For I know the plans that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you call upon me and go and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
Jeremiah 29: 11-12 NKJV
I used to believe in chance happenings way back when. Back in the day I'd come across someone who was interested in something I was thinking of, or see a certain message or headline and immediately think "This was meant for me to see!" Those days are pretty much gone now. These days I understand that in a world where everything we see, do and think is never above the heart of our loving God, there truly is nothing to chance. Sure, there are those people out there who still cling to the thought process that everything we experience is just some haphazard occurance. Yes, and I'm sure that the world and everything around us was created by some random wind blowing through the cosmos? I'm sure more than a few people can see the silliness of this belief. In Jeremiah 29:11, the prophet Jeremiah gives us a few words to explain that there really are no chance happenings in Gods creation.
Then Jesus answered and said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner."
John 5:19 NKJV
I remember a scene from the film Back To The Future where the hapless teenager Marty, having gone forward in time to erase some past event, stumbles across a future sports almanac which holds the scores of every major sports event in its pages. Struck by greed, young Marty envisions returning back in time to reap his fortune. It's not until his friend and travel companion Doc Brown disuades him that he, sort of, nixes the idea. However, what follows is still a hilarious sequence as Marty tries in vain to retrieve the almanac from the villain tough guy Biff Tannon. One thing we can learn here, is that young Marty certainly didn't want to bet his future on mere coincidence. What made for a pretty good movie is also true for us today. Given the chance, would any one of us jump at the opportunity to see the future? Would we even want to? How do we know what it is that God is planning? Would we dare open that pandoras box? As for me, I'll let God deal with tommorow thank you. As the scriptures tell us, tommorw has enough worries of its own. Knowing my track record, the almanac I'd be seeking would most likely be out of date anyway.
~Scott~
Friday, January 8, 2016
The Hand Of God
Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; nor his ear heavy, that it cannot hear.
Isaiah 59:1 NKJV
How much can you do? How strong are you to handle what the world throws your way? In my experience, sooner or later, each of us will come to that point where we step back and cry "Help!" It may come in a situation out of our control, or one that we feel SHOULD be in our control but it isn't. When this ultimately happens, and it will happen, who do we turn to? Friends? Family? Someone in power? What happens when people we put our trust in cannot help us? Do we revert back to tryinng to tackle that situation ourselves? Well, take heart, people, there is one who can help his children in ANY situation. In Isaiah 59:1 we see the prophet Isaiah telling the people of Isreal that the Living God is all but capable to save them from any situation. It's interesting that, in my bible, the heading for Isaiah chapter 59 is "Seperated From God." Apparently the people of Isreal, Gods's chosen people, had once again turned from the Lord of Isreal. Chapter 59 of Isaiah lists off more than a few of the iniquities of the Isrealites. Yet, one could read this chapter and see the iniquites of modern humanity as well.
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my Righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 NKJV
Yet, in spite of the iniquities of the Isrealites and us as well, God continues to be our source of strength and help. He is the gracious helper, who despite where we think we are in our lives, he loves us enough to save us with Righteous right hand. I mention the fact of where we "Think" we are in our life walk for one very important reason. For, despite the times the Isrealites turned from their one God, he STILL promised to redeem them if they only would return to him. Does that sound like a vengeful, angry God? I'll do one better, in the end our Lord STILL redeemed us at the cross! So, despite wherever you are today, the Living God does not condem you! No, he awaits you to accept the gift he has given you through the shed blood of his son.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:12 NKJV
Ephesians 6:12 tells us who that there only one who condems us, and he is the very one who deceived Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Yes, that very serpent who lied to the crown of Gods creation continues to lie to us even today! For satans ultimate goal is to turn our backs from our loving God. It is not our LORD who condems us, but our ultimate enemy satan. God is the one who loved us enough to redeem us in spite of ourselves. For if God had no love for his children, would he not have left us in our sin?
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send is Son into the world to condem the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
John 3: 16-17 NKJV
I realize that this famous passage from John 3 has been used by every would be evangelist known to man, but it's ultimate message is oh so clear to us today. In those times where others fail us, where life seems too much for us to bear, we only need look to our loving God for the strength we need to make it through the trials we are facing. For it is God who ultimately loved us enough to send his very son to shed his blood for us. It is His hand that is never too short to save or His ear to heavy that he does not hear the whispered thoughts and fears of the children he loves so deeply.
Isaiah 59:1 NKJV
How much can you do? How strong are you to handle what the world throws your way? In my experience, sooner or later, each of us will come to that point where we step back and cry "Help!" It may come in a situation out of our control, or one that we feel SHOULD be in our control but it isn't. When this ultimately happens, and it will happen, who do we turn to? Friends? Family? Someone in power? What happens when people we put our trust in cannot help us? Do we revert back to tryinng to tackle that situation ourselves? Well, take heart, people, there is one who can help his children in ANY situation. In Isaiah 59:1 we see the prophet Isaiah telling the people of Isreal that the Living God is all but capable to save them from any situation. It's interesting that, in my bible, the heading for Isaiah chapter 59 is "Seperated From God." Apparently the people of Isreal, Gods's chosen people, had once again turned from the Lord of Isreal. Chapter 59 of Isaiah lists off more than a few of the iniquities of the Isrealites. Yet, one could read this chapter and see the iniquites of modern humanity as well.
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my Righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 NKJV
Yet, in spite of the iniquities of the Isrealites and us as well, God continues to be our source of strength and help. He is the gracious helper, who despite where we think we are in our lives, he loves us enough to save us with Righteous right hand. I mention the fact of where we "Think" we are in our life walk for one very important reason. For, despite the times the Isrealites turned from their one God, he STILL promised to redeem them if they only would return to him. Does that sound like a vengeful, angry God? I'll do one better, in the end our Lord STILL redeemed us at the cross! So, despite wherever you are today, the Living God does not condem you! No, he awaits you to accept the gift he has given you through the shed blood of his son.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:12 NKJV
Ephesians 6:12 tells us who that there only one who condems us, and he is the very one who deceived Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Yes, that very serpent who lied to the crown of Gods creation continues to lie to us even today! For satans ultimate goal is to turn our backs from our loving God. It is not our LORD who condems us, but our ultimate enemy satan. God is the one who loved us enough to redeem us in spite of ourselves. For if God had no love for his children, would he not have left us in our sin?
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send is Son into the world to condem the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
John 3: 16-17 NKJV
I realize that this famous passage from John 3 has been used by every would be evangelist known to man, but it's ultimate message is oh so clear to us today. In those times where others fail us, where life seems too much for us to bear, we only need look to our loving God for the strength we need to make it through the trials we are facing. For it is God who ultimately loved us enough to send his very son to shed his blood for us. It is His hand that is never too short to save or His ear to heavy that he does not hear the whispered thoughts and fears of the children he loves so deeply.
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Trusting
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were nnot made by things that are visible.
Romans 11: 1-3 NKJV
What is it that we ultimately put our trust in? One of the struggles I have with my faith is trusting in something I can't see. However, I don't think I'm alone in this issue. We humans can be pretty simplistic, if we see something in front of our noses, we can ultimately say "Hey, there's something here." Yet, what happens when that "something" is nowhere to be seen? Do we continue to hold fast to our senses and only believe only that which we see, or do we, as Romans 11:1 tells us, have faith in that in which we cannot see? There are countless examples of measures of faith being exemplified in scripture. The scriptures tell us that our Lord Jesus died for our sins on that cross so long ago, and we believe despite not seeing the evidence. The scriptures tell us of Abraham and his faith of trusting in God even to the point of sacraficing his only son, and we believe. Who could forget Noah, who's faith in God prompted him to obey and build an ark when God had warned him of the impending flood? We read of Noah, and we believe.
And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible."
Luke 1: 35-37 NKJV
In Luke 1:35 we see yet again another example of an opportunity to trust in something one cannot see. The angel of the Lord has just told Mary that she will concieve in her the savior of all mankind. Mary's response? "How can this be?" Briefly, we see that Mary was indeed like us today, not believing in that which she couldn't see. However, Mary's response to the angel of the Lord ultimately proves her faith.
Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.
Luke 1: 38 NKJV
What did Mary do after the angel parted ways with her? Well, she only went to visit Elizabeth! See, not only did Mary confess with her words that she trusted in God, she immediately rushed to see Elizabeth to confirm what she's been told. Now, some may see Mary's visit to Elizabeth as distrust in God, wanting to confirm his words for herself. However, I look at this as Mary being anxious to see Gods word fullfiled.
We ourselves can learn much from the examples of those who have gone before us. As I've mentioned, the scriptures are filled with those who have trusted in Gods spoken word. Who, not seeing the physical evidence to confirm his word in front of them, chose to accept his word as true. These people were not unlike us, being of the very same earthly vessels that we ourselves are. Ultimately, they chose to trust in the word of the living God. I've had my own struggles in my faith recently with my mothers illness, so I'm well aware of the battle each of us faces. Do we trust in our fleshly senses, or do we believe in the word of God that it is he, and not we, who is in ultimately in control?
~Scott~
Romans 11: 1-3 NKJV
What is it that we ultimately put our trust in? One of the struggles I have with my faith is trusting in something I can't see. However, I don't think I'm alone in this issue. We humans can be pretty simplistic, if we see something in front of our noses, we can ultimately say "Hey, there's something here." Yet, what happens when that "something" is nowhere to be seen? Do we continue to hold fast to our senses and only believe only that which we see, or do we, as Romans 11:1 tells us, have faith in that in which we cannot see? There are countless examples of measures of faith being exemplified in scripture. The scriptures tell us that our Lord Jesus died for our sins on that cross so long ago, and we believe despite not seeing the evidence. The scriptures tell us of Abraham and his faith of trusting in God even to the point of sacraficing his only son, and we believe. Who could forget Noah, who's faith in God prompted him to obey and build an ark when God had warned him of the impending flood? We read of Noah, and we believe.
And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible."
Luke 1: 35-37 NKJV
In Luke 1:35 we see yet again another example of an opportunity to trust in something one cannot see. The angel of the Lord has just told Mary that she will concieve in her the savior of all mankind. Mary's response? "How can this be?" Briefly, we see that Mary was indeed like us today, not believing in that which she couldn't see. However, Mary's response to the angel of the Lord ultimately proves her faith.
Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.
Luke 1: 38 NKJV
What did Mary do after the angel parted ways with her? Well, she only went to visit Elizabeth! See, not only did Mary confess with her words that she trusted in God, she immediately rushed to see Elizabeth to confirm what she's been told. Now, some may see Mary's visit to Elizabeth as distrust in God, wanting to confirm his words for herself. However, I look at this as Mary being anxious to see Gods word fullfiled.
We ourselves can learn much from the examples of those who have gone before us. As I've mentioned, the scriptures are filled with those who have trusted in Gods spoken word. Who, not seeing the physical evidence to confirm his word in front of them, chose to accept his word as true. These people were not unlike us, being of the very same earthly vessels that we ourselves are. Ultimately, they chose to trust in the word of the living God. I've had my own struggles in my faith recently with my mothers illness, so I'm well aware of the battle each of us faces. Do we trust in our fleshly senses, or do we believe in the word of God that it is he, and not we, who is in ultimately in control?
~Scott~
Saturday, January 2, 2016
A Tale Of Two Prayers
"In this manner, therefore, pray: Our father in heaven, Hallowed be your name. You're kingdon come. Your will be done on arth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Matthew 6: 9-13 NKJV
There in the contents of the sermon on the mount, amidst other teachings of our Lord Jesus, is what has been heralded as Jesus' teaching on how we should pray. I'm not one who thinks that our communication with God should follow any particular pattern, but that's just my thought. After all, did the prayers of the prophets follow a template similar to that of Matthew 6? Yet, this is what Jesus said of our prayers that day, "In this manner, therefore, pray." So, many a well intended christian followed this example. Now, I'm not saying the prayer example in Matthew 6 is wrong, far from it. I'm just not that much into cookie cutter organized prayers. My communication with the Father is on a personal level for me. Still, as in his sermon on the Mount of Olives, I believe that Jesus' teachings have validity. The way Jesus tells us to pray is unique covering our provision, debts and help against our enemy satan. All good points. Not to offend anyone, but I look at Jesus' prayer in Matthew 6 as a "beginers prayer." Not that someone mature in their faith couldn't pray in this way as well, but I believe it to be a example on how to pray. As I've said, I believe our personal prayers with God don't follow a pattern, but are heartfelt conversations between us and our heavenly father.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord: he is a double minded man, unstable in all his ways.
James 1: 1-8 NKJV
If Jesus' prayer in Matthew 6 is a beginers example of how to pray, then his brother James' instruction on how to pray is more detailed. In James 1 we see the Lords' brother also instructing us on how we should go about our prayers. One thing I love about James' version is his instruction in verse 6. James tells the reader to "Let him ask in faith" when in prayer to our Lord. Obviously, there's something to be said of someone who truly believes in God as they pray.
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6 NKJV
I think that Paul verifies this in Hebrews 6 when, again, he explains a element of effective prayer. Of course, the phrase "effective prayer" is pretty much a misnomer, as I've stated, to me prayer is simply my personal communication with my lord. Do I feel God will look away from the prayer of someone who didn't believe he existed? No, for this would close the door on anyone who seeks to come to know him and reserve communication with him for only those who believe. Do we have any evidence that the thief Jesus forgave while on the cross was a christian? Yet Jesus opened the doors of heaven to this sinner as well. No, the line of communication to God is available to everyone. We toil over phrases like effective prayer, when I feel all God wants to see is for everyone to come to the reaization that he is Lord and that he loved us enough to send his Son to pay the price for our very redemption. There is no template for a effective prayer to say "Thank you, Lord."
~Scott~
Matthew 6: 9-13 NKJV
There in the contents of the sermon on the mount, amidst other teachings of our Lord Jesus, is what has been heralded as Jesus' teaching on how we should pray. I'm not one who thinks that our communication with God should follow any particular pattern, but that's just my thought. After all, did the prayers of the prophets follow a template similar to that of Matthew 6? Yet, this is what Jesus said of our prayers that day, "In this manner, therefore, pray." So, many a well intended christian followed this example. Now, I'm not saying the prayer example in Matthew 6 is wrong, far from it. I'm just not that much into cookie cutter organized prayers. My communication with the Father is on a personal level for me. Still, as in his sermon on the Mount of Olives, I believe that Jesus' teachings have validity. The way Jesus tells us to pray is unique covering our provision, debts and help against our enemy satan. All good points. Not to offend anyone, but I look at Jesus' prayer in Matthew 6 as a "beginers prayer." Not that someone mature in their faith couldn't pray in this way as well, but I believe it to be a example on how to pray. As I've said, I believe our personal prayers with God don't follow a pattern, but are heartfelt conversations between us and our heavenly father.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord: he is a double minded man, unstable in all his ways.
James 1: 1-8 NKJV
If Jesus' prayer in Matthew 6 is a beginers example of how to pray, then his brother James' instruction on how to pray is more detailed. In James 1 we see the Lords' brother also instructing us on how we should go about our prayers. One thing I love about James' version is his instruction in verse 6. James tells the reader to "Let him ask in faith" when in prayer to our Lord. Obviously, there's something to be said of someone who truly believes in God as they pray.
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6 NKJV
I think that Paul verifies this in Hebrews 6 when, again, he explains a element of effective prayer. Of course, the phrase "effective prayer" is pretty much a misnomer, as I've stated, to me prayer is simply my personal communication with my lord. Do I feel God will look away from the prayer of someone who didn't believe he existed? No, for this would close the door on anyone who seeks to come to know him and reserve communication with him for only those who believe. Do we have any evidence that the thief Jesus forgave while on the cross was a christian? Yet Jesus opened the doors of heaven to this sinner as well. No, the line of communication to God is available to everyone. We toil over phrases like effective prayer, when I feel all God wants to see is for everyone to come to the reaization that he is Lord and that he loved us enough to send his Son to pay the price for our very redemption. There is no template for a effective prayer to say "Thank you, Lord."
~Scott~
Holy Legacy
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified together.
Romans 8: 15-17 NKJV
Not too many of us yet know yet just what our legacy will be. Many of us have more days to live before it's realized how we will be remembered. Will we be remembered as a good person, someone people looked up to? Or will our legacy be of someone who shunned others? It's funny, when we think of the word "Legacy" we usually associate it with how others see us. Hundreds of years ago, some people had their family legacies cemented in their very names. Somewhere back in time, the son of a certain man named John was often refered to as "John's son." Over time, this young mans family became known as the family Johnson, a legacy was created. Other family names followed such as Nelson, Jamison and Carlson. The legacies of these families were forever tied to their ancestors. No matter what accomplishments their offspring did, they were forever associated with the family name. Unless, of course, they changed that.
Now I saw a new Heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also, there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of the heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people. God Hiimself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there will be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be nno more pain, for the former things have passed away." Then he who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And he said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful." And he said to me, "It is done! I am the alpha and the omega, the Begining and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be my son."
Revelation 21: 1-7 NKJV
In Romans 8, Paul tells us of yet another legacy of ours, perhaps our TRUE legacy. This legacy cannot be changed by the simple changing of our name. This legacy does not base how we will be remembered by how those around us see us. No, this legacy of ours is greater than all of that. Those of us who have accepted Christ and the wonderful work he did for us share in a new legacy, that of sons and daughters of our living God. Not only are our sins now forgiven, but we now share in the same heritage of Jesus! Revelation 21:7 only confirms this geneology for us. Notice how the author, John, relates the words of our Lord in this passage. "I will be his God and he shall be my son." Throughout scripture, when our holy God or his Son are refered to, it is ALWAYS capitalized! Therefore, I believe the words HIS and SON in Revelation 21:7 refer to we who are in Christ Jesus. He will be our God, WE are his sons and daughters! I'll take that legacy any day!
One of the happiest moments of my week is when I visit my mother for a brief time. From time to time, when I arrive, she'll smile and proudly say "My Son!." Yes, this is part of my legacy.
~Scott~
Romans 8: 15-17 NKJV
Not too many of us yet know yet just what our legacy will be. Many of us have more days to live before it's realized how we will be remembered. Will we be remembered as a good person, someone people looked up to? Or will our legacy be of someone who shunned others? It's funny, when we think of the word "Legacy" we usually associate it with how others see us. Hundreds of years ago, some people had their family legacies cemented in their very names. Somewhere back in time, the son of a certain man named John was often refered to as "John's son." Over time, this young mans family became known as the family Johnson, a legacy was created. Other family names followed such as Nelson, Jamison and Carlson. The legacies of these families were forever tied to their ancestors. No matter what accomplishments their offspring did, they were forever associated with the family name. Unless, of course, they changed that.
Now I saw a new Heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also, there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of the heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people. God Hiimself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there will be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be nno more pain, for the former things have passed away." Then he who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And he said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful." And he said to me, "It is done! I am the alpha and the omega, the Begining and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be my son."
Revelation 21: 1-7 NKJV
In Romans 8, Paul tells us of yet another legacy of ours, perhaps our TRUE legacy. This legacy cannot be changed by the simple changing of our name. This legacy does not base how we will be remembered by how those around us see us. No, this legacy of ours is greater than all of that. Those of us who have accepted Christ and the wonderful work he did for us share in a new legacy, that of sons and daughters of our living God. Not only are our sins now forgiven, but we now share in the same heritage of Jesus! Revelation 21:7 only confirms this geneology for us. Notice how the author, John, relates the words of our Lord in this passage. "I will be his God and he shall be my son." Throughout scripture, when our holy God or his Son are refered to, it is ALWAYS capitalized! Therefore, I believe the words HIS and SON in Revelation 21:7 refer to we who are in Christ Jesus. He will be our God, WE are his sons and daughters! I'll take that legacy any day!
One of the happiest moments of my week is when I visit my mother for a brief time. From time to time, when I arrive, she'll smile and proudly say "My Son!." Yes, this is part of my legacy.
~Scott~
Friday, January 1, 2016
Strength In Numbers
So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
Acts 2: 46-47 NKJV
I've made the mistake many times, venturing off on my own path thinking I can do things by myself. I'm the captain of my own ship and I'll chart that course appropriately. Of course, it's usually not too long before something happens that brings such lone wolf thinking to a screeching halt. Recently, this has brought a question to mind, are we really independent people, or are we somehow connected to a greater power? Of course, spiritually speaking, I know that I myself am connected to my Lord Jesus who dwells within me.
I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
Galations 2:20 NKJV
I've often refered to Galations 2:20 in reference to the fact that our Lord Jesus dwells within each of us. Of course, not only does Jesus dwell within me, but in all who have received him. We tend to refer to these believers as "The Church" with Christ at the head.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.
Ephesians 5::25 NKJV
And if Christ is the head of his church of believers, then WE are the church. We tend to think of the church as that building that we attend on Sundays to worship our Lord. Yes, that is mans definition, but our Lord is obviously not confined to a building.
"However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says: 'Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What house will you build for me? says the LORD, Or what is the place of my rest? Has my hand not made all these things?'
Acts 7::48 NKJV
In Acts 2 we get a glimpse of just how Christs church grew in its early days. These people were mmeeting, worshiping and basically living in one accord. They were not just arriving for church on Sunday morning for an hour or two. No, these followers of Jesus WERE His church. I've often wondered if we could replicate the church of believers we see in Acts 2. Of course, that would require some major changes in our society. For now, I'll continue to believe that all who are in Christ Jesus are indeed his church.
And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
1 Corinthians 12:26 NKJV
One church, one community.
~Scott~
Acts 2: 46-47 NKJV
I've made the mistake many times, venturing off on my own path thinking I can do things by myself. I'm the captain of my own ship and I'll chart that course appropriately. Of course, it's usually not too long before something happens that brings such lone wolf thinking to a screeching halt. Recently, this has brought a question to mind, are we really independent people, or are we somehow connected to a greater power? Of course, spiritually speaking, I know that I myself am connected to my Lord Jesus who dwells within me.
I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
Galations 2:20 NKJV
I've often refered to Galations 2:20 in reference to the fact that our Lord Jesus dwells within each of us. Of course, not only does Jesus dwell within me, but in all who have received him. We tend to refer to these believers as "The Church" with Christ at the head.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.
Ephesians 5::25 NKJV
And if Christ is the head of his church of believers, then WE are the church. We tend to think of the church as that building that we attend on Sundays to worship our Lord. Yes, that is mans definition, but our Lord is obviously not confined to a building.
"However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says: 'Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What house will you build for me? says the LORD, Or what is the place of my rest? Has my hand not made all these things?'
Acts 7::48 NKJV
In Acts 2 we get a glimpse of just how Christs church grew in its early days. These people were mmeeting, worshiping and basically living in one accord. They were not just arriving for church on Sunday morning for an hour or two. No, these followers of Jesus WERE His church. I've often wondered if we could replicate the church of believers we see in Acts 2. Of course, that would require some major changes in our society. For now, I'll continue to believe that all who are in Christ Jesus are indeed his church.
And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
1 Corinthians 12:26 NKJV
One church, one community.
~Scott~
Lines Of Communication
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 NKJV
I used to have a shirt with the scripture from 1 Thessalonians 5:17 inscribed on it, along with the words "Pray Hard." I wore that shirt proudly, more of a symbol of who I was than what I practiced. Everyone who saw it KNEW that I was someone who prayed to God. Or did they? Whether or not others believed my facade or not, it made me feel secure knowing others thought I was a praying man. Of course, my attitudes have changed over time. Now, I see prayer not only as a powerful weapon against my enemy, but a way of communication with my Lord and Savior. What changed? Well, as anyone who has read my previous pages knows, life has a way of humbling us all. It is during these times of trial and struggle that we need to talk with the Lord the most, not that always praying to God is important, but we lose focus. I lost focus. It became more about a status symbol than talking with God. I was more worried that others saw me as a praying christian man.
People shall be brought down, Each man shall be humbled, and the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled.
Isaiah 5:15 NKJV
I've often laughed at a description of those who think they don't need God in their lives. It seems that they're going along fine in their lives, until some unforseen tragedy occurs. It is during these times that the very first thing many of these so called self reliant people will say is "Help me God!" Yes, I laugh, but I was one of these people. Maybe I was different in that I knew who my God was, yet I still thought I could do it on my own. Funny, God has perfect ways of getting our attention. I guess I like to think of this as God having a sense of humor, "Ok, you think you can handle all of this? I'll let you." Eventually, many of us will humbly come back to Gods throne of grace to once again commune with him. I can't help but feel that this is Gods desire, to be in fellowship with his children. Sooner or later we are humbled and return to our Heavenly Father.
For there is one God and one mediator between God and men,the Man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time
1 Timothy 2: 5-6 NKJV
Not only did Jesus give his life as a sin offering for all of mankind, but to open the lines of communication between God and his children. My sins are gone now, and I now have a direct advocate to my Heavenly Father. Where in Old Testament days direct access to God was reserved mostly for priests and the prophets, Christ has changed that dynamic forever. So much so, that our Lord Jesus now resides in all who have accepted him.
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? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 NKJV
We can also view prayer as a conversation with Christ who is in us. Ever wanted to talk with one of the greatest men in history? Well, at this moment we can. For Jesus is as close to us as our very next breath.
~Scott~
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 NKJV
I used to have a shirt with the scripture from 1 Thessalonians 5:17 inscribed on it, along with the words "Pray Hard." I wore that shirt proudly, more of a symbol of who I was than what I practiced. Everyone who saw it KNEW that I was someone who prayed to God. Or did they? Whether or not others believed my facade or not, it made me feel secure knowing others thought I was a praying man. Of course, my attitudes have changed over time. Now, I see prayer not only as a powerful weapon against my enemy, but a way of communication with my Lord and Savior. What changed? Well, as anyone who has read my previous pages knows, life has a way of humbling us all. It is during these times of trial and struggle that we need to talk with the Lord the most, not that always praying to God is important, but we lose focus. I lost focus. It became more about a status symbol than talking with God. I was more worried that others saw me as a praying christian man.
People shall be brought down, Each man shall be humbled, and the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled.
Isaiah 5:15 NKJV
I've often laughed at a description of those who think they don't need God in their lives. It seems that they're going along fine in their lives, until some unforseen tragedy occurs. It is during these times that the very first thing many of these so called self reliant people will say is "Help me God!" Yes, I laugh, but I was one of these people. Maybe I was different in that I knew who my God was, yet I still thought I could do it on my own. Funny, God has perfect ways of getting our attention. I guess I like to think of this as God having a sense of humor, "Ok, you think you can handle all of this? I'll let you." Eventually, many of us will humbly come back to Gods throne of grace to once again commune with him. I can't help but feel that this is Gods desire, to be in fellowship with his children. Sooner or later we are humbled and return to our Heavenly Father.
For there is one God and one mediator between God and men,the Man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time
1 Timothy 2: 5-6 NKJV
Not only did Jesus give his life as a sin offering for all of mankind, but to open the lines of communication between God and his children. My sins are gone now, and I now have a direct advocate to my Heavenly Father. Where in Old Testament days direct access to God was reserved mostly for priests and the prophets, Christ has changed that dynamic forever. So much so, that our Lord Jesus now resides in all who have accepted him.
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? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 NKJV
We can also view prayer as a conversation with Christ who is in us. Ever wanted to talk with one of the greatest men in history? Well, at this moment we can. For Jesus is as close to us as our very next breath.
~Scott~
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