Message from Scripture: 9/30/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Phil. 3:17. “Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.”

There are times in life where some things needs to be duplicated by that which is standardized, that is the same each time, not always just for uniformity sake, but for safety as well. No one would want to fly in an airplane, or drive a car, where the specifications were not strictly adhered to.

Spiritually speaking, God has always had a pattern for people to follow, to be fair and consistent, so everyone can have confidence in reaching the desired result. For example, God told Moses, “Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you” (Ex. 25:9). The Law of Moses itself was to serve as a pattern for the people of Israel, to be their guide on how to live, how to have a relationship with God (Jer. 11:3-4).

In the New Testament, Paul reminded Timothy, “Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 1:13). The gospel is that pattern by which our lives are to be made, that which we follow and imitate. To put it more personally, “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Eph. 5:1-2). This is why we should have the mind of Christ, and pattern ourselves by the life He lived (Phil. 2:5).

God created us in His image, and for us to function at our best, in a way that pleases Him, we must follow the pattern He has given us, in both His word, and in the life Christ lived. The world offers a pattern, too, but it only leads to condemnation. May Christ be our life (Col. 3:4), that we can share life with Him eternally. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/29/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Col. 1:17. “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”

 

In this passage from God’s word, Paul is emphasizing to the church in Colossae that Christ is first, His supremacy is over all creation, and that He should have priority in their lives. He uses two concepts to convey this meaning to them. First, He is described as being before all things, which emphasizes His eternal nature. Before anything was made, Christ was, as He is deity, and was God’s agent of creation. Not only this, but He also holds all things together.

The phrase “all things hold together” emphasizes how creation exists and functions in Him, in the sphere of His control and influence. Creation is held together, meaning to be joined together into a whole, to comprise as a unit, to exist. This verb is in the perfect tense, and could be translated having been held together. It refers to an action in the past that continues in the present. When creation was brought into being, it has a cohesion that gives it harmony and unity. Creation is maintained as such for our benefit even to this point in time, and will until Christ returns, when it will be destroyed and eternity becomes our new realm of existence. The effort it takes to maintain it for us is an ongoing process, overseen by the Father through the Son, and we are the beneficiaries of that effort.

Sometimes it’s easy for us to take life for granted, for the processes that are ongoing for us to have not only our physical existence, but the quality of life we possess. Jesus said it is through the Father’s supervision that causes the sun to rise on the evil and good, and rain on the just and unjust, and rain on the righteous and unrighteous (Matt. 5:45). Without this happening, we could not exist. We truly are totally dependent on God and Christ for both our physical and spiritual sustenance.

Today, let’s give thanks to God for making everything possible for us that is good, for life today, and life eternal. Realizing our reliance on Him, let’s put Him first in our lives, and find even greater blessings for us, each and every day. We can have a great day today because God makes it all possible

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/28/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Ex. 33:16. ^“For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Is it not in your going with us, so that we are distinct, I and your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?”

The context of this passage is when Moses went up on the mountain to receive the law of God, and the people played the harlot while he was gone. It is amazing to consider how, after all the harsh oppression they endured in Egypt, and how after they had seen all the good works of God on their behalf, they gave themselves over to the unrestrained desires of the flesh. Many suffered and died for this lack of self-control. What caused them to do this? Did a pagan nation’s army come up and coerce them into this behavior? Did a band of marauders pass by and reason them into accepting such activity? Did one of the Israelites inquire of God and receive His blessing to act this way? No, each person decided for him or herself that this is what they would do. No one forced them…it was their own decision.

If we are truly in Christ, we will show it. We are to be separate, distinct, different from everyone else. Do we live a different life? Are we faithful in assembling to worship, when the world is not? Are we faithful in spending time in His word so we can grow more like our Lord, when the world is not? Are we faithful in walking in the will of God every day, which some believe is unnecessary to inheriting eternal life? If we can do anything and everything other than that which is spiritual, whose choice is that?

If we are children of God, we will be distinct; we will be different! It is the choice we make, to have God go with us, or to go our own way. Paul said, “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Phil. 1:27). Do you reflect Christ, or your surroundings? Do you live worthy of the gospel?  Do you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness? Are you different? Live for Christ today, and be blessed of God.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/26/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Rom. 8:6. ^“For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.”

The term mind is used often in Scripture, sometimes with related but distinct meanings. In this passage, Paul is using the term to refer to the ability to think and reason, the organ of moral knowledge, man's highest faculty, by which he recognizes the will of God for his own life. Depending on what we allow in our minds, the thoughts, sounds, images and concepts that surround us, it can be focused on doing what is good, or what is bad. If we don’t discern what we allow in it, the knowledge we gain and an understanding of what we perceive and set as our standard for morals and values, what we think, will be corrupt. This leads to unacceptable behavior, and if not redirected,  it leads to death.

Instead of letting worldly values direct our thinking, we need to focus on what the Spirit reveals to us through the word. Paul makes a similar statement in Rom. 12:2; “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” Don’t think what you watch on television, or listen to on the radio, or hear from the conversation of others, or what you read on media sources, doesn’t have an influence on you. Satan takes advantage of every tool available to redirect our minds to sin. We must take every thought captive for the purpose of obeying Christ (2 Cor. 10:5).

To this end Paul told the Christians in Philippi, “And this I pray, that your love may overflow still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may discover the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and blameless for the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness, which comes through Jesus Christ, for the glory and praise of God” (Phil. 1:9-11).

Before making any decisions about how to live your life, make sure you have the knowledge and wisdom to listen to God over the world. What you let in your thoughts will ultimately show up in how you live. As the psalmist said, “Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way” (Psa. 119:104). Fill yourself with God’s word, and have a great day. God bless.

Robert

 

Who Dares Despise the Day of Small Things?

In 536 B.C. Cyrus, king of Persia, issued a proclamation that profoundly affected the Jewish people. This proclamation allowed the Jews, who had been taken captive to Babylon earlier by Nebuchadnezzar, to return to Jerusalem. Over 40,000 people responded. When they reached their destination, one of the first things they determined to do was rebuild the temple.

When the foundation for the temple was laid, many wept with a loud voice. They perceived this temple to be insignificant, compared to the one Solomon built earlier (Ezra 3:12). All the things they would do in the coming years would be viewed as small and unimportant.  To this attitude God responded, "For who has despised the day of small things?" (Zech. 4:10). When the work is for God, nothing is insignificant; everything has a place in His plan.

Our lives are spent mainly in tending to small duties. We have a normal routine we follow most days. Few of us will be called by a great dignitary to offer advice on their decisions. Most of us will never move in the social circles that would bring us recognition or cause us to be considered great.  Even so, such a life is nothing to be ashamed of, to be despised!  A great life consists in doing small things well every day.  The importance of prayer, phone calls, cards, visits, meals, etc. is significant when we do them for the Lord.   How many lives can you touch, how many sick can be strengthened, or those weak cheered, through your prayers?  How many people can you encourage through a visit, card, or call?  How many can you bless by offering a meal to them?  How many have the hope of salvation because of your influence, persistence, and love, in reaching out to them with the gospel, in taking time to share Scripture with them?

Jesus said, "And whoever gives to one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward" (Matt. 10:42).  A body of the Lord's people, doing what they can in service to Him, with the opportunities that God gives each, will find together they can be of great value to the Master.  It is through Him that "...all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase which is from God" (Col. 2:19).

Please don't underestimate the importance of what you do for the Lord, great or small!  Nothing is irrelevant when done for the glory of God.  Even in the crazy times we are in, we can all resolve to put God first in all we do, to make sure what we do is done with excellence, to please God.  “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory” (1 Cor. 10:31).  Don’t despise the day of small things, but take advantage of them, and every other day, to make a difference.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/25/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Heb. 7:25. ^“ Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.”

Christianity is based on the reality of an empty tomb, and that tomb being empty because the one who was placed there has risen over death. Christianity continues as a dynamic faith because those who put their faith and trust in Jesus Christ have found Him to be a living presence and a continuing power in their lives. What does Christ, who lives forever, offer us for our lives today?

Jesus lives to be our Savior from the penalty of sin. Paul reminds us, “Just as sin reigned in death, so also grace will reign through righteousness, resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 5:21).

Jesus lives to be our Savior from the power of sin. Paul affirmed, “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:56-57).

Jesus lives to be our Savior over the presence of sin. Again Paul tells us, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Cor. 5:17).

While we struggle with sin in this existence, if we are in Christ, our Lord lives to provide what we need to be successful in Christian living, in living for the hope of eternal life. Have a great day today, knowing Christ is always there for you. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/24/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 2 Cor. 1:5. ^“For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.”

One of the motives many have in life is the desire for riches. The bottom line for businesses is making a profit, and sometimes people make it the only goal they have for life as well. Others spend their lives in despair because of their inability to become rich. In this passage of Scripture, Paul reminds these Christians that, even though there was suffering they had to endure for the sake of Christ, they were rich beyond measure. In reality, everyone in Christ is rich spiritually. What are some of those riches we have in Christ?

We are enriched by inexhaustible resources for living a victorious life. God has given us His inspired and inerrant teachings of the Bible to lead us in an abundant life. Through Scripture we are able to be complete, thoroughly equipped for ever good work (2 Tim. 3:17).

We are also enriched by the fellowship we share together in Christ, and the mutual encouragement we offer each other. Scripture reminds us, “God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Cor. 1:9). What support we have, in our fellowship, knowing we not only have each other, but that God is with us to help us as well.

We are enriched beyond measure by the promises of a loving Father. Not only do we have promises for today, but the most precious have to do with life beyond today, with life eternal. "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work” (Rev. 22:12). For the faithful, that reward is heaven.

Praise God for the rich blessings He offers us in Christ. Count your blessings and thank Him for all that we have, and all that we are, in Him. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/23/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Psa. 85:6. ^“Will you not revive us again so that your people may rejoice in you?”

At some point in everyone’s life, we all need to be renewed and encouraged, to be reminded of our blessings, of the life we have to live, of our potential to live as we should and reach for new heights. It’s easy to allow the world to intrude and rob us of our joy and dedication to spiritual living. What can we do to rededicate ourselves to living out spiritual principles in every aspect of our lives?

We can remember better days. The psalmist said, “You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin (85:2). God is the God of recurring opportunities, each day giving us another opportunity to surrender to His love.

We can pray for the present. The psalmist here prayed, “Show us Your lovingkindness, O Lord, and grant us Your salvation” (85:7). If we change our attitude and seek God’s forgiveness, turning back to Him brings His blessings and our joy once more.

We can anticipate future blessings. The psalmist looked forward to being able to say, “I will listen to what God will say; surely the Lord will declare peace to his people, His faithful ones, and not let them go back to foolish ways” (85:8). Every day is an opportunity for renewal, to return and seek God, to find His abundant blessings once more and have complete confidence in our lives and where they will lead.

Isn’t it wonderful knowing God wants to bring us renewal? No matter what stage in our lives, God goes with us to bless us. Let’s rejoice that He’s with us at all times to bless, help, and secure our lives in Him. We can truly say, with God, we will have a great day. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/22/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Josh 1:9. ^“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Following in the shoes of another can be a challenging thing to do, depending on who it is you’re following. Imagine how Joshua must have felt, then, knowing he was following Moses, to actually bring the children of Israel into the promised land. He had seen all the effort it took Moses to lead the people to this point in time. How would be able to complete the task of allowing the Israelites to take possession of the land God would give them? In asking that question, we can also ask ourselves what will it take for us to be faithful to God, to take possession of eternal life which He offers us in Christ?

Joshua had the challenge to see what God would do for him. What he had worked out for Moses was one thing. What would God provide for him to finish the task? He needed to understand the God who worked in other victorious experiences in Egypt, at the Red Sea, and against Amalek would use that same power on his behalf. So it is for us as well. The God who has brought us through our difficulties to this point in time is the same God who will help us through our challenges and trials today. Paul said, “He has delivered us from such a terrible death, and he will deliver us. We have put our hope in him that he will deliver us again” (2 Cor. 1:10). He’s the same God at work in our lives.

Joshua also needed to know God always stands behind his Word, His promises, and His assurances. Joshua could look back after the conquest and say, “I am now going the way of the whole earth, and you know with all your heart and all your soul that none of the good promises the Lord your God made to you has failed. Everything was fulfilled for you; not one promise has failed” (Josh. 23:14). Our assurance should be like that which Paul had. “I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6).

Faith truly is the victory (1 John 5:4). Live by faith and see all the great things God can accomplish in your life, today, tomorrow, always. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/21/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Thess. 5:11. “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.”

Everyone’s life has both highs and lows. No one has to tell us to enjoy the good times, but there are those times we need the help of others to make it through the bad times. The word in the New Testament for encouragement means literally to call alongside of. It carries the idea of comfort, consolation, support, and offering confidence to each other. What does encouragement do for us?

Encouragement keep us from quitting. We all have our weaknesses, and we need to hear from others we can make it, not to give up, that it is worth pressing on. We need to be like Barnabas, who went to the church in Antioch “to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord” (Acts 11:23).

Encouragement helps us reach our potential. To encourage, and be encouraged, gives us a perspective we may not have about ourselves, enabling us to better see who we are and what we can do, to find the courage to try. Barnabas encouraged John Mark to not give up after he left the first missionary journey, even to the point where Paul would later say he was useful to him (2 Tim. 4:11).

Encouragement keeps our focus on God. The trials of life can easily cause us to only think of our problems and not our blessings. It helps to be encouraged in knowing God never gives up on us, that He is always there for us. Paul encouraged Timothy by reminding him, even though Paul himself faced numerous difficulties in serving God, that the Lord stood with him and strengthened him (2 Tim. 4:16). Paul knew God would help Timothy as well (2 Tim. 1:7).

Since we all need encouragement, we should all be encouragers. Is there anyone you could help out by a kind word, prayer, or some help today? You will find in helping others you help yourself. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/19/2020

Our message from Scripture today is John 4:34. “Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of the one who sent me and to complete his work.’”

In the context of this verse, Jesus was in Samaria and introduced the woman at the well, and the people where she lived, to His being the Messiah. Because of her testimony to the people of Sycar, they came to believe in Jesus as the Christ as well. Jesus had previously been physically tired and hungry, and His disciples had gone to find Him something to eat. On their return, after Jesus had spoke spiritual truths to this woman, he told them He had food they knew nothing about. Wondering if someone else had brought Him a meal, He reminded them the role His doing the will of the Father played in His life.

Most of us like to eat, for both pleasure as well as its nutritional value. Do we factor in the need we have for spiritual nutrition? We need physical food to survive, but we also need to feed our souls. How do we do that? Jesus said it involves doing the will of God. Of course, we need time in the word to know the will of God. We need time in prayer to find purpose in the will of God. We need fellowship to find strength in the will of God. But all of this should lead us to doing the will of God, applying it to our life’s situations, making it integral to who we are. It is to be an essential part of who we are.

What is the goal for living for God? Jesus said it’s to complete the work of God. Christ had a work to do, to sacrifice His life for our sins. He embraced it, He gave Himself to it, it was His purpose for being here. The word complete means to be complete or mature, to reach the intended goal. All of His earthly ministry was to reach and fulfill the goal of offering atonement for our sins. Our goal in life, our food to sustain us, is to live so Christ’s work is fulfilled in each of us, to have eternal life. Is that what you live for? Let’s reach God’s goal for us, one day at a time. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert

 

The Word of God Stands Forever

Over a decade ago, the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) aired a NOVA program entitled “The Bible’s Buried Secrets,” which claims the Bible is not true.  The producer of the program, Paula Apsell, said in an interview at the time the program was broadcast, “This program is designed for intelligent people who are willing to change their mind…it will give intelligent people who want to read the Bible in a modern way a chance.  If we insist on reading the Bible literally, in 25 years nobody will read it any longer.” We’re close to the halfway point of his 25 year prediction, but there are still a vast number who understand the Bible, while written with various ways to emphasize its truths, is to be understood literally.  The spirit of Voltaire, which is the spirit of sin, is still at work in the world.

Those who believe the Bible is meant to be understood literally are still impugned, however, as being ignorant, because “intelligent” people are willing to change their mind and “read the Bible in a modern way.”  In other words, you’re intelligent if you agree with me, and not if you don’t.  It reminds me of what Paul said almost two millennia ago; “For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe” (1 Cor. 1:21).  The message of Scripture, especially of Christ and the cross, is disdained by those who have become wise in their own eyes, who think by their own intellectual abilities they know more than God.  Yet all of the technical advances humanity has achieved pales into nothingness compared to the infinite wisdom of God.  Paul also wrote, “The foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (1 Cor. 1:25).  God has rightly said, “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa. 55:9).

Scripture still continues to be read, believed, and lived by.  We have been born again, not of that which is perishable but imperishable, as Peter reminds us, by “the living and abiding word of God” (1 Pet. 1:23).  He goes on to say, “All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass.  The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the word of the Lord remains forever” (1 Pet. 1:24-25).  Like some in the first century, “Claiming to be wise, they became fools” (Rom. 1:22).  Like Voltaire, such statements serve as reminders of the power God has given to His living and abiding word (Heb. 4:12-13).  Our lives must be aligned with the eternal and omniscient God.  On the day of judgment, we should want to stand with the wisdom of God than the wisdom of humanity.  “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil” (Prov. 3:7).

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/18/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Acts 9:7, “The men who traveled with him stood  speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one,” and Acts 22:9, “Now those who were with me saw the light, but they did not hear the voice of the one who was speaking to me.”

In both of these passages of Scripture, Luke relates Saul of Tarsus’ obedience to the gospel. In Acts 9, when the Lord appeared to him, there was a flash of light and the voice of the Lord speaking to him. Those travelling with him saw the light and heard the sound, but saw no one. In Acts 22, Luke tells us they did not hear the voice of the one speaking to Paul. There is no contradiction here, as the term for hear in Acts 9 means to hear something; they heard a sound. In Acts 22, the term for hear means to hear with understanding, or comprehension, which they did not. Only Paul knew exactly what was being said to him by the Lord. We all realize there is a difference in hearing something, and in hearing with understanding the meaning.

One may have a problem with their hearing, and not comprehend. One may not pay attention to what is said, and not comprehend. However, when it comes to God’s will, we must make sure we get what is said, as the word of God speaks to us about eternity. To gain faith in Christ and know how we should obey and live, we must hear clearly, distinctly. Whether by a verbally spoken word, or the word spoken in our mind, hearing through reading, we must hear God’s word to understand, to know what it means, to do what it says. Jesus said, “Therefore consider carefully how you listen” (Luke 8:18). James reminds us, “But be sure you live out the message and do not merely listen to it and so deceive yourselves” (1:22). He would go on to say, “But the one who peers into the perfect law of liberty and fixes his attention there, and does not become a forgetful listener but one who lives it out — he will be blessed in what he does” (1:25).

How blessed we are to have our own personal copies of Scripture, the Bible, and have access to it anytime we desire. Spend time really paying attention to what it says today, every day, and let it help shape us in the image of Christ, for today, for eternity. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/17/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Sam. 12:24; “Only fear the LORD and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.”

This passage of Scripture in context is what Samuel said to the people of Israel when they asked him for a king. Samuel wants to reassure them God had not abandoned them, but that He was not someone to ignore or treat lightly. To keep from perpetuating their sins, he offers them advice on how to live for God.

First, Samuel said they needed to consider “what great things” God had done for them. He had delivered them from Egypt, and blessed them during all their days in the promised land. Remembering who God is, and all He does for us, is a strong motivation in keeping Him close beside us as we go through life. As David reminds us, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits (Psa. 103:2).

They also needed to consider the appropriate response that God deserved, that they should desire to offer. Samuel tells them to avoid sin they should fear the Lord and serve Him. Knowing God should promote a reverence and godly fear in them, which should motivate them to serve Him in truth, not the empty rituals of a sinful heart. They should be faithful in keeping His commandments from all that is in them. Jesus said something similar during His earthly ministry; “If you love Me you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). A right attitude about God will produce the right lifestyle.

Today, we have a sin problem just like those Israelites of years gone by. Samuel’s words still hearken to us across the ages. May we consider what great things God has done for us, that we will fear Him in love, and serve Him in truth with all of who we are. He deserves nothing less. Let this be our goal today, lovingly, faithfully, giving ourselves to Him. What rich blessings will follow. Have a great day today. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/16/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Eph. 4:15; “But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ.”

Whatever stage of life we are currently in, we can look back to when we were born, and to where we are now, and see the changes that have taken place. We have grown physically, our diets have changed, our abilities have increased, our knowledge and understanding of life has progressed. We still possess the same DNA, but who we are as persons is not the same.

The same is true spiritually. When we obey the gospel, being immersed into Christ and added by the Lord to His church, life takes on a different meaning. We look at things from a spiritual perspective now. Paul reminded the brothers and sisters in Ephesus the goal of their life now is to reflect the image of Christ, more and more. We are not to be content with who we were, but who we want to be, people who think like Christ, who live like Christ.

For this to take place, there are two essential and integral elements that must work in us. First, we must spend time in God’s word, to know His will. We can’t make the decisions about life we should without knowing what God expects of us, of what pleases Him and what displeases Him. In addition to this, our knowledge of God’s word is to be a working knowledge, meaning we take the principles of Scripture and incorporate them into our daily lives. We let Scripture help us decide what we should say or do, where we should go, how we should behave, how we think about life.

When we were immersed into Christ, this process of spiritual growth began, not ended. There is still so much more to learn, to understand, to live by. We have so much of sin to let go of, and so much of Christ to cling to. As long as we can think and do, we can become more like Christ. How are you doing in becoming more like Jesus? Spend time in His word today, and think about how to practice its principles. What a great way to live, and have a great day every day. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/15/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Cor. 2:14; “The unspiritual man does not receive the things of God’s Spirit. They are foolishness to him, and he cannot know them, for they are discerned spiritually.”

Have you ever heard the phrase, “That’s just crazy talk?” Sadly, there are those would classify God and the teaching of Scripture in much the same way. The Bible uses the term foolishness either for what is viewed as irrelevant and outdated, or what is incompatible and unnecessary for one’s particular wants and views. The question is, in the big scheme of things, what is really foolish, what God says or how we view and respond to what God says?

What is called the foolishness of God is not foolish in God's sight, but that of people. We take the truth of God, and by our standards, call it foolishness. Some would call belief in God foolishness, as they do not want to be restricted by His will for their lives. Others who believe in God might consider His will as foolishness, like believing one needs to be immersed for sins to be forgiven (1 Pet. 3:21).

In the spiritual sense, foolishness is not stupidity as much as it is rebellion against God; we prove ourselves foolish when we decline to obey God. We do not, then, have to call God foolish for us to be foolish; whenever we know God's will for us, but refuse to do it, we consider God's will foolish, when in reality, it is we who are being so. Paul would go on to say, “Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is folly with God” (1 Cor. 3:18-19).

Crazy talk is rejecting God and His word, choosing sin and rejecting eternal life. May we be wise, by choosing God and embracing His will for us. Let’s be renewed today in being imitators of God in Christ, as doing so shows wisdom that will last eternally. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert

 

 

Message from Scripture: 9/14/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Phil. 1:6; And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

When Paul wrote his letter to the congregation at Philippi, one thing he wanted to impart to them was the sense of confidence He had in God, that his assurance in God could be their assurance in Him as well. Even through Paul was in a difficult situation, Paul’s confidence is in the Lord. What does Paul say to these Christians then, and to us today, about being sure of God, of our relationship with Him, of the hope he offers us for eternity?

Paul assures them that God had begun a good work in them, when they had obeyed the gospel, and by His very nature, what God begins, He follow through until completion. He reminded the church in Colossae of this as well, saying, “Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ” (Col. 1:27).

To the Philippians, it’s as if Paul is asking them a question; “How long will God be continually involved in His work of salvation on our behalf?” The answer is,  “Until the return of Christ.” He will continue His work of perfecting us, completing, finishing, bringing us to the goal of what life in Christ is all about. God is working to fill us “with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” (Phil. 1:11).

“It is comforting to know that, in Christ, God is constantly at work to make our salvation reality. Are we working in harmony with God and His will for us, that we will be with Him eternally? Let’s join together so we all can have God complete His goal for us of eternal life. God bless.

Robert

 

Have Salt in Yourselves

“Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another” (Mark 9:50).

For some people, salt is essential to make their food taste right, while for others it creates issues with their blood pressure. Obviously, Jesus is not discussing the health aspects of salt, but its quality as salt that should be seen in us. Salt is only good if it possesses that quality that makes it salty, whether for seasoning, or preserving, or whatever.  If it loses the very quality of being salt, it is worthless.

In the first century, there was no refining process for salt as today. Much of it contained not only sodium chloride but also other elements and impurities. If the sodium chloride washed out, the residue of white powder still looked like salt, and was still called salt, but it neither tasted nor acted like salt, as it had lost its quality of saltiness.

How desperately our world needs to see salt in us, the preserving, saving power of the gospel in us, and the seasoning aspect the gospel provides as well. So many have adopted chaos as a way of life, which only offers confusion and destruction. They find nothing that offers meaning and purpose to their lives. Within denominational structures, there is more chaos, as once saved, no matter how heinous or reprehensible one’s conduct may be, salvation is guaranteed. It allows perversion and a continuance in sin. New Testament Christianity offers not only the truth of salvation, but a way of life that is sanctified, a growing reflection of Christ instead of sin (Col. 1:27).

So, as Christians, we are to provide an example to those in the darkness of sin. There is a quality, or distinctiveness, to our lives in Christ. “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” (12:2). Only by living in Christ and Christ living in us can we possess that quality and have the influence we need to be the salt of the earth. To wear the name “Christian,” but not live as a Christian, is like salt that is no longer salty. Our lives only have meaning in Him when we live for Him, and in Him have peace.

Let us be Christians in word and deed. Let us exhibit those qualities in our lives that show us to be His followers. May we be an influence for good to those around us, that enables to really see the difference Christ can make in life. These virtues and blessings can be ours, if we dedicate ourselves to being like Christ, possessing those qualities that identify us as His. “Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Luke 14:34-35).

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/12/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 John 1:4; “We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.”

The apostle John is specific about his objective in writing his first letter; he tells us that he has written to increase joy…the joy of the readers of this letter along with his own joy. Jesus described his own life as one of joy. We think of him as a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief, weeping over the city of Jerusalem. We need to remember he speaks of having joy even in the midst of sorrow. In 1 John, John mentioned some things that can contribute to our joy.

Fellowship is a source of joy for us. When we have fellowship with each other, we share the fellowship we have with God and Christ (1 John 1:3). How can there not be joy when you have a relationship with God, which enables us to have a relationship with brothers and sisters in Christ?

We have joy in that we have forgiveness of sin in Christ (1 John 1:7, 9). Walking in the light, living by the will of God, Christ’s blood continues to cleanse us of our sins. We also have access to the cleansing of Christ when we sin, if we confess our sin to God.

We have joy in knowing God counts us as His children. “See what sort of love the Father has given to us: that we should be called God’s children — and indeed we are” (1 John 3:1).

Christ came to fill our hearts with joy, a joy that is first and foremost of all a spiritual joy, which is able to offer joy no matter what the external situations of life may be. This kind of joy can carry us through anything we face today. Have a great day today. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/11/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Pet. 3:12; “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

Have you ever heard someone say to look at life through the eyes of another? It speaks of considering other people’s perspective of life, through their trials, joys, all that they have experienced which has shaped who they are. What if we could see life from God’s perspective, from His point of view, from how He views us?

We would have a different perspective of what sin does to us. God is grieved by sin (Gen. 6:6). We may think of sin lightly, but God knows, due to His nature as God, it will condemn us to an eternal punishment. “’Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked?’declares the Lord God. ‘Instead, don’t I take pleasure when he turns from his ways and lives?’” (Ezek. 18:23).

We would have a different perspective of how precious forgiveness really is, as God had to send His Son to die that sin could be atoned. “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8).

We would have a different perspective on what life is all about. “For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s” (Rom. 14:8).

What a difference looking at ourselves from God’s perspective, on how God thinks of us, on what God wants for us, makes. We can see ourselves through His eyes when we spend time listening to Him in His word, the Bible. Let His view of us make an eternal difference for us. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/10/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Prov. 15:14; “A discerning mind seeks knowledge, but the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.”

Knowledge is defined as the circumstance or condition of apprehending truth or fact through reasoning; the fact or condition of knowing something with familiarity gained through experience or association. Knowledge is important because it is basic to wisdom. A person may memorize facts yet remain void of knowledge, because true knowledge is gained not only by learning facts, but by experience as well. In Proverbs, we are offered insight into how we should use knowledge, and the wisdom that grows from knowledge.

Proverbs reminds us, though people can appropriate knowledge, they cannot originate it. All true knowledge is inherent in and issues from the one Holy God. “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Prov. 2:5-6).

Proverbs also tells us, those who possess knowledge are the recipients of the most precious wealth. “There is gold and a multitude of jewels, but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure” (Prov. 20:15).

Proverbs wants us to understand, not to possess the knowledge God offers is foolishness, meaning one is living life apart from the will of God, which Solomon would characterize elsewhere as “vanity of vanities,” or “absolute futility.” Prov. 22:12 reminds us, “The LORD’s eyes keep watch over knowledge, but he overthrows the words of the treacherous.”

In our day and age, some people substitute feelings and wishful thinking for real knowledge. Let’s follow the pattern Solomon offers instead. “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge” (Prov. 23:12). Let’s do this to find all the riches of God. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/9/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Mark 4:3; “ Then He taught them many things by parables, and said to them in His teaching: ‘Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow.’”

Most of us are familiar with the parables of Jesus, especially this one, the parable of the soils, or the parable of the sower. Jesus spoke of four different kinds of soil that is sown with the same seed. Some soil was hard, other rocky, other thorny, other good. In reality, Jesus is speaking about four kinds of hearts in which people filter the message of the gospel when it is proclaimed. The kind of heart they have determines how they hear and how they respond. What do we learn from this parable?

We learn God’s word is the seed (Mark 4:14). Only the pure word of God can bring about the harvest God desires. Anything else will not change one’s heart and bring salvation.

We learn each of the soils is different (Mark 4:5, 7-8). Every human heart is different, which explains why some are receptive and others not. Only a heart prepared to receive the truth of the gospel will be able to know it as truth and be set free from sin.

We learn, of the four types of soil, that only one produces a godly harvest. Satan works to deceive us (Mark 4:15), and keep our hearts captive to sin. We must be diligent to hear and believe what the word tells us.

When the seed is sown, and good hearts receive it, Christ is glorified in providing eternal life through His shed blood, and those who obey find that eternal life. In this parable, Jesus tells us the gospel produces fruit, Satan is at work to keep it from bearing fruit, and we will blessed, and Christ honored, if we bear fruit. Is the seed, God’s word, able to work in your life, by your willingness to truly hear, and believe, and obey? God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/8/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Cor. 3:6-7; “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.”

What would it be like to have a famous chef ask you to help prepare a dish, so it could be said you both created it? What would it be like to have a prominent artist asked you to help do a painting, that both your names would be on the canvas when it was done? What would it mean to you if a legendary performer called and asked if you would sing along on a song being recorded, so you would be credited as a guest artist? We would most likely count all of these as a great honor, and a real blessing to be part of.

Have you thought about how we are coworkers with God in His kingdom? This is an honor that exceeds anything else we could join with someone in doing. What are some ways God wants us involved with Him in His work of salvation?

We share in being part of God’s family, to encourage each other. We are “fellow citizens with the saints, and members of the household of God” (Eph. 2:19). We share in the promises God offers in Christ. We are “partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel” (Eph. 3:6). We share in the work of spreading the gospel. In doing this, Jesus reminds us, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matt. 28:20).

How does it feel knowing God wants you as part of His work, the greatest work anyone can share? We off our best when we humble ourselves to obey His will and find salvation. We offer our best when we incorporate His will into everyday living. We offer our best when we put Him first in everything we say and do, knowing we are working with Him for eternity’s sake. We are special to Him. Join with God today and make a difference, in you and your part of the world. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 9/7/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Rev. 2:10; “Be faithful to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.’”

One common theme that runs through the pages of Scripture is that of faithfulness. In this passage, our Lord points out faithfulness as an essential element to receiving the crown of life, eternal life. It is a faithfulness that began when we obeyed the gospel, and lasts even to the point of death. Clearly God wants and needs faithful servants, but we must be willing to examine ourselves if we truly desire to be, and stay, faithful to Him.  What does it take of us if we are to be counted by our Lord as faithful?

Faithfulness means staying with it through difficult times. We find great blessings when we refuse to give up. “Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up” (Gal. 6:9).

Faithfulness shows others what it means to be Christlike, what a sanctified life really is. “Walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God” (Eph. 5:2).

Faithfulness enables us to find God’s greatest gifts for living life in Him. Peace, love, joy, hope, and all other spiritual blessings are promised to those faithful, and are fully realized by those who live in submission to the Lord and His will for life. “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man” (Prov. 3:1-4).

In all the challenges life brings our way, faithfulness is our anchor to life in the Son, to the love of God. May we encourage each other in being faithful in our walk with God, no matter what, and enjoy the spiritual blessings God provides. God bless.

Robert