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Men of the Bible Series - Mordecai (Esther 6:11)
Esther 6:11, Then took Haman the apparel and the horse, and arrayed Mordecai, and brought him on horseback through the street of the city, and proclaimed before him, Thus shall it be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honour. A soldier in the service of King Charles I of England, who reigned from 1625-1649, sold most of his property and gave his proceeds to support the king's cause. He ended up also giving his life, being killed in the battle with the Roundheads. His friends paid tribute to his memory with this epitaph which is found in an old churchyard in England: "He served King Charles with a constant, dangerous, and expensive loyalty." Mordecai was very loyal, and the rewards of his loyalty would be revealed at the right time and place. God is preparing His heroes and when the opportunity comes, He can fit them into His plan in a moment and the world will wonder where they come from. In Esther 2:21-23, we find Mordecai reporting the news of two men (Bigthan and Teresh) attempting to assassinate king Ahasuerus. It would be some time later, but the honorable acts of Mordecai would be brought to the attention of king Ahasuerus. As a result, for saving his life, king Ahasuerus honored Mordecai by having him escorted through the city on the king’s horse wearing the king’s royal clothing (Ephesians 6:11). In adopting Esther, Mordecai shows his mercy (Esther 2:7). Although we were orphans, afar from God, Christ showed His mercy in receiving us into the family of God by faith (John 1:12; Ephesians 2:8-13). As Mordecai was faithful to king Ahasuerus (Esther 2:21-23), Christ was faithful to His Father (Luke 2:29; John 8:29; Hebrews 10:7). Mordecai was consistent (Esther 3:2-4), Christ, fully knowing His mission, was faithful and steadfast (Isaiah 50:7; Luke 9:51; 19:10; I Timothy 1:15). As Mordecai was despised (Esther 3:5), so was Christ (Isaiah 53:3; John 15:25). As Mordecai was tested (Esther 4:1), so was Christ (Matthew 4:11; Luke 22:42). As Mordecai finally received a place of honor (Esther 6:1-3; 8:7-8), so did Christ in His resurrection (Ephesians 1:20-23; Hebrews 1:3). Mordecai was loyal to God, therefore, he refused to bow down to Haman (Esther 3:4). Daniel’s three companions showed the same conviction and loyalty to God (Daniel 3:1-12). Those around Mordecai wanted to know why he did not kneel down. He gave them only one answer, that he was a Jew. God’s purpose and plan for sending the Jews into captivity to rid them from the desire to follow after false gods and idols had come to pass. As a result, these Jews would not honor anyone or anything in a way that was reserved only for God. Separated unto God, they refused to kneel down to any human or idol. Like Mordecai, we Christians also must take a firm and open stand for Christ and the righteous standards of truth in His Word no matter what pressures come from a society that does not know or accept Him. Five times the phrase “whom the king delighteth to honour,” is mentioned (Esther 6:6-7, 9, 11). As Mordecai was a delight to king Ahasuerus, so should we as Christians be a delight to God. God blesses those who please Him. God delights in seeing His people reflect His glory and being conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). There are several attributes of God that we are specifically told bring Him delight when they are manifested in our lives. Some things that bring a delight to the Lord are:
When reading the book of Esther, one might question, “Where is God in all this? Why is God’s name not mentioned?” Although He is never mentioned by name in the entire book, God appears in every scene. God is seen in His power, providence, protection, presence, peace, and preservation. God is like the unseen rudder on the ship. However, the presence of God is evident throughout every chapter in these books. We see His providential hand of care over Israel. The purpose of the book of Esther is to reveal the sovereignty of God and His care for His people. It also teaches us that when man has reached his limit in life, God reveals His opportunity and plans of a tomorrow. Have you ever felt discouraged, as though God was not working in your life? Understand that even when God’s work is not evident, His hand is present working behind-the-scenes. May God open our eyes to His many wonderful works in this book (Psalm 119:18). Points to Ponder: God’s timing and His ways ae always perfect. Those who honor God will God honor. One of the greatest statements a child of God can hear is “Well done” (Matthew 25:21). Questions to Consider: Do you have a godly heritage? If you are the first Christian in your family, how will you begin a heritage for your children? What are you doing to preserve this heritage and pass it along to your children? PRAYER: Lord, I want to honor You in with my life. Guide my steps and prepare my path that I may glorify 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
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Men of the Bible Series - Onesimus (Philemon 11-12)
Philemon 11-12, Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: 12 Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: Philemon is one of Paul’s four prison letters. The other prison epistles are Ephesians, Philippians and Colossians. It’s one of four personal letters to individuals written by Paul. The others are I Timothy, II Timothy and Titus. Philemon is the shortest of Paul’s epistles, but in just 25 short verses, Philemon mentions 11 people and makes many spiritual applications and is filled with numerous doctrines, particularly, the doctrine of imputation. In Philemon we see a slave named Onesimus. He was owned by Philemon. Philemon was a wealthy Colossian believer. He was a longtime friend of Paul. Onesimus left Philemon and he fled to Rome. Perhaps he fled to Rome because of its population, he believed he would never be found. One his way to Rome he crossed paths with Paul, which resulted in him being saved. We do not know exactly how their paths crossed. This we do know, that at some time Onesimus accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour (Philemon 10). Upon hearing his testimony, Paul knew his master and decided to send him back to Philemon. By all rights Philemon could have had Onesimus put to death. But first, Paul would write a letter to Philemon explaining what had happened to Onesimus so that upon Onesimus’s return there would be no hostility. Onesimus then took this letter and journeyed back to Colossae, to the home of Philemon. Before Onesimus became a Christian, he was unprofitable (Philemon 11). He was inefficient and unfavorable to Philemon. After Onesimus’ conversion and transformation, he was highly beneficial (Colossians 4:9). Onesimus became fit for the Master’s use (II Timothy 2:21). His name means profitable. God can save that person and make them into something great for His glory and use. That person is very profitable for the ministry. God did not save us to sit, but to serve. But Paul was writing Philemon to let him know that Onesimus was profitable for him. Onesimus’ transformation was so powerful that Paul stated in his letter that he desired to keep Onesimus with him to serve with him in the ministry (Philemon 13). Paul mentioned to Philemon asking him to receive Onesimus back, not as a servant, but as a brother beloved (Philemon 16). Paul requested Philemon to treat Onesimus as he would treat Paul himself (Philemon 12). Not only because of what Christ had done for the both of them, but because of what Paul had done for Philemon. If Onesimus still owed Philemon anything that he could not work out, Philemon was to put it on Paul’s account. In this epistle, we see Jesus as the payer of our sin-debt. How undeserving we are of God’s grace and mercy. Through this epistle we see what God has done for us in Jesus Christ. We had a debt that we owed to God that we could not pay (Romans 5:12). Because Jesus never sinned, He could pay it and did pay it. Impute means to put on someone's account; to charge something to another’s account. Imputation is the act of God whereby our sins are put on Christ’s account and His righteousness is put on our account. When a person trusts Jesus for salvation, Jesus takes their sins upon His record and then places His righteousness upon their record. Just as it is with our sins, they have been charged to the life of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a beautiful picture of Jesus Christ taking our sins and allowing our sins to be charged to Him. If we take it for what it means, it can affect our lives in understanding how much the Lord Jesus Christ loves us. Just as Jesus willingly paid our debt for offenses against God to free us from slavery to sin, Paul expressed the same character that Jesus showed by offering Himself as a substitute for Onesimus’ debt. Paul truly imitated Jesus and lived what he preached (I Corinthians 11:1; Ephesians 5:1) and lived what he preached. One of the most rewarding experiences in the Christian life is the privilege of introducing others to Jesus. Those who actively communicate their faith both in actions and words are fulfilling Jesus’ Great Commission to take His message to all the world (Matthew 28:19). Anyone who has had the opportunity to lead another person to faith in Jesus Christ knows the tremendous sense of joy, purpose and fulfillment that comes from helping someone enter into a personal relationship with God. Leading others to Christ is perhaps the highest good we can do for him in this life. When we are influential in helping others receive eternal life. Jesus placed your sins on His account. If you go to the LORD, He will take Christ’s righteousness, which is perfect, and He will accredit it to your account. Because Christ’s righteousness is placed on your account, you’ll never stand before God at the Great White Throne Judgment (Revelation 20:11-15), not because your sinless, but because of your account. If you will receive Jesus Christ (Gospel), He will credit your account with perfection because He has already accredited your sin onto Himself. If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, call upon Him right now. Jesus earnestly wants to impute your sin to His record and impute His righteousness to your record. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, thank You for sending Jesus to pay for our sins that we would be made righteous in Your sight. Please help me to be profitable to You and Your people as I do Your work, 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 Men of the Bible Series – Jonathan (I Samuel 18:1-4)
I Samuel 18:1-4, 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. And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house. Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle. Jonathan was a faithful, a mighty warrior, and one of the bravest men who had ever lived. Jonathan’s victorious strategy at the battle of Michmash, was successfully used in World War I at the same exact location 3,000 years later. Which have been considered the most successful military tactics ever used in battle. One-night, Major Vivian Gilbert of the British army was contemplating the situation against the Ottoman forces. He remembered a town by the name of Michmash written somewhere in the Bible. He found the verses and discovered that there was supposedly a secret path around the town. Incredibly, he managed to find that secret path, and with the British forces using this path to outmaneuver the Ottomans, the British took the town under the command of General Edmund Allenby and captured the city of Jerusalem on December 9th, 1917. Jonathan and David were great friends, likened to brothers. Three times the Bible states Jonathan loved David as his own soul (I Samuel 18: 1, 3; II Samuel 1:26). The Scriptures suggests they could not have been closer had they been actual brothers. As a result, a close bond of friendship grew into a oneness of spirit and brotherly love. In spite of the fact that David had been chosen by God to take Jonathan’s place as the next king of Israel. Although Jonathan was Saul’s son, he knew that David was to be next king. It was David who killed Goliath and defended the people; this was enough to earn Jonathan’s respect and trust. Yet rather than being resentful, Jonathan poured his heart into his friend, making his life better. Decide to be the kind of friend who makes the lives of others better rather than seeking the best for yourself. Jonathan made an unusual covenant with David (I Samuel 18:3-4). The two young men would have pledged their friendship and loyalty to one another. They would always look after the needs and welfare of one another. Jonathan acknowledged that David was to be the future king, for he gave David his own royal clothing and weapons. The royal robe and weapons were to be used only by the future heir to the throne. In effect, Jonathan was transferring the right to the throne over to David. Jonathan came to David and put all that he had at his feet (I Samuel 18:4). He began with his robe. Jonathan's robe suggests his position, for it was the robe of a king's son, the robe of a crown prince of Israel. Jonathan also gave his garments to David. His garments speak of his possessions, the things which most personally belonged to him. Jonathan gave David his sword. His sword speaks of his protection, his right of self-defense. Jonathan put his bow at David's feet. Jonathan's bow suggests his prowess; it represents a skill he had. Finally, Jonathan put his girdle at David's feet. His girdle suggests his plans. This was not something King Saul received well. Saul wanted David out of the picture, regardless of what God had already decided. This resulted in David becoming a hunted man. He was the number one wanted man on Saul’s hitlist. Taking his father’s side would have been easy to do, but Jonathan was “born for adversity” (Proverbs 17:17). While David was running for his life Jonathan came to him to strengthen his hand in God (I Samuel 23:16). Proverbs 10:29, The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: Friends that strengthen you are your true friends, and they will always point you to the LORD. David and Jonathan are the epitome of what true friendship should be. They both wanted to please and obey the LORD. No family ties, loyalties, or blood kinship could surpass the loyalty of these true friends. The souls of Jonathan and David were knit to the death. And no fault, failure, flaw, or foulness of David could waiver Jonathan's loyalty to him or make him love him less. Psalm 119:63 instructs as to how we should choose our friendships. If a friend is anything, it is someone who knows everything about you and loves you, nonetheless. Friends that love you will strengthen you, not belittle you. Friendships that have been cemented in Christian covenant have a firm foundation. Jonathan, along with his two brothers and father, was killed in a battle with the Philistines (I Samuel 31:2-6). David heard this and he was brokenhearted. He lamented the death of his dear friend, especially referring to his courage, saying he was swifter than an eagle and stronger than a lion (II Samuel 1:17-26). David could not hide his love for Jonathan, and God cannot hide His love for you. He loved you so much that He sent His only begotten Son to die on a cross that He might spend eternity with you. Points to Ponder:
PRAYER: Father in Heaven, help me to be as true and loyal as Jonathan was to David. 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 Men of the Bible Series
Job (Job 42:1-2) – PART 2 Job 42:1-2, Then Job answered the LORD, and said, 2I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. If you were to study the godly life of Job, you would find his name means “assailed”. There are type of trees, some of the oldest trees on earth, that grow high in the windy White Mountains of California, near Yosemite N.P. Sierra N.F. Job was fiercely assaulted by the winds of unfortunate circumstances and in the end he came forth as gold. The Bible speaks of Job as “perfect and upright” (Job 1:1). The word upright means of straight and level. Although this man was afflicted in ways that would knock most men out to the point of never getting back up, Job remained steadfast. Though struck with numerous calamities, he refused to give up. He clung to the Lord. Crooked circumstances could not bend his heart. His trust in the Lord kept him pointed directly toward Heaven. Job had a deep respect and holy fear of God. Blameless refers to Job’s moral integrity and wholehearted devotion to God. Upright conveys his words, thoughts, and actions that measured up to God’s standard of what is right, honorable and true. God Himself gives this description of Job’s character (Job 1:8; 2:3). God gives us Job’s life as evidence that He can work in a person’s life to make that person truly good, righteous and victorious. With the Lord’s help, we can have victory over evil influences and desires of sin. This does not mean that Job was sinless, however, God’s people can and should live morally pure and righteous lives. It is spiritually unhealthy and Scripturally inaccurate to teach that it is impossible to live a blameless and upright life and that it is to be expected that a believer will regularly sin in word, thought or deed with no hope of overcoming the temptations of life. Like the testimony of Job, with the Holy Spirit’s help and guidance, we Christians, have the power available to overcome our sin nature and the pull of sin so we can walk blameless and upright before God. Perhaps no question is asked more often than that when Christians try to witness for Christ. We tell others about the magnificent love of God, but they have a problem. One of the most asked questions concerning God is…Why? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why do the righteous suffer? Why are the innocent murdered? Why are children abused? Why was this good person’s life taken so suddenly? These questions rise in our hearts, and we demand to know why? We ask, “God, if You are all powerful, all knowing, and all loving…Why?” Job’s flesh, family, farm, fortune, and faith was attacked. In the end, Job refused to blame God and acknowledged the divine sovereignty of the Lord. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, Job knew that God could be trusted. When injustices were shouting in his ears, Job persisted in believing that God was just. If you are hurting, may you come to the point where your faith will lead you to say, “the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” (Job 1:21). Rooted in the Word of God does 4 Things. 1. Roots are unseen: First, the important thing to do is to set aside time in privacy (underground). By doing this we immerse ourselves in God’s Word and grow in Him. 2. Roots are for taking in: Perhaps one of the most productive times to absorb God’s Word is in having quiet time alone in God’s Word to feed upon it will ensure your spiritual growth. 3. Roots are for storage: As you daily study God’s Word, you’ll find a vast, deep reservoir of Divine hope and strength forming for the rough times ahead. 4. Roots are for support: A deep-rooted Bible study will help you to stand firm against the pressures of life. The routine care for your roots through exposure to God’s Word will cultivate you into a remarkable Christian of endurance. Christians are to be people of faith and dependence upon the Lord. It is when we get independent of God that we get ourselves into trouble. The Bible tells us that the just live by faith. If we are to please the Lord then we need to trust in Him. God can do all things. Look at what the Lord has done for His people: 1) Joseph – Promoting him from the prison to the palace, making him the most powerful man in the Middle East. 2) Israel – Causing the walls of Jericho to fall flat and parting the waters of the Red Sea and Jordan River so they could cross. 3) Gideon – With the odds 450 to one, Gideon and his 300 men, defeated the Midianites. 4) 3 Hebrews – His presence with them in the fiery furnace and allowing not one hair to be singed on their bodies, 5) Daniel – Cast into a den of lions, the angel of the Lord Stopped the mouths of hungry lions. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, when the winds of adversity bear down on me, I will trust in Your love for me. 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 Men of the Bible Series
Job (James 5:10-11) – PART 1 James 5:10-11, Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the LORD, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the LORD; that the LORD is very pitiful, and of tender mercy. Job was a righteous man who walked with the Lord and his life pleased Him. From the very beginning of the book of Job we hear about Job’s character and his testing (Job 1:1, 8; 2:3). The Bible declares Job was perfect, upright, feared God, and eschewed evil. Both before and after he lost everything God was able to say Job had the same characteristics. His faith, family, farm, finances, and flesh were all tried. Even though this man suffered numerous losses that would knock most of us out, Job remained steadfast and faithful to the LORD. In James 5:11, the word “patience” means cheerful, endurance,’ ‘steadfastness,’ and ‘perseverance or waiting. It is endurance without murmuring. Job suffered affliction without murmuring. Perhaps the best characteristic to describe Job is patience. Patience is something we all need and want, but we rarely like to go through what it takes to obtain it. James 1:3, Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. As believers’, we will all have our faith tested. If there is no testing, there will never be patience. In Titus 2:2-8, when God lists specific character traits men and women need to develop, it was the men that He told to be patient. Perseverance is often developed through faith that triumphs through sufferings as seen in Job 13:15. The outcome of the Lord’s dealings with Job reveals that in all Job’s troubles, God cared deeply about him and preserved his life and hope. James wants us to know that God is concerned about all of His people and that, in their suffering, He will sustain them in love and compassionate mercy (Job 6:4; 42:10). Every Christian should display cheerful endurance in the following six ways:
A furnace of fire is used to test precious metals. The heat from the furnace separates the dross and impurities to bring about the best. Job stated, “when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold” (Job 23:10). The Word of God teaches that our faith is even more precious than gold. God allows and may even bring times of trouble to our lives to not only test us, but to refine us. When we are tried and tested by adversity, it is so that we can come forth unto His praise, honor, and glory when Christ returns. We, as a result, become more precious (valuable) to Him. Good people get tested so they can become better. Trials never come by accident or by mistake; there is a purpose for the trial (James 1:2-4) At the center of every trial, there is a purpose. Each of us must pass through the flames of adversity during our appointed time on Earth. Regardless of the experience, it hurts to go through the fire. As painful as the heat may be, God will not allow it to consume you. It will accomplish nothing less than His perfect will intends for you. But there is something very precious about the searing heat of trials. God uses it to refine our character in a way no natural act could do. No one likes going thru trials, but by keeping our eyes focused on the end result of our trials, we find the patience and strength to endure them and reach the other side. Satan wants believers to quit serving God. Satan wants you to think that God doesn’t care when God is really molding and making you more like Christ (Romans 8:28-29). The Lord promised in due season that we would reap if we do not faint (Galatians 6:9). In the end his patience was rewarded by God giving him double. Job didn’t faint and, in the end, he reaped (Job 42:12). Patience is a pearl which is found only in the deep seas of affliction. When we are going through trials it is of great comfort to know that nothing comes into our lives without first passing through the hands of our heavenly Father. God’s grip of grace clings to us through the trials of life and leads us day by day. This was the test in the book of Job. Satan claimed Job worshiped God only because he was prosperous. The trial of Job’s faith proved Satan wrong. What do your trials say about your faith in God? PRAYER: Father in Heaven I know the thoughts and plans You have for me are for Your glory and for my good. Whatever I may face today, I can expect that You are working for good in all of it. So, I’m going to step forward in faith, trusting You in all things and seeking to cooperate fully with Your plans for me. I know I can’t imagine all the good You have planned for my life, but I also know it’s all coming in Jesus’ name, so I can say, AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Men of the Bible Series - Timothy (II Timothy 2:1-2)
II Timothy 2:1-2. Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Following Pompeii's destruction from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, thousands were buried in its ruins, locked in various physical positions. Some were seeking refuge from the ash deep within chambers, while some sought protection in the heights of their homes. One figure, a Roman sentinel, stands as a testimony of faithfulness to the end. He was discovered standing at the city gate with weapon in hand. While the earth shook beneath him and the sky darkened with hopeless disaster, he remained at his post. We carry the call of Christ, the commission of the King of kings, within our very hearts. It is time we live out the faith within in a manner that dignifies and honors those who passed it along to us. May all who come after us find us faithful. Paul never had a biological son, but he introduces us to his dearly beloved spiritual son, Timothy (II Timothy 1:2). In the two letters that follow, it becomes clear that no mere biological relationship could exceed that which he felt for this son in the ministry. He traveled with Paul on missionary journeys. He spent time in prison. He was the recipient of two letters written from Paul. He pastored the church at Ephesus. Their mutual love for Christ and His kingdom surpassed any human bond earthly paternity could forge. Timothy was a young man who grew up in a home without a Christian father (Greek/Gentile), but with a godly mother and a godly grandmother. This young man became a major influence for the cause of Jesus Christ in the first century. His name was Timothy. His name means “One who honors God”. How did a young man from the city of Lystra, a mystical place given over to idol worship, develop into such a great leader for the cause of Jesus Christ? He was raised by a godly mother and grandmother. There had been three generations of genuine faith in Timothy’s family: first, his grandmother Lois; then his mother Eunice; and now, finally, Timothy himself. Timothy’s faith was passed down from his grandmother (Lois) to his mother (Eunice), which he passed down to others. Paul's second letter to Timothy is full of encouragement. He goes on to instruct young Timothy to study hard, endure hardship, preach the Word, and remember what he had learned. When we are young, we ache with desire to accomplish our dreams. We often run the race as if we are the only ones within the boundaries of the course. As Paul passed his torch to Timothy, so must we equip others through encouragement to do the same. The church has the responsibility to uphold the teaching and message of Christ without compromise, correction, or corruption and of those He commissioned to deliver that message as recorded in the Bible. In order to do this, there must be sound, Bible-based teaching and instruction within the church. A strong and sound teacher will hear, receive, and spread the truth to others. He communicates the truth to others so that they in turn may teach others and pass the truth on down to future generations. We are to commit the truth to people who will pass it on. The word faithful means trustworthy or reliable. This means they are believers who will pass it on without addition or alteration. Those we teach should all be able to teach others also. This way the Gospel is passed on from generation to generation, creating an endless chain of Christian teachers. The greatest way to honor those who have invested in you is to continue in their work. Paul invested his life in equipping young men for the ministry: John Mark, Barnabas, Timothy, Silas, Philemon, Titus, and perhaps others. Paul poured his life into Timothy. Timothy honored Paul and Christ by continuing that which had been faithfully entrusted unto him. He charged Timothy, II Timothy 2:2, And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Paul visualized a faithful finish for Timothy, one that would impact future generations with the truth. He committed himself to others, who taught others, who ultimately taught us—right down to this present hour. Many people have sacrificed for you and have invested in you, make them proud. To find, to fulfill, and to finish the course the Lord has chosen for you is the greatest honor you can bestow upon them. Timothy had a good reputation with the church. A good reputation is critical no matter what a person chooses to do (Proverbs 22:1). Regardless of where you came from or how you started in life, you have the opportunity to develop a good reputation that can be well spoken of by those around you and in the end to finish well (Acts 16:2). Questions to Consider: Are you wandering around waiting to serve the Lord? Are you ignoring Christ’s call to faithfulness? Are you walking against the ways of God? Points to Ponder: Anyone can build and develop a good name and reputation. Make daily commitments to be loyal to Jesus. Remember the value of a good name. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, I have been blessed by the ministry of people who have invested their time in me. LORD, help me to always honor those who have invested their lives in me as I journey on the path you have chosen for me. 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 Men of the Bible Series - Abraham (James 2:23) – PART 2
James 2:21-23, Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? 22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Abraham's life illustrates the truth that faith and works go together. Abraham believed God and it was his faith alone that made him righteous. Genuine faith lays everything on the line for the LORD. Abraham believed God and his faith was evident in the offering of his only son. Abraham’s faith said, 'I believe God! I trust God with my life, my children, my future, my reputation.’ And God tested him. Adrian Rogers said, “A faith that cannot be tested, cannot be trusted.” It was clearly the faith of Abraham that led him to do the works that he did. Abraham was not saved when he offered Isaac, but this act showed his faith. God pronounced that Abraham was justified and saved thirty years before Abraham offered up his only son Isaac. James declares that when Abraham offered up Isaac, he was proving his faith. The reason Abraham offered up Isaac was because he did believe God. Therefore, he did what God said. If a person believes Christ, he does what Christ says; he follows Christ. Something is lacking in a profession of faith that has no practice to it. We prove that we believe God when we practice His principles, obey His orders, and walk in His ways. Genesis 15:6, And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness. The word counted means "to reckon, impute, or to place in someone else's account." Abraham was spiritually bankrupt, but his faith in the Lord entitled him to receive God's righteousness that was imputed to his spiritual account before God. The same holds true for us. Our sins were placed in Christ's account for Him to pay and His righteousness was imputed to our spiritual account when we were saved. Like Abraham, we are justified by faith in Christ. Justification is the act of God where He declares the believing sinner righteous on the basis of Christ's finished work on the cross. Justification is an act of God, not a means of the believer's own actions. Justification is not something the sinner does, it is what God does for us when we trust in His son Jesus for our salvation. No amount of works can make us righteous and it is only faith in Jesus that can cleanse us from our sin. His faith affected his mind, his emotions, and his will. Neither Abraham, nor any other person, can attain the favor of God through the works of the flesh. The only righteousness God will accept is the imputed righteousness of Christ, and that upon the principle of faith only! Romans 4:3, For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Paul quotes Romans 4:3 to show that Abraham was saved by faith and not by works. Ephesians 2:8-9, For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. There is no contradiction between what Paul is saying and what James is saying. James is not contradicting Paul in James 2:21. The key is James 2:23, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Abraham’s right relationship with God did not come from “observing the deeds of the law” (Romans 3:28), but through faith and actions working together in love. His willingness to sacrifice his own son, Isaac, was an expression of his faith in and commitment to God (Genesis 15:6; 22:1). Abraham believed God and Abraham was called the friend of God. Abraham had an intimate relationship with God; he believed God and walked in fellowship with God, following and living for God. When we have true genuine faith in Jesus Christ, we are friends of God. When we were lost, we were dead in our trespasses and sins and we were at enmity with God. When we trusted Jesus Christ, He forgave us and brought us into the family of God. We are now friends of God! Abraham’s friendship was tested by his willingness to give God what he loved most, his only son Isaac (Genesis 22:12). There are three characteristics to be a good friend. 1. A friend loves at all time (Proverbs 17:17) 2. A friend sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24) 3. A friend is willing to lay down his life for his friend (John 15:13) PRAYER: Father in Heaven, help me to develop a deeper trust in You. Thank You for Your Word that is faithful and true. May I do what gives You pleasure and glorifies Your Name. Thank You for sending Your only begotten Son Jesus, for I have been forgiven of all my sins. Help me to stand firm in Your Word, steadfast in Your Work, and sincere in my walk with You. May my life demonstrate my love for You until that glorious day when You call me home with You to Heaven. 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 Men of the Bible Series - Abraham (Hebrews 11:8-10) – PART 1
Hebrews 11:8–10, “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” “Waiting for God is not laziness. Waiting for God is not going to sleep. Waiting for God is not the abandonment of effort. Waiting for God means, first, activity under command; second, readiness for any new command that may come; third, the ability to do nothing until the command is given”. G. Campbell Morgan. Some of the greatest missionaries of history devotedly spread the seed of God's Word and yet had to wait long periods before seeing the fruit of their efforts. William Carey, for example, labored 7 years before the first Hindu convert was brought to Christ in Burma, and Adoniram Judson toiled 7 years before his faithful preaching was rewarded. In western Africa, it was 14 years before one convert was received into the Christian church. In New Zealand, it took 9 years; and in Tahiti, it was 16 years before the first harvest of souls began. Abraham’s faith is a wonderful example and pattern that we need to follow (Genesis 12:1-4). Faith does not wait until it fully understands how things will work out before it begins to act. Rather, faith obeys and believes that God will fulfill all of His promises. The conversation that Abraham and Sarah had when God told Abraham to leave Ur must have been interesting. I picture it going something like this. “Honey, God has told me we’re going to move.” “Okay, where are we going?” “Uh...I don’t know. God told me He would let me know when we get there.” Why did Abraham leave behind his homeland without knowing his destination? Because of faith. Abraham could have questioned God. “God, if You will tell me first the destination or direction, I’ll go.” Abraham could have delayed his faith. He could have said, “It’s not a good time for me to move right now. I’ll definitely move later, God, as soon as I see how Your plan plays out.” Abraham chose to obey and follow the Lord. Abraham’s Faith involved the following: 1. It involved listening. Abraham would need a tender heart toward the things of God to hear what God had to say to him. If one is ignoring God, or has no interest in God, then they will miss what God has for them. We must be sensitive to the voice of God in our life (I Kings 19:12-13). 2. It involved leaving. God wanted Abraham to leave the heathen land he was in behind and go to a place he had prepared for him. Abraham obeyed God even though he had no track record with God at this time. He had faith in God. Sometimes God gets us out of the environment we are in so he can strengthen us and help grow our faith. 3. It involved learning. Abraham would learn more about God as he followed him by faith. He would become a friend of God as he sought to live for him. What a testimony to be known as the friend of God and may that be said of us. 4. It involved longing. God had special promises and plans for Abraham. I do not think Abraham, at this time, understood the fullness of all the plans that God had for him, but he had a desire to diligently seek them. Never lose your desire to serve God and keep your heart warm with the love of God (Jude 21). In relation to God, faith and obedience are inseparable just as unbelief and disobedience are inseparable (Hebrews 3:18-19; John 3:36). Abraham knew that the earthly promised land was not the end of his journey of faith. Rather, God’s promise pointed beyond everything on earth to the heavenly city that God has prepared for his faithful servants. Abraham serves as an example for all God’s people, reminding us that we are only traveling through this world on our way to God’s city and His home for us in heaven. We are not to look for everlasting security in this present life or be attached to this present world (Hebrews 11:14, 16; 13:14). We must consider ourselves as strangers and foreigners on the earth. This is not our homeland; the end of our journey will be “a better country” (Hebrews 11:16), “the heavenly Jerusalem” (Hebrews 12:22) and the “city that is to come” (Hebrews 13:14). Sometimes we think that it would be pretty easy to do what God says if we could see in advance exactly how all the details would come together and how our course would run...but that is not what living by faith is. Instead faith trusts God enough to obey even without understanding what all the details are. Someone said, “Faith is starting out before you figure out how it’s going to turn out.” A simple definition of faith would be taking God at His Word. II Corinthians 5:7, For we walk by faith, not by sight. Too often believer’s fail to walk where God instructs them to go because the way is unfamiliar to them. Spurgeon said, “Faith’s eye sees in the dark.” When a believer walks by faith, the believer says with their faith, “God is in control, His way is best, with Him there are no accidents, I’m taking Him at His Word.” The life of a child of God is to be a life lived by faith in God. The question is, what is our measure or degree of faith? It’s either: No faith (Mark 4:40), little faith (Matthew 6:30), or great faith (Matthew 15:28). Prayer, Lord, I confess that it’s so natural for me to rely on what I see rather than what You tell me in Your Word. Increase my faith to believe what You say. Increase my courage to obey You without delay. Help me to follow Abraham’s example of living by faith and seeing life through spiritual eyes. Thank You that following You is the path to abundant life. I trust You, Father. 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 Great Men of the Bible – Hur (Exodus 17:9-13)
Exodus 17:9-13, And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to morrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand. So Joshua did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. In Exodus 17, Moses had his hands lifted toward Heaven, no doubt holding that staff in his hands, and the children of Israel prevailed in battle. When his arms would lower due to fatigue, the Amalekites gained the advantage. However, Aaron and Hur stepped forth and held the hands of Moses up until the battle was won. The task Hur accomplished that day may not sound like a lot, however, had it not been for the work of this man, Moses would not have had the strength to do his job and Joshua would never have been able to lead Israel to victory in the battle. Had they not been there, the battle would have been lost and Israel would have been defeated! 1.Members like Hur are Absolutely Precious. Preachers spend hours praying and preparing their sermons. Meanwhile, the congregation spends hours before the Lord in their prayer closets lifting up the hands of God’s men. In the church, there is a number of people who are praying, fasting, and carrying the load. No price could ever be placed on what people like Hur are worth to the church! 2.Members like Hur are Always Participating. Hur wasn't a great leader like Moses. He wasn't a great General like Joshua. He wasn't a great High Priest like Aaron. He wasn't a warrior like those in the army. He was just Hur. The Bible doesn’t tell us much about Hur, however, what he did, he did willingly, actively and faithfully. He could hold up hands and he did the best job he could! By holding his hands up to the Lord, Moses showed his dependence on God. Israel’s strength and victory depended on their faith in God. They showed this by prayer and obedience. In this situation, when Moses stopped praying, God’s power stopped flowing (Hebrews 7:25). Our only hope of victory comes from relying on God. We should embrace the privilege we have to “therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy”. (Hebrews 4:16). 3. Members like Hur are Advocating Prayer. R. A. Torrey used to say that the chief purpose of prayer is that God may be glorified in the answer. If you can't pray like you want to, pray as you can. God knows what you mean. And you have good help—the Advocate who is God's Son and the Paraclete who is God's Spirit. They will take your feeblest prayer and make it perfect. The devil is in constant conspiracy against a preacher who really prays, for it has been said that what a minister is in his prayer closet is what he is, no more, no less. Prayer may not get us what we want, but it will teach us to want what we need. God is not impressed by length or loudness in our prayer. He sees the heart and when we have prayed our hearts into acceptance of His will and our wills into obedience to it, we may calmly wait for the answer. The thermometer of a church is its prayer meeting. We are all essential to the proper functioning of the body of Christ! There is a great work to do and there is room for all who want to be involved in the Lord's work. Although we can’t do everything, remember that the Lord has placed us in His body in the place that pleased Him (I Corinthians 12:4-27). It isn’t important if you can’t do what others can do, it is important that you do what you can do. Thank God for those people who know they can't do everything but are determined to do something! When the enemy strikes, our only hope is the LORD. Daily, dependable prayer is the fundamental foundation of the successful Christian life. The measure of any Christian is their prayer life. The lifting of Moses’ raised hands was a sign of intercession. “Moses’ hands grew heavy” (Exodus 17:12). Jesus never gets tired of interceding for us! “He ever liveth to make intercession for us” (Hebrews 7:25). While we fight the good fight of faith (I Timothy 6:12), He intercedes for us (Romans 8:34)! In our battles we also must go to the throne of God holding up our hands and saying, “LORD, this is out of my control. I need Your help.” We all need holding up. We all need our arms, or our faith supported by the arms or faith of another. Like Moses, Aaron, and Hur, we are all part of the great “cloud of witnesses” and it is our responsibility to point others to Christ, while at the same time keeping your eyes on the LORD (Hebrews 12:1-2). Nothing means as much to we minister’s like the Hur’s within the congregation who are holding our hands up in prayer. Questions to Consider: Who can you lift up today? What is something you can you today to lift the burdens of another? Points to Ponder: You can start lifting up those around you right now by encouragement and edification. You’ll find that while you are lifting up others, you will in turn find yourself being lifted! PRAYER: Lord, I humbly ask You to graciously restore within me the spirit of supplication and intercession. Help me to support prayerfully and faithfully those You have ordained me to lead. Forgive me for ignoring this important work and grant me a heart that desires to pray. 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 Men of the Bible Series - Barnabas (Acts 11:23-24)
Acts 11:23-24, Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the LORD. The early church was in a dilemma and believers were being persecuted. Peter and John had been arrested and were threatened not to speak about Jesus. When the disciples gathered to pray for guidance, the Holy Spirit filled them with boldness, and the church came together in unity. The Bible described Barnabas as “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith” (Acts 11:24). Notice: We see the ministry of Barnabas. We find three things as a result of this. 1. God uses qualified servants. Barnabas was an encourager to believer’s, especially new converts. He was used by the Lord to be a special gift to His children. Barnabas had a generous heart. His character reflected the giving nature of the heart of God. God’s chief requirement of any Christian servant is that they be filled with the Spirit. In fact, no amount of learning will ever surpass this. One of the church’s greatest needs today is a Barnabas. Barnabas had a great passion for the Lord’s work and His people. He genuinely loved helping people. He was gifted at restoring broken lives. Perhaps his comforting words of consolation kept many in faithful service. 2. God uses faithful servants. The Lord always seeks to work through His churches. Barnabas was active and faithful in his church before the Lord sent him on this mission. The church at Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch to help the new church. When this new convert “Saul” showed up in Jerusalem to meet the apostles, it was Barnabas who came alongside him and vouched for his authentic faith Acts 9:27—28. In Acts 13:43, Barnabas encouraged new believers to continue in the grace of God. In Acts 14:21-22, he returned with Paul to three cities visited earlier to build up the disciples they had made and to encourage them. In Acts 15:36, they did the same. A true friend will always be humble for your sake. A real friend wants you to be first. Barnabas was not into himself. He was an encourager of others. His name actually means "son of encouragement," and he would, through the power of Jesus, embody his name for generations to come. It’s easy to see how he gained such a reputation. The Holy Spirit is the One Who “comes alongside” to help us. Barnabas gained the reputation of coming alongside others to encourage or help them. The disciples were very suspicious when it came to the new convert Saul. Barnabas was willing to take a risk. When nobody wanted to extend the right hand of fellowship to Paul, Barnabas responded in faith and embraced Paul as a new person in Christ. Barnabas went to Saul’s hometown of Tarsus and brought him to the church at Antioch. Barnabas took personal responsibility in seeing that Paul had the opportunity to grow and to be used in ministry. Barnabas journeyed with Paul on his first missionary trip. Not only did Barnabas share Paul’s conversion, but he also spoke of how the Lord had already used him. The impact that Paul had on the early church is overwhelming! However, if Barnabas had not been willing to mentor Paul he may not have made as much of an impact. It is a risk to reach out to people and love them, invest in them, care for them, and mentor them. However, if we fail in these areas, the church’s mission will be highly impacted in a negative way. 3. God blesses those who serve Him. Observe that under Barnabas the church grew very much. This man Joses (Barnabas) was a man who we will find was greatly used of the Lord (Acts 4:36; 9:27). He was a Jewish believer from Cyrus. A man who has a powerful testimony of being a consoler or uplifter. He was given the name Barnabas because he was blessed with the gift of exhortation. Notice: Every time we have seen Barnabas in the book of Acts he is giving, helping, or encouraging others. He was noted for standing up on one’s behalf (Acts 9:27; 15:37-39). He was a man of means who had the gift of giving. He was a godly, spirit filled man who possessed the gift of faith. This is one of the highest descriptions of Christian character. Barnabas teaches us to use our gifts to meet the needs of others. He was used greatly in the life of Paul and Mark who wrote books in the New Testament. His life consisted of bringing people to Jesus and discipling new converts, encouraging them to cleave unto the Lord. This same Holy Spirit filled the heart of Barnabas, and he reflected the Holy Spirit’s work in his life as he came alongside others. The Lord used Barnabas teach us the importance of manifesting a heart of integrity and generosity. The Holy Spirit equips us to serve the church and its global mission. When we consider the character of a Christian, we must include the role of the Holy Spirit as He motivates and empowers the Christian to teach, serve, encourage, lead, and proclaim the Good News of Jesus. God used Barnabas to take the message of Jesus to the ends of the earth. His character made a lasting difference in the lives of millions because he demonstrated the heart of God. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, give me a heart of encouragement for other believers. May the Holy Spirit empower me and use me and direct me to Christians who need encouragement and need someone to help them in their walk of faith. 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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