What Really Profits

 

Charlemagne was the King of the Franks from 768, the King of the Lombards from 774, and the Emperor of the Romans from 800. During the Early Middle Ages, he united the majority of western and central Europe. He was the first recognized emperor to rule from western Europe since the fall of the Western Roman Empire around three centuries earlier (Wikipedia).

 

He died Jan. 18 in AD 814, but his tomb was opened several times, with the first after his death being carried out by Otto III in AD 1000. According to contemporary chronicles, as Otto entered the underground chamber, he was struck by the vision of Charlemagne seated upon a throne, wearing a golden crown and holding a scepter, his fingernails sticking out the gloves (https://www.seeker.com/father-of-europes-bones-found-1768280980.html). It has also been said he had a Bible in his lap, and one of his fingers had been placed on Mark 8:36 (or alternately Matt. 16:26); “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”

 

Charlemagne was considered a great ruler during his day and afterward. It is interesting the effort he took in death to try and convey for all time that greatness. Unfortunately, even though a curse was placed on anyone who disturbed his tomb, it was entered on several occasions, each time removing some of the valuables he had with him in death, much as the tombs of the ancient Pharaoh’s were disturbed to be looted. Eventually, his bones were placed in a coffin, and he no longer sat on a throne. The Scripture he supposedly pointed to was aptly illustrated in how his majesty in death was removed and forgotten.

 

Death is the element of life all of us can identify with, as everyone must die, until the Lord returns (Heb. 9:27). It touches everyone’s life, rich or poor, great or small, male or female, young or old. The measure of one’s life isn’t seen by the standards assigned by others, as they are based on arbitrary human criteria subject to change. The passage Charlemagne pointed to, who was glorious in life and temporarily so in death, reminds us of the eternal. It is how one lives his or her life before God that truly matters. The psalmist in Psa. 73 became envious of the rich, until he considered this. “But when I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me a wearisome task, until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end” (Psa. 73:16-17). The standard of people may matter to them before death, but after death, God’s will becomes paramount. His will, and how we lived by it, is what truly matters (John 12:48).

 

Charlemagne had a crown of gold, but the child of God has a crown of life (Rev. 2:10). Charlemagne had a scepter as if he still ruled, but the Lord alone has an eternal scepter, an eternal rule (Heb. 1:8-9). Charlemagne pointed to Scripture, but Christ is the Word of God (John 1:1). All have sinned (Rom. 3:23), but Christ lived a perfect life by which He has conquered death for us (Rev. 1:18). In reality, Charlemagne is simply a person in a long line of people who hoped their accomplishments, their wealth, their influence, could continue on after them. Our lives only count if we live in Christ for Christ, as He alone offers us eternal worth and value.

 

Where do you value your life? Just for here, or the hereafter? You don’t have to be an emperor to follow in the wrong footsteps. “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps” (1 Pet. 2:21). Praise God for what He offers us in Christ, a life worth living today, because it results in eternal life later. What does it profit anyone to gain today, but not heaven? “There is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing” (2 Tim. 4:8).

 

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

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/28/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Luke 12:31-32; “But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you. Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.”

 

In what has been called Luke’s sermon on the plain, Jesus speaks about kingdom principles and the difference living in and for the kingdom of God can make in the life of His disciples. To be blessed by God means we should seek His kingdom. The term seek means to look for, to strive to find. To seek God means to turn to Him, to strive humbly and sincerely to follow and obey Him. Paul reflects this when he wrote the Christians in Colossae, “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Col. 3:1).

 

If our priority in life is the spiritual, seeking kingdom principles and kingdom living, then God honors us by providing what we need to live faithfully for Him, to have what we need for life. There should be no fear then, regarding what God will or won’t do for us, because we are chosen in Christ through the call of the gospel (2 Thess. 2:13-14). Seeking the kingdom, then, leads us to Christ, that we can be cleansed by His blood. We are then added by the Lord to His church, the kingdom, and living faithfully in His kingdom, we have God’s best for us.

 

Paul wrote the Colossians, “For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Col. 1:13-14). Jesus reminds us God does this gladly, meaning to approve, to take pleasure in. God does everything for our salvation, and when we come to Him, He is glad, well-pleased, because His greatest desire is to see us saved.

 

May being part of the kingdom mean all of this to us. Here we have a relationship with God through Christ. Here we find salvation from sin. Here we find an abundant life. Here we have the hope of eternal life. Seek the kingdom today, and find the joy it offers for life. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/27/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Pet. 1:18-19; “Knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ."

 

Years ago, one paraphrase of the Bible systematically tried to eliminate any reference to the blood of Christ. It was deemed a salvation that demanded the death of the Savior was considered barbaric by too many in society to be considered a viable contender in the marketplace. Today, many people think nothing of their sins, as if God is not concerned with them, and that the sacrifice of Christ to atone for our sins is of no real consequence. Both of these views are erroneous.

 

Certainly, God’s mercy and grace offers us forgiveness, but at what cost? It took precious blood for them to be forgiven. The word for precious means to hold in esteem, to show respect, to have honor for. It is considered such because it was the Son of God’s blood, sinless and pure. It took Deity becoming flesh and blood to redeem us. Sin shouldn’t be taken lightly when it took the death of Jesus to forgive us of our sins.

 

While we rejoice God is gracious and forgiving, sin is nothing to take lightly. God doesn’t forgive us through the death of His Son so we can continue to sin with impudence and not care. Paul put it this way to the church in Rome, “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it?” (Rom. 6:1-2). John tells us, “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God” (1 John 3:9). Sin will condemn us if not repented of and replaced with a desire to seek holiness.

 

We can rejoice in the love of God for us, which is so great He sent His Son that we could have life. Satan will deceive us into thinking it’s of no consequence, but it is. Let Christ shine in your life instead, and know the better life God offers now and forever. You’ll have a great life if your life is in Him. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/26/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Thess. 5:18; “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

 

Today is Thanksgiving day, usually considered a family day, celebrated with good food,  and times of remembrance. The very mention of Thanksgiving conjures up memories of food and fellowship. Hopefully, though, we haven’t lost sight of what Thanksgiving is all about — “giving thanks.” Even with all the problems we have endured this year, in this country, we are still blessed far more than any other nation on earth. We should pause and reflect on these blessings, thanking God the Father, from whom these blessings come.

 

We should also remember the greatest blessing of all is in Christ. Peter reminds us, “Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls” (1 Pet. 1:8-9). Not only this, but God through Christ has blessed us with every spiritual blessing (Eph. 1:3). Of all people, we are truly blessed, both physically and spiritually.

 

Take some time to reflect on the riches we enjoy from a loving heavenly Father today. No matter what happens to us, we can make every day a “thanksgiving” day, seen in the words we speak, the lives we live. No matter what, the promise of God still stands for those who live for Him. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).

 

Life brings all kinds of experiences to us, some good and some bad, but God has the best waiting for us, and in that, we can always give thanks. Again, Paul reminds us, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thess. 5:18). Have a great Thanksgiving day. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/25/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Rom. 15:4; “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

 

It is true that those who lived under the Patriarchal Age lived differently than we do, and that those who lived under the Mosaic Law had a different covenant than we do with the gospel. Still, no matter the age, or culture, or covenant under which one lives, we all are still human, and there are certain responses to God that everyone offers, either for good, or for evil.

 

When we examine the lives of people recorded in Scripture, we discover there is a reason why they are there. God didn’t randomly choose people to include for us to study. People in Scripture are remembered by us, either for their obedience to God, and their positive example for us to imitate, or for their disobedience to God, to avoid the pitfalls of life that they fell victim to.

 

For example, there is Epaphroditus, who was sent by the church in Philippi to help out Paul during his house arrest in Rome. Paul said of him, “For he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me” (Phil. 2:30). What a positive example he provides for us to offer ourselves to each other in those difficult times we all go through, to be a source of help and strength to each other.

 

There is also Ananias and Sapphira, who tried to deceive the church in their giving, wanting the commendation for being generous when in fact they were greedy (Acts 5:1-11). The Lord struck them down, as an example of how serious God takes matters of the heart and whether we’re being genuine or not. Luke records, “Then great fear came on the whole church and on all who heard these things” (Acts 5:11).

 

There are powerful lessons for us to learn today, from people who lived yesterday. Will we learn from them so we can please God, rather than displease Him? Let’s allow Scripture to help us avoid the pitfalls of sin, and to follow those examples of faith which will commend us to God on the day of judgment. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/24/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Heb. 9:26; “But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself."

 

Our lives are rooted in and dependent on that elusive element called time.           We all have a past, with memories of events both good and bad. The present is where we live, carrying on all the activities that provide for life now as well as the future. The future, growing shorter for each of us each day, holds so many of our hopes and dreams and aspirations for things to be better. These three elements of time also apply to our Lord and His work on our behalf as Savior.

 

The life and death of Jesus are events rooted and confirmed in history. His coming into the world is the focal point of all ages. The Hebrew writer reminds us, “He has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself” (Heb. 9:26).

 

Jesus is a constant Savior, presently acting as our mediator, interceding on our behalf. The Hebrew writer speaks of Him in the present, “But Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently” (Heb. 7:24).

 

Salvation is assured us now in Christ, but will not be fully realized until Christ returns. Paul tells us, “For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11).

 

Christ has appeared on earth, now appears in heaven, and He shall appear in the clouds. He appeared to save from sin's penalty, He appears now to save from sin's power, and He will appear to save from sin's presence. May we connect our lives with what Jesus has done for us, what He is doing for us, and what will yet be. In doing so, we can have confidence in our past being redeemed, our present being cleansed, and our future assured. May God be glorified in us through Christ. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/23/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Heb. 3:13; “Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God."

 

Approximately 50,000 heart transplants have taken place worldwide, with over 3,500 being performed each year, and many more than that  needing to be done. The physical organ of the heart is not the only type of heart transplant needed in the world today. The writer of Hebrews reminds us of the importance of the heart, the inner person, and the role it plays in our relationship with God.

 

Sin works two ways on our hearts. It first deceives us into think that wrong is right, that its way is okay with God’s way. By appealing to our desires, it makes itself palatable and acceptable. Once deceived, it hardens our hearts, our consciences, thoughts processes, motives, and attitudes. It seeks us to accept it over everything else, that it may rule over us, without us ever questioning it, thinking about it, realizing what has taken place.

 

Spiritually speaking, we need a new heart, one that is open and honest with God and His word, one that genuinely cares about the spiritual. We need hearts that seek what is right and good from pure motives, being persistent, having a genuine spirit that is touched by the love of God. This is what enables us to do the will of God from the heart (Eph. 6:6), to please Him, to be blessed by Him, to have His precious promises, to look forward to the hope of eternal life.

 

Heart disease is one of those problems that has often been called the silent killer, because it’s gradual, working over time. So is the problem of spiritual heart disease. Let God create in you a new heart, one that is shaped by Him and His love, cleansed by the blood of Christ, that draws us to Him, to His life, His will, His promises. David asked God, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psa. 51:10). What a change that can make in us if we seek it. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/21/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Cor. 15:57; “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

In this passage of Scripture, Paul has been discussing the nature of the resurrection to the church at Corinth. They had questions to Paul regarding the nature of the resurrection, and what would be true of it when it happened. Being a spiritual event, Paul did  not speak so much of things that we are unable to know now, but what yet awaits. The physical body will be raised, it will be changed, and we all will be incorruptible. The exact details of this all remain unknown until it happens, but we do know it will be a glorious event.

This is why Paul speaks of us gaining victory. The Greek word speaks not only of simply winning, but doing so triumphantly, jubilantly, gloriously. This is an amazing thought, as we consider our lives in the flesh, so riddled and marred by sin. Satan seeks to defeat and destroy us, at every turn, in every way. How can Paul assure us we have victory?

We have victory because of who our victory is through. On our own, we are weak and ineffective. In Christ, we are more than conquerors (Rom. 8:37). It is through His shed blood we are able to know of God’s love, His grace and mercy, His way to live triumphantly. It covers us with forgiveness, strengthens us with power, leads us in the right way, enables us to be faithful servants. It is through Christ, and our lives in Him, we will hear well done good and faithful servant (Matt. 25:21). All the trials of life will end in joy in the presence of the Lord. Through Christ we can say, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58).

As you go through life today, go through it with Christ. Gain the victory He provides. Today is transient, but tomorrow is forever. God bless.

 Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/20/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Mark 10:1; “And he left there and went to the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan, and crowds gathered to him again. And again, as was his custom, he taught them."

 

From this passage of Scripture we learn it was Jesus custom to teach others. The word custom means to be regular about something, to be used to doing it, for it to be part of our Lord’s routine. So here, once more, Jesus engages His listeners with the will of God. What are some things He still teaches us through the pages of inspired Scripture?

 

Jesus often taught about the love of God. One of the most popular verses in the Bible is of God loving the world through Christ (John 3:16). John reminds us, “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us (1 John 4:16). We do well to listen about the love of God and what that should mean to us as God offers us His best in Christ.

 

Jesus often taught about finding peace even in trials. He told His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27). We do well to listen about the peace of God, living in a world filled with sorrows, difficulties, and challenges.

 

Jesus often taught about living for heaven. We remember His words, “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). We do well to listen about eternity, as we all have one of two eternities to face, either eternal life or eternal punishment.

 

Every time we open our Bibles, Christ speaks to us through its message. May God bless us to better understand His will as we read from its pages. Spend time in it today. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Give Thanks to the Lord

 

“Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!” (1 Chron. 16:34).

 

This Thursday we will celebrate Thanksgiving.  It's a day set aside to remember how blessed we are as a nation, and to give thanks for these blessings.  Certainly, it is right for us to do so.  As Americans, we should stop and consider our standard of living, the degree of material prosperity we enjoy, and all the other blessings we have the benefit of by being citizens of this country.  In other nations, poverty, the horror of war and terrorism, and a general uncertainty about life are grim realities of daily living.  Even with all the problems our society faces, there is much to be thankful for.

 

The attitude of thanksgiving is basic to being a Christian.  Scripture reminds us of the blessings we enjoy from God each day, and how grateful we should be.  As Paul reminded the Colossians, we should have hearts “abounding in thanksgiving” (Col. 2:7).  God is not only the source of our physical blessings (Jas. 1:17), but all that is spiritual (Eph. 1:3).

                                                                                         

Even in adversity, we can still give thanks.  God can use times of trial to discipline us, to draw us closer to Him (Heb. 12:5-11; 1 Pet. 1:6-7).  Even in distress, we know God is with us, to strengthen and help us along the way.  “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28).

 

No wonder we are exhorted, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through to God the Father through him” (Col. 3:17).  If all one can do is murmur or complain, that person doesn't understand what life in Christ is all about.  Make thanksgiving more than a holiday, but also a way of life.  Take time to consider all the ways God has blessed you physically, materially, and most importantly, spiritually.  To realize the richness of His blessings should promote thankfulness from the heart.  “Praise the Lord!  Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for his steadfast love endures forever” (Psalm 106:1).

 

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

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/19/2020

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Pet. 1:8-9; “Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls."

Jesus told the Samaritan woman that God is Spirit, and as such, He is not physically visible to us here in the natural world. For the skeptics this causes them to doubt His reality, even though there are many other things they can’t see with their eyes they know exists. For those willing to see through the eyes of faith, there is ample evidence of His existence and of His working in our lives.

We haven’t seen Him, but we love Him because we know of His love for us. Scripture speaks of God sending His Son to die for our sins, that we can have eternal life in Him. How can we not love the Father when we know of that great sacrifice for us? For the Creator to become part of the created is beyond comprehension, and to die that our sins could be redeemed by that shed blood, is a love beyond anything found in this world.

We haven’t seen Him, and do not currently see Him, but living by faith enables us to rejoice with a joy within beyond what can be expressed, as we are filled with His glory by being in Christ. What is the ultimate provision God offers us that can create such a response? The salvation of our souls. What would there be to rejoice in, if we knew, when we died, we would be condemned to hell? Why have faith in Christ if His sacrifice would be unable to cleanse us of our sins? What would life mean today if only punishment awaited afterwards?

We live by faith because we love God who has so loved us. Living by faith produces a joy beyond anything the world can offer, which results in glory to God. The end result of a life of faith is being in heaven with our God and Lord, with the saved of all ages, forever. That’s why we live by faith. Let your faith be focused on all God is and all Christ offers. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/18/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Deut. 31:6; “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you."

The context of this passage is Moses reminding the Israelites of the will of God before they entered the promised land. Specifically, he wanted them to understand entering the promised land was God’s will for them, and that He would be faithful to do what He had promised. Two essential elements of this promise should create trust in the strength God would provide, and courage to do their part in overcoming their enemies.

First, they needed to believe God would not fail them. The word fail mean to cease, to become weak or feeble. They could have complete confidence God wouldn’t give up on them, that He would do what He had promised. He doesn’t stop or give up in any of His work on our behalf. David could say, “The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands” (Psa. 138:8).

They also needed to understand God wouldn’t forsake them. The term forsake was used of one who deserted another. It was used of Benjamin, of whom it was written he would not forsake Jacob, for in doing so, Jacob would die (Gen. 44:22). Thus, God would not forsake Israel, because in doing so they would perish. It was only in the strength and help God would provide that they would cross into the promised land to take possession of it.

We today are living for the promised land of heaven, and God has given us His great promises. He will help us enter and live with Him forever. He will never fail us or give up on us. He will never forsake us, for without Him going with us, we could not survive or reach the goal. God’s promises are for trusting, believing, and obeying. Let’s live today in full confidence that what God has promised us, He will do. What a great God we serve. Have a great day today. God bless.

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/17/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Psa. 139:1-2; “Lord, you have searched me and known me.  You know when I sit down and when I stand up; you understand my thoughts from far away.”

When David penned the 139^th Psalm, he had experienced the elation of success, the shame of sin, the burden of sorrow, the joy of forgiveness, and the thrill of service. Through it all, he had discovered that God was always near to meet the deepest needs of his heart and life. What advice does David offer us in this psalm to help us understand what the constant presence of God mean to us?

Knowing of God’s presence can help deliver us from sin. God’s presence encourage us to do good, but it also warns us nothing we plan, say, or do escapes His notice. It should encourage us to avoid doing what is sinful.

Knowing of God’s presence should comfort us and strengthen us. He understands perfectly our problems, trials, and troubles. He understands our weaknesses. David said, “You have enclosed me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me” (139:4). His hand is on us for our help, to lead us in the right way.

Knowing of God’s presence should cause us to look outward instead of just inwardly. Most of us are inclined to do a better job if we know that others are going to observe it, especially if those others are people we respect and love. David learned there was more to life than just what we want for ourselves. We reach our greatest potential when we consider others and be involved in in their lives for good. David concludes by saying, “See if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way” (139:24).

Let the knowledge of God’s abiding presence make a difference in you. God bless.

 Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/16/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Luke 15:7; “I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”

 

Here in this chapter in Luke, we find four examples of being lost. The sheep drifted off from the flock perhaps in search of greener grass or better pastures. The coin was misplaced and didn’t itself know the condition it was in. The younger son was lost from willful rebellion against his father. The older son was lost because of his pride and arrogant attitude about his brother and father. The problem with each was what it resulted in. Being lost, whether it was from drifting, or being absent, or rejection, or conceit, is not a place where anyone wants to be.

 

No matter how it happened, thankfully there was the Father. He was constant in His love, in His watching and waiting, and in His forgiveness. He didn’t exact revenge, but welcomed home the lost, and restored to full fellowship what had so foolishly been forfeited. The younger son heard, “This son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.' And they began to celebrate” (Luke 15:24). The older son was told, “Son, you have always been with me, and all that is mine is yours” (Luke 15:31).

 

No matter how we get lost, if we repent and return, the Father is “faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Once forgiven, those sins are remembered no more (Heb. 8:12). Today, if there is anything keeping you from God, no matter what, God wants to forgive and will forget. What a wonderful God we serve. What a powerful forgiveness Christ offers in His blood. What redeeming truth we can know through the Spirit inspired word. Keep this close to you, and see the difference it makes. God bless.

 

Robert

 

God’s Love for You…Your Love for God

 

There is no question God cares for you.  Scripture reveals repeatedly the depth of God's love.  “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16).  “In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10).  We have this confidence, then; “Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

 

You can have complete trust, then, in God's faithfulness for you.  However, what about your faithfulness to God?  More than anything else, God wants you to enjoy a relationship with Him in His Son.  God desires your fellowship so much, He sent His Son to die for your sins that fellowship would be possible.  Is that your heart's desire?  Does a relationship with God mean more to you than anything else in life?

 

You see, it’s easy to talk about loving God and Christ, but what does that mean, personally?  It's more than words, because Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter” (Matt. 7:21).  It's more than just feelings, or emotions, because love can grow cold (Matt. 24:12).  Jesus said, “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love” (John 15:10).  God's relationship with us is every day.  Our relationship with Him should be every day, to live for Him, in Him, and with Him, every day.

 

If you talk of a relationship with God, but have no time for Him in the details of life, is that really a relationship?  There is a saying that goes “Talk is cheap.” Words are powerful, and often positive expressions that can encourage others. The question is, beyond talk, if we have time for Him in real and practical ways in our lives. How can we know? Ask yourself this question. If God responded to you like you respond to Him, would you call that a relationship?  If you never knew if He could be found, would that be faithfulness?  If God only means something to you when you need Him, is that fellowship?  I don't doubt many "feel" something for God, but it's not real love, Biblical love, a genuine relationship with Him.

 

Here is how God defines a relationship.  “He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me” (John 14:21). Knowing the love of God for us, we respond in humble submission to Him, allowing Him to work out His good will for us. Does this describe your walk with Him?

 

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

 

Robert

 Message from Scripture: 11/14/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Jas. 1:13; “No one undergoing a trial should say, “I am being tempted by God,” since God is not tempted by evil, and he himself doesn’t tempt anyone.”

 

Perhaps the best translation here in James, which keeps us in the context of what James has been writing about, is “No one undergoing a trial should say, ‘I am being tempted by God’” (1:13a). It seems that perhaps James’ readers were responding to the trials of life as so many do today. “God, why is this happening to me?  Don’t you love me?  Why do I have to face these situations?” By having the wrong attitude toward trials, which God uses to help strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Him, what was intended to pull us away from sin and make us more committed to Him, can wind up becoming a temptation instead.

 

So much of the time it’s not what we face, as how we respond to life’s situations that affects how the situation turns out. No one but us decides what we think about life and how we react to life. Remember how Paul received a thorn in the flesh, to keep him from exalting himself over the vision God gave him? No doubt this trial was unpleasant, because Paul said he prayed to God 3 times to remove it from him (2 Cor. 12:8). God, however, responded, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). God blessed him through his trial, and he would say, “When I am weak, then I am strong” (1 Cor. 12:10).

 

God and Satan approach the situations we face in life from different perspectives. God works for our good, but Satan works for our destruction. May our trust and hope always be in God, because, even in the trials of life, He is always working to bless, strengthen, and help us have a greater faith, a better life, and a stronger hope. Have a great day today, knowing God is working in you for your good. God bless.

 

Robert

 Message from Scripture: 11/12/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Phil. 2:15; “Prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world.’”

 

It’s easy to resemble the world around us, a generation that is crooked and perverse, because of the influence of sin in our lives. Our words and deeds should prove us to be blameless and innocent of the way of the world, of living a sinful lifestyle. Paul reminds us we are to be lights in the world around us, in a world controlled by the darkness of sin. What does this mean to us about how we should live in Christ?

 

First, it means we are to be like Jesus. Jesus said He is the light of the world (John 8:12). He throws light on the meaning and purpose for life and points the way to happiness and fulfillment. This is what He did during His earthly ministry, and it what we as His disciples should do to enlighten the world with truth, to follow in His footsteps. We shouldn’t reflect the darkness of sin, but the image of our Lord. So He tells us in Matt. 5:14, “You are the light of the world,” speaking of our example to others.

 

Second, it means we are the only way the world will ever discern the difference between dark and light. Sin is deceptive, and so those enslaved to it think it’s light for them, when it’s darkness. They become deceived of their true spiritual condition and can end up condemned because of it. We need to dispel the darkness of ignorance, of impurity, of superstition, of unrelieved sorrow, of a hopeless death. Paul said, “For this reason it says, ‘Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you’” (Eph. 5:14).

 

Light cannot be ignored except by those who close their eyes. Let’s walk in the light, letting our light shine for the Lord, and see the difference it makes in us and the world around us. God bless.

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/10/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Col. 4:17; “Say to Archippus, ‘Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.’”

 

In Paul’s letter to the church at Colossae, he reminds someone by the name of Archippus to stay on task. We know little about this person, but in reality all we know is he had a work to do and was being reminded and encouraged to finish it. What Paul said to Archippus can really be said of us all, as the call to service is something every Christian shares. What encouragement can we gain from Paul’s word for our lives today?

 

Everyone has something to do in the kingdom of God. Being part of the Lord’s church means we have a role to fill, a purpose to accomplish; we all have talents to be used in serving God, a ministry received from the Lord. Peter reminds us, “Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God” (1 Pet. 4:10).

 

Whatever you do for God in His kingdom is important. There is nothing unimportant or insignificant when done for the Lord. The idea is that work for the Lord, whatever that work may be, is important, as it all has to do with what is eternal. “And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward” (Matt. 10:42).

 

We all have so much to offer each other in the kingdom of God, to help each other grow and mature spiritually, for the church to do its work, for us to be all God wants us to be. Paul wrote, “He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it” (1 Thess. 5:24). God will help us be our best and do our best. His promises will be fulfilled. Let’s trust Him, live for Him, fulfill our purpose in Him, and be blessed by Him. Let’s fulfill our work for Him, and see what God can do in and through us. God bless.

 

Robert

 

God Will Be With You

 There’s no telling what a person carries within him or herself.  No one really knows the pains one has experienced in life, how much one has suffered, how deep the hurt may go.  No one knows what a person is going through trying to keep above water, to not give up.  If we are really honest, no matter the front we all may have before others, everyone has had matters in life that can be termed negative, hard, heartbreaking, and discouraging.  No one is immune to trials and temptations; how each one deals with what such brings to life is what makes us unique.

 Those issues of life that bring such to a person may not always have to be life-threatening or fall in a severe category.  We can be towers of strength at one time, but at another time break down over similar matters.  The cumulative effect of trials can wear one down as well.  How much seems to be too much can depend on a great many factors, but it happens.  Even some of God’s most faithful servants at times found themselves discouraged and in need of strength.  Elijah needed God to help him regain a positive outlook on his ministry (1 Kings 19:4).  The apostle Paul had times in his life when God encouraged him not to give up (Acts 18:9; 23:11).

 Not letting go of God is a key ingredient in finding one’s way out of the struggles of life.  Satan’s great tool of discouraging is often tied to the deception that God doesn’t care, that He isn’t faithful to His promises, that a person must go it alone.  We will face defeat if we try to live only in our own strength, not in the strength of the Lord (Eph. 3:16).  Jesus reminds us He is with us always (Matt. 28:20).  God never leaves us or forsakes us (Heb. 13:5).  He gives us each other for support and encouragement (Heb. 10:24).  “The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

 We must be careful how we approach others who wrestle with the issues of life as they seek to live the Christian life.  We don’t know what it’s like to be the other person, to have their life experiences, their feelings, or their weaknesses.  No matter how deep the pain may be, or the degree of suffering one experiences, God is always there, offering His help to overcome.   “If God is for us, who is against us?” (Rom. 8:31).  We can find that help in prayer, in His word, in serving, in worship, in fellowship, and in all that keeps our focus on Him and eternity.  Isolation, turning ourselves inward, only allows Satan to feed on our fears and doubts. We should never sever our relationship with God, who offers us His help, if we come to Him, trust Him, and take advantage of what He provides.

 Our challenge in all this is to allow God be God in our lives.  Don’t be surprised that, if God isn’t an integral part of your life, worldliness and discouragement will win battles you face.  We weren’t meant to go it alone.  Even Paul, writing to Timothy in his last letter, waiting what would turn out to be his demise, could say, “At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them.  But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me” (2 Tim. 4:16-17).  No matter what, the Lord will stand with us.  May we encourage each other to remain committed in our faith, to have confidence in God and each other, and to know He is working His purposes out in our lives, for that which will last an eternity.  “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths” (Prov. 3:5-6).

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

 

Robert

 

Message from Scripture: 11/07/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today is Jas. 1:17; “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

 

In this passage, James reminds us God offers two types of gifts in His giving to us. He gives what is good, meaning what is profitable and useful, and what is perfect, what is complete, full, lacking in nothing for our good. God is a God who gives, and what He gives is just what we need, in the way we need, that is a blessing to us. In a world filled with sorrow and trouble, what can we take from this?

 

God gives us every spiritual gift in Christ (Eph. 1:3). We don’t have to worry if we get some of His spiritual gifts, or if He will leave out what we really need. He offers us every spiritual gift that our live in Him can be full and complete, all we need for a positive relationship with Him.

 

God also gives us “everything required for life and godliness” (2 Pet. 1:3). He’s not just concerned with things spiritual, but offers us everything we need in living for today. He knows our needs, and is concerned about our needs during our days in the flesh. We can go to Him in prayer about anything that is happening in our lives, our health, our finances, our relationships, anything and everything. Jesus came to offer us an abundant life in Him (John 10:10), and helps make us sufficient for all we face in the here and now.

 

God gives us only good gifts, and the way He provides them is in a good way as well. No matter what, God is with us, physically, emotionally, spiritually, because we are His children and He loves us. Praise God for all He is and all He does. God bless.

 

Robert