The Company You Keep (Psalm 119:63)
Psalm 119:63, I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts. David made a wise decision. He abandoned the workers of iniquity and associated with them that feared the Lord. He pledged that he would be a friend to anyone who feared and obeyed the Lord. Perhaps some of God’s faithful people were standing by him as he endured intense persecution. Knowing in his heart that his enemies could easily turn on other followers, he promised his loyalty and support to all fellow believers who kept God’s laws. David here describes his associations. It was with those who feared God and were obedient to His Word. That lesson remains particularly true for this day. Our associates and friends ought to be those who fear God and are completely obedient to His Word. If we choose companions that fear God and keep His precepts, then we will have true friends. Two people that are close to God will draw near to each other. Your friends will be those whom you have things in common. Be a spiritual Christian and you will have spiritual companions. The Bible puts it best in Proverbs 18:24, A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. David’s companions manifested the kind of faith he possessed. Trials and persecution should strengthen our decision to remain obedient to God, to stand fast in our faith. As believers in today’s world, we are facing increasing pressure to back down from our faith in Christ and our faithfulness to God’s inspired Word. So, while the world turns further away from the truths of Scripture, and while hostile governments, religious fanatics, and godless societies continue to rise, we must determine to stand fast for our Lord and His holy Word. It was David’s desire to be united and in fellowship with those who loved the Lord and His Word. It was his goal to live in such a way that those who loved and feared God would want to fellowship with him. May the Lord help us to live in such a way that our life is a source of strength, blessing, and encouragement to others to live for Christ. We are greatly influenced by our friends and companions. “Companion” here is one that is an associate, or one knit together. Two requirements for those we associate with are that they fear God and keep His commandments. 1. The Selection of Friends “I am a companion of all them” Those two words reflect a choice. Your companions are those you choose. You must determine in your heart to keep good company. Good company does not come by accident. We must pray, seeking the Lord for godly companions. You must choose godly company if you want good company. It is often said we will become like the books we read, the media we watch, and the friends we keep. 2. The Sorts of Friends “that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.” Those who have reverence and respect for God will be good company. Those who disrespect God, mock God, and criticize God are those you should stay away from in the company you keep. People that live by the Word of God are good people to associate with in fellowship. Godly people are good companions. A person who is evil is one you do not want to associate with in life. He will lead you down the wrong path, but Biblical friends will be there to hold you up when you stumble. Proverbs 13:20, He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. Looking at this verse, it is easy to see that if you hang around people who are wise when it comes to the Lord, then you will be wise as well. If you hang around people who witness, then you will witness as well. If you are around people who are taking a stand for Christ, it is going to help you take a stand. Proverbs 27:17, Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. Jonathan was attempting to finish his project but struggling to complete it in time. Tom, a new neighbor walked over and offered to help. Tom had a collection of nice tools and had everything needed for the job. When they finished the job, Jonathan was amazed at Tom’s collection of tools and asked him what he made with such tools. “Friends mostly,” Tom answered. Questions to Consider: Do you live your life in such a way that people know you are a Christian? Do godly people feel comfortable around you because of your love for God? Are you helping your friends grow closer to Christ? Do your friends sharpen you spiritually or do they dull you? Who are your friends? Are they wise or foolish? Points to Ponder: We are to be careful about the company we keep. Those you spend your time with will have an influence in your life. When you find godly friends, they contribute to your life. Ask Christ to help you draw your friends into a closer relationship with Him today. Keeping God's Word will be easier if we have friends that want to keep it too. Choose companions that bring you closer to the Lord. PRAYER: Lord, thank You for saving my soul and for Your gift of eternal life. You used a friend and a co-worker who lead me to You. You have given me a church family who loves You and prays fervently for me. You have given me my very best friend, my wife, who stands by my side faithfully and encourages me. May I serve You faithfully, in Jesus name, AMEN. If this post has blessed you in any way please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com
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Do Your Best (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
Ecclesiastes 9:10, Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. The following joke is titled “Just Plain Lazy”. "Give it to me straight, doc. I can take it! Tell me in plain English what's the matter with me." "Okay, I'll be frank with you. My diagnosis is that you're just plain lazy!" "All right, doc. Now please give me a SCIENTIFIC NAME for it so I can go home and tell my wife!" Work reflects your character. Your work is an expression of the image of God in you, and it's worth thinking about how your work reflects His character. Work as simple as cleaning out a closet reflects the God who makes order out of chaos. Holding a stop sign for children to cross the road creates an environment of safety that reflects the God who protects. The person who flips burgers is providing food, which is something that God does. A father or mother who nurtures a child reflects the love, patience, and perseverance of God. The CEO of a large business holds things together and moves things forward. This too is a reflection of God's work. Adrian Rogers tells about the man who made his sons work in the cornfields while their friends spent the afternoon at the swimming hole. Someone scolded the father saying, "Why do you make those boys work so hard? You don't need all that corn." The wise father replied, "Sir, I'm not raising corn. I'm raising boys." There's no such thing as Christians who do not work. It's a work of service. You can't build a home without work. You can't build a church without work. Happiness in life can be found in life’s work and activities. When we work diligently in our careers and in the countless other courses of life, we discover a real measure of joy and satisfaction. Hudson Taylor’s great desire was that the Lord would work through him. He said, “I used to ask God to help me. Then...if I might help Him. I ended up asking Him to do His work through me.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 speaks of having and maintaining a good work ethic: Your hand: The hand speaks of ability. God has given every person the ability to perform some kind of work. God doesn’t expect us to do more than we can, but He does expect us to do the best we can in whatever we do. Whatever comes to our hands we are to do the best we can with it. Finds: This refers to opportunity. Even if you have lost your job, you should be diligent in seeking employment. Opportunities for some type of work usually exist. They do not necessarily come to you; you must find them. With all your might: This speaks of energy. It means firm, with vigor, and power. You should work energetically and give your best effort. Romans 12:11, Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the LORD; Proverbs 22:29, Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. Planning: You should think, prepare, and perform your work strategically and efficiently. Knowledge: You should educate yourself and stay informed on how best to perform your work. Wisdom: You should perform your work wisely, using your best skills and understanding of the task. Why work so diligently now? Very simply, because we have only one life and all opportunity ends at death. There are no opportunities in the grave. Colossians 3:22-23, Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God; And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Whatever work we do and whatever projects we undertake, we should do our very best, just as if we are doing it directly for the Lord. This is always good advice. We should do our best at any task whether for God or man. Those who do their best in the little things, will do their best in the big things. What we do with seemingly insignificant things, such as cleaning, serving, and putting away, will determine what we do with the greater things in life, such as parenting, working, and witnessing. Doing your best will be reflected in everything you do! There is a difference in getting a job done and doing your best. Live this kind of life passionately. We only have one life to live, so we should enjoy it. One way we do that is to work hard, be loyal, and do a good job. Each of us should be such a good employee, executive, teacher, home builder, farmer, small business owner, etc. that our employers or customers would never consider getting anyone to replace us. We should work, teach, preach, and do whatever we do, with enthusiasm. In every endeavor of life, give it your all. We should give it our best in whatever we do. I'm very blessed to be apart of a godly church with faithful members who who pray and labor diligently together for the Lord Jesus Christ. Until He comes! PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the work You’ve given me to do and for the opportunity to provide for my family. Help me to embrace the dignity of my work. Remind me to work with all my heart as if I’m working directly for the Lord Jesus Christ. I want to work hard, on everything, for Your glory. At the end of the day, may I look back with joy and pleasure with the expectation of hearing You say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”. In Jesus' name. Amen. If this post has blessed you in any way, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Benefits of Waiting on God (Isaiah 40:31)
Isaiah 40:31, But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. A young boy went to the local store with his mother. The shop owner, a kindly man, passed him a large jar of suckers and invited him to help himself to a handful. Uncharacteristically, the boy held back. So the shop owner pulled out a handful for him. When outside, the boy's mother asked why he had suddenly been so shy and wouldn't take a handful of suckers when offered. The boy replied, "Because his hand is much bigger than mine!" It's been said that “waiting is not just the thing we have to do until we get what we hope for. Waiting is the process of becoming what we hope for." There are things to be learned while we wait on God that can't be learned at any other time. We need to learn to trust Him despite circumstances, or to be content with what we have or don't have in light of all that He promises. These lessons, when embraced, will work in us a deeper level of trust and a greater capacity for resting in God. So, while you wait for what you hope for, allow the Lord to accomplish the things for which He hopes for you. “Quiet waiting before God would save from many a mistake and many a sorrow” —J. Hudson Taylor. Isaiah 40:31 encourages you to wait on the Lord for strength in every stage of life. Young people need strength to soar up like an eagle. Middle-aged people need strength to run and not grow weary. In your golden years you need strength to walk and not faint. When we wait upon the Lord, we shall renew our strength. The word "renew" means "to change, to pass from one state to another, or to exchange." When we wait on God, we exchange our weakness for His strength. What we cannot do, He can. What we cannot see, He can. When we are weak, with His strength, we become strong. “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” God never ceases from His care and concern for us. While He is aware of all that is said by all, and misses absolutely nothing, He especially tunes in to His children. He has a heart for the cries of our hearts. He is the God Who hears and answers our prayers. May you sense His great love for and pure interest in you today. Even young men in the prime of life become tired, weary, and fall. As children of the Lord, if we will wait upon Him, He has promised to restore our strength. The word wait, carries the idea to ‘trust the Lord and then wait for Him to act.’ Implied is that we are resting and relying upon Him. As we trust Him, rest upon Him, and then wait upon Him, He will renew our strength. That was true then. It is true to this day. We are to trust Him, rely upon Him, and then wait upon Him to act. As we do, He has promised to renew our strength. The promise, without doubt, applies to spiritual strength. But it also likely applies to emotional strength, mental strength, and even physical strength. Waiting upon Him is trusting Him which is faith. Blessed are they that trust in Him! “Simply wait on him. So doing, we shall be directed, supplied, protected, corrected, and rewarded”—Vance Havner. The most muscular and mighty men may faint under strain and utterly fall, but those who wait on the Lord shall: 1. Renew their strength. 2. Mount up with wings as eagles. 3. Run and not be weary. 4. Walk and not faint. I don't know your hearts today. You may be weary. You may be tired. You may feel like you have had about all you can stand, and you may wonder if anything else could happen. You may have said, “I don't see how I can stand one thing more.” You are in the walking stage, and if you wait on the LORD, you will not faint, for He is able to renew your strength, and He is able to give power to him who has no might. This is our God. Look at Him. Enjoy Him, and recognize Him as your own. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, help me to have the wisdom to learn to trust You and wait for Your timing. Give me peace during my season of affliction. Lord, I choose to trust You and wait for You to act. Please give me rest and peace, In Jesus name, Amen. If this post has blessed you in any way, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Not Ashamed (Romans 1:16)
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Paul was not ashamed or embarrassed of the “gospel of Christ.” It is the greatest blessing known to man. Romans 1:16 became key in the life of 27-year-old evangelist George Whitfield. In 1742, Whitfield was invited to preach at the fair at Marylebone Field, west of London with the condition that they would build him a platform. When the evangelist and his wife arrived at the fair-grounds, the sun was already down and the crowds were wild and rowdy. Muscular prizefighters challenged all comers to bare-fisted fights in the boxing ring. Whitfield seldom displayed fear, but on that night, he was obviously nervous as he mounted the rickety little platform prepared for him. As George raised his powerful voice, people began to gather around him. The crowds at the gambling booths began to thin out toward Whitfield as he preached louder. Shortly into the sermon, George saw a group of bare-chested fighters strutting straight toward him. George's voice began to falter, but he suddenly felt a tug on his trousers. It was his wife Elizabeth who said to him, "George, play the man of God!" Boldness shot through the veins of God's man as he firmly proclaimed without hesitation, "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ! It is the power of Christ to everyone that believes!" He threw out his arms in a dramatic gesture and the platform nearly collapsed upon him. The fighters noticed the wobbly platform and tried to bring it down, but a group of Christians huddled around George. He continued to preach like a man trying to stand on the deck of a tossing ship. The people began to throw things at Whitfield. He was hit by a rock, a rotten egg, and manure, yet, he continued to preach on. When the evangelist finished his message, he was escorted to his wagon. A man lunged at George with a sword, but it was deflected by the cane of a friend. In spite of the pressure and harassment, Whitfield was a man of God that was not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Not to the same degree of harassment as Whitefield endured, but 13 years of street preaching on Beale Street in Memphis, TN comes very close. May we learn from his courage and his example to not be ashamed of the Lord and His Word. We should never be ashamed of the Gospel, the “good news” that brings the message of hope and life for all people. The message of the Gospel is what God has done and will do for us. He doesn’t say it brings power or has power, but that it actually is power. The Gospel’s power is seen in its ability to completely change minds, hearts, life’s course, our understanding of everything that happens, the way people relate to one another, and so on. Most of all, it is powerful because it does what no other power on earth can do: it can save us, reconcile us to God, and guarantee us eternity with God in Heaven. Too many are ashamed of Jesus and His Gospel. They are embarrassed and uncomfortable being identified and speaking up for Christ. Luke 9:26, For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. II Timothy 1:8, Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God. Paul stood for Christ with a holy boldness because of his unwavering trust in Him. II Timothy 1:11-12, Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. Many are ashamed and deny Christ because of peer pressure and intimidation. They are concerned about what others might say. They speak of sports, politics and world events, but they are silent concerning Christ. God help us to speak up for Christ. The Gospel Saves: a. It saves from sin’s penalty (DOOM) through justification. b. It saves from sin’s power (DOMINION) through sanctification. c. It saves from sin’s presence (DOMAIN) through glorification. PRAYER: Lord, knowing that only in You there is love, hope, and life, help me to boldly proclaim the gospel of Christ to whomever I encounter. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post has blessed you in any way, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Lord’s Goodness and Mercy (Nahum 1:7)
Nahum 1:7, The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. President Calvin Coolidge was awakened one morning in his hotel room to find a burglar going through his pockets. Coolidge spoke up, asking the burglar not to take his watch chain because it contained an engraved charm very precious to him. Coolidge then engaged the thief in quiet conversation and learned he was a college student who had no money to pay his hotel bill or buy a ticket back to campus. Coolidge counted $32 out of his wallet declared it to be a loan, he also advised the young man to leave the way he had come to avoid the Secret Service! Although this young man never earned nor deserved mercy Coolidge showed this young man mercy rather justice. Surprisingly, the loan was paid back. True Biblical mercy never tolerates sin for one moment, but it shows compassion to the sinner. Mercy helps people overcome sin; it never comforts them in their sin. God declares and demonstrates His goodness to His children. Nahum described the mercy and goodness of God. He is good! He is a refuge for help in the day of trouble. Furthermore, God knows those who trust in Him. He knows His own. The Lord knoweth them that are his (II Timothy 2:19). He has promised to bless those who trust in Him (Psalms 2:12; 34:78; 40:4; 84:12). Those promises remain to this day. Three Traits which Comfort Christians in Turbulent Times: 1. His Mercy is Pure (The Lord is good) This verse declares the goodness and mercy of the Lord. Although God’s mercy is something we are not deserving of, we should be very grateful for it. The mercy of the Lord is great and I am glad for its abundance. It is something that I do not deserve, but I am very grateful for. Without the mercy of God I would be without and our life would have no meaning. It is very humbling to think of the great compassion and mercy God shows to his fallen creation. Only the heart of a divine Saviour can love us at the level we receive. 2. His Mercy is Preserving (a strong hold in the day of trouble;) God is a help in trouble, not just in the good days, but also in the days of trouble. We see “in the day of trouble” the Lord will be there for us. Trouble and trials can't be avoided. God wants us to have the right attitude about the troubles that we face, James 1:2, My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;. It does not say if, but when we have trials. Many things and people can help us on good days but when trouble and calamity comes, their help ceases and is not adequate. "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1). It is the Lord Himself, His presence, that will shelter and protect the person who places his faith in the Lord. No matter the trouble (whether terrifying trial, seductive temptation, or simple problem) the Lord is good and He cares for those who trust in Him. The Lord will shelter, protect, and deliver the believer into the very presence of God Himself. 3. His Mercy is Personal (he knoweth them that trust in him) Believers will not face the vengeance of God because the Lord knows those who trust Him. The phrase “he knoweth them” emphasizes the personal interest and relationship that we have with God. The word knows suggests a close, personal relationship, a deep, intense, loving relationship. The Lord knows those whose faith and hope are in Him. He knows them because true believers walk with the Lord, fellowshipping, sharing, and talking with Him. They live righteously, obeying His Holy Word and commandments. The Lord and His people have a close bond, a very personal relationship. Therefore, when His people face trouble, whether mild or terrifying, the Lord is a refuge or stronghold for them. What a great encouragement to know that God knows and cares about us as individuals. God personally shows His affection to us. While speeding one late night, the driver saw the flashing lights of a state trooper in his rearview mirror. As the driver pulled over and as he rolled down the window, he tried to come up with an excuse for being in such a hurry. But as the trooper approached the car, he said nothing. Instead, he shined his flashlight in the driver’s face, then on his exhausted pregnant wife, then on his snoozing 18-month-old in his car seat, then on his three other children, who were also asleep, and lastly on the two dogs in the very back of the car. Returning the beam of light to his face, the trooper spoke and said, "Son, you can't afford a ticket. Slow it down." He returned to his car and drove away. Sometimes mercy triumphs over law. So it is for sinners who call out to Jesus. Prayer, Father in Heaven, use me as a sanctified vessel, to pour out mercy and love without measure on other people. Father, we live in a world where there are so many hurting people. Help me to stretch out a willing arm of comfort, when I see other people hurting or in pain. May Your Holy Spirit empower me to bless and help all those whom I come in contact. 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 Is God Able?...He is More Than Able! (Daniel 3:16-18)
Daniel 3:16-18, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. When Robert Morrison was on his way to China where he would serve as a missionary, the captain of the ship was skeptical of his calling and gave him a hard time. As Morrison was leaving the ship, the captain said to him, “I suppose you think you’re going to make an impression on China.” “No,” Robert Morrison replied simply, “I don’t think I will make an impression on China but I believe God will.” The three young men answered firmly: they refused to plead for their lives. Trusting and loving the Lord with all their hearts, they surrendered themselves into the hands of God. They informed the king that they did not need to defend themselves, that their first loyalty belonged to the Lord and Him alone. Moreover, they knew that their God was able to save them from the fiery furnace. In fact, they were casting themselves upon the Lord to actually rescue them. But even if the Lord chose not to deliver them, they still could not betray Him. No matter what the king did to them, they could not worship the gods of Babylon nor the gold image that represented the state. The strong, steadfast faith of these young men is a perfect picture of total surrender to the Lord. In times of trial or temptation, the one thing we need above all else is a strong, steadfast faith. The three young men could have easily compromised their faith. They could have done what we are so often tempted to do and take the easy way out. A solid, unwavering faith is needed to withstand the temptation to compromise. Throughout life, we will face critical decisions just as Daniel’s three friends did. If we choose to deny the Lord, we may escape the threats and the suffering for a brief time, but the day of departure from this world will still come. Therefore, the Lord encourages us to place our faith in Him and to grow a strong and steadfast faith. Ephesians 3:20, Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Throughout the Bible there are examples of God demonstrating His ability. The whole point of prayer is to ask God to do what we cannot do in our own strength or ability. If we think that we can pull it off ourselves, then we don’t need to pray. God often puts His people in impossible situations to display His power and glory. God is not just able to do beyond what we ask, but abundantly beyond. But that’s not enough, He is able to do far more abundantly beyond what we ask. But, we still aren’t to the limit: The Lord our God is the God of omnipotent ability. The Omnipotent God operates in a realm that is far beyond our ability to even understand. His ability is absolute. What limitless power! His power is unlimited. He can do anything He wills. Omnipotence knows no obstacles. He is not hanging around and just sitting there—He is working within us. Whatever is required to accomplish the purposes and promises of God, “He is able” to perform. God is never defeated. Though He may be opposed, attacked, or resisted, still the ultimate outcome can never be in doubt. Do you serve a God that can? From Genesis to Revelation, we see God’s mighty power at work. He is the God that walked with the 3 Hebrew children in the fiery furnace and rescued them out of Nebuchadnezzar’s evil hands. He is the God of Daniel who quieted the mouths of the Lions and was able to deliver him from their grasp. He is the God of Moses who parted the Red Sea and drowned the Egyptian army that pursued God’s people. He is the God of David that guided the single stone from David’s slingshot to Goliath’s head. He is the God that raised Jesus from the dead and defeated death, hell and the grave. He is a God that is greater than my understanding or ability to explain who He is. He is the Lord God almighty. How big is your God? Is He a God that can? PRAYER: Father, although I will never fully understand Your Almighty power, I do know that nothing is ever too hard or difficult for You. I know that Your plans for me are far larger than I can imagine. Help me to never limit or hinder Your work in and through my life. In Jesus name, AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com A Surrendered Life (Romans 12:1-2)
Romans 12:1-2, 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. The Scriptures challenge us to yield and do the will of God. Psalm 40:8, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. One man who delighted to do the will of God, no matter what the cost, was Abraham Bininger, a Swiss boy from Zurich. He came with his parents to this country on the same ship with John Wesley. His parents died on the trip and were buried at sea. Young Abraham stepped down the gang-plank alone in a strange and bewildering land. A short time later he decided to take the Gospel to the natives on the island of St. Thomas, but when he got there, he learned that it was illegal for anyone but a slave to preach the Gospel to the slaves. He wrote to the governor of the island begging to become a slave himself that he might have the freedom to proclaim the gospel. The letter was forwarded to the king of Denmark who was so touched by Bininger's desire that he sent an edict to allow him to preach the Gospel where, when, and to whom he chose. This man who presented his body as a living sacrifice was greatly used of the Lord. There is no greater joy a person can know than knowing they are doing the will of the Lord. The Lord calls for all of us to be a living sacrifice and to submit ourselves for His service with all our heart. When we surrender our purpose and will to God and allow Him to use us as He sees fit, amazing things happen. The world is shaken, not by the wise, the mighty, the intelligent, or the skilled, but by those who have yielded to God. Paul said it was "reasonable" for us to surrender our lives, but many today seem to think that it is too much to ask. Instead of surrendering, they cling tightly to their own desires and interests. How much better it is both for us, and for a world in need , if we surrender and let God choose our path! Each and every morning, teach yourself to begin your day with a prayer of dedication in which you earnestly and reverently present yourself and all that you are to God’s purposes. Don’t assume that because you did it yesterday, you don’t need to do it today. Every day you need to take a step closer to the Lord and make a commitment more serious than the one you made before. Questions to Consider:
Points to Ponder:
PRAYER: Father, teach me that I may know how to be more Christlike that I may please You and that You would be glorified. I know that I will never accomplish this without the Holy Spirit. So right now, I yield to Him. 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 To Be Like Jesus (I Peter 2:21-24)
I Peter 2:21-24,"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." The proof of Christianity is not a book but a life. The power of Christianity is not a creed but a Christian character; and wherever you see life that has been transformed by the grace of God, you see a witness to the resurrection of Jesus. God’s purpose and plan for our life is for us to be a reflection of His Son. Peter was an eyewitness to Jesus' life and sufferings upon the cross. He says three things about the death of Christ. Christ "suffered for us" (I Peter 2:21). That is, His death took the place of sinners. Christ "did no sin" (I Peter 2:22). That is, He was sinless; He lived a perfect and righteous life. Therefore, the sins He bore in death were not His sins but the sins of men. Christ "bore our sins in His own body" (I Peter 2:24). That is, the suffering Jesus bore was the penalty due to sin. In the Old Testament, the words "bore our sins" means to be answerable for sin; to endure its penalty; to die for sinners (Exodus 28:43; Leviticus 24:15-16; Isaiah 53:12). The death Jesus bore was substitution. He bore the sins due others. It is this act that shows the supreme love of God for man. As Christians, we are not under the law (Galatians 3:24-26). We do not need rules, regulations, threats of punishment or promises of reward to inspire and rule our hearts. In order to live in this world for the glory of God, we must simply follow the example of the One who hung upon the cursed tree, bearing our sins. When I see Christ hanging upon the cross as my Substitute, I see that self-sacrifice is essential to honoring God (Luke 14:33). There is a battle for me to fight, a trial for me to endure, a service for me to perform and a cross for me to bear. I cannot serve God without self-sacrifice and self-denial. When Christ was on the cross, bearing our sins, He set before us an example of willing obedience to our heavenly Father. Our Saviour willingly obeyed His Father’s will, even unto death (Isaiah 50:5-7). This is the way we must serve God. God will never accept any gift, any worship or any service, unless it comes from a willing heart (II Corinthians 8:12). The cross also shows us our Lord’s dedication and perseverance. He not only agreed to bear our sins and promised to die for us; He actually did it. Even before the world was created, God’s plan was for us to be, “conformed to the image of his Son” (Romans 8:29). God did not save us solely to allow us to go to Heaven, though of course that is a wonderful and undeserved blessing. God also saved us so that we could go into the world just as Jesus did and point men and women to Him. God intends for us to be walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ as we go through this world. We have been called to take the name of Jesus and identify with Him, even if that involves suffering for our faith. Jesus has given us the example to follow, and we are instructed to walk in His way. If we are to imitate the life of Jesus, then we must be led by Him. It is difficult to imitate your life after someone that you are never around or know nothing about. If we are to live for Jesus, in a way that pleases Him, we must allow Him to guide our lives. We must allow Him to be the Shepherd of our souls and heed His voice. Jesus has made provision for us. He suffered all that He did so that we might live through Him. Our only hope is to keep our eyes upon the Jesus and follow Him. God requires dedication and perseverance from all who follow Christ. Our Lord’s death upon the cross also sets before us an example of real love and patient submission to the will of God. Jesus set a high standard for living. Not one person has ever achieved His level of perfection, nor can we, but we must strive for that perfection daily. If the Lord has spoken to you about specific areas in your life, why not come and get those things settled before Him. The Lord is waiting to help you if you will only come to Him. Questions to Consider: Does your life reflect the life of Christ? Is He evident in your life for the world to see? Does your character, communication, conduct, and commitment following the example that Jesus left? Wouldn't it be a shame to stand before the Lord and never have matured spiritually? Prayer: Father, I know Your desire for me is to be like You. You transform me every day. You want me to love what You love and hate what You hate. Many times, I have failed You. Thank You for Your constant love and forgiveness of me. May I never use the power of Your forgiveness to justify sinning, but may it draw me closer to You, so that when temptation comes, I may boldly proclaim, “I want to be like Jesus!” In Jesus’ name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Take Time Today to Rejoice in your Relationship with Jesus (Psalm 68:19)
Psalm 68:19, "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation." David wanted to praise the Lord with all that was within him. That was true in David’s day. How much more is it true today? Have you taken time to count your blessings of health, housing, food, electricity, water, air, strength, seeing, hearing, walking, smelling, touching, talking, your Bible, friends, family, a good church, your pastor? We have so much to be thankful for. God is the source of all these blessings. The blessings are not sporadic, but daily. Every day God blesses us. God is not tightfisted with His blessings. He piles blessings on top of blessings. He loads us to overflowing with blessings. Truly, He has daily loaded us with blessings. Daily we need to be reminding ourselves and giving thanks for the Lord’s benefits. Therefore, we have a duty to bless the God of our salvation. If that was true then, how much more so now! “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2). This psalm expresses thanksgiving and praise to the Lord for the benefits and blessings He gives to those who accept His commands and promises and who maintain a faithful relationship with Him. We must never forget God’s goodness to us (Deuteronomy 8:12-14; II Chronicles 32:35) or fail to thank Him for the blessings He generously gives us through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16; Acts 2:38-39; 9:17-18). To bless the Lord means to show admiration for the Lord as we thank and praise Him. The benefits of the Lord are, indeed, great and marvelous and it would be an act of ingratitude not to remember and appreciate them. When considering His benefits, we have the great gift of eternal life, through faith in Christ and His finished work of redemption. We have it every day of the year and are daily ready to meet the Lord, whenever He calls. Each day we have the indwelling presence of His Spirit, the illuminating guidance of His Word, the daily provision of all real needs and the assurance of His love. He has surely loaded us with benefits! Have you forgotten what the Lord has done for you? Are you so focused on problems, trials, or your ambitions, that you have failed to count your blessings? This kind of attitude develops a cold heart and a weak memory. I encourage you to repent of this kind of attitude for it’s this attitude that leads people to wander from the Lord and will eventually lead people out of church and cause them to be selfish, bitter people. Charles Spurgeon told this story: “Afflictions, when sanctified, make us grateful for mercies which before we treated with indifference. We sat for half an hour in a calf's shed the other day, quite grateful for the shelter from the driving rain, yet, at no other time would we have entered such a hovel. Discontented people need a course of the bread of adversity and the water of affliction to cure them of the wretched habit of complaining. Even things which we loathed before, we shall learn to value when we are in troubling circumstances. We are not fond of lizards, and yet at Pont St. Martin, in the Aosta valley, where the mosquitoes, flies, and insects of all sorts drove us nearly to distraction, we prized the little green fellows, and felt quite an attachment to them as they darted out their tongues and devoured our worrying enemies. Sweet are the uses of adversity. It brings into proper estimation mercies which were before lightly esteemed.” Thank the Lord for the blessings of salvation you can enjoy right now. What a wonderful privilege to know Jesus Christ personally! Because of salvation we will someday enjoy a home in Heaven, a sinless body and eternity with Christ. We all look forward to our future with Jesus Christ, but it's easy to forget about the benefits of salvation for today. Since God is the source of all our blessings, He deserves the full measure of our praise. If we honestly assess all that the Lord has done for us, it will not take long for us to begin rejoicing that He daily loads us with benefits. Let's take a moment to remember a few of the many blessings we can enjoy every day as Christians. · Alongside counting all of those blessings, let's make it a goal this year to make those blessings count. · Go reach the lost at your workplace or in your neighborhood. · Make it a point to help fellow Christians who need encouragement. · Lift up those who are hurting in prayer. · How will you bless the Lord today? Prayer, Father in Heaven, forgive me for complaining of the things I don’t have and create in my heart a spirit of contentment for the things I do have. I never again want to fail to thank You and praise You for Your daily blessings. I understand that many of the blessings You have blessed me with are for the purpose of blessing others. Help me to make these blessings count. 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 3 Crucial Keys Concerning Prayer (Philippians 4:6-7)
Philippians 4:6-7, Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 1. We Can Pray About Everything We are to worry about nothing, but pray about everything. There are some very real assets that are ours in prayer. We hear these following statements all the time. We have even made them ourselves. “I'm not going to pray. I don't know how to pray, I don't know what to do.” The answer that God gives is, “Pray about it anyway. Even if you don't know how to pray. Even if you don't feel like praying about it or not, pray anyway.” 2. Prayer Brings Fellowship With God Another reason that you should pray, even if you don't know how to word it, is that it brings fellowship with the Father. If you are praying the wrong way, God can take care of that, because He knows what your heart is. We ought to spend time in prayer even if we are praying about things that may not have any immediate answer to them, and we know it as we pray. We ought to spend time in prayer, because of an opportunity to be in fellowship with the Father. It is an opportunity to focus our thinking on Him, and to sense that bond between Himself and us that the Scripture abundantly tells us is there. There is something about just being with that loved one, regardless of what you may be talking about. Even if you talk the whole time, there is something that transcends the talk, and that is true of prayer too. Even if you don't know how to pray, even if you think God may say no to your prayer, spend time in prayer because of the fellowship with the Father. It reinforces our fellowship with God. 3. Prayer Brings Freedom From Fear We have fellowship with the Father when we pray, but also if we pray about everything we have freedom from fear or worry. We have peace of mind and stability. That verse doesn't say that as you bring those things to God, God will automatically grant your request. It says, “The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, will keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The word keep there is a word that means “to guard our hearts and minds.” In other words, what this verse tells us is that we can and we should pray about anything that we worry about. Have you ever wondered just how broad the spectrum of prayer is? It is as broad as the spectrum of worry. Some of us are bigger worriers than others, but all of us worry about all kinds of things. It is interesting that the same people that say, “I have got to worry about things,” will say, “I can't pray about everything.” Listen, if you can worry about it, you can pray about it. Not only do we have in prayer that fellowship with the Father that means so much, but we also have freedom from fear. We have freedom from anxiety, and the guarding of our hearts and minds, as we pray about those things. Prayer, Lord, I humbly ask You to graciously grant me a heart that desires to pray. Forgive me, I’ve just been struggling with fear and doubt that has troubled the peace I have from You. I commit myself to prayer and I am casting these things Your way right now. I’m choosing not to worry about them anymore because You will deal with them under the authority of Jesus’ name, Amen If this post has blessed you in any way, 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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