly Father wants us to think and talk and act like Jesus. When we do, we will have the same results Jesus did in His ministry, and people will be drawn to Him, through us! That's why we're here. To draw all men unto Him!
Have a wonderful day renewing your mind with the powerful and amazing Word of God. You'll be glad you did and others will, too!
Shalom in Him!
Today we want to look at renewing our souls. Remember that the soul is made up of the mind, emotions and will. The Bible tells us what to do with our minds:
Romans 12:2 (KJV)
2And 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.
The word transformed here is the Greek word, metamorphoo, which means to change or transform. Renewing is the Greek word, anakainosis, which means renovation or a complete change for the better. In fact the Amplified translation makes that more clear:
2Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
Our souls, our mind, emotions and will, are changed progressively, day by day. James tells us this:
James 1:21 (KJV)
21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
The Amplified Bible says this:
James 1:21 (Amplified)
21So get rid of all uncleanness and the rampant outgrowth of wickedness, and in a humble (gentle, modest) spirit receive and welcome the Word which implanted and rooted [in your hearts] contains the power to save your souls.
The engrafted word is the Word of God that you put in you. It has the power to change us into His image as we learn it, believe it and obey it!
Even Old Testament believers were told to do this. God Himself told Joshua this:
Joshua 1:8 (Amplified)
8This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
Meditating on the Word of God will change us, IF we do what the Word says to do. As we are changed, day by day, we will begin to think like God. When we think like God we will speak like God. When we think and speak like God, then we will act like God. And that IS His plan for us! Jesus said:
John 4:12 (Amplified)
12I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.
Our heavenly Father wants us to think and talk and act like Jesus. When we do, we will have the same results Jesus did in His ministry, and people will be drawn to Him, through us! That's why we're here. To draw all men unto Him!
Have a wonderful day renewing your mind with the powerful and amazing Word of God. You'll be glad you did and others will, too!
Shalom in Him!
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Shalom,
In order to properly understand the Word of God, we need to understand a very basic Bible Truth about ourselves. Just as God (or the Godhead) is a triune being (the Father, the Son (Jesus) and the Holy Spirit), so we are also triune beings. We are spirit beings who possess souls and live in bodies.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 (KJV)
23And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
At the new birth it is the spirit of man that is born again:
2 Corinthians 5:17 (Amplified)
17Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!
Our spirits are made new, in His image. Our previous spiritually dead nature was replaced with a new, godly nature. Our spirits are made perfect! Instantly! There is another instant change that will happen at a future time, I think very soon. That is the instant changing of our mortal bodies into immortal bodies, resurrection bodies:
1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (Amplified)
51Take notice! I tell you a mystery (a secret truth, an event decreed by the hidden purpose or counsel of God). We shall not all fall asleep [in death], but we shall all be changed (transformed)
52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the [sound of the] last trumpet call. For a trumpet will sound, and the dead [in Christ] will be raised imperishable (free and immune from decay), and we shall be changed (transformed).
53For this perishable [part of us] must put on the imperishable [nature], and this mortal [part of us, this nature that is capable of dying] must put on immortality (freedom from death).
The other part of our being, our soul, does not change instantly while here on earth. Our soul is also triune, consisting of our mind, emotions and will. Our mind is our intellect, our emotions are our feelings and our will is our "chooser", what we make choices and decisions with. The changing of our souls is a progressive work that requires a daily decision to train ourselves to think like God. The Bible does tell us this:
1 John 3:2 (KJV)
2Beloved, 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.
Until THAT day, we need to renew our minds to think like God so that we can make right decisions with our souls that will result in our pleasing God while here in these bodies! We'll talk more about how to renew our souls tomorrow.
Shalom in Him!
In order to properly understand the Word of God, we need to understand a very basic Bible Truth about ourselves. Just as God (or the Godhead) is a triune being (the Father, the Son (Jesus) and the Holy Spirit), so we are also triune beings. We are spirit beings who possess souls and live in bodies.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 (KJV)
23And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
At the new birth it is the spirit of man that is born again:
2 Corinthians 5:17 (Amplified)
17Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!
Our spirits are made new, in His image. Our previous spiritually dead nature was replaced with a new, godly nature. Our spirits are made perfect! Instantly! There is another instant change that will happen at a future time, I think very soon. That is the instant changing of our mortal bodies into immortal bodies, resurrection bodies:
1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (Amplified)
51Take notice! I tell you a mystery (a secret truth, an event decreed by the hidden purpose or counsel of God). We shall not all fall asleep [in death], but we shall all be changed (transformed)
52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the [sound of the] last trumpet call. For a trumpet will sound, and the dead [in Christ] will be raised imperishable (free and immune from decay), and we shall be changed (transformed).
53For this perishable [part of us] must put on the imperishable [nature], and this mortal [part of us, this nature that is capable of dying] must put on immortality (freedom from death).
The other part of our being, our soul, does not change instantly while here on earth. Our soul is also triune, consisting of our mind, emotions and will. Our mind is our intellect, our emotions are our feelings and our will is our "chooser", what we make choices and decisions with. The changing of our souls is a progressive work that requires a daily decision to train ourselves to think like God. The Bible does tell us this:
1 John 3:2 (KJV)
2Beloved, 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.
Until THAT day, we need to renew our minds to think like God so that we can make right decisions with our souls that will result in our pleasing God while here in these bodies! We'll talk more about how to renew our souls tomorrow.
Shalom in Him!
Friday, October 5, 2007
Shalom,
Yesterday we looked at John 3:16. Today we want to look at the next two verses:
17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (KJV)
The Amplified translation says this:
17For God did not send the Son into the world in order to judge (to reject, to condemn, to pass sentence on) the world, but that the world might find salvation and be made safe and sound through Him.
18He who believes in Him [who clings to, trusts in, relies on Him] is not judged [he who trusts in Him never comes up for judgment; for him there is no rejection, no condemnation--he incurs no damnation]; but he who does not believe (cleave to, rely on, trust in Him) is judged already [he has already been convicted and has already received his sentence] because he has not believed in and trusted in the name of the only begotten Son of God. [He is condemned for refusing to let his trust rest in Christ's name.]
As believers we need to realize that the Gospel (Greek - euaggelion=good news, glad tidings, proclamation of the grace of God) is just that, GOOD NEWS. Verse 17 is really good news to a sinner. God did not send Jesus, or us, into the world to condemn or judge the world. The curse, the judgement, was already operating in the earth because of the sin of Adam. The sentence was already established:
Romans 6:23a
23For the wages of sin is death;
The price to paid for our sin is death, not physical death, but separation from God. What's the good news then? The rest of verse 23:
Romans 6:23
23For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
God sent the Son, Jesus, into the world so that the world may find salvation through Him! That's the Good News! John 3:18 says that the sentence, the condemnation, the judgment is removed because of what Jesus accomplished through His death, burial and resurrection.
Let's be about our Father's business of telling the really Good News to all who need to hear! God's not holding anything against them! The ONLY sin that will keep a person out of heaven when they leave this earth is the sin of rejecting Jesus. Is there any reason YOU can't receive Jesus as YOUR Lord and Savior right now? Pray this prayer with me:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now have a wonderful day rejoicing in the fact that YOU are a child of the One True, Most High, Living, Almighty God of the Bible! And tell others the Good News that got you there!
Shalom in Him!
Yesterday we looked at John 3:16. Today we want to look at the next two verses:
17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (KJV)
The Amplified translation says this:
17For God did not send the Son into the world in order to judge (to reject, to condemn, to pass sentence on) the world, but that the world might find salvation and be made safe and sound through Him.
18He who believes in Him [who clings to, trusts in, relies on Him] is not judged [he who trusts in Him never comes up for judgment; for him there is no rejection, no condemnation--he incurs no damnation]; but he who does not believe (cleave to, rely on, trust in Him) is judged already [he has already been convicted and has already received his sentence] because he has not believed in and trusted in the name of the only begotten Son of God. [He is condemned for refusing to let his trust rest in Christ's name.]
As believers we need to realize that the Gospel (Greek - euaggelion=good news, glad tidings, proclamation of the grace of God) is just that, GOOD NEWS. Verse 17 is really good news to a sinner. God did not send Jesus, or us, into the world to condemn or judge the world. The curse, the judgement, was already operating in the earth because of the sin of Adam. The sentence was already established:
Romans 6:23a
23For the wages of sin is death;
The price to paid for our sin is death, not physical death, but separation from God. What's the good news then? The rest of verse 23:
Romans 6:23
23For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
God sent the Son, Jesus, into the world so that the world may find salvation through Him! That's the Good News! John 3:18 says that the sentence, the condemnation, the judgment is removed because of what Jesus accomplished through His death, burial and resurrection.
Let's be about our Father's business of telling the really Good News to all who need to hear! God's not holding anything against them! The ONLY sin that will keep a person out of heaven when they leave this earth is the sin of rejecting Jesus. Is there any reason YOU can't receive Jesus as YOUR Lord and Savior right now? Pray this prayer with me:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now have a wonderful day rejoicing in the fact that YOU are a child of the One True, Most High, Living, Almighty God of the Bible! And tell others the Good News that got you there!
Shalom in Him!
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Shalom!
Today I want to look at one of the most well known verses in the New Testament.
John 3:16 (KJV)
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Some have called that verse the Gospel in a nutshell. I prefer to call it the heart of God. It is especially powerful in the Amplified translation of the Bible:
16For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
The plan of salvation! God gave His only Son to buy back for Himself many sons! (and daughters!) The word "prized" in the dictionary means to value or esteem very highly. Our God so greatly loved and dearly prized (valued and esteemed) us that He sent His Son to leave His glory in heaven and live life here on earth as a man who would endure the same temptations as we do, yet He would never give in to sin. Because He was sinless, He qualified to pay the price for MY sin (and yours!). What an amazing Truth! God's great love for us overcame all the power of our enemy! All that is left is for us to accept and receive that free gift of Salvation, and belong to the famliy of God! Is there any reason you can't receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior right now? After believing in your heart, pray this prayer:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now you are a child of God and you need to grow up in Him. We'll look more at these verses tomorrow. Have a great, blessed day!
Shalom in Him!
Today I want to look at one of the most well known verses in the New Testament.
John 3:16 (KJV)
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Some have called that verse the Gospel in a nutshell. I prefer to call it the heart of God. It is especially powerful in the Amplified translation of the Bible:
16For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
The plan of salvation! God gave His only Son to buy back for Himself many sons! (and daughters!) The word "prized" in the dictionary means to value or esteem very highly. Our God so greatly loved and dearly prized (valued and esteemed) us that He sent His Son to leave His glory in heaven and live life here on earth as a man who would endure the same temptations as we do, yet He would never give in to sin. Because He was sinless, He qualified to pay the price for MY sin (and yours!). What an amazing Truth! God's great love for us overcame all the power of our enemy! All that is left is for us to accept and receive that free gift of Salvation, and belong to the famliy of God! Is there any reason you can't receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior right now? After believing in your heart, pray this prayer:
Almighty God, I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on the cross for me, was raised from the dead, and is now seated at Your right hand. I accept and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and I invite Him to come into my heart and become Lord over my life. I thank You now Father, for welcoming me into Your family. You are my Father. I am Your child. Jesus is my Lord! Amen.
Now you are a child of God and you need to grow up in Him. We'll look more at these verses tomorrow. Have a great, blessed day!
Shalom in Him!
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Shalom,
Following on in Paul's prayer in Philippians chapter 3, we see that while Paul had made knowing the Lord his most important goal, he had not accomplished all he wanted to in that area yet. In verse 12 we read:
Philippians 3:12-14 (Amplified)
12Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own.
13I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
14I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.
Paul understood something here that we as believers need to really grasp. We will never really "arrive" at spiritual maturity. We will never , in this life, know all there is to know about Jesus and His Word. We just get closer every day when we, like Paul, make it our determined purpose to do so! The next two verses are key for us:
Philippians 3:15-16 (Amplified)
15So let those [of us] who are spiritually mature and full-grown have this mind and hold these convictions; and if in any respect you have a different attitude of mind, God will make that clear to you also.
16Only let us hold true to what we have already attained and walk and order our lives by that.
We are to walk in the light we have. We are to obey the Word we know. At the same time, we are to press on to know more! We are to pursue knowing Him more every day. Then we have this promise:
1 John 3:2 (Amplified)
2Beloved, we are [even here and] now God's children; it is not yet disclosed (made clear) what we shall be [hereafter], but we know that when He comes and is manifested, we shall [as God's children] resemble and be like Him, for we shall see Him just as He [really] is.
Hallelujah! What a glorious and blessed life He has given us to live! Make the most of it, every day!
Shalom in Him
Following on in Paul's prayer in Philippians chapter 3, we see that while Paul had made knowing the Lord his most important goal, he had not accomplished all he wanted to in that area yet. In verse 12 we read:
Philippians 3:12-14 (Amplified)
12Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own.
13I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
14I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.
Paul understood something here that we as believers need to really grasp. We will never really "arrive" at spiritual maturity. We will never , in this life, know all there is to know about Jesus and His Word. We just get closer every day when we, like Paul, make it our determined purpose to do so! The next two verses are key for us:
Philippians 3:15-16 (Amplified)
15So let those [of us] who are spiritually mature and full-grown have this mind and hold these convictions; and if in any respect you have a different attitude of mind, God will make that clear to you also.
16Only let us hold true to what we have already attained and walk and order our lives by that.
We are to walk in the light we have. We are to obey the Word we know. At the same time, we are to press on to know more! We are to pursue knowing Him more every day. Then we have this promise:
1 John 3:2 (Amplified)
2Beloved, we are [even here and] now God's children; it is not yet disclosed (made clear) what we shall be [hereafter], but we know that when He comes and is manifested, we shall [as God's children] resemble and be like Him, for we shall see Him just as He [really] is.
Hallelujah! What a glorious and blessed life He has given us to live! Make the most of it, every day!
Shalom in Him
Monday, October 1, 2007
Shalom,
Today I want to continue in Philippians chapter 3. Paul said that he held nothing in his life to be more important that knowing the Lord. The next verses, especially in the Amplified Bible, show the depth of his commitment to know the Lord:
Philippians 3:9-11
9And that I may [actually] be found and known as in Him, not having any [self-achieved] righteousness that can be called my own, based on my obedience to the Law's demands (ritualistic uprightness and supposed right standing with God thus acquired), but possessing that [genuine righteousness] which comes through faith in Christ (the Anointed One), the [truly] right standing with God, which comes from God by [saving] faith.
10[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope]
11That if possible I may attain to the [spiritual and moral] resurrection [that lifts me] out from among the dead [even while in the body].
Paul wanted everyone to know that his right-standing with God did not come as a result of any good works on his part, but wholly and completely through faith in Jesus Christ and His precious gift of salvation. That's how we obtain eternal salvation, too.
Then Paul goes on to share his heart's desire, which was to know the Lord. Not just be aware of or acquainted with. He wanted to get to know Jesus intimately. The word for "know" here is the greek word, ginosko, which means to come to know, to know absolutely, to understand. It has the sense of progression, day by day, layer upon layer. Paul did, and we should, want to know the Lord more every day than we did the day before. We will never stop learning about Him until that day that we see Him face to face!
The other exciting thing we see here is that at the same time and in the same way we get to know Jesus better, we also come to know the power that is available to us through His resurrection. That is how we do the works that Jesus did and the greater works that He talks about in John 14:12!
The more we know Jesus, the more we will think, talk and act like Jesus. Then we will see the same results Jesus saw! People will be set free and drawn to Him. That's the life we're called to live. What a blessed and powerful life! Thank you Lord Jesus!
Have a great day!
Shalom in Him,
Robin
Today I want to continue in Philippians chapter 3. Paul said that he held nothing in his life to be more important that knowing the Lord. The next verses, especially in the Amplified Bible, show the depth of his commitment to know the Lord:
Philippians 3:9-11
9And that I may [actually] be found and known as in Him, not having any [self-achieved] righteousness that can be called my own, based on my obedience to the Law's demands (ritualistic uprightness and supposed right standing with God thus acquired), but possessing that [genuine righteousness] which comes through faith in Christ (the Anointed One), the [truly] right standing with God, which comes from God by [saving] faith.
10[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope]
11That if possible I may attain to the [spiritual and moral] resurrection [that lifts me] out from among the dead [even while in the body].
Paul wanted everyone to know that his right-standing with God did not come as a result of any good works on his part, but wholly and completely through faith in Jesus Christ and His precious gift of salvation. That's how we obtain eternal salvation, too.
Then Paul goes on to share his heart's desire, which was to know the Lord. Not just be aware of or acquainted with. He wanted to get to know Jesus intimately. The word for "know" here is the greek word, ginosko, which means to come to know, to know absolutely, to understand. It has the sense of progression, day by day, layer upon layer. Paul did, and we should, want to know the Lord more every day than we did the day before. We will never stop learning about Him until that day that we see Him face to face!
The other exciting thing we see here is that at the same time and in the same way we get to know Jesus better, we also come to know the power that is available to us through His resurrection. That is how we do the works that Jesus did and the greater works that He talks about in John 14:12!
The more we know Jesus, the more we will think, talk and act like Jesus. Then we will see the same results Jesus saw! People will be set free and drawn to Him. That's the life we're called to live. What a blessed and powerful life! Thank you Lord Jesus!
Have a great day!
Shalom in Him,
Robin
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