Filed under: Bible, Blessings, Blogroll, Christianity, God, Jesus, Life, Prayer, Trials, faith | Tags: Christianity, faith, Grace, Hope, Jesus, Life
Enduring In His Grace
II Corinthians 9:8
Intro: Living a life for Christ begins with salvation. After salvation – the Christian life should be one of abiding in Christ and walking with Him.
This comes from a heart that is willing to obey the Word of God.
The Holy Spirit is there to guide us each and every day and the Christian life requires us to endure by God’s grace.
I. How Can We Endure?
A. We must rely on God’s grace for every situation that
comes up in our lives
B. Trials – temptations – discouragement – thinking of
quitting
1. Romans 2:7 “… patient continuance …”
2. I Corinthians 9:24-25 – run to win = make your life
for Christ count- make a difference for Christ in your
life – to those around you
C. Endure = put up with – bear with (me) forbear – suffer
1. II Thess. 1:4 – II Timothy 2:3 – II Timothy 4:3
II Tim. :5
2. we may have to “endure” with a boss at work
a co-worker – a neighbor – a relative etc.
And our need is to look to God for Grace – wisdom –
endurance
II. How Do We Get Grace To Endure?
A. God gives grace to the humble – I Peter 5:5 (God
resists the proud)
1. The humility of Jesus Christ allowed Him to leave
the glory of Heaven and die on the Cross for your
sins
2. Sometimes the purpose of trials you go through =
to bring you & me to the point of Humility so God
can give you the Grace you need to endure your
trials,
3. God will not give Grace to a heart that is filled with
pride = placing yourself above others - better than
the next person – haughty the “it will never happen
to me” mentality
B. God works to empty our hearts of pride through trying
situations
1. our response will determine the outcome
2. when you face trials – Will you die to self? Will you
ask for God’s power? Will you ask God for His grace
to get you through it?
Will you swallow your pride?
3. If so – God can then fill what you just emptied with
His Holy Spirit
4. He will strengthen you by His power so that you can
endure what you are facing
III. Remember – God Is Working To bring You Around To Be
Like Christ I Peter 2:21
A. What Christ likeness is not
1. following another person – sometimes we get our
eyes on someone else & when they falter or do
something that disillusions us – many people “give
up” or “quit”
2. it is not “going through the motions” of Christianity
3. John 13:15 – I John 2:6
B. What Christ likeness is
1. The manifestation of Christ in you
II Corinthians 4:10-11
2. The inward salvation = change in our heart and
life, revealed in our outward life = By what we do
(actions), talk, dress, attitude etc.
3. Gal. 2:20 – it is no longer “I” but Christ that lives in
me
4. Our lives should be a demonstration that Jesus
rose from the dead – we have something and
someone to live for
5. We get our strength from God who enables us to
live for Jesus and do all that He asks of us.
Conclusion: II Cor. 9:8 – the word “Grace” as used here = graciousness of manner or the way we act. God’s Divine influence upon our heart and its reflection in your life. This enables us to enjoy our lives – to be grateful and thankful to God and to others.
Apostle Peter said: I Peter 2:21 (follow His steps)
Remember – God is working in your life – He wants you to be more like Jesus. He has a plan and His will for your life. God gives grace to help you live for Him.
God works in everyone’s life – If you are not 100% sure of Heaven – He is working in your heart to receive Jesus as your Saviour – will you receive Him today?
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If I were to ask you the question: “If you were to die right now, are you 100% sure that you would go to heaven?” What would be your reply?
Many have said: “No one knows for sure.” or “I’m 95-99% sure.” “I don’t know.” I run into a few who say with surety: “I am sure I would go to heaven.”
I would like to share with you, from the Bible, God’s Word, how you can be 100% sure.
I John 5:13 says: “These 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”. Notice the word “know.” When you know something you are 100% sure.
Now, how can you know? To simply determine this, one must know what the Bible says in regard to salvation. Some believe that their religion will save them …. But they are not sure of heaven either. Many will say that “I must do the best I can.” Others: “Keep the 10 commandments.” This all amounts to a system of good works.
I submit to you, that if our religion or good works would save our souls – then why did Jesus die on the cross? Let’s see what the Bible says about our good works.
Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast”.
Galatians 3:1-3 “O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?”
In Romans 11:6 we read: “And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work”.
Now, I realize that if I put all of the verses on works from the Bible in this post – it would be very lengthy. Would you read it all? The verses above basically teach us that our good deeds do not save us – we cannot save ourselves – we need the salvation that the Lord provides for us.
Galatians 3:24-25 regarding the Law – reads as follows: “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster”.
Here we read that the Law was given to show us what sin is. The Law was our teacher, to teach us right from wrong. Why? So we could be saved by faith.
One day, someone took their Bible and shared with me how to be sure of heaven. Allow me to share it with you. It changed my life and my destiny.
First of all – in the Book of Romans 3:10 “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:”
Vserse 12 reads: “They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one”. Then verse 23: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” I thought “I’m in a bad spot. If I am not good or righteous and am a sinner, I have no hope. What will I do?”
The person went on to share with me the following. Romans 5:8 “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” He explained that God loved me so much that He sent Jesus to die for me. Jesus Christ paid for all my sins, He took the punishment for me, so that I wouldn’t have to.
The, he went to Romans 6:23 which reads: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord”. Hmmmm I’m going to die one day, where will I go?
Being a sinner, I would surely go to hell. But I read and was told that God has a gift for me. That gift is eternal life and it comes from Jesus Christ. God’s gift does not come through me or my goodness or my keeping the 10 Commandments, but it is a GIFT.
O.K. How do I get God’s gift? Romans 10:9-10 “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” God’s gift is received by us when we acknowledge that we are a sinner;
and then we receive Christ into our hearts and lives.
Verse 13 reads: “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Whosoever means ANYBODY can be saved and it by faith in what God did for us. Whosover means YOU.
In II Peter 3:9 we are told that God is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. You see, God’s will is for folks to be saved and NOT to perisy = spend eternity in hell. My friend, God loves us so much that He made a plan for mankind. That plan was for us to have eternal life – to be saved – to go to heaven. That plan was for God to come to this world as Jesus Christ – God’s “only begotten son.” He went to the Cross paying the price for every sin that you and I ever committed. He arose the third day, conquering death, hell and the grave fou you and for me. He offers us salvation, a FREE GIFT – forgiveness of sins and a home in heaven. He says that if we believe and receive, we shall be saved.
My friend, would you, now receive Jesus Gift of salvation? If so, the following prayer can be of a help to you. It is not just reciting some words, but it is belief in your heart.
“Dear God, I know that I am a sinner. Please forgive me of all my sins. I now ask Jesus Christ to come into my heart and save my soul. In Jesus name, A-men”.
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Webster defines worry as: A troubled state of mind; anxiety; distress; care; uneasiness; something that causes anxiety or mental distress. Another definition in Webster is: To bite, pull or tear; to harass or treat roughly as with the continual biting or tearing with the teeth as the dog was worrying the old shoe.
In I Peter 5:7 where we are told: “Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you …” The word for care is the same word that we would use for worry; both meaning anxiety. The Greek word also means “that which distracts.” Certainly worry will distract a person from their daily routine. In Philippines 4:6 where we are told “Be careful for nothing …” The word translated “CAREFUL” would be the equivalent to our English word “WORRY.” It basically means: “To be anxious about, to have a distracting care.”
In the book “How To Win Over Worry” by Dr. John Haggai, 1987; he begins by telling the reader that “You can die of worry.” He goes on to say that: “half of all hospital beds in the U.S. are occupied by people suffering mental disturbance.” (According to Mike Gorman, Dir. of the Nat’l Mental Health Committee).
Dr Haggai quotes Dr. Edward Podolsky in his book “Stop Worrying And Get Well,” It (worry) deals with the correlation between worry and heart trouble; worry and blood pressure; worry and rheumatism; ulcers, colds, thyroid malfunction, arthritis, migraine headaches and a host of stomach disorders.”
How Worry Becomes A Sin
1. Worry is distrust in the truthfulness of God.
When you worry, you accuse God of a falsehood. God’s Word says that: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28; worry says that God lied.
Philippians 4:13 tells us: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Worry says “You lied, God.” Phillippians 4:19 “But my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” If we worry, are we not saying here, God you lied to me?
2. Concern is not worry and it is not wrong to be concerned. The last thing that we should do is be a people that is not concerned, for this leads to apathy. Concern, as Webster defines it is: be of interest or importance to; to involve or Interest; a matter of interest or importance to one; that which relates to or affects one as in business. We should have interests and be interested in matters such as our homes, our children. our jobs, our daily tasks, each other, hobbies etc. etc. Concern is showing an interest – for the situation, spiritual matters, concern for the unsaved.
3. When worry becomes a sin When it controls you rather than you controlling it When it causes you to neglect other responsibilities and relationships When you lose hope instead of finding answers when it damages your body
4. Some causes of worry – Matthew 6:25-34
a. A threat to something that is important to you: danger, loss of self- esteem; separation from others; undermining of our values; the impact of outward influences upon us; loss of job or the threat of a layoff; deep in debt; threatened by another person or persons; etc. etc.
b. Danger: crime; war; violent weather; unexplained or unexpected illness; taking a test; even a visit to the dentist can produce worry.
Why? Because the person is uncertain about what to expect and feels helpless to prevent or reduce the threat.
c. Self-esteem: Most people like to look good and perform competently. We feel threatened by anything that that might harm our self-image or imply that we are not competent.
Many will become anxious in a new social situation because they are not sure just how to act or feel threatened by the re-actions of others. Some people will avoid taking an exam, accept a promotion, or risk failure because of the possibility of failure and that it poses a risk to their self-esteem.
d. Separation: Being on your own can be confusing, and the pain can be intense when we have been left or rejected by an important person or by one that we love. The death of a loved one; moving; divorce; the breaking of an engagement; all can lead a person feeling uncertain bout the future and saddened by the gaping inner emotional void, and the wonder of “What do I do now? or “Where do I go from here?”
1. Values: We will feel threatened when our freedoms are in danger of being undermined or taken away. When someone else mocks or ridicules what you believe in or stand for; morals and religious beliefs, etc.
2. Unconscious Influences: Threats and influences can be pushed into our unconscious by our refusing to deal with it; the refusal to communicate with one another.
They will stay within our subconscious and fester and then when you are forced to deal with it, you really do not know how to deal with it. If we hide the problem in the back of our mind, hoping that “it will go away,” We do ourselves and others a great disservice. Remember …. it doesn’t go away until we deal with it.
3. Conflict: When a person is influenced by two or more pressures there is a sense of uncertainty that often leads to worry. People basically approach conflict in three ways.
a. The approach-approach: example, you may be faced with two different invitation on the same night. To decide which one to attend can often be difficult and sometimes it causes annxiety or worry.
b: Approach-avoidance: You want to do a particular thing, and then………………………………… you don’t.
Example: You may be offered a new job; to accept may bring new opportunities and more money and a chance for advancement; (the approach). On the other hand, it may necessitate a move out of town or out of state; the inconvenience of re-training; leaving friends and loved- ones, etc.
4. Avoidance-avoidance: Here, you have two alternatives, both of which can be unpleasant.
Example: You may have severe pain or an illness and need an operation that will also be painful and put you out of commission for a while. Most conflicts involve a struggle between two or more alternatives. There is a positive and a negative to them.
Worry and anxiety will exist until the choice is made, and sometimes after the decision is made while you wonder… “Did I really make the right choice?”
h. Fear: I John 4:18 “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear …” Different people are afraid of failure; the future; rejection; war; intimacy; success; taking responsibility; conflict; a meaningless life; sickness; death; loneliness; change; and a lot of other real or even imagined possibilities.
Sometimes, these fears build up in one’s mind and create intense anxiety and worry as well as discouragement and depression; even when there is the absence of any real danger.
5. Un-met needs: Each of us may have a different view of what our basic needs are in life. Each of us might have different answers, all of which would be correct in your own personal life. If we fail to meet these or other needs, we can begin to worry over them. You may feel that all is “up in the air,” or you may feel frustrated or afraid. Now…lF all of your needs were met, would your life be complete, satisfying and worry free? Most likely not.
Remember … psychologists’ tell us that our feelings can change from 2,000 to over 3,000 times per day.
I Peter 5:7-9; and II Corinthians 11:3.
We can have no lasting freedom from our worries until we are at peace with God, resting in His promises and knowing the stability that comes from confessing our sins and realize that we have been forgiven when we have confessed them.
6. Individual differences: People react differently to the same problems and situations. Then there are those with claustrophobia; hydrophobia; and other phobias that are not in themselves dangerous.
6. Some Effects of Worry
a. Physical reactions: Ulcers, headaches, skin rashes, backaches, and various other physical problems.
b. Psychological reactions: if you have taken an exam or applied for a hard-to-get job, you will know what I mean. Did you ever have your mind go “blank” during a test? The actor who forgets their lines while on stage? We often worry if we will get it right or remember what we are supposed to remember, and by doing so, we have anxiety and we worry ourselves into failure.
c. Defensive reactions: Ignoring the situation; pretending that it does not exist; rationally explaining-away the symptoms; blaming someone else for your problems; alcohol; drugs; and other things in hopes that it will all just go away………………. and it don’, does it?
d. Spiritual reactions: Sometimes problems may motivate us to seek God’s help that we have previously ignored. Many people do turn to God in times of stress.
On the “flip side” of this; worry and stress can drive people away from God at the time in which they need it most. They quit reading their Bibles; slack off in their prayer life; start missing church: bitterness about why the Lord is .so seemingly silent in the face of your crisis. People get angry because bad things are happening to good people.
This is where TRUST comes in. When we begin to see another Christian faltering under the weight of stress and worry, we need to read Galatians 6.
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The First And The Last Revelation 22:13
Introduction: Jesus is the self-existent, independent, unchanging, eternal God. He originated the whole plan of salvation, He will determine its close; He formed the world, and He will wind up its affairs. Revelation 21:6 & Revelation 1:8 (reference is to Christ).
Some other references are: Isaiah 44:6 & Isaiah 48:12. In our text: Revelation 22:13 – A friend addresses us who was before all other friends; a friend who loved us long before we knew the love of a mother or father – Jeremiah 31:3
1. The First – This tells us that Christ always existed. John 1:1-3; John 1:14 – The Bible teaches us that Jesus is the “Word” of John 1:1 “In the beginning” precedes Genesis 1:1 John 16:28 – “again” John 8:58 – “I am” – Jesus is the Great I Am.
Isaiah 9:6 – Jesus is the “everlasting Father” The word “everlasting” in the Hebrew is “perpetually, world without end.”
2. His Preeminence – Colossians 1:18 – to be the first in rank – the highest. Jesus is to be supreme. Jesus is higher than all men. He is higher than angels. The brightness of the Father’s glory. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
3. The Work Of Creation – Colossians 1:16-17 It was through His hand that the material universe was framed. It is by His constant superintendence that the whole universe is carried on.
He is the cohesive force that holds the whole universe in order and harmony. Matthew 28:18 – “power” This means “authority” “jurisdiction” “right” “strength” “mastery” “control.”
4. His Relation To The Bible Christ is the FIRST in these sacred pages. Jesus is the creator and planning a new creation – Revelation 21:1 The object of the Holy Scriptures is to reveal the person of Jesus Christ.
5. His Relation To Redemption He is the first in the plan of salvation. John 1:17 Salvation has been accomplished through Christ – John 14:6 Jesus stands as the center and the head of God’s grandest work – the restoration of a ruined people. He offers salvation to sinners.
He paid all the cost for our salvation. He loves us with an everlasting love –Jeremiah 31:3 6.
The Last – This teaches us the eternal existence of Jesus The heavens and earth will pass away, but Jesus will still be here Luke 21:33 – Hebrews 13:8 He is the life of all life. He is the first and last of everything.
Revelation 1:11& 17 – 2:8 & 19 – 22:13 – Hebrews 12:2 Jesus is the finisher of our life and our work. Christ is the end and substance of all things. In the end – Revelation 20:10 – the devil meets his doom from the Lord. Conclusion: At life’s end, when we see Jesus as He is, we will find His heart a fountain of pure love. His smile is the substance of all joy; His life is the life of all life.
We will have nothing that is not a part of Him and connected with Him. Every face we see will reflect His beauty. Every joy we feel will be radiated from His heart. Every glory we wear, will be a reflection of His holiness.
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The Rock Of Ages Isaiah 26:3-4
Introduction: The words “everlasting strength” – in Hebrew, means the “Rock of Ages.” The Lord Jehovah is the “Rock of Ages”. The verse is the foundation for the beautiful hymn that has been sung for many years.
The Lord is our Rock The Rock of our heart The Rock of our salvation The Rock that is higher than we are The shadow of a great Rock in a weary land The Rock of Ages. 1
. The Rock – I Corinthians 10:1-4 This refers to the rock in Exodus 17:6. It speaks of Christ as our Saviour.
While perishing with thirst, Israel, was led by Moses to the face of the rock. Moses, the Lawgiver, lifted up his rod and smote the rock as God commanded. Immediately, water came poured out in a living stream. It was enough for all to drink and give to their cattle until their thirst was completely satisfied.
In like fashion, Jesus was smitten by the rod of the law and judges as our sacrifice and substitute. From His pierced side, flowed the water of life, where we can drink of His boundless mercies, His forgiving love and amazing grace. This water is what Jesus spoke of in John 4:10 & 14
2. The Following Rock – I Corinthians 10:4 “…the same spiritual rock that followed them …” The rock did not follow but it was the river that flowed from the Rock.
It followed them with floods of life and cleansing. The Rock of ages sends its living foundations all along our way. Desert may be all around us and wells may seem dry, but faith must take over and believe as the waters spring forth in abundance.
3. The Sheltering Rock – Psalms 61:2 & Isaiah 32:2 The shadow of a great, projecting rock, is the most refreshing. It protects from the sun and has a natural coolness. In Psalms 61:2 – the Rock is higher than David. It was too high for him to climb.
We will never reach the heights and majesty of God. God is our protector. He is always there for us. He will comfort us and give us peace and safe refuge. He gives the perfect security to those who put their trust in Him.
4. The Foundation Rock – I Corinthians 3:11 The Rock of Ages is also a foundation rock. It is a place to build upon. This is the resting place of faith and hope. Here, faith finds full assurance as it leans upon the promise – John 3:36. – I John 1:7 Mountains will fall and crumble, hills can be removed, but the Rock will stand.
Things of this world will rust away; buildings will decay; fire destroys homes; business can go out of business, but this Rock will stand forever. The Rock of Ages remains unshaken, and is unmovable, As we stand upon it, we shall be able to say: God is our refuge and strength He is an ever present help in trouble I shall never be afraid I am safe forevermore
Conclusion: There is much more that one can say about the names of Jesus and, here, the Rock. There are depth that no words can fully describe about Jesus Christ. Christ has been the rock of Ages. He has brought comfort to countless numbers of believers. He is the Cornerstone. Isaiah 28:16. He has been proved in temptation, in sickness, sorrow and in death. Our fathers and mothers have proved Him. Past generations have proved Him. Our past trials have proved Him. As the Rock of Ages, he will live through the future ages. He keeps us secure forever. Trust in the Lord for He is our Rock of Ages.
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The Wonderful Counselor Isaiah 9:6
Introduction: In the Old Testament, they were familiar with a child king. Samuel, as a child, had been Israel’s best prophet and judge. Young Josiah wore a crown at the age of 5 years and was Judah’s best king, after David.
1. The name: Wonderful Counselor, has reference to His prophetic work and office. He is our Prophet as well as our King. The term ‘counselor” has reference to His guidance more than to His teaching.
A person may know a lot and not necessarily be a good counselor. Jesus leads His trusting children in the right paths where we will not stumble.
2. The Lord often leads us contrary to the ideas, opinions and judgments of wise Men. His thoughts are high above our thoughts. Isaiah 55:9. He is to be our guide. Here, he may lead you to do something that you or others may think is foolish. Matthew 11:19
It must have seemed foolish to the Canaanites to have an army march around their city walls for seven days; blowing their trumpets and giving a shout. This was the wisest way in which to take Jericho.
How foolish it must have seemed to ask a widow to give away her last handful of meal to a stranger. She and her son were starving. But was God’s best way to save them from starvation and supply their need for the coming months.
Then, there is David. As a boy, how absurd to have him fight a giant and then, with only a simple sling and some stones. This was God’s way to give the victory.
God chose 12 men to evangelize the world. Some were uneducated fishermen; a tax collector who was hated and despised by the people. This was God’s wisdom and it displayed His mighty power.
3. Jesus is a wonderful counselor because we are weak and sometimes foolish.
Without His guidance, we would be utterly helpless. By committing ourselves to His guidance, we become weaker in ourselves and depend less and less on our own wisdom. This is, then, our strength. II Corinthians 12:10
4. He is wonderful in His patience and love. Jesus is willing to take infinite trouble with us. He teaches us, over and over, lessons that we are slow to learn. He repairs our mistakes and lifts us up when we stumble. What is it that we don’t understand?
He can unravel any difficulty. He takes interest in even the little and smallest detail of our lives. There is no tangle too involved for Him to unravel. Complications; difficult circumstances; nothing can be too extreme for Him to take hold of and lead us gently out into the light.
Even when we become rebellious and do stupid things, He is never provoked toleave us. He patiently waits, loves and leads us until He brings us to His perfect will.
5. The best part about Jesus as our counselor, is that He just doesn’t tell us what to do and give us a map of the way; He comes with us every step of the way and He becomes our own personal guide.
If you were to go on a fishing or hunting expedition in the mountains or in Alaska, and you asked a guide the best way to go, he would probably laugh at you. He would tell you that you would never find your way. He might say that he cannot tell you the way, but that he can show you the way and be your personal guide. John 10:4-5
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Introduction: Happiness can be defined as: To go forward – to be honest – to be proper – to be blessed.
1. Happiness is found in the ways of wisdom – Proverbs 3:17-18
2. Our happiness is in God – Psalms 73:25-26
3. Is described by Christ in the beatitudes – Matthew 5:3-12 “Rejoice” = to be glad – joyful – a calm happy or well off –
4. Happiness comes from a fear of God – Psalms 128:1-2 – Proverbs 28:14 “Fear” or “feareth’ = A reverent fear One great commentator of old said: “The fear of reverence, of dread to offend, of anxiety to please, and of entire submission and obedience. This fear of the Lord is the fit fountain of holy living: we look in vain for holiness apart from it: none but those who fear the Lord will ever walk in his ways.”
5. Happiness comes from trust in God – Proverbs 16:20 –Jeremiah 17:7 “trust” = bold confidence in God – to lean on. The word “trust” in the Old Testament is = to the word “faith” in the New Testament.
6. Happiness comes from obedience to God – John 13:17 – Psalms 40:8 In John, here, the word happy means: supremely blessed – fortunate. In Psalms, the word “delight” = desire – favor – well pleased – have pleasure James 1:25 7. Happiness comes from salvation – Isaiah 12:2-3 – Vs 3 – “with joy” = cheerfulness – gladness rejoicing. Psalms 118:14 – Psalms 144:15.
Knowing the Lord as savior is happiness. The confidence that we ARE saved and will be in heaven some day. Happiness in knowing that God saves us and keeps us saved. Conclusion: There are things in life that make us happy and things that make us sad. Things are temporary in this life. Christians can find happiness in the midst of the trials of life. Happiness in the things of the Lord: His Word – His salvation – His wisdom – trust – obedience – reverent fear. Find happiness in the things of the Lord and it will last.
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Introduction: When we think of God’s goodness, what comes to your mind? In Psalm 25:8, the word “good” in the Hebrew means: Best, better, bountiful, cheerful, loving, pleasant, precious just to name a few of the descriptions. In Psalms 52:1, we find the word “goodness.” Means: Beauty, kindness, mercy.
1. Goodness is a part of God’s character. Psalms 25:8 Because God is good and upright, He will teach sinners the right way or the way of salvation.
Since man has a free will, man either receives or rejects Christ by his own decision. Nahum 1:7 – Good refers to His nature and conduct.
2. God’s goodness is abundant. Exodus 34:6 Abundant means: Exceedingly full, great; sufficient.
Psalms 33:5 – the earth is full of His goodness.
The word “full” here, means overflow.
3. God’s goodness is enduring. Psalms 23:6 – Psalms 52:1
David sets his happiness in the reverence and service of God and not in the pleasures of this world.
These twin guardian angels (goodness and mercy) will always be with me at my back. The saved enjoy communion with God and will be with Him forever.
4. God’s goodness is rich. Romans 2:4 – This is a Hebrew mode of speaking, for “his rich Goodness;” It quotes Exodus 34:6.
“Riches” denotes that which abounds or exceeds what you and I presently want.
Psalms 104:24 – God’s riches are the product of His power and kindness. God did not make the earth a poor house, but a palace.
God’s table is not bare; He has filled the earth with food.
All the riches of the earth are not the wealth of nation but the riches of the Lord. If His house below is so full of riches what must His house above be, where “The very streets are paved with gold”.
5. God’s goodness can be known.
Psalms 34:8 – “Taste” is used here, figuratively. It means to perceive.
“Taste and see” means to “try it and to experience it.”
One preacher of old said: “You cannot perceive what the sweetness of honey is, you must taste it to perceive it.
The same applies to the Christian life. One cannot know the sweetness of the Lord unless they first receive Him as Saviour. First you taste the honey and you know …. First you receive Christ and then you can know
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The Preciousness of Christ
Intro: I Peter 2:4 – In life, we may have many things that are precious to us. Our children – grand kids – husband or wife – memories – and we could go one. Think of someone that is very dear and near to your heart – Someone you would go “all out” for.
The reference here, is Christ. He is precious. Precious = valued – more honorable – dear.
The Bible tells us that Jesus is precious and should be precious to each and every believer.
I will share with you, just a few reasons why Jesus is to be precious to the Christian.
1. He is precious because of His Excellence and grace – Psalms 45:2 – The reference is to the Lord, not an earthly king. Note Vs 6. John 1:14 & 17
2. He is precious because of His Name – Philippians 2:9-10 –
Hebrews 1:4
He is the Almighty – Alpha & Omega – Angel of the Lord – Arm of the Lord – The Bread of Life – Chief Shepherd – Chief Corner Stone – Counselor – Day-spring – Our Deliverer – The Door – He is God – The Good Shepherd – The Head of the Church – Horn of Salvation – The Lamb of God – Lord of Glory – Messiah – The Mighty One – The Morning Star – Prince of Peace – Or Redeemer – Wonderful – Prince of Peace just to name a few.
3. He is precious because of His Words – John 6:68 – Who can we turn to beside Jesus. He is the Word of John 1. Psalm 73:25. His words are matchless – His Words are truth. His Words bring comfort, joy, wisdom, help, guidance and salvation.
Example: Matthew 11:28 – 30
4. He is precious because of His promises – II Peter 1:4
a. A promise to partake – Hebrews 12:10 (His holiness)
b. I John 3:2 – to be like Jesus
c. Promise of salvation
d. Promise of heaven and a heavenly home
e. Promise to hear and answer prayers
f. A promise to bless
g. Promise never to leave us – never to forsake us.
h. His promises are 1. Great 2. Exceeding 3. Precious
5. His promises are unsearchable – Ephesians 3:8. This means that as long as you live, and no matter how far, high or deep, you search; you’ll never get to the bottom of it all regarding Jesus Christ.
Conclusion: How precious is Christ to you? May he be near and dear to you. May you get close to Him – closer than you are at present. Psalms 116:12 “What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me?”
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Prayers By Dwight L. Moody
Prayers as recorded in “The Gospel Awakenings, Sermons and Addresses. Prayer-Meeting Talks and Bible Readings of the Great Revival Meetings Conducted by Moody and Sankey,”
pp.721-733. Published in 1885.
Our Heavenly Father, we pray thee that thou wilt give us more and more of the compassion of Christ. We read from the very beginning that he was moved with compassion, as this good Samaritan, when he met this poor, wounded and dying man.
O God, give us the spirit of the good Samaritan!
May we go from this building and hunt up many to-night, and tell them of Christ and heaven. May we go to the homes of the poor drunkards; may we go to the homes and hearts of gamblers, the homes of the fallen, the despised and the outcast, and tell them of Christ and heaven.
O Spirit of God! Come down upon this assembly, and may the Church of God find out who
their neighbors are. And, O God, we pray thee that they may be filled with the Spirit of Christ, and that they may go and tell others the story of the cross.
And, O God, we pray thee that hundreds and thousands in this city may be working to win souls to Christ. We pray that great things may be done in Boston the coming Sabbath. And not only on the Sabbath, O God; we will not wait for the Sabbath, but to-night, as thy servants meet in the different churches, O God, do thou meet with them, and we pray thee that there may be a quickening in the churches all over Boston, and all around in its vicinity.
Do thou wake them up, that there may be a great work for them to do. Arid we pray that the day may be not far distant when many souls may be brought to Christ, and when this building shall be filled with those who are lost and want to be saved; and that the cry may go out from many anxious hearts. “What shall I do to be saved?” O Spirit of God, come down upon the assembly now, that the hearts of God’s people may be made one; and that they may all be brought to God and all be glorifiers and honorers of Christ! May we be holy ourselves and consecrate to him our best service.
Now we pray for a numerous meeting tonight. May these Christian young men be fired with the
Holy Spirit from on high. May they be like Joshua, strong in the faith, men of God. May the Christian young men of Boston be known for their piety. And O Lord, we pray thee that drunkards by hundreds and thousands may be saved by the regenerating power of God. May they be touched by the Holy Spirit, and may power be given them to overcome their terrible
appetite. We pray that this meeting we had this noon may be the means of saving many, and that thou wilt bless it, as well as those we have in the future. We pray, O God, that many may go out every day and pray for these men, and show them the way of salvation. In the saloons, the billiard saloons.
O God, mayest thou pour out thy mercy and make many men tremble for what they were about to do. O God, as we tarry at the second meeting. we pray that the Spirit of God may come upon us, and that this great audience may be hushed by the power of God. May we hear the voice of
Jesus to-night; and as we listen may we be ready to go out and do his bidding. For thy name’s sake. Amen.
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The Bema Seat Of Christ
Romans 14:10-12 & II Corinthians 5:9-11
Introduction: The word “judgment seat” is translated from the original “bema seat.”
This is a judgment for the believer. At the Great White Throne Judgment – that is where the unsaved will be judged and shown why they received condemnation.
The judgment seat OR bema seat – is an evaluation or an inspection. We must answer for our conduct to Christ. We do not set in judgment of each other, but we stand before the Lord.
At work, your employer might make an evaluation of you – your work – attitude – timeliness or tardiness. How your work was preformed etc. Here, the Lord does the evaluation of our lives since we trusted Christ as Savior.
I. It Is A Sovereign Event – God Is In Charge
A. It is an identifiable event
1. I Corinthians 3:13
a. work = deeds – doings – labor
b. manifest = publicly known
2. I Corinthians 4:5
a. counsels of the heart – purpose. Why did we do what we did? OR Why did we Not do
what we should have done?
b. The hidden things of darkness are the secret things of the heart which have been
hidden, as it were, in darkness.
B. It is an inclusive event
1. Romans 14:12 – we will not escape it “every one of us”
2. II Corinthians 5:10
a. “done in his body” “good or bad”
b. hands – feet – eyes – tongue – heart – thinking etc.
II. It Is A Serious Examination – I Corinthians 3:13
A. It will deal with the facts
B. It must withstand the fire – I Corinthians 3:15
1. What are the materials that we have built with? I Corinthians 3:12
a. wood & hay are cheap materials
b. did we give God our best? Was it for your honor or for God’s honor?
2. What were the motives that we built with?
Why did we do it? I Corinthians 4:5
3. What were the methods we built with? I Corinthians 3:10 “take heed”
C. The findings – I Corinthians 3:14-15
1. a plus or a minus
2. did we gain or did we loose.
3. in the workplace, you may be evaluated and receive a promotion OR you may not
receive the promotion = you lost what you could’ve had.
After evaluation – you may receive a bonus or a raise OR you may be denied that raise or that bonus = a loss.
D. The finality – No more opportunities for soul winning – witnessing – prayer – The lost have no more chance to be saved.
III. It Is A Spiritual Exhortation
A. The challenge is to please the Lord – II Corinthians 5:9
1. “accepted of Him” = well pleasing – Did our lives, our actions, our thoughts, etc.
please the Lord?
2. I John 2:28 – may have “confidance” and not be “ashamed”
a. Confidence means assurance
b. Ashamed means disgraced
3. Paul teaches us this so that we will have a good evaluation
B. The Choice – II Corinthians 5:11
1. There is a heaven and a hell – will we persuade men to be saved?
2. The whys – How’s and wherefores – will be revealed by God
(manifest unto God)
3. We have to live with ourselves = conscience
4. I Corinthians 3:31 – (context – taking of Lord’s supper)
a. Teaches us to go forward with the Lord and to have short “sin accounts”
b. On a daily basis, let God search your heart & confess your sins.
Conclusion: Remember .. we will be evaluated by God. The Bible tells us about this evaluation,
So, our part is to prepare for it and we have a lifetime to prepare. The time to start is now, while we can. John 9:4 – the day will come when we are not able to do what we can now.
The word “day” represents “opportunity” while “night” represents “loss of the opportunity.”
As it has been said by many “seize the moment” “take advantage” of the “open doors” of opportunity that God has given you.
Then … when life for us has ended, we WILL have an evaluation by God.
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Six keys To Handle Misunderstandings
Mark 3:1-6
Introduction: The Pharisees – Vs 1 & 6 – plotted to destroy Jesus. Why?
1. Because of His actions. They didn’t like what Jesus was doing.
2. Because of His passion. Jesus loves people and He was passionate about His work and His mission here on earth.
3. Because of His motives Vs 22 4. Because of His calling
When you are misunderstood ….
1. Give thanks – I Thessalonians 5:18 – to give thanks is to express gratitude – to be grateful. Don’t “keep score”
2. Don’t’ act weird – some folks do “stupid stuff”
Our job is to make Jesus look good & not bad. Philippians 1:27
3. Don’t judge others – Luke 6:31-33 & 37
To “judge” is to condemn – to pass sentence. We can & should know the difference between right & wrong & say “this is wrong.” Our job is NOT to be a judge. Christ is the judge. Philippians 4:8
4. Love and forgive – Colossians 3:12-13
5. Fix what you can fix – Ephesians 4:1-2 – Matthew 5:23
“reconciled” = This means to settle the difficulty. An unforgiving spirit is fatal to worship.
We can come and ask God for help – dedicate ourselves to His service etc. and yet, hate someone – fail to forgive someone etc. leave and GO to that person and make it right.
There are somethings that you just can’t fix – leave that to God – Romans 14:10 & 12.
6. Do good and go on – Luke 6:27-29 – let the other person hold the “grudge” – let them have the “hate” & the “bitterness.” When you consider Romans 16:17 (mark those that cause divisions)
II Thessalonians 3:6 & 14 (withdraw etc). We need to follow the Scriptural teachings and pray for such that they repent – but do NOT hate – never be bitter or unforgiving. James 1:27 Word “religion” here, means “worship.”
“unspotted” = to have a good Christian testimony.
Many times, you may be misunderstood. Someone may say something “stupid” to you or about you – some may be just plain malicious = they are “out to get you.” As Christians, we need to follow the RX in God’s Word – the Bible to do our part all the while, leaning on Him and seeking the Lord’s advice and help. This involves being in the Word and being in prayer.
Put it in God’s hands and let Him work it out for you.
