Men of the Bible Series
Stephen (Acts 6:5, 8; 7:55) Acts 6:5, And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch. Acts 6:8, And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. Acts 7:55, But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 1. Stephen Served. Stephen had a godly testimony. He was one of the first deacons and the first martyr of the church. Stephen was a good man of “honest report”. He was a gifted man, ‘full of...wisdom”. He was a godly man— ‘full of the Holy Ghost”. The Bible makes it clear that the source of Stephen’s fearlessness was the Holy Spirit. Three times the Bible records that he was “full of the faith”, “God’s grace and power”, or “full of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5, 8; 7:55). He was filled with the Holy Spirit who allowed him to speak truth wisely, witness boldly, and to face death peacefully. Stephen’s character displayed the character of God through the Spirit of God, and that Spirit who gave him a servant’s heart and courage. The Spirit who empowered Stephen is the same Spirit who fills Christ’s followers today. No matter the chaos or opponents of the Gospel you face today, you can have the same power, boldness, and humility as Stephen. 2. Stephen Suffered. Stephen was a godly young man who followed the teachings of Jesus in a time when much uproar was found in the religious world. Stephen preached Jesus before the Sanhedrin (A supreme council of the Jewish people). Stephen was not filled with fear that day before his opponents. He was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he boldly shared the truth of God. Stephen preached a long sermon. He begins with the “God of glory” (Acts 7:2) and ends with the “God of glory” (Acts 7:55). His purpose in preaching this sermon is to show how each leader of Israel had tried to bring them out of their tradition into a broader revelation of God’s will and purpose for Israel, and how in every instance they had rebelled against the truth. This was exactly what the Sanhedrin was doing as they tried Stephen for blasphemy. He would charge them with rejecting the Christ of Israel. He began with Scripture and used them to reveal their sinfulness. When Stephen mentioned their crime against the Just One, it was then that they charged him like a rioted mob. Stephen suffered and through that we see that Saul (Paul) was a witness. 3. Stephen Shined. His face shown with the brilliance and radiance of an angel of God! He reflected the glory of God because he spent time with the Son of God! Stephen shined at his death. He died calling upon God asking forgiveness of his enemies. As the religious leaders looked intently upon Stephen they saw that his face was “as it had been the face of an angel” (Acts 6:15). Stephen’s death was not in vain. God honored his life and his death. Paul witnessed his death and as a result Paul would later accept Christ as his Saviour. Through His suffering he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” and “Lord, lay not this sin to their charge” (Acts 7:59-60). We know that those who exhibit godly character do not necessarily have literal shining faces. They do, however, glow with the countenance of the One who fills their heart. Sharing the Gospel of Christ is the greatest news you could ever spread. Everyday Christians are challenged to speak or remain silent concerning Christ. Although not everyone will receive it well, it always brings pleasure to the LORD. Faith begins with knowing Christ as your Saviour the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Faith is what gives us victory over the world (I John 5:4-5) and helps us to quench all the fiery darts of Satan (Ephesians 6:16). The Bible mentions no faith, little faith, great faith, and being full of the faith. Stephen was full of faith because he was full of Scripture according to Romans 10:17. The amount of faith we have is in proportion to how close we are to God and His Word. Points to Ponder: May we reflect the love and glory of the Lord. Your testimony will impact others, stand strong and glorify God whenever you get the chance. When others look on us, I pray that they would see faithful men and women of God who shine the light of Jesus in this world! Questions to Consider: Are we letting Jesus shine through us? What do you face today that brings fear into your heart? Which of the character qualities that Stephen had do you most need to work on? PRAYER: Father in Heaven, I know You want to fill me but will not until I remove the barriers. Please bring to my mind my unconfessed sins and help me repent of them. Will You fill me with Your Holy Spirit? Live Your life through me today. Make me the person You want me to be that You would be glorified, 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 – 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 are 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, it does tell us what he did he did willingly, actively and faithfully. He could hold up hands and he did the best job he could! 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 up 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 us 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 be 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 Naboth (I Kings 21:1-17)
Naboth lived in Jezreel. He owned a vineyard alongside the summer palace of the Ahab, the king of Israel. This property had been in his family for generations. It was more than his inheritance, it was his heritage. Ahab was very wealthy, but all his possessions did not satisfy him and he coveted the vineyard which belonged to Naboth. Ahab, among several other things, lacking in godliness and contentment, offered to trade Naboth his vineyard for a better vineyard, or to purchase his land. The king held a lot of power and a lot of influence. People typically did as the king requested. The vineyard, part of Naboth’s inherited property, had belonged to his ancestors for many generations, so how could he sell it? According to Leviticus 25:23-28 and Numbers 36:7, God had clearly forbidden the sale of this property. The Word of God is very clear that the king could not buy the inheritance of the people (Ezekiel 46:18). Ahab would have already known this. To his surprise and anger Naboth refused King Ahab’s offer. Naboth told King Ahab, “The Lord forbid it me”. He refused on the grounds that God said he could not sale the land. How can he do this thing when God has already forbidden it? Naboth had the courage of his convictions. He refused to disobey God. Naboth decided some things were not for sale, regardless of who was buying or what they were willing to give for it. Compromise is always wrong when it means sacrificing a principle. You will never regret or ever go wrong if you allow the Bible to guide your life (Psalm 119:105; 19:8; Proverbs 3:5-6). As a result of Ahab being rejected, we see him pouting and acting like a spoilt child! Often, people sulk when they cannot have their own way! His refusal to sell would cost him his life through the devious plot of Jezebel. Ahab’s wife Jezebel is one of the most wicked and manipulative people in the Bible. She not only wrought great evil, but she influenced Ahab to do evil. When she heard of Naboth’s refusal. She personally involved herself in the situation. Jezebel bribed two false witnesses to charge Naboth with treason, I Kings 21:11-14 (SEE Exodus 22:28; Leviticus 24:16). She falsified documents (she signed her husband’s name) and connived two evil men to bear false witness to accuse Naboth of blaspheming the Lord. She had Naboth, a God-fearing man, stoned to death. She gained the vineyard for Ahab and he took possession of it. Her sinister plot succeeded and a humble servant of God was stoned to death. Ahab and Jezebel had defied the Lord, but they could not get away with it, for He is sovereign in the affairs of mankind and He always has the last word. Immediately following Jezebel’s wicked plot, the word of the Lord came to Elijah. Naboth valued what he had and he knew the king would not. He knew that Ahab was not worthy to possess the thing Ahab had been given by God. What Naboth possessed was not his to sale anyway. What he possessed was the gift of God. Naboth was to keep the land in the family and pass it down from generation to generation. He lived and died knowing that he had done the right thing. King Ahab represents Satan, Naboth represents the Christian, and Naboth’s fathers represent God the Father. Satan wants to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10a) when it comes to purity, testimony, family, etc. Satan’s scheme is to convince the believer that what he is trading is far better. However, it can never compare with the value of the things God has given. A godly heart never seeks retaliation or revenge. We are never to give license to do wickedness. We are always to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:18), for love demands it. Vengeance and payback can devour our hearts, causing us to ignore peace, love, and justice. As a result, we sometimes find ourselves attacking out in bitterness and hostility. A heart that is pleasing to God is one that seeks peace and brotherly love among all people everywhere. Questions to Consider: • How much is your testimony or purity worth? · • In which areas of your life have you ever been discontent or perhaps even covetous? • What have you determined in your life to be not for sale? • How much is your soul worth? Nothing in this world is worth losing that (Mark 8:36-37). Points to Ponder: • Sinful men and women cannot defy God and get away with it (Numbers 32:23). • We must guard what we have at all costs. • Those who have a price are those who are willing to sell themselves if the price is right. • We all must make important decisions in life, but our spiritual decisions are the most important of all. PRAYER: LORD, thank you for everything you give me. I’m thankful that you do not always give me what I want because my desires would draw my heart from being satisfied in You. Help me to be content in You with what You have given me and not to be focused on what my flesh wants. 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;) 2 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. 3 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? 4 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 leads his people to rebuild the wall, we have seen 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 generations, 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 more and more 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 the 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 to 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 – 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 for the journey the building project and security to give them safe passage. Nehemiah is an excellent book that challenges us in our service for God to help us have the proper balance in our life. Nehemiah deals with many practical things 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 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 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 that other parts, while some areas are hurting and 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. Point to Ponder: Lord, use me and help me to serve You with a with willing and tender heart; help me to pursue a deeper walk with You. Question to Consider: If God were to begin a revival with you, where would He start? PRAYER: Father, 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 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. and the 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 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 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 were 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: 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 dependent upon the Lord. It is when we get independent of God, 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, I know you can do everything. 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, I know you can do everything. 3)Gideon – With the odds 450 to one, Gideon and his 300 men, defeated the Midianites. I know you can do everything. 4) 3 Hebrews – His presence with them in the fiery furnace and allowing not one hair to be singed on their bodies, I know you can do everything. 5) Daniel – Cast into a den of lions, the angel of the Lord Stopped the mouths of hungry lions. I know you can do everything. 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 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 the 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 loses 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. 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 - Daniel (Daniel 6:1-3) PART 2
Daniel 6:1-3, It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom; 2And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage. 3Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. Joe Lee told an early work experience that helped shape the future course of his life. He got a job in his teens on one of the largest cattle ranches in California. One day, he was instructed to drive cattle from one pasture to another. On the way, he saw that a fence had fallen, and the cattle had gotten out. Rather than continuing, he stopped, rounded up those cattle and spent the rest of the day fixing the fence. Concerned that he would get in trouble for not finishing the job, he called his boss. When he told him what he had done, rather than getting reprimanded he was praised for taking initiative. “Act like you would if you owned the place,” his boss told him. That principle of integrity—taking diligent care of everything placed in his hand made Joe Lee a great success in the business world but most importantly as a Christian. Daniel 6 opens with the head of gold being replaced by the silver kingdom, the breast and arms of Media-Persia. King Darius arose to power around 538 b.c. When Darius took over the Chaldean kingdom, he appointed 120 princes to oversee the affairs of the Chaldean province. Over these princes, Darius appointed three presidents of whom Daniel was first in authority. Daniel was the leading president of three presidents that oversaw 120 princes. This was a new king, but he already knew that something was different about Daniel. The king discerned an excellent spirit in Daniel. Daniel was preferred above all others because of his “excellent spirit.” His reputation as a man of wisdom was outstanding, and his character was impeccable. The king preferred Daniel because of his honesty and integrity. Standing for the Lord is not always easy, but Daniel displayed how to do it well. I Corinthians 10:31, Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Daniel's character could not be drowned by floods, burned by fire, corrupted by rust, stolen by thieves, or destroyed by moths. Daniel was highly respected by the king but despised by the other leaders. They diligently sought for ways to get him removed. Daniel was accused of violating news laws in which they had created. This law was used to get Daniel in trouble based on his commitment to God. Daniel may have lost his position, but he did not lose his integrity. Today, there are laws formed by government that violate the laws of God. Very soon, there will be harsher laws put in place that will challenge the believer’s commitment to Christ. Those who choose to obey the Lord will be threatened with death. There may be times when we may face persecution, deprivation, prosecution, or execution. God, however, wants us to know that faithfulness to Him is always the right thing in spite of the difficulties. Faithfulness and obedience to Him yield rich rewards and blessings. We never have to be ashamed of our faith in the Lord though the world may try to intimidate us into silence. Questions to Consider: Do you have an excellent spirit? Are you easy to work with? Do you work hard and do your best at what you do? Points to Ponder: This was a great testimony for Daniel and a challenge to all of us to have the same kind of attitude. As Christians representing the Lord, we should do our best to bring honor to Him. Prayer, Father in Heaven, I thank You for Jesus Your Son. He is the perfect example of integrity and character. Teach me Your ways and guide my heart. My desire is to be more like Jesus in all my attitudes and actions in a manner that is pleasing 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 - Daniel (Daniel 1:8) PART 1
Daniel 1:8, But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Now more than ever has there been a crucial need for God’s people of strong righteous character to purpose in their hearts not to compromise. The society we live in today is rampant in immorality, mischief, inequality, persecution, and self-indulgence, a time when scarce few rise up to wave the banner for integrity and righteousness. Daniel lived in a time of inexcusable immorality, anarchy, and violence when there was little uprightness and morality on earth was scarce. Notwithstanding, he stood firm for the Lord against the temptations and the enticements of an ungodly nation. In all ages, God’s people have always been faced with the pressures to compromise their personal walk with Him. Every day we face the temptation to compromise our commitment to the Lord. We must decide to be dedicated in our devotion to the Lord, regardless of the amount of pressure we face to compromise. We will examine that the pressures Daniel and his three friends faced by the king of Babylon were the same pressures we face today. I imagine it would have been fairly easy to “give in” at this point. No parents, no pastor, no godly influences, conforming to the wicked lifestyle of the Babylonians would have been simple. No matter how much pressure others may put upon us to compromise, we must stand fast and not give in to the seduction of sin. No matter how appealing, attractive or alluring the craving may be, we must take a firm stand for You. We must purpose in our hearts that we will not defile ourselves. Swimming against the current only makes you a stronger swimmer. Daniel believed in being holy before the Lord. Holiness is not an option for the believer, but it is the clear command of the Word of God (I Peter 1:15-16). What helped Daniel remain faithful to the Lord in a corrupt society was the fact, that early in life he had “purposed in his heart.” Surround yourself with those (parents, pastor, wise friends) who are wise (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22; 24:6). He had already determined, come what may, that he would stand for the Lord regardless of the direction society was heading. This purpose was not short term, as in until it got inconvenient, it was for life. A lack of purpose in one’s life leads to an easy target for Satan. Once we purpose in our hearts it will be easier to demonstrate it in our lifestyle. When we make wise choices, it leads to right results (Proverbs 20:18). Purpose in one’s life will help prevent them from changing or giving up. The first priority of every person should be to cleave unto the Lord (Acts 11:23). The actions we take in our life are purposed in the heart before they are ever carried out by our actions. Proverbs 4:23, Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. We should serve God out of a pure heart for this is what God loves the most and desires. Daniel made this decision in his heart before anyone else ever knew about it. The desire to love God and serve Him starts in the heart. It goes against the flesh of mankind and is a radical concept to this world. Paul was an advocate of swimming against culture’s current. He wrote, “I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:1–2). A believer who conforms to this world at some point, will yield to the great pressure that they are under to change. The believer who is transformed is yielded to the Holy Spirit of God who transforms them from within. Something is going to shape your life, but the question is, will it be the worldly philosophy we are conformed to or the truth of God that we are transformed by? Will you be conformed or transformed? What are your goals for this year? I encourage you to follow the example of Daniel as you strive to make a difference. Prayer: Lord, Thank You for the strength I have in You to remain committed in our walk with You. I am encouraged by the example of Daniel and his three friends and the choice they made in obeying Your Word rather than compromising with the world. Often, I’m tempted to compromise my commitment to You. May I be determined to remain faithful to You and steadfast in my commitment to 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 - 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. 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. Noah 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 one 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 to 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, and 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 us of His faithfulness. Point to Ponder: Even if the entire world were to scoff and mock at your beliefs in the Lord, stand firm and remain true to the Lord and His Word. Question to Consider: As an ambassador for Christ and knowing that the judgment of the Lord is coming soon, what has His warning compelled you to do? 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 |
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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