Freedom through Forgiveness (I John 1:7)
I John 1:7, But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. Last night in Bible Institute class we studied Hebrews 11:6-13. This studied reminded me of a sermon illustration I once used during a sermon. The illustration goes as follows. André Cassagnes, the French-born inventor was in his early thirties when he created a plastic device with a glass screen on which children could draw by turning little knobs. Since the inside surface of the screen was coated with aluminum powder, moving the knobs resulted in drawing images on the screen as an unseen movable stylus scraped away the powder. By turning the device upside down and shaking it, the little black images would magically disappear. Cassagnes called his little invention "L'Ecran Magique," or "the magic screen." The Ohio Art Company renamed Cassagnes's toy Etch A Sketch and began distributing it in the United States beginning in 1960. Since that time more than 100 million of the little laptop drawing machines have been sold allowing it to be named one of the top 100 toys of the 20th century. It's unlikely that André Cassagnes had any idea the toy he created in his basement half a century ago would become so popular. It's also unlikely that he imagined his hand-held creation would provide Christians with such a powerful illustration of grace. Like an Etch A Sketch, sin makes it mark on the screen of our lives. The evidence of our disobedience is indisputable. It's not a pretty picture, but when we trust in the death and resurrection of Jesus, the blotches of sin on the screen of our lives are erased and we are made like new. The principle of cleansing and a new beginning is seen in David’s life in Psalm 51. David devastated not only his life, but the lives of Bathsheba and Uriah by his wickedness. Uriah was dead and Bathsheba was pregnant from her adulterous affair with King David. David sought God’s forgiveness for what he had done. He wanted a new beginning in his life and realized that cleansing was an important factor in starting over again. Jesus paid the penalty for our sins, as a result, we are freed from the guilt of sin. When we walk in the light of Christ, God sees our sins covered by the blood of Christ. He accepts us in Christ. Our sins are forgiven by the blood of God's Son. The word “cleanseth” means that the blood of Christ continually cleanses us from sin. If we are walking in the light of Jesus Christ, then His blood is always cleansing us from our sins. If we walk in fellowship with Jesus Christ, we are constantly confessing our sins, we are living in open confession before Him. Man is guilty of offending God and of transgressing God's law. Therefore, just as with any law, when the law is broken, the penalty has to be paid. The lawbreaker has to pay or else someone has to step forward to pay the penalty for him. This is just what Jesus Christ did. He not only came to reveal God to us, He came to take our sins and transgressions upon Himself, all the guilt of them. Jesus Christ died for our sins. Jesus faced the judgment for us. Jesus suffered the punishment for us. Jesus bore the condemnation for us. The blood of Jesus Christ was shed upon the cross for us. Therefore, to walk in the light of Christ means that we walk believing that Christ died for us. The believer is to walk in fellowship with Christ all day long every day. He is to walk acknowledging God in all His ways, praying, praising, and confessing his shortcomings and sins all day long. The believer who walks in fellowship with Jesus Christ like this is being constantly cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 9:22, Without shedding of blood is no remission. Where sin makes us dirty, Jesus' blood cleans us up. Robert Lowry's hymn "Nothing But The Blood" says it well, "What can wash away my sin, Nothing but the blood of Jesus." Part of the great gift of salvation is not only that our sins have been forgiven, but that God never holds them against us again. Once we have confessed and forsaken our sins, God welcomes us back into full fellowship with Him, and He restores the joy that we forfeit when we sin. Satan always tries to obscure what we lose when he tempts us to sin. But God is faithful to forgive, and while there may be lasting consequences for what we have done, He never holds our sin against us again when we seek forgiveness. This is the point so often missed by man, no person cannot erase the sins of their past. He has no way to pay the penalty and judgment of his sins, and they have already been committed. Therefore, the penalty must be paid. The payment must be made by Someone who is perfect, for God is perfect. Only perfect sacrifices can be acceptable to God. And this is the terrible problem that man faces, for who is perfect other than God? No man is, only the Son of God is perfect. This is the reason the Son of God had to come to earth. He had to come to sacrifice Himself for man. He had to take man's sins upon Himself and become man's substitute in death. He had to die for man. It is His death, the sacrifice of the blood of God's Son, that covers our sins. No person is ever acceptable to God unless he is free of sin, unless his sins are cleansed and forgiven by the blood of Christ. PRAYER: Lord, You are so faithful in accepting our heartfelt repentance and giving us a clean heart and a right spirit within us when we acknowledge guilt and the sin that produced it. Thank You that when we come to You brokenhearted for mercy, You are ready to forgive and restore. In particular, thank You for the times You have restored to me the joy of my salvation. I know I can’t be free any other way. In Jesus’ freedom-giving name I pray, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com
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Careful Concerning the Company You Keep (I Corinthians 15:33)
I Corinthians 15:33, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” A mother once shocked her daughter when she was able to tell her who she spends the most time with. She said “I know just who you've been playing with today." She knew because she had become something like the other girl. She became so much like her in that she spoke like her, mimicked her mannerisms, and other telltale changes. Children often imitate other children quite unconsciously. So do adults. We are affected by the people we spend time with, in one way or another. The wrong crowd has a powerful influence upon people. They can be very distracting in our quest to do God's will. Never underestimate the power of peer pressure. Be careful about the friends that you choose and spend your time with. It’s been said that we are, or will soon become like, the people we associate with, the books we read, or the movies we watch. Avoid critical, carnal people as your close friends. Communications can refer to either conversation or companions. Most of the time when you’re in the wrong kind of company there will be bad conversations, which in turn, influences bad conduct. Bad company hurts a person’s good character and name. In just 15 minutes a person’s reputation can be ruined by what a parent has worked for 15 years to build within. Proverbs 16:29, “A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.” Violent people mislead, or deceive, others to a life of lawlessness. A violent man’s aim is to lead his neighbor away from the ways of righteousness. Too often, people look up to others who are bad examples and eventually end on the same broken road. They craftily seduce the innocent to get them convinced that the evil way is acceptable. Evil people never warn them of the consequences of sin. Wicked people paint evil as good and shut the eye to any danger. Many have fallen for this tactic of evil and paid a terrible price. Once, a spider built a beautiful web in an old house. He kept it clean and shiny so that flies would visit it. The minute he got a "customer" he would wind him up in a web so the other flies would not get suspicious. Then one day this fairly intelligent fly came buzzing by the clean spider web. Old man spider called out, "Come in and sit." But the fairly intelligent fly said, "No, sir. I don't see other flies in your house, and I am not going in alone!" But presently he saw on the floor below a large crowd of flies dancing around on a piece of brown paper. He was delighted! He was not afraid if a lot of other flies were doing it. So he came in for a landing. Just before he landed a bee zoomed by, saying, "Don't land there! That's flypaper!" But the fairly intelligent fly shouted back, "Don't be silly. Those flies are dancing. There's a big crowd there. Everybody's doing it. That many flies can't be wrong!" Well, you know what happened. He died on the spot on the fly paper. Some of us want to be with the crowd so badly that we end up in a mess. What does it profit a fly (or a person) if he escapes the web only to end up in the glue? Wicked people will distract you and lead you into the wrong direction. Here is an exposure of the ways of evil. It craftily seduces the innocent to get them convinced that the evil way is acceptable. In the process, they never will warn them of the consequences. Wicked people paint evil as good and shut the eye to any danger. Many have fallen for this tactic of evil and paid a terrible price. Proverbs 12:26, “The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.” The wrong crowd will lead you into the wrong direction. The wicked person seduces, or leads other people astray. He doesn't want to sin alone. He likes company. His decisions also cause him to drift hopelessly into a life of heartache, headaches, and painful consequences from foolish choices. Solomon also warned that violent people deceive, mislead, or persuade friends or companions down a terrible path. Proverbs 3:31, “Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.” If you are being swayed, seduced, or enticed by people to do that which is wrong, you are on the wrong path. Never underestimate the power of peer pressure, especially the pressure that comes from people who threaten to harm you if you do not do what they want you to do. Ben Carson, MD, Johns Hopkins University neurosurgeon (who grew up on the streets of Detroit) said, "Go down to the fish market and look into the crab barrel. They never have to put a lid on it because if one crab starts to crawl out, the others will grab onto him and pull him back down." That's what the wrong crowd does and that's what you must fight against. Don't be distracted, nor fall into the trap by degenerate people. Sometimes you have to plant your flag and say, "Here is where I stand and I will not compromise." That is not easy, but it needs to be done. Do not let anyone intimidate you to do that which is wrong. Questions to Consider: Is there sin in your life that you are having a hard time letting go of ? What kind of example are you setting for others? What direction are you going right now? Are you following the Lord or doing your own thing? If you are going in the wrong direction, is it because you are being influenced by carnal friends? Points to Ponder: If you are following the leadership of friends that have a bad influence upon you, then they in essence have become your masters. If you are playing with sin, then you are toying with the devil. Your friends influence you in good or bad ways. Choose them wisely. Choose your friends wisely because they will shape the future of your life. Prayer: Father, Your Son is the example by which we are to live. Help me to live in a way that pleases You and will draw others to Your Son. I pray that they will receive Him and have a desire to walk with You. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com A True Friend (Proverbs 18:24)
Proverbs 18:24, “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” There are different levels of friendship. This proverb distinguishes between friends. The Hebrew word (rea’) are casual acquaintances, such as work associates or neighbors, and a friend, Hebrew word (‘ahab) truly loves and is committed to you regardless of circumstances. It is possible to have a friend (a non-relative) who is more loyal and committed to you than a brother (a blood relative) I Samuel 18:1, And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.” The former are mere casual acquaintances. They come and go in different seasons of life. They are enjoyable but may be unreliable. When your circumstances change, their friendship fades away. They do not care enough to make a significant sacrifice for you to protect you from danger or ruin. In most cases, they will choose their interests over yours and are even capable of betraying you. The latter friend, a true friend, cleaves to you in the deepest valleys and darkest nights. He or she would protect you from others who intended to harm you, even if it meant paying a great sacrifice to do so. This friend’s devotion spans time and distance. Whereas, life is filled with hundreds of casual companions, true friends come along all too rarely in life. Because they are so rare, we should treasure them like spouses, as precious gifts from God. Proverbs 17:17, “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 16:24, “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” As believers, every one of us has a friend who sticks closer than a brother and His name is Jesus. As Jesus walked along the path that led to Gethsemane and the cross, note His great declaration of friendship for each of us. John 15:13, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Jesus proved His friendship to us by freely laying down His life on Calvary’s cross. He sacrificed His life that we might live eternally, and He promised His abiding presence in our lives (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5). Nothing can separate us from the presence and love of Christ (Romans 8:3-39). What a friend we have in Jesus (John 15:15; II Corinthians 2:8-9; Galatians 2:20)! Faithfulness produces reliability. Reliability is a big deal because it leads to stability and confidence. The faithful spouse produces stability in the marriage. People trade with certain businesses because their products and their customer service departments are reliable and trustworthy. That is an important issue today. People attend Bible-preaching churches because they know the preaching is going to be from the Bible and reliable in truth and application. Solomon spoke about the king that is faithful in his justice. His integrity, wisdom, and honesty in judicial matters establishes his reign with stability, confidence, and respect of people. In the area of relationships with people, those who are our friends and care about us are faithful in their concern for us. Friendliness and encouraging other people. People that are friendly and encourage people have a greater influence in the lives of others than someone who is stuck on himself, cranky, moody, or selfish. Friends do influence friends. There is no getting around it. Moses influenced Joshua. Elijah influenced Elisha. David influenced Jonathan. Paul influenced Silas. The list is endless. A study published in the American Society Review suggests that Americans these days have fewer close friends and confidants than twenty years ago. The results suggest people maybe living lonelier, more isolated lives than they once did. In 1985, the average American had three confidants. The latest results collected in 2004, show the number had dropped to two, with one in four Americans claiming no close confidants at all. Part of the shift is a result of changing lifestyles. Most people have fewer contacts in social organizations and tend to rely on family more than neighbors or other outside contacts. A continued move to suburban areas and a tendency to spend more time at work add to the problem. Unfortunately, the rise of new technologies such as computers, IPods, and televisions allow people to stay home and tune out the rest of the world. Previous research has shown a link between social isolation and loneliness and mental and physical illness. Co-author of the latest study, Lynn Smith-Lovin from Duke University says, "Close relationships are a safety net. Whether it's picking up a child or finding someone to help you out of the city in a hurricane, these are people we depend on." If you are going to have friends and be a good influence in the lives of people, you need to reach out and be friendly. If you don't have friends, then take a good look at yourself in the mirror. You may not have friends because you are not friendly. You may also be mean, grumpy, proud, or selfish, which tends to turn people off. Being concerned about others and their needs will help you to develop friendships with them and be a blessing. This is one reason why people loved and respected Job so much. He helped so many people and had great influence in their lives. Points to Ponder: The faithful person is reliable. What a friend we have in Jesus One true friend is more valuable than several superficial friends who can cause problems. Questions to Consider: Are you reliable? Is your word reliable? When you tell someone you are going to do something, do you do it? Do you show up on time? Do you do your job? Do you keep your promises? Do you pay your bills on time? How about homework? Do you complete those school assignments or book reports on time? PRAYER: Lord, thank You for saving my soul and for Your gift of eternal life. You used a friend and a co-worker to lead me to You. You have given me a church family who loves You and prays fervently for me. You have given me my very best friend, my wife, who stands by my side faithfully and encourages me. May I serve You faithfully, in Jesus name, AMEN. If this post has blessed you in any way please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Words Can Breakdown or Build Up! (Proverbs 18:21)
Proverbs 18:21, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” This is because words are powerful, and they can have a great impact either for good or evil. Being careful about what we say can affect others lives, as well as our own. Words can hurt another person deeply if we speak carelessly. This may seem like an extreme statement until we see the end results of what we say to others. Whether we’re deliberately hurtful, or we speak comfort and encouragement, the effect of what we say always comes back to us. Words can hurt, heal, curse, bless, or build up. What a person believes and what they can say can impact the world around them. We all know our world is chaotic and getting more and more corrupt. The words of truth can make the world a better place. These following Scriptures reveal how words can bring life (Proverbs 10:11a; Proverbs 12:18b; Proverbs 16:24; Romans 10:9) What comes out of your mouth is important and powerful. In fact, it is so powerful that it can lead to death or life. Our tongue has a way of offending people and turning them away from Christ. It is for this reason we are to be careful in what we say. Many people have ruined their reputation and their name by what they have said. God consistently warns us of the power of the tongue (Colossians 4:6; Titus 2:7-8; James 3:2). If you think about it, many of our problems can be traced to what we say, how we say it, or what we don't say. It is easy to offend people with your mouth. It is for this reason Solomon tells us to be very attentive to what we are saying or writing. Proverbs 11:11, “By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.” The wicked destroy others with their tongues. Many cities have been incited to violence and riots by those who have used their tongues to enrage and excite people into rioting. Proverbs 13:3, “He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.” A lack of self control over your tongue will lead to your demise. Why is this? You will say things that you will regret and affect your health. You will say things that will offend people that will create conflict with others. The aftershocks of your words can be absolutely shattering. Many of us have felt the tremors created by our tongue. Never underestimate the power of words. They can exert great influence in the life of a person. George Wythe was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. His virtue, integrity, and character exerted great influence upon Thomas Jefferson. Wythe clung to the principles of liberty and the natural and equal rights of all men. After he became President, Jefferson said of Wythe, "He was my master, my earliest and best friend. To him I am indebted for first impressions which have had the most salutary influence on the course of my life." Jefferson was also highly influenced by the words of Patrick Henry as he debated the Stamp Act which taxed the people. Jefferson was electrified by Henry's fiery words which kindled a flame of patriotism and liberty. Upon hearing Patrick Henry, Jefferson felt compelled to take up the cause of America. Jefferson later in his life referred to this event as the most important day of his life. Words are powerful and influential. They move men, which in turn can move people and a nation. The state of Texas was moved to fight for its independence from Mexico by three little words, "Remember the Alamo!" Those three words reminded them of the price that was paid by the men in the Alamo that bought them time to assemble an army that could defeat Santa Anna. Death and life are in the power of the tongue. Use them wisely. Realize your words leave a ripple effect. They linger when you are gone, whether they are good or bad. While on a bus, a woman was obviously irritated and she let loose with a string of unrepeatable swear words. She demanded that the bus stop and let her off. Everyone on the bus seemed to be embarrassed by this woman and her profanity. Everyone was very quiet. As the woman stepped off the bus onto the sidewalk, the bus driver said, "Madam, you left something behind." She turned and asked, "What is it?" The bus driver smiled and said, "Madam, you left behind a very bad impression." Then, he closed the door and drove away. As we go through life, we are always leaving behind an impression. As we journey through life, we are always having an influence which touches others. Your life ripples outward like a smooth stone splashing in a tranquil pond. We are always having an effect upon others, good or bad. It is a fact of life that we can't live without touching people with our lives. Words are important, so choose them wisely. They are tools that can be used to reach your goals. They are so powerful that they influence the destinies of men who are repulsed or influenced by them. They are so important, that we are going to give an account of what we say when we stand before the Lord Jesus Christ. Choose them wisely (Matthew 12:36). Points to Ponder: Your life can heal or hurt others. Your life can encourage or discourage somebody else. Your life can have a positive influence or negative impact upon another person. You cannot escape, evade, or elude the concrete fact that your life is going to influence someone else. The only choice you do have is the kind of impression or influence that you leave in the shadow of your life. Questions to Consider: Are you using your words to build up people, or destroy them? Are they filled with hate or help, bitterness or blessing, complaining or compliments, lust or love, victory or defeat? What kind of influence are you leaving behind you? Prayer: Father, thank You for Your Spirit inside me that urges me to “supply what is lacking” in others. How gracious that You choose to use me to help someone You love. Help me to always see that encouraging others is a privilege rather than a burden. In Jesus’ name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Nathan (II Samuel 12:1-7)
David was described as a man after God’s own heart (I Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22). Although King David did have his weak and embarrassing moments, he died a faithful man of God. David was accompanied by three men (Samuel, Nathan, and Gad) who influenced his life. Each of these prophets gave David the LORD’s direction for his life and each one had a special place at that time in his life. He had a prophet by his side to guide him, advise him, and correct during his reign over Israel. This prophet’s name was Nathan. Nathan is seen at the beginning, in the middle, and at the very end of David’s reign and bore the responsibility of representing the will and wishes of God. Nathan was faithful to deliver God’s messages.
After reaching the apex of success and leading his nation to peace, prosperity, and power, David sank into sin. David caved into a giant named lust that lived within in his heart. He committed adultery with a married woman and got her pregnant; and then in an effort to cover up that sin, David had her husband put to death. For almost a year, David kept his sin hidden within his heart. God sent Nathan the prophet, a man David respected, to confront his sin. Nathan came in with a story about a rich man with many sheep who took the only lamb belonging to a poor neighbor to feed a man who was just passing through. Nathan stressed the fact that the poor man’s lamb was precious to him and represented all that he had in this world. When David heard this story, he was furious! He demanded that the rich man restore the poor man four-fold, and then he ordered the rich man to be executed. Nathan looked at him and said, “Thou art the man!” “It’s you David!” David received counsel, advice, and reproof from Nathan. What Nathan told David was not easy, however, it was from the Lord and it was what David needed (II Samuel 7:17). Sin's pleasure never outweighs its devastating consequences. Never allow the devil to deceive you concerning the devastating results of sin. Sin never has positive results. Never think for a minute that sin can be successfully hidden away forever. The reality is there are no secret sins. God knows exactly where it is buried and when the time is right, He will place His finger right on the sore spot and He will press. He will confront that hidden sin and expose it for what it is! Please examine your life today. Questions to Consider:
Points to Ponder:
If you are ready to come to the Lord today, then do so without delay. If you are a Christian but you have been wayward in your walk with the Lord, then turn back to the Lord and be strengthened. PRAYER: Father, forgive me for the faults and failures in my life. I desire to lead a holy life that brings pleasure to You. Thank You for accepting me as Your child and help lead me to a life of purity. In Jesus’ name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Do You Reflect God? (II Corinthians 3:18)
II Corinthians 3:18, “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” A woman watched a silversmith as he heated a piece of silver over the fire. He explained that to refine silver he needed to hold it where the flames were the hottest to burn away all impurities. The silversmith said that he had to watch the silver carefully because if it was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman waited patiently observing the silversmith. Then she asked, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?" "Oh, that's easy," he answered, "when I see my image reflected in it." Like the silversmith looking into the precious metal, Christ desires to see Him image reflected in our lives. The moment God saved us, He formed a new creature, and He expects us to be constantly changing into His image and reflecting that image to others. As we spend time in the Word and in fellowship with our Lord, the Spirit works in us to make us more like Christ. He chips away at the desires and tendencies of the old man and replaces them with the likeness of Christ. The closer we walk with the Lord, the more the Spirit works within us to transform us into the image of Christ. Ephesians 4:24 explains the goal of every Christian, "And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." Some of the most obvious vices of unbelieving people are in their speech. This includes foul language and inappropriate jokes, or, more commonly, complaining, slander, and criticism. As Christians, however, we must lay it aside. That is the essence of taming the tongue—not that we never say anything at all, but that we are constantly able to encourage and strengthen other people with our words, words that actually build others up. If we are going to reveal Jesus to a world that so desperately needs to see Him, we must desire to become more like Jesus. This is an amazing opportunity and very possible if we are willing to submit to Him and gaze upon Him. Somewhere in the beginning of each day, most of us find ourselves looking at our reflection in the mirror. Do we reflect God? How can we? As flawed human beings with selfish tendencies, how can we ever portray God’s flawless image? The answer is simply by following the leading of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). God wants our hearts and lives to be mirrors that reflect His glory and grace. If we, as followers of Christ, are truly abiding by His Word, then we will reflect His character. The Holy Spirit will shine through us if we allow God into our lives. The figure of a mirror is used to express the change that comes to the believer from Christ. Since we have been transformed by His power into His image, His glory is reflected in us and through us from glory to glory. This astounding transformation within us is accomplished by the Spirit of the Lord. Questions to Consider: Do you reflect God's righteousness and holiness in your daily life? Can others see Christ's image in what you say and do? Points to Ponder: Allow God to change and mold your life so you can reflect His image more clearly. It is humbling that we have the opportunity to reflect the image of our Saviour and Creator. Prayer: Heavenly Father, I know Your desire for me is to be like You. I desire to be the mirror You want me to be. I ask You to take control of my life. Help me to reflect You so that others can be drawn to Christ, Your Son. I want to be like Jesus! In Jesus’ name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com God’s GPS (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” When traveling abroad or to an area I’m unfamiliar with, I travel with my GPS. The GPS lets you know where you are and where you need to go. Once you enter your destination, within seconds you have detailed directions anywhere in the world. It is so detailed that it allows you to begin your journey from the place you are currently at. From the location you are currently at it will take you to your desired destination. All you have to do is trust it (Psalm 119:105; 48:14). At times, we may feel like we are off course. Perhaps we feel like we have taken a wrong turn or failed to make a turn and believe we are heading in the wrong direction. All because the way doesn’t seem right. As with the GPS, if we get off course, the GPS doesn’t shut down; its recalculates. It turns us around and gives us a detailed path to put us back on course. We may ignore the GPS, but it still continues to recalculate and never stops. So it is with the Lord. He will never leave us nor forsake us. However, the LORD is with us at every turn. God has a plan for your life. If we trusted the Lord the same way we trust our GPS, life would be far less complicated. Many people fail to embrace His plan because they do not realize the starting point. Right here, right now, God is inviting all of us to follow Him, to trust Him, and to listen to Him. Like a GPS, as soon as we deviate from the designed path charted for us, the device lets us know we have gone off course; so it is with the Spirit of God. Psalm 37:23, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” He has mapped this way, He has scouted the trail, He has charted the course. He has already surveyed the scenery and knows the exact turns we should take. Start at your current location and listen to His instruction and guidance. Right here, right now you can begin to trust God. Not only will you get to your desired location, you’ll enjoy the trip. Faith is like a GPS: 1. You Have to Listen for Direction 2. You Have to Start Where You Are 3. You will have to Re-route from Time to Time 4. You will be Responsible for the Drive Life doesn’t always follow a planned route. At times in our Christian walk we come to a juncture and we need to know the direction God has for us. At other times the road may be filled with obstacles, littered with pot holes, or tied up in “construction”. Just like David, we need to hear God’s advice and counsel. Here is the great part; all we have to do is turn on our GPS (God’s Positioning System). He is our creator, our Father, and friend. God says in Psalm 32:8, “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Just as a compass can guide sailors through dark and uncharted waters, God’s Word can guide us through uncertain and difficult circumstances. We must simply trust it—over our feelings, over our own wisdom, and over contrary advice others may give us. He will never lead us down the wrong route or leave us when the road gets rough. Although we may not always understand why He steers us on a particular road, we can be confident that He knows how to get us safely to our final destination. Jim Elliot said, “It’s His (God’s) business to lead, command, send, and call…it is your business to obey, follow, move, respond.” If we don't know where we are going, find out which way God is moving and then get going in the same direction. Throughout Scripture we are reminded of God’s direction over our lives. He is our good Shepherd who leads us and He desires that we follow the path that leads to joy and contentment. When we pray for God’s guidance and for discernment through the Holy Spirit, we can rest assured that God will provide wisdom! We do not have to worry about our next step or about tomorrow because we know Who guides our way! God not only knows the way – He knows the best way, and He knows the way you should take today. By faith, trust Him, listen to Him, and enjoy the ride. Do not rush your day without going before God to seek guidance! Question to Consider: Who do you listen to when seeking direction in life? Point to Ponder: We must not try to direct our own lives, but yield to the direction of Jesus. PRAYER: Lord, Heavenly Father, thank You for Your guidance. Forgive me for getting ahead of Your plans, and help me know when to stop and listen for Your direction. Your ways are perfect. In Jesus name, AMEN. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com One of the Hardest Things We’ll Ever Do Is…Wait on God! (Psalm 62:5)
Psalm 62:5, “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.” To be honest, I’m not sure to whom I’m writing this post today–but I suspect somebody needs to hear it. The pastor in me comes to life when I’m reminded of believers who increasingly grow impatient with God, and I want us to pray for one another about that issue today. God is operating on a schedule that we cannot see (Isaiah 55:8-9)! Because He is outside of time, God's timing is not the same as ours. One of the most important traits of the Christian life is patience. Over 150 times some form of the word “wait” (wait, waiting, waiteth) appears in the Bible. Waiting on God results in us being strengthened (Isaiah 40:31). One of the hardest things we’ll ever do is to wait on God! Many times in life GOD tells us to wait, yet we trust our own judgment and do our own will. Choosing your personal will over God’s, will always result in reaping consequences. Delays do not mean God will fail to come through. Be willing to patiently wait on God and to trust in Him even when you do not understand what He is doing. I begin with some Bible texts that remind me that I need to let God help me with my impatience: · “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31) · “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.” (Psalm 27:14) “I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.” (Psalm 130:5-6) · “Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.” (Micah 7:7) When I read these verses, waiting seems so easy. We simply look forward to the day when God is going to respond, and we stay focused on Him in the meantime. The truth is for most of us waiting is not easy. It is one of the hardest things to do. Why, then, does God require us to wait? 1. Waiting reminds us that He is in charge. We’re not in charge of the calendar or the clock. We don’t control all things. Only God does, and His calling us to wait reminds us of that truth. Man may possess the finest watches or clocks money can buy, but God owns the time! 2. Waiting teaches us faith. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). The concept almost assumes a gap in timing between our request and God’s response. If everything happened immediately, faith would be less necessary. 3. Waiting makes us grateful. When we pray for something and God requires us to wait, we are more grateful when He finally does respond positively to our prayers. And we learn in a strange way to be grateful as we wait, even if He chooses to respond “no” to our prayers. 4. Waiting reveals our idolatries. If we simply can’t wait on God, it’s likely because something we want to happen is more important to us than God’s overall plan. We think our plan is so right that God needs to respond to it right now. 5. Waiting prepares us for whatever God has for us in the future. Whatever God’s plan is, waiting is often God’s way of saying, “You’re not ready to receive what you want yet.” He knows our hearts, and He alone knows when He needs to do some work in us before granting our request. Our call is to trust Him in the meantime. Prayer: Lord, I know too often I pray for my will rather than Your will to be done. I know that You have the results already worked out. Teach me to learn to wait on You. In Jesus name, AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Serve Jesus? … Do It Now (John 9:4-5)
John 9:4-5, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” Jesus is the Light of the world. If man wishes to be delivered from darkness, he must come to Christ. Christ is the only One who gives sight to man and His world. Jesus said that He must work due to the soon coming darkness. He meant that His earthly ministry would end and He would return to His Father. In the meantime, He was effectively and efficiently doing the works appointed by God. We all have limited time here on earth. Jesus had come with a mission to fulfill. He had not come simply to walk among men teaching the Scriptures, healing the sick, and comforting the weary; He had come to bring light to a dark world, delivering men from the bondage of sin. Already His eyes were fixed on Calvary. He wanted the disciples to see the eternal work that was being done. Jesus came to offer Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of men. He had come to open the eyes of this blind man and all who were blinded by sin. It was Joshua who said in Joshua 24:15, "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose, land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua's mind was made up to serve the Lord no matter what anyone else was going to do. Paul encouraged the church at Ephesus to be busy for the Lord, "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil" (Ephesians 5:16). The point is that we should make the most of every opportunity we have—even more because of the evil that infiltrates our culture. Do your best for God, and work while there is still time. There are a lot of Christians doing nothing, but there are no Christians who have nothing to do. God used Adoniram Judson because of his commitment to serve the Lord and be available to Him. Adoniram Judson sweated out Burma's heat for 18 years without a furlough. He went six years without a convert. Enduring torture and imprisonment, he admitted that he never saw a ship sail without wanting to jump on board and go home. When his wife's health broke and he put her on a homebound vessel in the knowledge he would not see her for two full years, he confided to his diary: "If we could, I would find some quiet resting place on earth where we could spend the rest of our days in peace..." But then Judson steadied himself with this remarkable postscript: "Life is short. Millions of Burmese are perishing. I am almost the only person on earth who has attained their language to communicate salvation..." Judson was committed to serving the Lord. Perhaps, this is why we are still talking about him today over 170 years after his death. We are not only to serve the Lord, we are to be a spokesman for Him. It’s been said, "The best ability is availability." The best thing we can do is make ourselves available to God for His service, whether it is in our family, our neighborhood, our church, or on foreign soil. We should take advantage of every opportunity we have to minister, serve, and witness for the Lord. We are to make our life a mission for God, not an intermission. The time to serve the Lord is while we can, to live for Him today. Tomorrow may not come for you. Make yourself available to the Lord each day. May we all have Isaiah's attitude, "Here am I Lord, send me." I wonder how many of us trust God enough that when we hear Him simply call our name we can say, “Here am I…whatever You need, You have it…whatever You want, I will do it.” Man's greatest heartbreak will be to discover it is too late to do something he or she should have done. The word day reveals we have limited time to do God's will. The time for work is limited. Christ and His followers do not have forever to do the work. It has to be done now or the opportunity will be lost. Only so much time has been given. Whatever is to be done must be done today, while there is still some daylight left. Night is coming, the time when no man can work. Time will end and the opportunity will be gone forever. Each person’s greatest tragedy will be to discover it is too late to do something he or she should have done. Remember there are a lot of Christians doing nothing but there are no Christians who have nothing to do. Opportunities pass quickly, they are like a vapor for they are here and gone. Don't waste your life away! Questions to Consider:
Points to Ponder:
Prayer: Father in Heaven, I don't know who or what will cross my path today, but help me to bring you glory today. Help me to be productive, patient, persistent, and perceptive. Help me to always work with diligence and may I make a lasting impact for Your kingdom. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com The World's Safest Place to Be (Psalm 91:4)
Psalm 91:4, “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.” During a blizzard in South Wales, England, a young mother and her baby were making their way across the foothills when she was overtaken by the frigid storm. Failing to reach her destination, a group of searchers found her frozen body with her baby tightly wrapped underneath her; the child was warm and still alive. The mother had taken off her outer garments and covered her child from the cold. The child grew up to be David Lloyd George, Britain's Prime Minister and one of the greatest statesmen in England. His political and social greatness was made possible because his mother covered him in love. Much like David Lloyd George, our achievements in life can only be attributed to the covering of God's love. God is omnipotent, all-powerful. He will cover and protect us under His wings of care when we stay close to Him. The psalmist compared God’s care for His people to a bird gathering her young under her wings in order to protect them. The Lord will be our refuge, covering and protecting us in the dangers of life. Regardless of the threats and fears we may face; we can be confident in the protection of our loving Saviour. The truth and faithfulness of God will be our shield and buckler. God has given us His faithful promises to use as our armor for life’s battles (Ephesians 6:10-20). We are protected by His faithfulness to His Word. Knowing that, we can have complete confidence that He will fulfill His promises to us. In perilous times, we need to trust God to help us. When we abide in Him and live in the fullness of His Spirit, we can face every situation of life without fear. Whatever difficulties or dangers we may face, our Lord will be with us. The shadow of the Almighty will cover us through them all. We are covered by the feathers and sheltering wings of the Lord. His truth is our defense. It is our shield and buckler. The message is God's truth protects and surrounds us. It protects us from lies and deception, and from making foolish decisions that scar our lives. Genuine security brings peace in times of darkness, danger, destruction, disease, and death. Night is a time of terrors, robbery, and murder. The godly man lies down in peace and sleeps quietly, for he trusts his life in the hand of God, and he knows that He neither snoozes nor sleeps. Security and peace are a by-product of entrusting your life to God's care. People everywhere need a sense of security. True hope and security are found in the Lord Jesus Christ. When we are "in Him," we are over-shadowed by His power; His presence makes every provision for our protection and blessing. God will protect us and deliver us, but it may not mean the absence of pain and affliction in this life. He is not only our shield, but a bulwark that fortifies our security. He will deliver us because we love Him. He sets us securely on high because we know His name. He answers us because we call on Him. He is with us in trouble, will rescue us, honor us, satisfy us with a long life, and allow us to know and experience His salvation because of an abiding, intimate relationship with Him. The fear of the unknown, the fear of loneliness, the fear of darkness, the fear of the future, or the fear of battle can be removed when your life is totally yielded to the Lord and you are obeying and doing what He instructs you to do in His Word. Peace comes from trusting in Him. In perilous times, we need to trust God to help us. When we abide in Him and live in the fullness of His Spirit, we can face every situation of life without fear. Satan’s fury against God, His Word, and His people is becoming more savage every day. More and more believers are paying a price for their faith in Jesus Christ. Through it all, however, God is our helper, and He is always with us (Hebrews 13:5-6). Our Saviour has promised to be with us to the end (Matthew 28:20). Whatever difficulties or dangers we may face, our Lord will be with us, we will not walk alone. We will walk under the comforting shelter of God’s shadow. If you've never been saved, there is a place beside the Lord for you if you will only claim it. If you are a Christian who has wandered from fellowship with the Lord, you need to come and find your place once again. I'm sure that you will find it just as you remembered. The Lord is waiting for you to come! Points to Ponder:
Questions to Consider:
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your presence in my life and that my future is secure in the place You're preparing for me. Your words bring me hope and comfort. Daily I catch glimpses of Your glory and blessing along the way as I walk with You. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com |
AuthorDr. Blackman is passionate about helping others grow in the grace of the Lord. His devotions are centered on how to grow closer to the Lord through a personal relationship with Christ. Archives
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