Oh my goodness, been listening to some interesting stuff. The topic dealt with criticism as sin. Just the fact that we have a critical spirit is offensive to God. The reference was from Miriam's criticism of her brother Moses in Exodus. It led to her being exiled for 7 days outside the camp because she was struck with leprosy. This was after Moses had pled on her behalf to God to forgive her. All the Israelites could not advance the camp for 7 days as they waited on Miriam.
Well let's take a look at just how often we have been critical of God's chosen vessels. (the ones that God chooses to work thru) I know I have been guilty. I had to confess this to God, and get back into right fellowship with Him. I don't know about you, personally I don't want anything to keep me from meeting in the holy place with God. No thing between me and my savior.
So to continue in our criticism is sin.
So would this be having a hypocritical (hypo - CRITICAL) attitude? This is the same thing that is often so offensive to us as we read the attitudes of the Pharisees in the New Testament with Jesus. If you do not find yourself here at this time, mark my words, this is a place those of us who walk with God for a time, can easily find ourselves. I don't rightly know how it happens, but it quickly goes from humble insight of others shortcomings, or discernment; but turns into prideful self righteousness and a critical spirit.
Let's be alert to this in our thoughts, attitudes and words. These are usually aimed at our leaders in church, government or homes. Just remember if you are beginning to wander in the desert, and not be filled with the joy you are accustomed to having; you may be in sin due to a critical attitude or spirit. REMEMBER in yesterday's post, we can enter into the tabernacle/fellowship thru purification of sin or we can wander in the desert in our sinful state. Where we are with God is up to us.
Have a blessed day and looking forward to whatever God will show me tomorrow.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
April 19 entry
I wrote this April 19, 2009. It just goes with the stuff I wrote earlier today.
I am absolutely overwhelmed today. Can't even begin to express in words all that I have been hearing or sensing from the Lord. I have been looking at the Seder meal that Jesus would have participated in on His last week of physical life. As I researched many aspects of it, I began to allow myself to go places in my heart and in my mind. I have so much to tell much to tell about it. It is several fold. If you are interested in knowing more. Read on...
Scripture references will be
John 3:1-21 &; Numbers 21
Psalms of ascent 120-134 &; Psalms called Hallel Ps 113 - 118 recited during the 4th cup of wine at Seder
Oh and add 1 Cor 10 that shows the baptism of Israel...
1. It started with the revelation of sin in my life. Small or big is no matter. I saw my sin and was sad. But if there is no condemnation then what is the sin to do. Actually the sin can lead to life. Look at What Christ says in Jn 3 to Nicodemus. He says just as the snake is lifted up to save those bit by the snakes, the son of man will also be lifted up for all who look on him will have LIFE. Well then sin may be the thing that is not condemnation but simply and indication of where we are and what we need.
2.Then comes the willingness to look at sin. The Israelites that were bit by the snakes had to look upon the bronze snake to be saved and live. I think we have to allow the sin to indicate to us that it is sin and then we need to be willing to look at it and its effect it had on Jesus on the cross.
Sin like the snake brings death, but willingness to accept God's designated path to right standing with Him will bring us life. This is so good I am not doing it justice
3. Seder prep- family looks for all leaven in the house. All leaven is removed from the house in prep for the Passover. Leaven or yeast is compared to sin. They use a candle and a FEATHER to find and sweep up ALL remnants of it that is found. What if we sweep our lives before the light of the Lord and willingly confess the sin that is exposed ... NOT to condemn us but to prepare us for the true sacrifical Lamb. We have to LOOK at the sin then see the sins effect on the Lamb. With each rip of the flesh each thorn piercing His brow, representing the sins effect on the body. My body unless I accept and receive the sacrifice for me.
4. The seder or passover breaks bread, eats the meat from the sacrifice. they must break NO bones, the head, limbs and organs in tack. any left must be burned. So the meat is torn. The family did the sacrifice not the priest. So we all slaughter the innocent lamb. The blood is applied to the door so the angel of DEATH would pass by. Side note: notice how many times Jesus refers to himself as gate or way. Then think of the blood above the door again.
5. Let me tell you I began to read the Psalms that would have been read during the passover and began to weep. Psalms called Hallel Ps 113 - 118 recited during the 4th cup of wine at Seder.
Then I read the Psalms of Ascent that they would recite or sing on the way to Jerusalem and represents the 15 procedures done during the Passover seder. These are also parallel to the steps to the temple. There are 4 cups to drink during the seder. Each represents the "I wills" of God in Ex 6:6-7 I will bring out, deliver, redeem and take.
So why do you think an OT ritual would be so full of meaning to a NT girl? In the presence and inspiration of the Holy Spirit and the light that is the truth of the Word of Jesus, it was amazing. It is symbolism that God has used to explain the uncomprehensible to me in terms I can understand. Ritual in act is nothing, but add the spirit's inspiration and you have an igniting fire.
I feel like I have eaten a tasty bit of food and I want you to share it with me. I haven't done it justice but I so long for you to know this with me. I want you to taste it and smell its aroma. WOW I am in awe right now.
I am absolutely overwhelmed today. Can't even begin to express in words all that I have been hearing or sensing from the Lord. I have been looking at the Seder meal that Jesus would have participated in on His last week of physical life. As I researched many aspects of it, I began to allow myself to go places in my heart and in my mind. I have so much to tell much to tell about it. It is several fold. If you are interested in knowing more. Read on...
Scripture references will be
John 3:1-21 &; Numbers 21
Psalms of ascent 120-134 &; Psalms called Hallel Ps 113 - 118 recited during the 4th cup of wine at Seder
Oh and add 1 Cor 10 that shows the baptism of Israel...
1. It started with the revelation of sin in my life. Small or big is no matter. I saw my sin and was sad. But if there is no condemnation then what is the sin to do. Actually the sin can lead to life. Look at What Christ says in Jn 3 to Nicodemus. He says just as the snake is lifted up to save those bit by the snakes, the son of man will also be lifted up for all who look on him will have LIFE. Well then sin may be the thing that is not condemnation but simply and indication of where we are and what we need.
2.Then comes the willingness to look at sin. The Israelites that were bit by the snakes had to look upon the bronze snake to be saved and live. I think we have to allow the sin to indicate to us that it is sin and then we need to be willing to look at it and its effect it had on Jesus on the cross.
Sin like the snake brings death, but willingness to accept God's designated path to right standing with Him will bring us life. This is so good I am not doing it justice
3. Seder prep- family looks for all leaven in the house. All leaven is removed from the house in prep for the Passover. Leaven or yeast is compared to sin. They use a candle and a FEATHER to find and sweep up ALL remnants of it that is found. What if we sweep our lives before the light of the Lord and willingly confess the sin that is exposed ... NOT to condemn us but to prepare us for the true sacrifical Lamb. We have to LOOK at the sin then see the sins effect on the Lamb. With each rip of the flesh each thorn piercing His brow, representing the sins effect on the body. My body unless I accept and receive the sacrifice for me.
4. The seder or passover breaks bread, eats the meat from the sacrifice. they must break NO bones, the head, limbs and organs in tack. any left must be burned. So the meat is torn. The family did the sacrifice not the priest. So we all slaughter the innocent lamb. The blood is applied to the door so the angel of DEATH would pass by. Side note: notice how many times Jesus refers to himself as gate or way. Then think of the blood above the door again.
5. Let me tell you I began to read the Psalms that would have been read during the passover and began to weep. Psalms called Hallel Ps 113 - 118 recited during the 4th cup of wine at Seder.
Then I read the Psalms of Ascent that they would recite or sing on the way to Jerusalem and represents the 15 procedures done during the Passover seder. These are also parallel to the steps to the temple. There are 4 cups to drink during the seder. Each represents the "I wills" of God in Ex 6:6-7 I will bring out, deliver, redeem and take.
So why do you think an OT ritual would be so full of meaning to a NT girl? In the presence and inspiration of the Holy Spirit and the light that is the truth of the Word of Jesus, it was amazing. It is symbolism that God has used to explain the uncomprehensible to me in terms I can understand. Ritual in act is nothing, but add the spirit's inspiration and you have an igniting fire.
I feel like I have eaten a tasty bit of food and I want you to share it with me. I haven't done it justice but I so long for you to know this with me. I want you to taste it and smell its aroma. WOW I am in awe right now.
Spending time with God
I have been thinking on this one thought over and over. I have talked about it at great length to anyone who will listen. I did a Beth Moore study on the Tabernacle and loved it several years ago. Before that, I was moved by a scripture I read where we are told that we are the temple of the holy spirit. I thought if that is true, shouldn't I know what it means to be the "temple". I began researching it began to see something beyond what I could imagine. I loved all that I found. More recently God has been adding on to this entire concept. If history is any indicator, I am certain that He will continue to elaborate on this for some time to come for me.
So today what I wanted to talk about is this concept of the tabernacle. The Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years. This trip was not a long journey. However it was for them. I suppose this was a time of learning and understanding for them. I believe it was also a time of dealing with the influence the pagans had had on them. In the time in the desert, the Israelites built a mobile worshipping center. A place for their God to dwell among them.
Scripture tells us to enter His "gates" with thanksgiving and His "courts" with praise (Psalm 100:4). So we enter into His presence thru the gate, Jesus tells us He is the gate (John 10:7 & 9) After entering the gate, the first encounter would be the place of animal sacrifice which was the payment for sin. For us, it would be the cross where Jesus was sacrificed for all our sin for those who believe. The blood is taken and used to purifiy, the basin used to wash clean the priest of the tabernacle. Jesus' blood purifies us so we are right before God. It gives us entrance into "fellowship" with God. Intimate closeness.
Now we are entering into the Holy Place where the bread and wine are on a table. For us as Christians, we can sit and eat, I think it is a time of fellowship, in that, we find nourishment for our hungry souls. At this point it brings us to the altar of incense. This is where our prayers become a SWEET AROMA to God's nostrils. At this altar, we can press into the full presence of God. We are just outside the Holy of Holies. On the other side of the veil, is the ark of the covenant where God would sit and talk with Moses. I believe it could be the very reflection of the tomb where Jesus laid with cheribum watching guard over him until the resurrection.
So what keeps us from experiencing this intimacy that was paved for us to receive? It is our birth right as born again Christians. So when we are not experiencing this fellowship with God, we need to take note of our lives. Look at areas of sin in our lives. If it is sin, we are to confess it to God (simply agreeing with God on what He calls sin) , repent (turning from the sin) and walk in obedience once again (just do what you know is right to do -- Go about doing some good) Once we have done this, I believe we have made it right back into the tabernacle all over again.
Sin separates, destroys and brings death. You want to know what our sin looks like to God, take a look at Christ on the cross. It was my sin that beat Him, my sin ripped His flesh, my sin pushed the torns into His brow, my sin spat in His face, my sin pierced His side, my sin hammered the nails into His hands and feet, my sin hung Him on the cross; And His love held Him there. Our sin is the pride of life, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes (1 John 2:16) and the cross shows us exactly how it looks.
So just as the Israelites, we can wander in the desert, or we can enter His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise because of Jesus. We receive His sacrifice, and believe we are cleansed and purified. We believe that we are made right with God (righteousness of Christ). This gives us the right to be in fellowship with the ONE who created us, and gave our hearts the permission to beat and continue to beat. We get to enjoy the spiritual nourishment of God. As we are fed by God, we get to sit and talk with Him (prayer); the very same God that breathed breath into us and allows us to continue to breathe. This is the one that has the power to take our lives when He is ready. We can stay as long as we wish in fellowship with Him, or we can go back out into the desert. We have the freedom to stay or to go. We also have the freedom to stay out in the wilderness as long as we please. The separation comes from the sin in our lives. Of course Jesus said He would never leave us nor forsake us, however, I know we can quench the spirit that is within each one of us when we refuse to deal with the sin in our lives.
Satan is always looking for ways to bring this about. He knows that if we spend time with God and get fully satisfied, we will be an awesome witness to a lost world. We will see others coming to the same God thru Jesus Christ. They will want what we have.
So LET"S become Jesus Christ to this world. Let's introduce them to the TRUE fellowship that comes only when we are with God. It is the ONLY thing that truly satisfies.
So today what I wanted to talk about is this concept of the tabernacle. The Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years. This trip was not a long journey. However it was for them. I suppose this was a time of learning and understanding for them. I believe it was also a time of dealing with the influence the pagans had had on them. In the time in the desert, the Israelites built a mobile worshipping center. A place for their God to dwell among them.
Scripture tells us to enter His "gates" with thanksgiving and His "courts" with praise (Psalm 100:4). So we enter into His presence thru the gate, Jesus tells us He is the gate (John 10:7 & 9) After entering the gate, the first encounter would be the place of animal sacrifice which was the payment for sin. For us, it would be the cross where Jesus was sacrificed for all our sin for those who believe. The blood is taken and used to purifiy, the basin used to wash clean the priest of the tabernacle. Jesus' blood purifies us so we are right before God. It gives us entrance into "fellowship" with God. Intimate closeness.
Now we are entering into the Holy Place where the bread and wine are on a table. For us as Christians, we can sit and eat, I think it is a time of fellowship, in that, we find nourishment for our hungry souls. At this point it brings us to the altar of incense. This is where our prayers become a SWEET AROMA to God's nostrils. At this altar, we can press into the full presence of God. We are just outside the Holy of Holies. On the other side of the veil, is the ark of the covenant where God would sit and talk with Moses. I believe it could be the very reflection of the tomb where Jesus laid with cheribum watching guard over him until the resurrection.
So what keeps us from experiencing this intimacy that was paved for us to receive? It is our birth right as born again Christians. So when we are not experiencing this fellowship with God, we need to take note of our lives. Look at areas of sin in our lives. If it is sin, we are to confess it to God (simply agreeing with God on what He calls sin) , repent (turning from the sin) and walk in obedience once again (just do what you know is right to do -- Go about doing some good) Once we have done this, I believe we have made it right back into the tabernacle all over again.
Sin separates, destroys and brings death. You want to know what our sin looks like to God, take a look at Christ on the cross. It was my sin that beat Him, my sin ripped His flesh, my sin pushed the torns into His brow, my sin spat in His face, my sin pierced His side, my sin hammered the nails into His hands and feet, my sin hung Him on the cross; And His love held Him there. Our sin is the pride of life, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes (1 John 2:16) and the cross shows us exactly how it looks.
So just as the Israelites, we can wander in the desert, or we can enter His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise because of Jesus. We receive His sacrifice, and believe we are cleansed and purified. We believe that we are made right with God (righteousness of Christ). This gives us the right to be in fellowship with the ONE who created us, and gave our hearts the permission to beat and continue to beat. We get to enjoy the spiritual nourishment of God. As we are fed by God, we get to sit and talk with Him (prayer); the very same God that breathed breath into us and allows us to continue to breathe. This is the one that has the power to take our lives when He is ready. We can stay as long as we wish in fellowship with Him, or we can go back out into the desert. We have the freedom to stay or to go. We also have the freedom to stay out in the wilderness as long as we please. The separation comes from the sin in our lives. Of course Jesus said He would never leave us nor forsake us, however, I know we can quench the spirit that is within each one of us when we refuse to deal with the sin in our lives.
Satan is always looking for ways to bring this about. He knows that if we spend time with God and get fully satisfied, we will be an awesome witness to a lost world. We will see others coming to the same God thru Jesus Christ. They will want what we have.
So LET"S become Jesus Christ to this world. Let's introduce them to the TRUE fellowship that comes only when we are with God. It is the ONLY thing that truly satisfies.
Day 1
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:1-4
This is today's scripture verse from the Bible page.
This is today's scripture verse from the Bible page.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Introduction
I am blessed to be a child of God. I am bought by the price of the blood shed on the cross for me. I love Jesus and I want to encourage others to walk closely with Him. Then based on that intimate walk, become Christ to those around them, to be walking out the WORD of God; to become the living Word.
I have been sharing my thoughts with others for some time on Facebook. As time has gone by, I have been humbled by the interest and response I have been given from several of you. I had a friend share with me that perhaps it was time to start a blog. I didn't know where to begin and this friend showed me the way. Thanks Marty.
God has been entrusting me with certain insights for some years now. Not always knowing what to do with them, I would do nothing. There came a time in particular that a dear Christian friend was concerned for me and asked me how she could specifically pray for me. I told her that I was overwhelmed with things that God was showing me, and I felt at times as though I would explode if I could not express them.
I feel confined at times with the physical body I am placed in. I get so overwhelmed with what God reveals to me that my body becomes like a prison. I cannot adequately express my excitement, thankful gratitude, awe, love, thrill, etc. in the confines I am currently housed in. My sharing on Facebook has provided me an enormous opportunity for relief.
Now, I am expressing these thoughts here. I am placing these gifts out here for anyone desiring a gift of encouragement today.
Let me know if you find this encouraging. I am excited to have a site to express and share these ideas, thoughts and inspirations.
I have been sharing my thoughts with others for some time on Facebook. As time has gone by, I have been humbled by the interest and response I have been given from several of you. I had a friend share with me that perhaps it was time to start a blog. I didn't know where to begin and this friend showed me the way. Thanks Marty.
God has been entrusting me with certain insights for some years now. Not always knowing what to do with them, I would do nothing. There came a time in particular that a dear Christian friend was concerned for me and asked me how she could specifically pray for me. I told her that I was overwhelmed with things that God was showing me, and I felt at times as though I would explode if I could not express them.
I feel confined at times with the physical body I am placed in. I get so overwhelmed with what God reveals to me that my body becomes like a prison. I cannot adequately express my excitement, thankful gratitude, awe, love, thrill, etc. in the confines I am currently housed in. My sharing on Facebook has provided me an enormous opportunity for relief.
Now, I am expressing these thoughts here. I am placing these gifts out here for anyone desiring a gift of encouragement today.
Let me know if you find this encouraging. I am excited to have a site to express and share these ideas, thoughts and inspirations.
The day
TODAY IS THURSDAY AND IN RELATION TO EASTER, THIS IS THE DAY THAT JESUS WOULD HAVE BEEN ON TRIAL. HE WOULD HAVE BEEN CELEBRATING PASSOVER LAST NIGHT AND HE WOULD HAVE EATEN HIS LAST SUPPER. HE WOULD HAVE WALKED TO THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE SINGING PSALMS WITH THE DISCIPLES. BUT TODAY HE WAS STANDING BEFORE PONTIUS PILATE AND HEROD BEING SENTENCES FOR CRIMES HE DIDN'T COMMIT. HE STOOD INNOCENT BEFORE THE JUDGEMENT SEAT. HE TOOK MY PLACE AND STOOD TRIAL FOR MY SIN. IMAGINE THAT.
HE PAID THE PRICE FOR MY SIN ON THE CROSS. THAT WILL BE TOMORROW. GOOD FRIDAY.
I AM THANKFUL IT DIDN'T END THERE. I WOULD BE TERRIBLY DEPRESSED. BUT THANK GOD FOR SUNDAY. HE IS RISEN.
PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!!!!!!
HE PAID THE PRICE FOR MY SIN ON THE CROSS. THAT WILL BE TOMORROW. GOOD FRIDAY.
I AM THANKFUL IT DIDN'T END THERE. I WOULD BE TERRIBLY DEPRESSED. BUT THANK GOD FOR SUNDAY. HE IS RISEN.
PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!!!!!!
What I think church should not be
Thursday, May 7, 2009 at 2:07pm |
You ever wonder the purpose of the church. I have been in some great conversation with my brother on this very matter. I tell you that delving into this question both in the word, in prayer and in my own thoughts has surfaced a lot of stuff. The top thing I am thinking is a corporate opportunity to praise God. God is ALWAYS worthy to be praised. If you think about it, His awesomeness goes beyond comprehension and measure. So we could praise Him our entire lives and never praise Him for all He is or all He does. Church is an opportunity to be examined by the WORD. As the word is spoken by an annointed, chosen man of God who is filled with the Holy Spirit, the word will pierce our hearts, bring about conviction and repentance. I believe it is a time to be built up and encouraged by other believers as well as correction. It is a time of fellowship with other believers and a time to serve one another. We can pour into others lives at this time. We should be spurring one another on to good works and encourage each other to live filled with the spirit. I am open to a discussion on this point. You can add to this or even dissect it. I am by no means an expert. Just someone trying to process this issue. However, not wanting to divide and debate. Just wanted to start a dialogue of thoughts.
I guess on the flip side of this issue (all prompted by listening to CS Lewis' Mere Christianity") is the thoughts of what church is not. It is not a country club. It is not a place to go once a week to meet with God so you can feel better the rest of the week. It is not a place to go to mark off a list saying I did this. It is not a dumping ground to confess our sin so we can make room for the sins again this week. It is not a place to go to feel better about yourself because you see others in worse shape than you. It is also not a place to go only if you are perfect. So brings me full circle. What is the purpose of church. I believe if the church were operating in its full capacity, we would be a light to a lost world, we would be the GLORY of God here on earth. How about them apples. I started out talking about what the church isn't and ended up back at its purpose. I can stop now. Join me in this discussion if you want.
You ever wonder the purpose of the church. I have been in some great conversation with my brother on this very matter. I tell you that delving into this question both in the word, in prayer and in my own thoughts has surfaced a lot of stuff. The top thing I am thinking is a corporate opportunity to praise God. God is ALWAYS worthy to be praised. If you think about it, His awesomeness goes beyond comprehension and measure. So we could praise Him our entire lives and never praise Him for all He is or all He does. Church is an opportunity to be examined by the WORD. As the word is spoken by an annointed, chosen man of God who is filled with the Holy Spirit, the word will pierce our hearts, bring about conviction and repentance. I believe it is a time to be built up and encouraged by other believers as well as correction. It is a time of fellowship with other believers and a time to serve one another. We can pour into others lives at this time. We should be spurring one another on to good works and encourage each other to live filled with the spirit. I am open to a discussion on this point. You can add to this or even dissect it. I am by no means an expert. Just someone trying to process this issue. However, not wanting to divide and debate. Just wanted to start a dialogue of thoughts.
I guess on the flip side of this issue (all prompted by listening to CS Lewis' Mere Christianity") is the thoughts of what church is not. It is not a country club. It is not a place to go once a week to meet with God so you can feel better the rest of the week. It is not a place to go to mark off a list saying I did this. It is not a dumping ground to confess our sin so we can make room for the sins again this week. It is not a place to go to feel better about yourself because you see others in worse shape than you. It is also not a place to go only if you are perfect. So brings me full circle. What is the purpose of church. I believe if the church were operating in its full capacity, we would be a light to a lost world, we would be the GLORY of God here on earth. How about them apples. I started out talking about what the church isn't and ended up back at its purpose. I can stop now. Join me in this discussion if you want.
Seek God's face and not His hand
Heard this saying this morning and really decided to ponder it. "Seek God's face and not His hand." Wow, simple words but very profound. I have for some time been aware of the necessity to seek God and not his healing, blessings; basically all He can DO for me. The things He can do for me will come because of WHO He is. But we miss so much if all we seek is what He does for us and leave feeling empty. No child ever is satisfied with just what the parent gives thru gifts and "stuff". Deep down, they truly want to spend time with and be with and be known by their parents. That is where it is most satisfying. I dare you to test it and see. I dare you to seek the healer and not the healing. Healing may or may not come, but you will be joyful either way. Seek the rewarder and not the reward. Seek the blesser and not the blessing. Seek the redeemer not the redemption. I have heard it said that we are HUMAN BEINGS and NOT HUMAN DOINGS. Look for the BEING in God and not the DOING of God. Let's give it a try. Will we be more joyful and satisfied. I dare you to try it to see for yourself!!!!
This is the best devotion!!!!!!!
August 14, 2009
"The Discipline of the Lord"
ODB RADIO: | Download
READ:
My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him —Hebrews 12:5It is very easy to grieve the Spirit of God; we do it by despising the discipline of the Lord, or by becoming discouraged when He rebukes us. If our experience of being set apart from sin and being made holy through the process of sanctification is still very shallow, we tend to mistake the reality of God for something else. And when the Spirit of God gives us a sense of warning or restraint, we are apt to say mistakenly, "Oh, that must be from the devil."
"Do not quench the Spirit" ( 1 Thessalonians 5:19 ), and do not despise Him when He says to you, in effect, "Don’t be blind on this point anymore— you are not as far along spiritually as you thought you were. Until now I have not been able to reveal this to you, but I’m revealing it to you right now." When the Lord disciplines you like that, let Him have His way with you. Allow Him to put you into a right-standing relationship before God.
". . . nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him." We begin to pout, become irritated with God, and then say, "Oh well, I can’t help it. I prayed and things didn’t turn out right anyway. So I’m simply going to give up on everything." Just think what would happen if we acted like this in any other area of our lives!
Am I fully prepared to allow God to grip me by His power and do a work in me that is truly worthy of Himself? Sanctification is not my idea of what I want God to do for me— sanctification is God’s idea of what He wants to do for me. But He has to get me into the state of mind and spirit where I will allow Him to sanctify me completely, whatever the cost (see 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 ).
"The Discipline of the Lord"
ODB RADIO: | Download
READ:
My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him —Hebrews 12:5It is very easy to grieve the Spirit of God; we do it by despising the discipline of the Lord, or by becoming discouraged when He rebukes us. If our experience of being set apart from sin and being made holy through the process of sanctification is still very shallow, we tend to mistake the reality of God for something else. And when the Spirit of God gives us a sense of warning or restraint, we are apt to say mistakenly, "Oh, that must be from the devil."
"Do not quench the Spirit" ( 1 Thessalonians 5:19 ), and do not despise Him when He says to you, in effect, "Don’t be blind on this point anymore— you are not as far along spiritually as you thought you were. Until now I have not been able to reveal this to you, but I’m revealing it to you right now." When the Lord disciplines you like that, let Him have His way with you. Allow Him to put you into a right-standing relationship before God.
". . . nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him." We begin to pout, become irritated with God, and then say, "Oh well, I can’t help it. I prayed and things didn’t turn out right anyway. So I’m simply going to give up on everything." Just think what would happen if we acted like this in any other area of our lives!
Am I fully prepared to allow God to grip me by His power and do a work in me that is truly worthy of Himself? Sanctification is not my idea of what I want God to do for me— sanctification is God’s idea of what He wants to do for me. But He has to get me into the state of mind and spirit where I will allow Him to sanctify me completely, whatever the cost (see 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 ).
Dare to rummage around in my brain
Oh my goodness. The bible study I was doing Sunday afternoon referred to Jer. 29:11. As I read it, I read it with way too much familiarity. Then God threw me a curve ball by adding in vs 12-14. I had been praying for God's will to be revealed in a situation and this was part of the answer. It just absolutely blew me away as I read on "Journey Deeper into God's Word" which is a group on Facebook
You want to know the will of God for your life, I believe it is everyday being available to where He takes us and being His hands and feet to those He brings to us or where He sends us. I believe the key to this scripture and the WILL of GOD in our lives is is truly that we SEEK HIM WITH ALL OUR HEARTS.
What if that is it: will of God for our life -- TO KNOW HIM as we are known. NOT what we DO but that we just BE before Him, allowing Him to reveal Himself to us.
Think about it, in the garden what did sin interrupt? Walking daily in the garden just God and man in sweet fellowship, while all of creation was under man's dominion.
Just some ponderings I am having.
You want to know the will of God for your life, I believe it is everyday being available to where He takes us and being His hands and feet to those He brings to us or where He sends us. I believe the key to this scripture and the WILL of GOD in our lives is is truly that we SEEK HIM WITH ALL OUR HEARTS.
What if that is it: will of God for our life -- TO KNOW HIM as we are known. NOT what we DO but that we just BE before Him, allowing Him to reveal Himself to us.
Think about it, in the garden what did sin interrupt? Walking daily in the garden just God and man in sweet fellowship, while all of creation was under man's dominion.
Just some ponderings I am having.
Request to pray
2 Chronicles 7:14
>
>
> I remember reading about the children of Israel who turned from God
> time and time again, only to realize their mistake and pray for
> forgiveness. Each time, God would forgive them and they would walk
> with him for a time. So, I am going to ask you to join me in praying
> for our nation every day. Please read the email below. God is in
> control.
>
> May God Have Mercy On America ; Protect Our Troops
> When I was in Atlanta last week, there were signs in people's yards
> that said, " America , prayer is our only hope" - with 2 Chronicles
> 7:14 underneath.. We certainly need God's help!
>
> I have no idea who started this, but I certainly agree with this
> e-mail. I heard a preacher on TV tonight who said if we pray for our
> nation things will turn around.
>
> After a day of contemplation and soul searching, I have decided to
> reach out to my friends and relatives and ask you to do something
> that has been troubling me for a long time.
>
> Our nation is/has been on the slippery slope for a long time. If you
> look around you will find corruption, greed, moral decay, and a
> steady move away from the things that made us great. The principles
> upon which this nation was founded are no longer our backbone.
> However, we can reverse this trend.
>
> 2 Chronicles. 7:14 in God's Word, He states,
> "If my people who are called by my name
> will humble themselves and pray
> and seek my face and turn from their
> wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven
> and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
>
> I am convinced that we must pray for our nation and its leaders and
> ask for forgiveness. So I ask you to join me in this plea to our Lord.
>
> Would you please send this to people in your address book? Ask them
> to pray EVERY DAY. (25 to the 5th power is9,765,625 people.)
> IMAGINE if each person reaches TEN others... Or all TWENTY FIVE!
>
> If you do and they comply, we will lift up millions and millions of
> prayers a day to our Creator. He will hear us, and in faith will
> answer.
>
> Here's a quote from Ronald Reagan:
> "If we ever forget that we are one nation under God, then we will be
> a nation gone under."
>
> I truly believe this is why the United States of America is in the
> shape it's in today.
>
> Most people have forgotten that we are ONE NATION UNDER GOD! Let us
> as Christians stand up and remind people of this.
>
>
> I remember reading about the children of Israel who turned from God
> time and time again, only to realize their mistake and pray for
> forgiveness. Each time, God would forgive them and they would walk
> with him for a time. So, I am going to ask you to join me in praying
> for our nation every day. Please read the email below. God is in
> control.
>
> May God Have Mercy On America ; Protect Our Troops
> When I was in Atlanta last week, there were signs in people's yards
> that said, " America , prayer is our only hope" - with 2 Chronicles
> 7:14 underneath.. We certainly need God's help!
>
> I have no idea who started this, but I certainly agree with this
> e-mail. I heard a preacher on TV tonight who said if we pray for our
> nation things will turn around.
>
> After a day of contemplation and soul searching, I have decided to
> reach out to my friends and relatives and ask you to do something
> that has been troubling me for a long time.
>
> Our nation is/has been on the slippery slope for a long time. If you
> look around you will find corruption, greed, moral decay, and a
> steady move away from the things that made us great. The principles
> upon which this nation was founded are no longer our backbone.
> However, we can reverse this trend.
>
> 2 Chronicles. 7:14 in God's Word, He states,
> "If my people who are called by my name
> will humble themselves and pray
> and seek my face and turn from their
> wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven
> and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
>
> I am convinced that we must pray for our nation and its leaders and
> ask for forgiveness. So I ask you to join me in this plea to our Lord.
>
> Would you please send this to people in your address book? Ask them
> to pray EVERY DAY. (25 to the 5th power is9,765,625 people.)
> IMAGINE if each person reaches TEN others... Or all TWENTY FIVE!
>
> If you do and they comply, we will lift up millions and millions of
> prayers a day to our Creator. He will hear us, and in faith will
> answer.
>
> Here's a quote from Ronald Reagan:
> "If we ever forget that we are one nation under God, then we will be
> a nation gone under."
>
> I truly believe this is why the United States of America is in the
> shape it's in today.
>
> Most people have forgotten that we are ONE NATION UNDER GOD! Let us
> as Christians stand up and remind people of this.
Why do you study the bible
If you are in the midst of a bible study, this is a reminder to think on the REASON you are doing it. I have heard a bunch of differing reasons. To appease God, to gain more knowledge etc. However, I firmly believe to do it for any other reason than to grow in relationship with God, to get to know Him whom you believe in and to equip you to serve, love and minister to a hurt world, you will be dissatisfied at the very least. Think on "why" you do it. And then focus on the ONE the book is all about. Honestly it should be encouraging our love for others and God. Just something to think about today.
More stuff going on in my head
Have had some much on my mind. I think being in my head is like the traffic we had going in and out of Chicago over fall break. I cannot even express the amount of traffic in my head.
One thing I was thinking: The enemy of our soul has done such a number on humanity. MAN had dominion over the earth. It was ours, not satan's. So he came along and convinced MAN that God was holding out on him and that He didn't want MAN to have fun, enjoy life, or have wisdom. On the other hand, God gave MAN a stearn warning that all will certainly not be well if ... (Here we can apply any given sin.) So MAN decides to go along with satan. He decides to COOPERATE with HIS enemy. MAN decides to really turn from and away God, and goes his own way. What on earth did it cost him? EVERYTHING. Think about it. To begin with, he lost Dominion over the earth!!!! GEN 1:26 & 28 According to Gen 2:15 he was to watch over the garden. DUDE, dominion means dominance or power through legal authority. Also, to rule, dominate, tread down.
It also cost us fellowship with God. Once the enemy convinces us to sin, he has managed to separate us from our relationship with God. Sin defiles and brings death. We are to confess (agree with God about our sin) Repent (turn from it) and again walk in righteousness (Christ bought it for you with his blood) Accept the payment and refuse to work with the enemy who only wants to separate us from true fellowship with God
So here is my point. The enemy LIED to Adam and he is still lying to us. His job is to convince us that God doesn't want the best for us. He wants us to believe that there are things, stuff, and highs that will fulfill us. He is more than happy to provide those things. To get us CAUGHT up in something, anything that will distract us from God. Then once we give into the temptation, he turns on us and condemns us. Then we feel guilt and we then feel our separation from God.
So we need to wake up and be alert. Roman 6:14 says that sin no longer has dominion over us for we are under grace. In whatever amount you COOPERATE with satan is the amount of dominion YOU ALLOW him to have in your life. Once we are bought by the blood of Christ, we are NO longer subjected to the enemy's dominion. EXCEPT that which we ALLOW.
One thing I was thinking: The enemy of our soul has done such a number on humanity. MAN had dominion over the earth. It was ours, not satan's. So he came along and convinced MAN that God was holding out on him and that He didn't want MAN to have fun, enjoy life, or have wisdom. On the other hand, God gave MAN a stearn warning that all will certainly not be well if ... (Here we can apply any given sin.) So MAN decides to go along with satan. He decides to COOPERATE with HIS enemy. MAN decides to really turn from and away God, and goes his own way. What on earth did it cost him? EVERYTHING. Think about it. To begin with, he lost Dominion over the earth!!!! GEN 1:26 & 28 According to Gen 2:15 he was to watch over the garden. DUDE, dominion means dominance or power through legal authority. Also, to rule, dominate, tread down.
It also cost us fellowship with God. Once the enemy convinces us to sin, he has managed to separate us from our relationship with God. Sin defiles and brings death. We are to confess (agree with God about our sin) Repent (turn from it) and again walk in righteousness (Christ bought it for you with his blood) Accept the payment and refuse to work with the enemy who only wants to separate us from true fellowship with God
So here is my point. The enemy LIED to Adam and he is still lying to us. His job is to convince us that God doesn't want the best for us. He wants us to believe that there are things, stuff, and highs that will fulfill us. He is more than happy to provide those things. To get us CAUGHT up in something, anything that will distract us from God. Then once we give into the temptation, he turns on us and condemns us. Then we feel guilt and we then feel our separation from God.
So we need to wake up and be alert. Roman 6:14 says that sin no longer has dominion over us for we are under grace. In whatever amount you COOPERATE with satan is the amount of dominion YOU ALLOW him to have in your life. Once we are bought by the blood of Christ, we are NO longer subjected to the enemy's dominion. EXCEPT that which we ALLOW.
prayer time
1. Commit to pray (don't make it mundane and routine, but make it regular)
2. Resist catching up on other tihings when you are scheduled to have time with God.
3. Don't try to fit God into your schedule, instead work your schedule around God.
4. Set certain times for study
5. When determining what to study, look at your life, find areas you are struggling in or decision to be made. Look the topic up in a dictionary or concordance and research it.
2. Resist catching up on other tihings when you are scheduled to have time with God.
3. Don't try to fit God into your schedule, instead work your schedule around God.
4. Set certain times for study
5. When determining what to study, look at your life, find areas you are struggling in or decision to be made. Look the topic up in a dictionary or concordance and research it.
Notes from Facebook posting - Part 1
With God you can make a fresh start each day/ even each moment. My past can become the fertile ground for a ministy to arise
Freedom brings Victory over powerlessness once we take responsibility for OUR part in the bondage of our lives. that is how we will overcome.
Freedom brings Victory over powerlessness once we take responsibility for OUR part in the bondage of our lives. that is how we will overcome.
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