Scribe For Jesus

2008-11-24T09:44:00.001-08:00

The Wage –

God’s holy word teaches us that the wages of sin is death.

Rom 6:23 NKJV
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I have an internal battle wherein I drag myself to Jesus announcing my unworthiness of His love and almost demanding judgment. I am reminded of the scripture of a woman caught in adultery and the scribes and Pharisees brought her to Jesus in order to trap him and His answer was let he who is without sin cast the stone. He did not categorize sin and say let him who committed a lesser sin cast the first stone but he whom is without sin cast the stone. The size of our sin is much smaller in perspective then the Love of God found through Jesus Christ redemptive act on the cross.

John 8:3-12 NKJV
3 Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, 4 they said to Him, "Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?" 6 This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. 7 So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." 8 And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. 9 Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. 10 When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, "Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?" 11 She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said to her, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more." 12 Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life."

I like the scribes and Pharisees must leave the presence of this conversation because I am unable to cast a stone even at myself and must come to the realization that the only one whom ever lived that could have cast that stone was Jesus himself and instead He chose the route of the cross in my place and died for my sins. Lord I pray that you would use my very life to respond in praise and adoration for your loving redemptive act on the cross.

2008-10-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

Anything for God

For me it’s not enough to be merely associated with the name of God to be a mere Christian. I have an overwhelming desire to be an instrument used by God for God when and where He wants. I want nothing but the pleasure of the Father in my life.

God make me an instrument for your pleasure.

Phil 2:12-17
13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. 14 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. 17 Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.
NKJV

2 Thess 1:10-12
11 Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power, 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
NKJV

God I know I am not worthy of your calling however I pray never the less that you would use me to bring glory to your name; amen.

2008-10-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

MEDITATIONS

Ps 19:14

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.
NKJV

Oh Lord I pray that I may meditate and think about your precepts and your desires for my life and be in right relationship with you all day long.

The word meditation brings so many imageries to mind such as Eastern Mysticism, prayer, etc. What it brings to my mind is thinking about, considering, and desiring a fellowship with God. These days much of our thought life is filled with personal pursuits such as wealth, self and entertainment. The above Psalm was popularized in a Christian song and I believe most of us would like to have this Psalm be true of us. But before this Psalm can be your Psalm you must first have a desire for God and a desire to know Him and have a relationship with Him. God is not an uninterested third party who merely observes our lives; instead, He was so interested that He gave His all for us on the cross. His covenant with us is love and it is eternal for those who have Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. May God bless you…

Ps 104:34-35
34 May my meditation be sweet to Him;
I will be glad in the LORD.
35 May sinners be consumed from the earth,
And the wicked be no more.

Bless the LORD, O my soul!
Praise the LORD!
NKJV

2008-02-22T09:06:00.001-08:00

No passing lane

The bible describes the entrance to heaven as narrow however the road to destruction as broad.

Matt 7:13-14 NIV
13 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.

In the letter to Corinthians Paul describes the believers live through the illustration or word picture of running a race.

1 Cor 9:24-27 NIV
24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27 No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

I can’t help believing that along this race in life we have left fallen and distressed brethren behind; we have ran the race and attempted to push ourselves through the gate. There is no passing lane the way is narrow if one of GOD’s beloved falls in front of you stop and pick him up; carry him if necessary. We are in this rat race of life together in various conditions, we our called to be a peculiar bunch and called to love one another. The world cannot understand the love of Christ, but we as believers are called to live that love. Wow, what a remarkable privilege and gift. Can life be so hard that we break fellowship and divorce one another at the drop of a hat?

See the story of the Good Samaritan –

Luke 10:30-37 NKJV
30 Then Jesus answered and said: "A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. 34 So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, 'Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.' 36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" 37 And he said, "He who showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."

I guess I have to wonder, when we see a fallen brother or sister how much compassion should we have? Should you jump overtop of them in this race of life and run your race? No, don’t let it be said amongst the heathen that we don’t love are own. We need to love them and feed them and pray for them in what ever condition we find them. Let us not run the race without the weaker brethren if need be lets carry them with us. We serve one Lord and have one goal to see GOD glorified; praise be His name. Remember we have all grown weary and been discouraged that does not mean we have been disqualified and most certainly not discarded by the brethren or fellow sojourners.

2008-02-21T11:50:00.001-08:00

The Resume:

Matt 11:7-10 NKJV
7 As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. 9 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. 10 For this is he of whom it is written:

'Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.'

Just as Jesus asked the multitude concerning John I to must ask; what did you come to church to see? Did you come to be entertained by articulate words, flowery speech, sweet music, obligation etc, etc…?

I must first say that I do not have a flawless resume. I have lived on earth for 36 years and have probably sinned for 35 of those. I have a high school diploma no formal college education. Why one earth would GOD choose you use someone like me or you? If you look at the who’s who cast in the bible there credentials aren’t all that impressive. Adam sinned and was not strong enough to take responsibility instead he blamed his wife. Moses committed murder and apparently stuttered. I can go on and on, what about the New Testament? Paul persecuted the church, Peter denied the Lord and that is just to name a few. Jesus did not select the elite for the church He used fisherman, tax collectors publicans and sinners.

Wow lets skip a few thousand years and go to the modern church; there is me and you. We all have been called to be a vital part of a local body of believers. We are called to spend and be spent in that body; there are no pew potatoes you are called to serve.

Matt 28:19-20 NKJV
19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.

What are you doing to make disciples in your church? Are you working with or teaching other believers. Are call is not that different from John’s, he was called to prepare the way for the Lord and we have the same call to prepare for the second coming of Our Lord. We are responsible for each other and should take that serious after all we are called to love one another. We have all been called to the church as laborers, some labor in the office of pastors, teachers etc… We are one body with many members functioning in harmony in order to share the good news of the gospel. Let us do all things for the Glory of GOD and may He bless you.

2008-01-09T08:44:00.001-08:00

The Promise

There is much written and spoken about the many promises of blessings found in the Holy Bible.

Deut 6:10-12 NKJV
10 "So it shall be, when the LORD your God brings you into the land of which He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give you large and beautiful cities which you did not build, 11 houses full of all good things, which you did not fill, hewn-out wells which you did not dig, vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant--when you have eaten and are full-- 12 then beware, lest you forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.

We spend much energy searching out these blessings so we may consume them upon ourselves; there clearly is many more blessings contained throughout scripture.

To me, as a Christian all blessings and promises point to one; the blessing of a Christian is that I have a Salvation I did not earn or deserve. I have a GOD whom loves me so great and mightily all I can do is weep and praise Him when I read of His love and redemption.

Eph 2:8-10 NKJV
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Oh what a blessing it is; How great thou art Lord…

2007-12-30T09:08:00.000-08:00

Confined to Church

I believe that church should not be confined to four walls and a specific day of the week. In the early church it seems to me that you would have a hard time distinguishing the actual services from the everyday living of the followers of Christ. Please don’t misunderstand me; I am not at all suggesting that we should not have a day set aside for church service and or a specific building set aside for the service. What I am saying is that the bible and the love of Christ should be so transparent in us that we should be in His service everyday and not just in a service just once a week. I look around this nation and there is certainly a remnant of people who have devoted their lives to loving the Lord, praying and serving others, although it’s definitely not commonplace or the norm.

Seek Him in the everyday and remember Christ lived servant-hood out.

John 13:12-17

12 So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.
NKJV

Matt 23:11
11 But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant.
NKJV

Matt 22:36-40
36 "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?" 37 Jesus said to him, " 'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."
NKJV

Remember loving and serving is active and participatory and not passive. May GOD bless you and fulfill His purpose in you through His love.

2007-12-27T09:18:00.001-08:00

Your Holy calling

Your holy calling is to love; what does it mean to be holy? Going to church, worshiping, fasting, being kind, telling the truth and etc… …but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct… (1 Peter 1:15)

When Jesus talked to Peter about his pending fall, first He encouraged him by letting him know that He was praying for him; then He said to Peter, when you have returned to Me strengthen the brethren. Luke 22:31-33 NKJV
31 And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren."

In all things we are called to love and all other things will fall into there proper places through love. His holiness is only possible in us through His love and nothing else.

Matt 22:35-40
36 "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?" 37 Jesus said to him, " 'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."
NKJV

It was finished with love. John 19:30 …”It is finished!”

2007-12-25T08:44:00.001-08:00

New Birth Right

How one lives their life says much about the value they place on their new birth right in Christ. Is your life indicative of one whom despises their birth right like Esau? (Gen 25:29-34) Or do you value Christ and the love given to you from the cross while you were yet a sinner. When you stand before Christ I wonder if you will weep bitterly like Esau did when his father did not have the blessing of the first born to give him (Gen 27:31-34); or will you rejoice as one whom has lived a life suiting of your calling?

I am reading a book by Joseph M. Stowell titled Following Christ and in it he quotes a reported conversation between Gandhi and a close friend. “If you admire Christ so much, why don’t you become a Christian?” Gandhi reportedly replied,” When I meet a Christian who is a follower of Christ, I may consider it.”

I believe Gandhi has a good point, how much of our life really reflects Christ? When you look in the mirror do you find a follower of Christ? We are all called to be part of the Christian church. (Eph 2:19-22) Today you need to decide whom you serve and what your life represents: Christ or the world.

Matt 6:24

24 "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
NKJV

Throughout scripture you will find people say critical things about GOD because of his stubborn and rebellious people; remember no one is critical of a sinner sinning, however they leap at the chance to point out Christians flawed lives. Choose this day to give honor to the most high GOD and pursue His holy calling to worship Him with your life.

2007-12-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

Do you know Him?
I found myself meditating on knowing GOD; not only knowing about Him but truly knowing the Triune GOD. I believe much of Jesus ministry was restoring relationships with GOD and thus having fellowship with GOD. Many today want to know about GOD, Jesus and the Holy Spirit; how many want to know Him? We spend much energy on studying the miracles, mighty powers and we should; however I think we should spend most of our energy on knowing GOD. Throughout the Old Testament we certainly see people very impressed with GOD’s power; but how many really desired to know Him? Oh you will certainly find them; Moses, Abraham, Noah, Isaiah, Job, Israel (formally known as Jacob), Joseph, Daniel etc… There is certainly some key areas that GOD is going to bless with His fellowship; Bible time, prayer time, worship and fellowship with Himself and others.

You certainly should be impressed by the power of GOD; you should be far more impressed with His love and fellowship. I believe that is what I see in Jesus and His relationship with the Father. What a sweet fellowship the Father and the Son have, I believe we should spend our energy and time participating in that fellowship. To me the great mystery of GOD’s power is that He loved us while we where yet sinners. That realization is what continues to break me; the fact that He loves me in my current state, wow that just makes me cry.

Rom 5:8 NKJV
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

1 Cor 1:8-9 NKJV
9 God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

2007-12-06T08:16:00.000-08:00

One whom receives Jesus is of the household of GOD and His faith.

Eph 2:19-22 NKJV
19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit

Christians really need each other as we are being built together for a dwelling place of GOD’s spirit. Most church’s are self interested more interested in themselves being the dwelling place instead of being part of something bigger. Thus a wicked and adulterous generations seek signs and wonders. Matt 16:4 NKJV
4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah." And He left them and departed.

Job 1:10-11 NKJV
10 Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.

Be encouraged, if there was a hedge around the household of Job there will even be a greater protection around the household of GOD through the chief cornerstone Jesus.

Matt 10:36-37 NKJV
36 and 'a man's enemies will be those of his own household.'

Enough said.

Gal 6:9-10 NKJV
10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Again all that we do should be for the glory of GOD and His household.

Heb 11:7 NKJV
7 By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.

GOD’s household’s ultimate delivery comes through faith in Christ.

2007-11-24T08:04:00.001-08:00

Neglect

We really do live in the Age of Aquarius; there are many churches that teach on the power of positive thinking that most of our issues are caused by stinking thinking. One might argue –

Prov 23:7 NKJV
7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.

The problem is I cannot stop sinning by good thoughts, and that I can assure you of.

Ps 94:11-15 NKJV
11 The LORD knows the thoughts of man,
That they are futile.

12 Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O LORD,
And teach out of Your law,
13 That You may give him rest from the days of adversity,
Until the pit is dug for the wicked.
14 For the LORD will not cast off His people,
Nor will He forsake His inheritance.
15 But judgment will return to righteousness,
And all the upright in heart will follow it.

I am finding the live changing power of GOD in His word, the more time I spend in His word the closer I get to Him. If I rely on positive thinking I will positively go nowhere. I cannot rely on anything other then the fullness of what GOD’s Holy Spirit brings through His word. In closing, any experience or movement that offers you something that brings light outside of the word of GOD, is not from Him…

2007-11-23T14:41:00.001-08:00

The law of the unjust:

The unjust demand justice in order to relieve there own guilt and satisfy there own since of righteousness. The unjust really enjoy seeing others get what they deserve. They enjoy seeing people get fired from there job, go to prison and of course these are mans laws, but I sense spiritual laws at work. (The law of self justification)… It seems to relieve our guilt when we see the guiltier get punished. But alas the lost will all receive the same consideration from GOD; depart from me I never knew you.

Matt 7:22-23 NKJV

23 "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'

Choose this day whom you will follow; for Christ is the only way.

John 14:6 NKJV

6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

2007-11-22T11:34:00.001-08:00

The business end of Church

We scurry about church folding bulletins, setting up, tearing down, counting monies, eating cookies and drinking coffee. We sing praise songs, pray and hear a sermon; I am pretty sure that I have the order of the service out of order. The business end of the church is fellowship; now having said that I must qualify that. The fellowship I am talking about is an intentional fellowship; one that comes from being in the word of GOD. At the end of your church service you should have received something from GOD through your pastor sharing in His word, if not check you heart and ask your Pastor to start the service all over again. You then should find someone quickly and share with them how GOD spoke to you today; that will be more refreshing than any church experience. We were created to share our love in GOD; now that’s fellowship. I have discovered the wonders of GOD in His word and not my experiences. The business end of the church is loving people; when I talk about fellowship, I mean true fellowship that glorifies GOD, sharing what His word has spoke to you.

Remember not everyone hears the word or comprehends the word; the fact that you have heard the word and understand it is a miracle and one that needs to be shared.

Mark 4:11-12 NKJV
11 And He said to them, "To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, 12 so that

'Seeing they may see and not perceive,
And hearing they may hear and not understand;
Lest they should turn,
And their sins be forgiven them.' "

Finally, don’t hide in church--let your light be seen and seen clearly through the word of GOD.

Matt 5:13-16 NKJV
14 You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

2007-11-20T08:22:00.000-08:00

My First Love…

It has been said that we need to return to our first love and although true for the church; for me I need to return to the one whom loved me first.
Rev 2:4-6 NKJV
4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent.

Unfortunately for me my first love was the world/sin and although that is not true love; it’s true that I have a natural inclination to sin.

1 John 4:19 NKJV
19 We love Him because He first loved us.

Lord, grant me the ability to love like you…

2007-11-16T08:31:00.001-08:00

Count me Jesus:

This morning I was at the beach reading the bible praying and enjoying time with GOD; I am currently reading Genesis. I found myself thinking and perhaps envying the relationship between GOD and Abram (Abraham). As I was walking I found myself singing count me Jesus, wanting to be counted as one of Abraham’s decedents. As I was meditating on what GOD said to Abram; (Gen 13:14-17 NKJV)

14 And the LORD said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him: "Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are--northward, southward, eastward, and westward; 15 for all the land which you see I give to you and your descendants forever. 16 And I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth; so that if a man could number the dust of the earth, then your descendants also could be numbered. 17 Arise, walk in the land through its length and its width, for I give it to you."

At that moment on the beach the Lord inspired me to look up into the Heavens and look out over Puget Sound and He gently reminded me of the promise of Jesus and what it means to be saved by Him and for Him. He is preparing a place for me and you, the place is not as special as the one whom is preparing it; we will get to spend eternity with one who loves us.

John 14:1-4 NKJV
14:1 "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

2007-08-28T12:24:00.000-07:00

GOD Forsaken:

GOD forsaken is not your zip code but a condition. Some times we feel that our jobs, Country/State, city we live in are GOD forsaken; however its not are physicality; it’s instead the condition of our heart. If you find your self feeling the heat of the desert turn to GOD and His word; there is no GOD forsaken in His fellowship. May you pursue GOD with total abandon…

Ps 9:10 NKJV

10 And those who know Your name will put their trust in You;
For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.

2 Cor 4:8-18 NKJV

8 We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed-- 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death is working in us, but life in you. 13 And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," we also believe and therefore speak, 14 knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. 15 For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.

16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

2007-06-13T09:42:00.001-07:00

Three Crosses:

The sorry criminal on the cross next to Jesus has been on the heart of my 6 year old daughter Hannah. She really keys on the fact that he said sorry. I have been thinking more about why he was repentful. He recognized and acknowledged his guilt as a criminal and yes still paid the ultimate price and died on a cross. He acknowledged his fear of a Holy GOD. I believe his repentance was so beautiful and pure; he recognized the most Holy Son of GOD and repented. He did not see the power of GOD on that cross; what he seen was the love/forgiveness of GOD and that love brought him to a place of repentance. How sweet are those who are looking for the love of GOD and not the riches or power… Would you recognize Jesus?

Luke 23:32-43 NKJV

32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." And they divided His garments and cast lots. 35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, "He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God." 36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, "If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself." 38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, "If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us." 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, "Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong." 42 Then he said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom." 43 And Jesus said to him, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise."

2007-05-03T14:40:00.001-07:00

Cherry picking the choice fruit/blessings from the Holy Bible:

Way to often we as Christians only read and apply the portions of scriptures that we want. Way to often we go through the scriptures trying to apply blessings that may not even apply. I cannot help but turning Christian TV and or radio on to be told all of the untold blessings the Lord wishes to bestow on me. They would say things like He wants to give me wells I have not dug etc…

Deut 6:10-11 NKJV
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give you large and beautiful cities which you did not build, 11 houses full of all good things, which you did not fill, hewn-out wells which you did not dig, vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant--when you have eaten and are full--

Neh 9:25 NKJV
25 And they took strong cities and a rich land,
And possessed houses full of all goods,
Cisterns already dug, vineyards, olive groves,
And fruit trees in abundance.
So they ate and were filled and grew fat,
And delighted themselves in Your great goodness.

The bible most certainly does teach that GOD loves us and will take care of us; the truth is we need not to cherry pick the choice blessings your pastor should look you in your eyes and tell you to pick up your cross.

Luke 9:23-27 NKJV
23 Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. 25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? 26 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God."

Jesus also taught that a servant is not greater then his master, if you are partakers in His inheritance what about His sufferings? Hmm?

John 15:20-22 NKJV
20 Remember the word that I said to you, 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things they will do to you for My name's sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.

I am not insinuating that I wish for any problematic persecutions; no on the contrary I want good things for me. Brothers and Sisters there are Christians all over the world suffering persecution and death, I don’t want that. What I do want is for all preachers, teachers and hearers of the word to proclaim and hear the truth and all truth will point you to Jesus Christ. If the words don’t point you to Christ it is a fallacy lets get it right.

2007-04-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

The Separation of Church and life:

You undoubtedly have heard the many debates over the separation of church and state; everyone has their opinions in regard to this issue. People in general have a fear of the influence of church and/or religion in the government or public arena; do you have the same fear? Perhaps you are afraid the church will influence your life. Any church that holds to all the teachings of the bible will change you. There is no way you can encounter the words of the most high and not be impacted in some way.
What about the separation of the church and our life? I believe prior to the overall wall being erected that separated the church and the government; we erected the wall in our own lives. Oh, we go to church on Sunday but what about the fellowship beyond the walls of the church? Does your church life extend beyond Sunday’s and Wednesday’s? We need to break the walls down that separate our everyday lives; those walls need to come down. We need to be in union with GOD just as GOD is in perfect union as GOD the Father and GOD the SON and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT. GOD must have Lordship in our life 24x7…

Rom 12:1-2
2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God
NKJV

2 Cor 3:18
18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
NKJV

2007-04-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

Am I enough?

In the Christian community there is a debate raging about acceptable compromises. And more importantly this debate occurs within many of us, how close of a line can we walk to sin without actually reaping the consequences of sin? As I meditate the dos and don’ts I find there is still a small voice in my head asking the question of am I enough? Is Jesus’s love sufficient for you? I believe every time you choose to partake in the things of the world you are saying Jesus is not enough for you that His love is not sufficient. Do you really have a void in your life that Jesus’s love cannot fill? When Adam and Eve chose to disobey GOD and ate the forbidden fruit they essentially told GOD that the fellowship they enjoyed with Him was not enough. Jesus your love and word is sufficient; I pray Lord that you would transform all who read this into lovers of you and your word because you are more than sufficient.

2 Cor 12:9
9 And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."
NKJV

Do not play with sin, as you cannot win…

Rev 3:15-17
15 "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.
NKJV

Never take your eyes off of Christ and never put his Holy word aside.

Luke 9:61-62
" 62 But Jesus said to him, "No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God."
NKJV

May the GOD and Father of my Lord Jesus draw you to Himself…

2007-04-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

I have questioned and judged Adam and Eve for ever introducing mankind to sin. What essentially occurred in the garden was that the serpent questioned the very motives and nature of GOD and through that manipulated Eve and ultimately Adam into questioning GOD. Who am I to judge them when in fact I am far worse then them? Think about it; they did not fully understand the cost of sin and although they walked with GOD they could not possible know and comprehend the character and nature of GOD. Why would I say that? I can now see how much GOD loves us through the very death and resurrection of Christ and ultimately my own death and resurrection. They new nothing of His death and resurrection while they where sinning; I cannot say that; can you? His love and character are beyond comparison. Every time I choose to sin I question the very character and motive of my creator and I can tell you I most definitely believed that He being GOD was holding out on me just like the Serpent told Eve. Who sin is greater? Mine with full knowledge of what my sin cost my Lord, Creator and most definitely my GOD. I pray Lord that you give me the strength to be fully broken before you; forgive me….

GOD never withheld good from me; He only protects and loves me. Thank you GOD…

Gen 3:1-5 NKJV

3:1 Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?" 2 And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; 3 but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.' " 4 Then the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. 5 For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

2007-03-05T08:09:00.000-08:00

How much time should I spend studying and understanding error? The discovery channel aired a special which I must confess that I did not even watch as the resurrection of Jesus is more precious then gold. Anyone who hints that Christ is not resurrected I will not even waste time entertaining such a thought. I fully expect the Christian world will create another book or work kit for us to purchase so we can know how to have bible battles with the world. We have so many programs created in regards to the Da Vinci code and the likes. I believe we truly need only one thing and that is the ability to rightly divide the word of GOD and that is His Holy Scripture. Jesus has indeed been resurrected and the tomb is empty.

2 Tim 2:15-26
15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness. 17 And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, 18 who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some. 19 Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity." 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. 24 And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, 25 in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26 and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.
NKJV

2007-01-28T10:06:00.000-08:00

Build your memorial for Jesus...

When you think memorial it conjures up images of a monument for the deceased. The memorial I am referring to is not for the dead at all but for the resurrected Son of The Most High. The memorial is not made of brick and cement, its not a physical building, monument or church. The memorial is your life and what you do with it.

1 Cor 6, 18-20 NKJV
19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.

We get very sad when old church buildings are turned into museums and when our Christians symbols are desecrated. Many of us desecrate the temple of the Holy Spirit, which is our bodies and our life’s. Many Christians are much like those old churches in Europe where there is no longer anything glorifying to GOD happening in either the body or church building. The stagnant Christian is a museum that something holy once occurred in, and what occurred was the working of the Holy Spirit to bring you to Christ. This morning I felt convicted for my stagnant unused life. Oh Lord where can I find you at work? In a church? I believe church is primarily a place that the preparation is occurring to do work for GOD; oh yes their is beautiful worship and fellowship occurring and we do need that much more often then once a week. I believe the majority of Jesus’s work is being done amongst the hurting, lost, poor, week and down trotted peoples. People that the majority of us don’t want to touch or be around; that is where you found Jesus at during His ministry years on earth; not the fat religious, pious rich cats that we love to be around. I feel a strong calling to work with the people who are beyond poor, those without the hope of Christ and the love and fellowship of His people.

Luke 4, 18-19 NKJV
18 "The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me,
Because He has anointed Me
To preach the gospel to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind,
To set at liberty those who are oppressed;
19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD."

Luke 7, 22-23 NKJV
22 Then Jesus answered and said to them, "Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. 23 And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me."

Luke 14, 13-14 NKJV
13 But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. 14 And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just."

May GOD bless you in your pursuit of a sold out for Jesus life.

In His love,

Brother Rory

2006-12-23T11:41:00.001-08:00

His Assistant:

I found myself meditating this morning on what it means to be a bible teacher and the responsibility of a bible teacher. The bible is the living word of GOD that smarter more scholarly people or myself cannot fully understand or comprehend all of the wonderful mysteries contained within the pages of the bible. I believe I am just an assistant tour guide hopefully inspiring others to want to explore His wonderful words contained in the text of the bible. The Holy Spirit chooses when and what words to bring alive to each and every hearer or reader of the bible and I need to just be available to experience the miracle of His words coming to life in people. Praise GOD for his Holy Spirit and the mystery of a living book.

Eph 3:1-10 KJV
3:1 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles-- 2 if indeed you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to me for you, 3 how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, 4 by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), 5 which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: 6 that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel, 7 of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power.

8 To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ;
N

2006-12-20T08:26:00.001-08:00

Warring Factions:

There is a war going on inside me. There is the spirit that desires to be completely transformed into the very image of Jesus Christ; and alas there is the part of me that sins and indulges my self will. I know what it is to struggle and how dependent on the transforming power of the Holy Spirit and how utterly helpless I am to overcome without His power.

Rom 7:13-25

13 Has then what is good become death to me? Certainly not! But sin, that it might appear sin, was producing death in me through what is good, so that sin through the commandment might become exceedingly sinful. 14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. 16 If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. 17 But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. 19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. 20 Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. 21 I find then a law, that evil is present with me, the one who wills to do good. 22 For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. 24 O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? 25 I thank God--through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.
NKJV

I too thank the Lord because He is my deliverer; praise be to His name. Put your trust in the Lord and read His word.

2006-12-18T10:08:00.000-08:00

The world has been trying to stop or silence the truth about our Risen Savior for more then 2000 years. It really hits me in the face this time of year with politically correct holiday greetings and or arguments over the display of Christmas trees in airport, schools, businesses etc… This is not a new tactic; in the following passage King Herod tried to silence the Lord.

Matt 2:7-15 NKJV
7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search diligently for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also." 9 When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him." 14 When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, 15 and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, "Out of Egypt I called My Son."

Oh, then the world attempted to kill the proclamation that our Lord had risen from the dead and ultimately kill Christianity.

Matt 28:11-15 NKJV
11 Now while they were going, behold, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests all the things that had happened. 12 When they had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, 13 saying, "Tell them, 'His disciples came at night and stole Him away while we slept.' 14 "And if this comes to the governor's ears, we will appease him and make you secure." 15 So they took the money and did as they were instructed; and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.

The message cannot and will not be silenced Jesus has risen and to that I say have a very Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas
Brother Rory

2006-12-16T10:36:00.001-08:00

Dare to be Disciplined:

I spend the greatest amount of my time and energy feeding the very part of myself that Christ came to destroy in order to set me free. I barely have the energy to hap heartedly open my bible at bedtime. Oh and the prayer time, my words are jumbled together because I am in a rush to feed my flesh with the things the world offers. I find that I go to bed when I am really tired after worshiping at the alter of my television set; oh then the morning I have to rush and stress to get out of the house because I stayed up too late watching television. Does this sound familiar? You see the problem is that I don’t really spend enough quality time with GOD and or pursuing the things of GOD. As parents, we spend money learning how to raise our kids or read articles on such subjects as dare to discipline; I believe that we need to dare to be disciplined. Disciplined in reading the word of GOD and prayer and also bringing yourself into the light and let HIS light show you the areas of your life that is not pleasing to HIM. A loving Father always disciplines his children and GOD is the ultimate loving FATHER. Praise GOD for His love…

John 3:18-21
19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God."
NKJV

John 10:10-11
10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.
NKJV

2 Cor 7:1
7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
NKJV

2006-12-07T18:18:00.000-08:00

Sensational Testimony:

Can you expect to overcome the areas of weakness or sin in your life this side of Heaven. Or does GOD only deliver those with sensational testimonies like murderers, wife beaters etc. Are you destined to be a slave to the lust in your life? I don’t believe we have to be bondservants to the whims of our sinful imaginations or lust any longer. My testimony is much the same as yours; I was a walking dead man. Dead in transgressions and Sins; and I can assure you there is nothing sensational about that because a dead man cannot save himself or even help himself--pretty much puts me in the camp of total reliance on the cross, burial, and resurrection of Christ.

Eph 2:1-6
2:1 And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
NKJV

Rev 12:10-12
10 Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. 12 Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time."
NKJV

There is nothing in this scripture that indicates I am an over comer by my own volition, no the testimony here is all about the blood of Christ and my testimony is a result of what he accomplished on the cross.

2006-12-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

Pocketful of Grace

Far too often we live our lives for ourselves in pursuits that are not pleasing to GOD and sometimes just downright sinful. As many are taught today that grace is always available and can be dispensed much like pez candy from a dispenser. We tend to keep God’s grace in our pocket so to speak and pull it out when we think we need it. So, why not live our lives for our own good pleasure? Those of us who have been living for ourselves are so empty inside and will always be questioning our salvation and not really knowing GOD’s true peace and plan for our lives. I believe if you are living a sinful existence you should definitely worry about your soul. The typical answer is to focus on GOD’s grace but you must never forget about repentance as the Bible mandates that you must repent of your sins. I pray that GOD gives you and me a repentful heart.

Rom 6:15-16 NKJV
15 What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not! 16 Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?

Mark 1:15 NKJV
15 and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel."

2006-11-25T11:20:00.000-08:00

Dear Jesus,

Show me what forgiveness looks like. The words of Jesus on the cross really visualize the very essence of forgiveness to me.

Luke 23:34-38
34 Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." And they divided His garments and cast lots. 35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, "He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God." 36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, "If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself." 38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
NKJV

Jesus had been beaten and was deprived of any human dignity; this was not done because of anything He had done. No, on the contrary it was done as the result of a fallen and utterly lost people. You might say that those words; Father, forgive them were not only spoken for those who physically nailed Jesus to the cross and those who physically mocked Him, I would also say those words were for me and for you. Every sin I committed mocked, beat and put Jesus on that cross.

Father, forgive me for all of my transgressions and my sin of not appreciating the price Jesus paid on that cross. Let my heart forever be grateful to you; for I would not ever see love and life without your precious sacrifice. I love you Lord…

2006-11-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

The Ills of the World...

It occurred to me that we as Christians spend a lot of time focusing orspeaking about the sins/ills of this world. We spend a lot of timetalking about the cause and effect of pornography, violent movies, videogames and such. We can place the emphasis on these issues and blame allof the problems in the world on these things. Although the abovereferenced issues are indeed problems, we do indeed need to discussthese issues as well as personal responsibility for our decisions. Ibelieve that if we really want to change the world we need not to pointout all of the problems in the world; instead we need to rightlypreach/teach and share GOD's holy scripture; I can tell you when peoplehave the right understanding of the holy scripture they will know rightfrom wrong. The Bible will divide the truth from error itself. I knowmost of my issues through out my Christian experience was that I waslooking for "fire insurance" and not the true love of GOD; I wanted Hisgrace without personal responsibility and without being transformed intoHis holy image. If we rightly point people to the love and grace ofChrist a righteous life will most definitely occur.
Isa 55:11 NKJV11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;It shall not return to Me void,But it shall accomplish what I please,And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
Ps 40:9-10 NKJV9 I have proclaimed the good news of righteousness In the great assembly;Indeed, I do not restrain my lips,O LORD, You Yourself know. 10 I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart;I have declared Your faithfulness and Your salvation;I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth From the great assembly.
Ps 96:2-3 NKJV2 Sing to the LORD, bless His name;Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. 3 Declare His glory among the nations,His wonders among all peoples.
Isa 52:7 NKJV7 How beautiful upon the mountains Are the feet of him who brings good news,Who proclaims peace,Who brings glad tidings of good things,Who proclaims salvation,Who says to Zion,"Your God reigns!"

2006-10-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Oh praise GOD for the lesson that children can teach us.

This morningmy daughter Hannah found a dead bug in the windowsill and I asked her toget a napkin and throw the bug away. She informed me that it would beokay if the bug stays there because GOD will take care of that bug. Yousee when people, animals and yes even insects die; in her mind they willbe going to Heaven and GOD will be coming shortly to take that insect toHeaven. Now that is faith, maybe a little misdirected on the dead buggoing to heaven, but faith nonetheless. She does not fear death becauseshe knows Father GOD will take care of that.

The grown-up world spendsthe rest of the child's life trying to teach them about GOD'slimitations in our world and their sense of faith and awe begins to waneand they can lose that wonderful beautiful faith and trust that GOD canaccomplish all things. Learn from a child and look to your Father totake care of things.Mark 10:13-16 NKJV13 Then they brought young children to Him, that He might touch them;but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus sawit, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little childrencome to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of Godas a little child will by no means enter it." 16 And He took them up inHis arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them. John 14:1-414:1 "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe alsoin Me. 2 In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, Iwould have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go andprepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself;that where I am, there you may be also. NKJV

2006-09-08T15:28:00.000-07:00

I am not a quality candidate to give a testimonial on walking in faith. I have yet to be in a situation I felt that I could not have somewhat control of the outcome, until now that is.

You see I believe GOD has been asking me to trust Him in all areas of my life; a trust that cannot be quantified with words. He has been asking me to walk down a road that I cannot see the end of and in no way know what lays ahead in my way. Oh this faith is new to me and I cannot say that I am going to go through this exercise unscathed. I know that some walls are closing into force me to walk and trust GOD; I pray I have the strength to persevere, but alas I know my strength cannot be relied upon. I praise GOD for this situation; not only will my faith grow but I believe that as a Christian I will have a peace that passes all understanding and there is no happiness for me outside of the peace that comes from walking with GOD.

2 Sam 22:31-33 NKJV
31 As for God, His way is perfect;
The word of the LORD is proven;
He is a shield to all who trust in Him.

32 "For who is God, except the LORD?
And who is a rock, except our God?
33 God is my strength and power,
And He makes my way perfect.

Prov 3:5-6 NKJV
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

Thanks, Rory D. Bennett

2006-08-31T15:06:00.000-07:00

When we as the church obey GOD we call it a miracle, when the church helps the poor inside there own congregation or outside there congregation we call that a miracle.

When we part with any resources we call that a miracle. When a person in need receives an unexpected blessing to them it may seem like a miracle and it very well might be.

I believe instead its obedience. I think that obeying GOD should be so commonplace in the church it shouldn’t be a surprise or classified as a miracle when it occurs. That there might be the issue, we don’t recognize obedience to His word and most certainly don’t always walk in an obedient manner. The real miracle is that GOD allows us to be a part of blessing others.

Webster dictionary has more then one definition of miracle, but I think when we are talking about miracle the following definition is the one we have in mind.

Webster… 1: an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs.

I don’t believe the early church sought after the miracles instead they recognized that GOD’s love was the extraordinary supernatural event they have longed for and it was manifested in the person of Jesus Christ.

Rom 5:7-9
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
NKJV

Matt 16:3-4
4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah." And He left them and departed.
NKJV
1 Sam 15:22
…to obey is better than sacrifice,
NKJV

2006-08-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

Do you find yourself constantly trying to interpret the bible based on your experiences? In your heart you might say the bible does not mean what it says because you have not experienced the reality of what is written in the scriptures. Maybe the words only applied 2000 years ago and are not for today.

I know that the bible is 100% correct and is not irrelevant anywhere in its text and that the bible is the only reliable authoritative words that I can rely on it regardless of my experiences or feelings.

Prov 30:5-6

5 Every word of God is pure;
He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.
6 Do not add to His words,
Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.
NKJV

Finally friend be careful to correctly render and apply the words of GOD correctly to avoid His rebuke.

2006-08-25T18:23:00.000-07:00

We are not defined by our failures or successes. The apostles were not defined by their apostleship or great humanitarian efforts. Moses was not defined by the exodus or receiving the ten commandments, King David was not defined by His lineage, the Apostle Paul was not defined by his past life as Saul any more then you or I are defined by our moral failures. I have probably never met a person that I have not failed at some level. This one thing I am confident in though; I am defined and living because of the grace and love of Jesus Christ. Anything I do outside of Christ no matter how great they may seem is but filthy rags.

Isa 64:6
6 But we are all like an unclean thing,
And all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags;
We all fade as a leaf,
And our iniquities, like the wind,
Have taken us away.
NKJV

Phil 3:8-10
8 Yea verily, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but refuse, that I may gain Christ,

9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of mine own, (even) that which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith:

10 that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, becoming conformed unto his death;
ASV

Thanks, Rory D. Bennett

2006-08-24T12:19:00.000-07:00

Everything the Apostles did was for the Glory of GOD. Yes, that includes miracles and the likes! When we as the modern Christians talk and pray, we do so form the stand point as if all things where possible to us who believe. What am I saying? We pray about all of the things we want to occur such as our wealth, health in spite of our lifestyles and we do pray for the sick and hurting. The intent of many of the modern prayers is blessing and wealth orientated. They are positional prayed from a Kings Kid point of view, which means that we believe that Heavens blessing are some of the Fringe benefits that should occur here on earth. We proclaim that all of the powers of Christ and the Apostles exhibited are at work in our life’s today; now call me a skeptic but those who are making the proclamations are not raising the dead, healing the sick and dividing one fish into portions that feed thousands. Yet they claim the power is there if only we have the faith, are we all that faithless that we see none of these things are manifesting? I don’t believe we have a faith issue, we do have some poor rendering of God’s word though. Here is the secret of miracles and moving mountains; well we where still sinners Christ loved us and died for us. Wait there is more; he wants us to proclaim this, wow. You know what else; he wants His love proclaimed to the world through you and me. He does want us to pray and intercede for people; He does want His children to feed the hungry to love the unlovely. The miracle is He wants to use the church for this. He wants to use the power of His love versus mighty acts and wonders. We need to be a generous people whose churches store rooms and money is full and fully being used to share GOD’s generosity with those whom he calls us to proclaim His love and mercy to. Finally brethren, this is all for His glory. I want to proclaim His love for others; that needs to be all of our hearts. You have seen all of the miracles you need to see and that is He loves you.

(Rom 5:8-11 NKJV)
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. 10 For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. 11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.