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Men of the Bible Series: Caleb (Joshua 14:6-15)
When Henry M. Stanley found Livingstone, the great missionary who spent thirty years in darkest Africa, and who had been lost to the world for over two years, he wanted him to come back home to England with him, but Livingstone refused to go. Two days later, he wrote in his diary, "March 19, my birthday; my Jesus; King; my Life; my All. I again dedicate my whole self to Thee. Accept me, and grant, O gracious Father, that ere the year is gone I may finish my work. In Jesus' Name I ask it. Amen." A year later his servants found him on his knees dead. It was said of him: "He needs no epitaph to guard a name Which men shall prize while worthy work is known; He lived and died for good—be that his fame; Let marble crumble: this is Living-Stone." Canaan represents the victorious Christian life. A land of victory and rest. It meant release for they were once slaves in Egypt. Caleb represents the Christian about to conquer his Canaan, possess his possessions, and receive God’s inheritance for himself. He took the whole mountain meaning fullness. He wanted all that God had for him. Hebron was fruitful. Caleb wanted fellowship, fullness, and fruitfulness. Here in the Word, we find a man that faithfully served the Lord, was a spiritual fire-cracker for God; and received God’s inheritance. I believe from the Scriptures and the life of Caleb were given a plan to serve the Lord all the days of our lives. 1. Faithful Follower of the Lord (Joshua 14:8, 9, 14) The Scriptures mention six times where Caleb wholly followed God (Numbers 14:24; 32:12; Deuteronomy 1:36; Joshua 14:8-9, 14). Caleb gave God all he had. God deserves our best. Caleb was not complainer-he was a conqueror. This very day, so many Christians are living defeated lives because they will not surrendered their lives to the will of God. God never meant for His children to live in the valley of depression but on the mountain top of victory. 2. Fervent Fire for the Lord (Joshua 14:10-12) Caleb was a conqueror because his confidence came from the Word of God. Caleb was as strong at 85 as he was at 40. Some people do not even live to be 85. Caleb refused to consider himself stricken in years. Here, we see Caleb was 85 and still very much alive. Caleb was not ready to retire, or give up on God. Caleb’s mind was on conquering a mountain top for God. I see more and more Christians today who are living wasted, depressed, and defeated lives today. For the most part because they are not willing to surrender to the will of God. 3. Fruitful Finisher for the Lord (Joshua 14:13-15) The majority focused on the obstacles; the minority focused on the possibilities. The majority focused on the foes; the minority focused on the fruit. The majority focused on the problems; the minority focused on the promises. The majority focused on the giants; the minority focused on God. Pessimists see difficulties in every opportunity, while optimist see opportunities in every difficulty. Stop looking at how big your problems are and start telling your problems how big your God is! Caleb set his sights on the Promised Land. The reason Caleb remained strong spiritually was his mind was in Canaan. Caleb wanted that Mountain. Give me this mountain! Have you ever wanted something so bad that you asked God over and over again for it? We are not to grow weary in well doing. Caleb received his promise and inheritance. Hebron was the highest inheritance for Caleb. There are rewards for serving the Lord. The rewards are stored up in glory, but there are also some rewards the Lord has for us here. Be faithful to the work in the Lord’s service. God will remember, recognize, and reward you for your labor, if you faint not. Galatians 6:9, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” I Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the LORD, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the LORD.” Questions to Consider: Can you imagine what God could do through the life of one person completely committed to Him? Can you imagine if our churches had one Caleb? Do you still have the same zeal you had when you were first saved? Points to Ponder: Would you like to see what God could do in and through you if you were completely sold-out to Him? Don’t live like you got until next year to serve God. Each day serve Him like there’s no tomorrow. Lord, give me the spirit of Caleb. There is still more work to do and mountains to conquer! PRAYER: Father, I know I have an eternal inheritance in Jesus. Help me to remain faithful in Your service. May others see You in my labor for You and may they become desirous of the work that they come to know 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 – 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, 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 has been considered one of 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 suggest 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 hit list. 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 a 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). Upon hearing of this, a brokenhearted David heard 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 - Noah (Genesis 6:5, 9, 11)
Genesis 6:5, “And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” Genesis 6:9, “These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.” Genesis 6:11, “The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence.” In the days of Noah, the human race had become so wicked; people were completely depraved in their sexual morality, and the earth was filled with violence. The people had abundant evidence of God’s goodness, however, they turned away from their knowledge of God and toward their own pleasures. God had enough (Genesis 6:3-7). Only one man found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Noah was a righteous man who faithfully walked with God and was obedient to His instructions (Genesis 6:22). Because of his faith in God, he was justified. Though the world around him was absolutely corrupt, Noah was basically without blemish before God. He was a just man and preached in a day when “the wickedness of man was great in the earth” (Genesis 6:5). The Scriptures reveal Noah being just, being perfect (entire or without blemish), and walking with God. The corruption and violence of man caused God to send a world-wide flood. However, in God’s mercy, He sent Noah, a preacher of righteousness, to warn and plead with the people for 120 years while the ark was being built. Noah must have stood out in the world in that day, building an ark when it had never rained. But what made him stand out more was his walk with God (Genesis 6:12). Noah was a man who walked with God and preached right living. He preached for 120 years, and apart from his family he never had one convert (I Peter 3:20). However, the Bible calls him a man of faith (Hebrews 11:7). He was a preacher of righteousness (II Peter 2:5). His righteousness did not come by his own works, but through his faith in God’s Word. Though the people of that day were wicked, corrupt, and every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually (Genesis 6:5, 11), Noah practiced righteousness. He preached against immorality and the sin of that day. He preached repentance for the ungodly men to turn back to God. He did that which was right as a principle and of habit. The preaching of a generation determines the morals of the next generation. God considered Noah on of the three most righteous men in history as recorded in Ezekiel 14. When tempted to lie, he told the truth. When tempted to steal, he was honest. When tempted with immorality, he determined to be pure. When tempted to lose his temper and curse, he held his tongue. When tempted to become bitter or jealous, he maintained a right spirit. When it seemed easier to not put the Lord first, he refused. When he realized another in need, he sought to help him. When directed by God to begin a task no one else in human history had ever done, Noah took God at His Word and obeyed. In a world filled with mockers and skepticism, Noah had unwavering confidence in God’s Word. In that day, God planned to destroy the population of the wicked world. His plan was to send a world-wide flood upon the earth to such a degree that all would be drown. God called Noah to build an ark where his family and two of every species of animal of the earth would be saved. Every day Noah labored on the ark was a call to repentance and a declaration that judgment was coming. Just as those in the days of Noah ignored the warning and rejected the message that would save them, Jesus warned us of making the same mistake (Matthew 24:37-39). Noah believed God, when He warned him of the impending judgment. Noah took God at His Word and simply did what God said the do. Though it took Noah 120 years to accomplish the construction of the ark, he persisted. Some take God at His Word, and in due season are blessed of God (Proverbs 28:20; I Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 6:9). We are called to study His Word, to be faithful to the things of God, witness, walk in love, love one another. Today, God still has His faithful men who stand firm and preach and teach His Word (Titus 2:12). Noah went against the high tide of sin. Despite the mocking and ridicule Noah received, he kept on building the ark until he completed God’s plan. There were many rooms or compartments within the ark to hold room for the people of that day to escape judgment of God. Just as there was one door in the ark (Genesis 6:16), so there is only one way to God, that is Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Once the ark of the door was shut, it was too late to enter in. Until spared, he paid a dear price for it, and so must we as ambassadors for Jesus. Like Noah, our faithfulness to God’s Word will be contrary to everything the world stands for. But every time we see a rainbow, it reminds is for His faithfulness. No amount of righteousness on man’s part can gain eternal life (Titus 3:5). Righteousness after salvation is an act of obedience and a desire to know God. Salvation does not excuse the responsibility to live righteously (Romans 6:15). Righteousness is conforming our hearts and lives to God’s divine law. Paul told Titus, “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” (Titus 2:12). Point to Ponder:
Question to Consider:
PRAYER: LORD, my desire is to please and honor You in my daily walk with You before others. I know that there is not one thing that I ever perform or ponder that is concealed from You. As You examine my heart, help me to live a life of holiness, honesty, and humility. I ask for strength, patience, and wisdom as I aim to practice Your Word. 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 - Andrew (John 1:41-42a)
John 1:41-42a, “He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus.” Both of these names (Cephas and Peter, one Aramaic and the other Greek) mean “rock”. Ironically, throughout the Gospel accounts, Peter was definitely no rock in the sense of being unmovable and reliable in his speech and actions. In fact, he is often shown as one who was driven to extremes by his emotions and spiritual instability. Yet, in Acts he becomes a bold, powerful, and faithful leader of the church. Jesus named Peter not for who he was, but for who he would become. Notice the behaviors shown by Andrew. He followed Jesus without hesitation (John 1:37) and he immediately proceeded to introduce someone else to Christ (John 1:42). This should be the pattern adopted by all who follow Christ. Although his name is Andrew, he is most often referred to as “the brother of Simon Peter” (Matthew 4:18; 10:2; Mark 1:16; Luke 6:14; John 1:40; 6:8). Although he often stood in the shadows of his popular brother Peter, God had a specific plan for Andrew. He was a fisherman by trade (Matthew 4:18). He was a disciple of John the Baptist (John 1:35, 40). John had been telling his listeners that the Messiah was coming. One day, John pointed to Jesus and called Him “the Lamb of God” (John 1:36). From that very moment, and from that time on, Andrew left the family fishing business to follow Christ (Matthew 4:18; Mark 1:16-18). He was one of the first two disciples to follow Jesus (John 1:36-37). God had a plan for Andrew's life, and he followed Christ until the day he died. Someone once said, “Before our gospelizing gets around to the uttermost part of the earth, it should begin at home, ‘in Jerusalem’ as it were. We have a story to tell to the nations, but it is also a story to tell to the neighbors all around us.” It was Andrew who was the first to be called by Christ and who would later bring Peter to Christ (John 1:41). Whenever we read about Andrew doing something, it is him bringing someone to Christ. Andrew would go home to find his brother Peter to lead him to the Lord. NOTICE: Later, Peter would preach and reach three thousand souls for Christ. Peter would perform miracles and would write two books in the New Testament. Andrew would not do any of these things, but he knew a man who had potential and if Christ saved this man, he could do great things. Andrew had a part in it. He remembered the day he said to his brother, “We have found the Christ”. Everything Peter did for the Lord, Andrew had a part in it. You may never lead thousands to the Lord, but you might be the one to lead one to Christ who will lead thousands to the Lord. Andrew brought Simon—just one. But that one was many, for under God Simon brought three thousand in one day. Joel Stratton, a waiter in a restaurant, brought John Gough to Christ. Just one. And Gough brought many to Christ. Ezra Kimball, a Sunday school teacher, brought Moody to Christ—just one. But that one was many, for Moody shook two continents for God. Just as one digit is valuable in the multiplication table, and one letter in the alphabet, far more valuable is just one soul in God's sight. In John 6, we see the feeding of the five thousand. While the rest of the disciples were making excuses as to why they could not feed the five thousand; Andrew found a young boy who was willing to offer his lunch to Jesus. To Andrew, this boy was not a varmint; he was valuable. Andrew didn’t know how or why, but he knew if he could get this lad to Christ, that Jesus would use him in a big way. The history of the church is the history of people leading people to Christ. Many tend to underestimate or overlook the potential of some. They have a habit of downplaying them with the questions, what can he or she do or amount to? True, Andrew lived in the shadows of his popular brother Peter, but he was never insignificant. In fact, he was a tremendous blessing to others. Someday, when we’re in Heaven, we’ll be surprised by the greatness done by those we never heard of. Winning people to Christ involves effort (Luke 15:4). Sinners need the Lord and it helps for them to see Christ’s love manifested in and through us. What is the Lord leading you to do right now? Do you often compare your life with someone else's life? If so, you have your focus off target. God had a very specific plan for Andrew, and it was a different plan than God's plan for Peter. That being said, God has a very specific plan for you, and it is different than His plan for others. So, don't compare your life with others; compare it with God's will. Fulfilling the Great Commission is a priority of every believer (Matthew 28:18-20). If we are ever going to be, or do, or say anything for our Lord, now is the time! Points to Ponder:
PRAYER: Father in Heaven, what could You do in and through my life is I was one hundred percent completely willing to do what You called me to do? Help me not to get distracted, discouraged, or disappointed in Your work. May I never get lukewarm in Your service for souls. 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 - Josiah (II Kings 22:1-2)
II Kings 22:1-2, “Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty and one years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah of Boscath. And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in all the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left.” The world has seen some very young monarchs. King Henry VI became king of England when he was only 8 months old. Alfonso XIII of Spain and John I of France both became kings on the day they were born. Josiah became king of Judah when he was just eight years old (II Chronicles 34:1). The events in the life of King Josiah can be seen in II Kings 22-23; II Chronicles 34-35. Josiah lived in wicked times. He had every excuse for not living for the Lord. When he came to the throne, there was a great crisis of spiritual apostasy and moral decline. Although Josiah lived in a depraved culture, he started out right. He didn’t use the excuse “I’m a product of my environment” to deter him from doing right. His godly actions were a shining light that made an eternal impact for many people. What impact will your example have on others today? He followed the reign of two wicked kings; his father, Amon, (II Kings 21:20; II Chronicles 33:21-23) and his grandfather, Manasseh, (II Kings 21:2; II Chronicles 33:2, 12-13) who did all they could to destroy the spiritual life of Judah. His father and his grandfather, Manasseh, turned to the Lord towards the end of their life, but the damage was already done. It wS an era when idolatry flourished and the Word of God was dormant (II Kings 22:8). However, with no parental support or example to follow, Josiah’s days were filled with living for the Lord. This tells us that we can serve God under any circumstances and at any age (II Kings 22:3). Keep in mind, both his father, Amon, and his grandfather, Manasseh, were very wicked men. They turned away from God to worship idols and they promoted this wickedness throughout their reign. This is the environment Josiah was raised in and yet the Bible says, “And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in all the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left” (II Kings 22:2). How could this be? It was not because he received godly instruction or example from his father. The Word of God tells us in John 1:9, “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world”. Through His Holy Spirit, God appeals to the conscience of every person. With great mercy He pursues each and every soul. “The LORD is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (II Peter 3:9). Josiah listened to the voice of God and allowed the Holy Spirit to permeate His life. By the grace of God, the true and living God found home in the heart of this boy. At the age of sixteen, Josiah began to seek the Lord (II Chronicles 34:3). The best time in life to find the Lord is when a person is young (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Soon after, Josiah began to eliminate the pagan influences in Judah by destroying idols and their altars. II Kings 23:25, “And like unto him was there no king before him, that turned to the Lord with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; neither after him arose there any like him.” In the eighteenth year of his reign, he ordered repairs to the Temple. During this time, the high priest discovered the book of the Law and read it to Josiah. Josiah had the Book read to the people and reinstituted the Passover. When Josiah heard the words read from the Book of the Law and realized that his people had been desecrating the Law of God, it appalled him that they had gone so far astray, When Josiah realized how far he and his people strayed from the Lord, he tore his robe in aguish. He sensed that his people were in real danger of reaping terrible consequences of disobedience to God’s laws. He immediately sent several trusted individuals to Huldah, a prophetess of God. Josiah was desperate to know whether it was possible to avoid the judgments of the Lord. He feared it might be too late. Josiah was right. Things had gone too far for too long. God sent word to him that the judgment mentioned in the Book of the Law would indeed play out against His people. God commended Josiah for His tender and humble heart and told him that he wouldn’t see these punishments carried out. Josiah’s name means, “the Lord heals”. Josiah orchestrated the last great spiritual revival in the kingdom before its final decline, downfall, and deportation. The revival came with the preaching of the godly prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:2). As a leader, Josiah knew he was in a position of authority and he would be held accountable to the Lord for how he ruled and what operated in the kingdom. Therefore, he became devoted to the Sanctuary (II Kings 22:3-7; Hebrews 10:25), the Scriptures (II Kings 22:8-20), and the citizens of Judah (II Kings 23:1-2). He cleansed the land spiritually (II Kings 23:12-15, 24) and cleansed it morally (II Kings 23:7). Sin was dealt with and put away. He destroyed the idols and restored the Temple. Josiah was determined to reform his nation and made great efforts to turn the people from their idolatry by destroying all the images and places of idol worship across the land. However, he knew they had to go deeper. True repentance requires a change of heart, so he invited all the people to a worship service. With great emotion, he read to them the Book of the Law, and as a result, many people sought forgiveness. Josiah’s remembered for his attitude about God and His Word. Psalm 33:12, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD;” Psalm 9:17, “The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.” He knew its importance and made sure the people knew what it said and encouraged them to obey it. Josiah completed the work the Lord gave him to do (II Chronicles 35:20a). He died serving the Lord. His godly example was a shining light that had a positive impact for multitudes. What impact will your example have on others? PRAYER: Lord, may I be convicted to pray fervently as a way of standing in the gap for my family, community, nation, and world. Thank you for the warnings You give me and may I always strive to heed Your call. Thank You for Your mercy, forgiveness, grace, lovingkindness, and especially for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, as the ultimate source of revival. I am deeply grateful that I am saved because of Christ’s finished work on the cross! Help me to let Your light fill my heart every day. May Your love and goodness manifest from my heart today and draw others to 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 Men of the Bible Series
Joshua and Caleb (Numbers 13:23-33) Numbers 13:32-33, “And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.” Can you identify the following names of these men? Shammua, Shaphat, Igal, Palti, Gaddiel, Gaddi, Ammiel, Sethur, Nahbi, Geuel. Who are they? What did they do? They can be found in (Numbers 13:1-16). These were ten of the twelve spies that Moses sent to spy on the land of Canaan. These spies were well-known and respected in their day, but their names have faded into obscurity because they renounced their responsibility to carry out God’s plan for His people. God had already promised them victory. “For the person of faith, obstacles are temporary because God is real. For the disbeliever, obstacles are permanent because God is not real enough.” In Numbers 13-14, the Israelites had witnessed numerous miracles as God freed them from slavery in Egypt. Now they were about to take possession of the land God had promised them. Twelve spies were sent to survey the territory, men who were more than courageous adventurers or soldiers. These men were the leaders from the twelve tribes of Israel, chosen because of their position, respect, and influence among the people. In other words, the people trusted them. After exploring the land for 40 days, 10 of the 12 spies gave a fearful and negative report. The spies had viewed the area they were sent to explore and the results where they distorted what they had discovered. What caused the ten spies to go directly against God’s will for His people and Moses’ leadership? How could they gather the nerve to disobey God? Their complaint is found in Numbers 13:31, “But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.” By instilling fear into the people, the spies filled the congregation with discouragement by spreading the bad report among all the Israelites. The 10 spies viewed the land through the lens of man while Joshua and Caleb viewed them through the lens of faith. The 10 spies walked by sight while Joshua and Caleb walked by faith. The 10 spies saw obstacles while Joshua and Caleb saw opportunities. The 10 spies saw foes while Joshua and Caleb saw the fruit. The 10 spies saw problems while Joshua and Caleb saw promises. The 10 spies saw the giants while Joshua and Caleb saw God. A pessimist sees difficulties in every opportunity while an optimist sees opportunities in every difficulty. Joshua and Caleb were not about to leave God out of the equation. Notice: Vision always attracts criticism. The best evidence that you are in God’s will is the devil’s growl. It has been said, “Faith that can’t be tested can’t be trusted”. So, whenever God has a big job He wants done, it is always faith that gets the contract. Why do we have trouble remembering the names of the ten spies? It is because they refused to trust in the Lord’s promise. In the Bible, Canaan, the Promised Land, represented the victorious Christian live. This very day, many Christians are living and working while they’re wasting and losing their lives. So many believers are living defeated lives because they have not surrendered their lives to the will of God. God never meant for His children to live in the valley of depression but on the mountain top of victory. The just shall live by faith (Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38). PRAYER: Father, help me to always walk by faith and not by sight. In Jesus 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 Great Men of the Bible Series - David (I Samuel 13:14; Acts 1:22)
I Samuel 13:14, “But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the Lord hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the Lord hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the Lord commanded thee.” Acts 1:22, “And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave their testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.” The Scriptures reveal to us that David followed after God’s own heart (I Samuel 16:7). God testified as to David having a heart after His own (Acts 13:22). In Numbers 15:39, God warned the children of Israel not to seek after their own hearts. The whole book of Judges can be summed up in one verse, “every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). Many today are doing what is right in their own eyes, but God warns us in Proverbs 14:12, “the end thereof are the ways of death”. The Scriptures reveal to us several things that the heart follows after: false gods (I Kings 11:2; Ezekiel 20:16); the Lord (II Kings 23:25); our own eyes (Job 31:7); strange women (Proverbs 6:25); imaginations of an evil heart (Jeremiah 3:17; 9:14; 13:10; 16:12). 1. The Lord wants us to have an Honest Heart (Psalm 51:10). Psalm 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” A clean heart is the first step toward having a heart after God (Psalm 32:11; 51:10). When our hands are clean and hearts are pure, we are allowed to draw nigh to God (James 4:8). 2. The Lord wants us to have a Holy Heart (Psalm 89:20). Psalm 89:20, “I have found David my servant; with my holy oil have I anointed him:” God called David His servant. David wanted to do (fulfill all) the will of the Lord (Acts 13:22). David was God’s possession to do with as He pleased. You cannot hide what you are following because what you are following is manifested by whom you obey. 3. The Lord wants us to have a Healthy Heart (Psalm 119:11). Psalm 119:11, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Many verses speak of David keeping God’s Word in his heart (Psalm 37:31; 40:8; 119:34, 36, 69, 80, 112, 161). What you choose to place in your heart is the only thing that is sure to be with you 24/7. Keep God’s Word within you (Proverbs 22:17-21). 4. The Lord wants us to have a Humble Heart (Psalm 131:1). Psalm 131:1, “Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.” David was a humble servant. When he was confronted with sin, he admitted to it. You cannot have a heart after God and be proud because God resists the proud (James 4:6). 5. The Lord wants us to have a Harmonious Heart (Psalm 91:1). Psalm 91:1, “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” You cannot help but to speak well of the one you love. David’s psalms of praise (Psalm 86:12; 111:1; 138:1). Love and loyalty are traits that have birthed and blossomed from our heart. David was a man of prayer who always sought a deep relationship with God. He had great boldness because he had great faith in God from his youth (I Samuel 17:34-37). He was a man of deep, spiritual hunger and passion for God. David was not perfect nor flawless. David caused God grief on several occasions. Yet, even during this time in his life, David continued to show the true presence of a humble and teachable spirit. He had an unshakable confidence in God’s faithfulness and purpose for his life. He worshiped God with his whole heart and life and directed all of Israel to do the same (I Chronicles 15-16). He was a man of character, courage (I Samuel 16:18) and loyalty, and inspired these traits in others (I Samuel 20:2; II Samuel 9; I Chronicles 11). David’s heart should be an example for all of Christ’s followers today. God is still looking for men who are after His heart. Those who seek to please God and not others, who will do God’s will and not his own! Men who want to know the mind of God about serving, giving, doing His will, and raising of family. PRAYER: LORD, help me to cultivate a heart after Yours. One that pursues You daily and that is aligned with You. May I love and desire You passionately. Help me to follow after the example of Your Son. Help me daily to find a quiet place with You. May my inward life be pure that my outward life will 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 Men of the Bible Series - Nehemiah (Nehemiah 6:1-4) – PART 2
Nehemiah 6:1-4, “Now it came to pass when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;) That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you? Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner.” Nehemiah was doing a great work for God and he faced great trials as he did it. The trials were both internal and external in nature. We see that the enemies saw the rapid progress and resorted to offer a compromise to try to slow the work down and eventually stop it from its intended purpose. They did not have a change of heart, but only a change of strategy in their effort to stop Nehemiah. Compromise has crippled many local churches, softened many pulpits, and undermined many homes. The righteous remnant must seek God with all their heart as we need a heaven-sent revival more than ever. When we decide to live for God on a higher level, the Devil uses every weapon in his arsenal to derail us. As Nehemiah lead his people to rebuild the wall, we see Satan's weapons of external opposition from pagan enemies and internal opposition in the form of dissension. According to Revelation 12:12, the devil knows his time is getting shorter and shorter. The closer we get to completing what God has called us to do, the more intense and sophisticated the wiles of the Devil become. Bible-believing, local churches are completely different than the world. The World and the true Church are by the nature of them irreconcilably opposed to each other. This opposition arises not from the things they do or do not do, but from two opposing spirits which dwell in them. Focus is very important and we need to rebuild the walls of focus as God’s people and as families. It is so easy to lose focus and get distracted. Distractions are costly and detrimental to churches, individuals, and families. Distractions in the church can cost people their souls. Jesus calls for us to faithfully follow Him and keep our eyes on Him. We are to look to Jesus, learn from Jesus, and live for Jesus. Distractions are part of life; it is how we deal with the distractions and learn from the distractions that will make us or break us. This would not come without opposition from his enemies and his own brethren. Nehemiah knew this was birthed from the Lord and would bless future generation so, he was willing to obey the Lord regardless of the hostility from naysayers. When we’re taking a project for God, we understand that not everything is going to go as we would plan. In fact, there is going to be opposition from within your own people and from outsiders. At all times, the enemy was present and persistent (Nehemiah 6:4-5). Vision always attracts criticism. Critics will always resist change. Critics associate with other critics. Critics fail to see God’s hand in the work. You know you’re doing the Lord’s work when opposition comes. According to the Scriptures, some things are worth fighting for (I Timothy 6:12). When Paul spoke of the ministry, he stated “so fight I” (I Corinthians 9:26), and he did so until the very end of his life (II Timothy 4:7). We are in a spiritual fight, and we have been instructed to take and put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:11, 13). Those who truly try to live a life based on faith in Christ and the assurance of His Word will often face ridicule and rejection. One reason unbelievers will oppose those who serve the Lord is because of the moral standards of the Christian life. Unbelievers will criticize a Christian’s devotion to the Lord Jesus. Unfortunately, you will see more and more of this kind of persecution take place publicly in our day in which we live. It’s been said, “Many professing Christians evidence little interest in the things of God. They do not read their Bibles or pray, they seldom attend church services, and they have no interest in missions and other efforts to proclaim the Gospel of Christ. Their interests are instead in such things as politics, sports, and making money. They get so wrapped up in these pursuits of the flesh that they have no concern about God’s work and the things of God”. Point to Ponder: God is always faithful to do His part; we must be faithful to do our part. We need to pray that the Lord will help us understand distractions and deal with distractions in a godly manner. God is looking for his children to rise up and meet the great challenge of hour and serve him with all our heart. Question to Consider: When is the last time we have wept over the condition of the church? What are some areas in your life that you struggle with distractions the most? Are you willing to take your stand and serve God without compromise? PRAYER: Father, as this present world in which I live in is opposed to Your message and morals, help me to remain focused and faithful in fulfilling Your Great Commission. 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 - Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1-2) – PART 1
Though Nehemiah held a prestigious position in the Babylonian court, his desire was to be in Jerusalem. Hanani had reported that Jerusalem’s walls were broken and the gates destroyed, and Nehemiah knew that meant invaders could easily destroy what was left in Jerusalem. As long as his people in Jerusalem lived in danger, his heart would remain broken. As a result, Nehemiah immediately mourned, wept, and prayed. The Lord answered Nehemiah’s prayer. Keep in mind that the Lord may not answer our prayers immediately, but He always answers them in time. He was granted permission to go to his homeland, with provisions to carry along the journey for the building project, and security to give them safe passage. Nehemiah and his people had one purpose in rebuilding the wall—their city would no longer be a reproach, or disgrace, to their God. The Israelites wanted to rebuild the walls to bring glory to the name of God. In the same way, if we are to be motivated to make a difference in our churches, it must be to bring glory to the name of God. There are times when our heart will be broken for someone, a group of people, or a cause which will lead us to intercessory prayer. It is during this time of prayer when our hearts are tender that God will place a desire in our heart to do something in the form of ministry that will help meet the great need that we are burdened about. God will mold the tender heart and guide us so that we may glorify God in the service that he leads us to. The time of sadness may be great, but the surrender it leads to will bring eternal fruit for the glory of God. More than thirty times in the book of Nehemiah you will find the word repair. They were repairing something that had been built at one time. They were taking the rubbish (the scraps) and rebuilding them. Just as God takes those pieces of our life that we have broken or messed up and He repairs them and puts them back together again. Each of us has a mission in the Great Commission. That is building lives within the body of Christ for the glory of God. We see this every day, lives totally ruined by sin. In the ministry, we are taking old broken lives, homes, and hearts and letting God put them back together. We are rebuilding lives as Nehemiah rebuilt the wall. There will be areas of your wall that have to be maintained. There will be parts of your life that are much stronger than other parts while some areas are hurting, injured, and in need of repairing. Since constructing a wall is a continual maintenance, it is something you must continually work on. If you neglect the maintenance, it will break. And once the wall is broken, your protection is gone. God desires to see strong, spiritual walls in our lives. Three examples of these are strength, stability, and separation. Strength: How can I fight the good fight of faith against Satan and his attacks? Stability: What are some areas in my life that I can grow in and become more stable in my walk with the Lord? Separation: How can we become more separated from worldliness and set apart for God’s service? May we continue to work faithfully even when unbelievers argue. Keep in mind, we are working for God, not the enemy. Nehemiah challenges us that we may be productive in our service for God. Nehemiah expresses many practical lessons that will help us be more effective servants in a local church ministry. It is important that all Christians grow to maturity and become the Christian that God wants them to be. Nehemiah was a great leader and motivator of God’s people. He overcame opposition to get the job done. He knew it was going to take time and effort, so he counted the cost (Luke 14:26-33). What seemed to be an impossibility (Nehemiah 1:3; 2:13-14, 17; 4:2) turned into a great miracle (Nehemiah 6:15). The Lord had put in Nehemiah’s heart a desire to rebuild the wall at Jerusalem. Nehemiah had a great burden for the work that needed to be done. He had many blessings to help get him to this point, but there was still much work to do it. There is much work that goes into any ministry for God. In starting a new ministry or a church, there must be much planning, prayer, and preparation, but if one does not put in the persistent, hard work, then all that was done before hand will not amount to anything. Ask the LORD to give you a servant’s heart and seek to serve Him in every assignment. We never know what impact might result from our labor of love. Point to Ponder: Lord, give me a broken heart for broken lives. God desires to see strong, spiritual walls. Our first step in spiritual wall-building must be a burden for others. Question to Consider: If God were to begin a revival with you, where would He need to start? How do you respond when you become aware of broken spiritual walls? When you see a job to be done at your church, what is your response? PRAYER: Heavenly Father, use me and help me to serve You with a with willing and tender heart; help me to pursue a deeper walk with You. I want to be a good and faithful servant when I stand before Your throne. Thank You, Lord, that in Your grace You have sustained me. Help me not to strive in the flesh instead of resting in You and letting Your Holy Spirit live and work through me. I pray for strength as I labor that I would not get weary. Help me to love people the way You do. 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 - Elijah (James 5:16-18)
James 5:16-18, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.” Elijah truly was a prayer warrior who believed in the power of prayer. He saw God work supernaturally in his life because when he prayed, he prayed earnestly. Elijah’s prayers brought a widow’s son back to life (I Kings 17:20-22), caused it not to rain for three and a half years (James 5:17-18), and brought fire down from heaven (I Kings 18:36-38). Prayer should be as natural to the child of God as breathing is to the human body because prayer is the believer’s spiritual breath. The reason so many believers are always spiritually tired and weary is they have been holding their spiritual breath. The Christian who says, "I simply can't find time for prayer" is like the person who says, "I just can't find time to breath". If we refuse to pray regularly, we will spiritually suffocate. When God said to pray without ceasing, the word “ceasing” means uninterrupted. The Word “effectual” means to be active. It has the sense of being ‘“energized”. What James is driving at is that effective prayer is fervent and from the heart. When a man will pour out his heart in prayer, God tends to hear the same. Prayer cannot be once a week, or even once a day. It means to have a mind or an attitude of prayer. To “avail” means to have force or to be of strength. In other words, prayer that is so strong that it accomplishes what was intended. There are things we cannot do that only God can do such as provide, protect, and so on. We have access to God because of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1-2). One of the great tragedies of modern-day Christianity is that we simply do not pray as we should. The Lord has placed all of the power and resources of Heaven at our disposal to do His work, yet we “have not, because [we] ask not” (James 4:2). Prayer is not an empty ritual, nor is it a religious exercise. It’s how a child of God goes to the throne of grace based on the relationship He has freely given us to seek His help, which He has promised to give. Two wives were doing their laundry in a laundry mat. They were both patching their husband’s pants. One wife said, “My husband is so miserable. Nothing goes right at work, and he can’t find anything good on television. Our home is a place of hurt. When we go to church, the song leader is terrible and the pastor is a dull. The other wife said “My husband is so excited. He can’t wait to go to church. He loves the sermons. We enjoy our family time”. It got very quiet in the laundry room as the women continued sewing the pants. One was patching the seat of the pants, and the other was patching the knees. Prayer changes marriages, families, ministries, etc. The success of a father is dependent upon prayer. According to the Scriptures, God commands us to pray in the following verses: Luke 18:1; 21:36; Romans 12:12; Ephesians 6:18; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2; I Thessalonians 5:17; I Timothy 2:1. The Devil cannot keep God from answering our prayers, so he seeks to keep us from asking. He does all that he can to prevent us from prayers. The greatest enemy to answered prayer is unbelief. A lack of faith will always hinder God from working in and through our lives. When we pray, we are not to waver. Point to Ponder: If we have faith enough to ask, we should have faith enough to believe that God will hears our need and supplies wisdom in every situation. Question to Consider: What could the Lord do in and through our families and churches if His people would pray earnestly? PRAYER: Father, I praise You that I can at anytime, anywhere, and under any circumstance come to You in prayer. My desire is to keep walking continually with You, so that my prayer may be the natural expression of my life 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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