Flourishing in Faith (Jude 20-21)
Jude 20-21, But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. As we learn the Bible and understand its truth, we are strengthened, we grow, we mature, we are built up. Without the Scriptures there is no growth. Without the Word there is no maturity. Without the gospel nothing of eternal good will last. Like the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat, it is vital that we daily ingest and digest God’s Word and its truth. The thought of building is to strengthen. We are to strengthen, or build, our faith (II Peter 1:5-10). We are never to cease or stand still spiritually. We must always be growing. A growing believer is a healthy believer. These verses have been referred to as “The Believers Building Program”. We are to build on a solid foundation (I Corinthians 3:12; Psalm 127:1; Luke 6:48). We are to build cooperatively (Ephesians 2:22). We are to build on the Word (Acts 20:32). We are to build by preaching the Gospel (Romans 15:20-21). We are to build by praying in the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 14:15; Romans 15:30-33). As believers, we must take the initiative to grow spiritually (II Peter 3:18). I’m grateful and very blessed that the Lord has allowed me to pastor a wonderful church where His people love Him, His Word, and others. If we are not growing as a Christian, we have no one to blame but ourselves. We need to have the craving to be a better Christian and be willing to take the sacrificial steps to make that a reality. When we talk about dedication to task or goal we must ask ourselves how badly we do we want to achieve this. Paul was very focused on serving God with his life (Philippians 3:13-14). We need to be focused completely on our service for God and our relationship with him. Too often God is treated as a low priority and many other things often interfere with serving God. When we are really motivated it is amazing what we can do. When I was in Bible College, a quote was stated that I have remembered more than any other, “What you do with the Bible determines what God will do with you”. It has been my life’s desire to read it, study it, obey it, and apply it. My desire has been to serve the Lord, love Him, and to find and finish the course He has set me on. Acts 20:24, But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. I’m truly thankful the Lord has given me a faithful help meet who has never hindered me from following Him. Jesus loved us enough to give His life for us on Calvary. It is our responsibility to identify with Him! We live in a day when more and more are refusing to identify with Him or make mention of His name. It is time for God's people to publicly identify with their Saviour and Lord! The imminent return of Jesus Christ motivates us to live a holy life and promotes the purity and separation of the church from the world (Philippians 3:20; Titus 2:13). If we knew for certain the Lord would return tomorrow, we would have lived much differently today. Well, the truth is He just might come tomorrow. Live each day as if it might be your last. We have no guarantee of another day and there is still so much to be done. David Livingstone, the missionary to Africa, walked over 29,000 miles. His wife died early in their ministry and he faced harsh opposition from his Scottish brethren. He ministered half blind. In his personal diary, he wrote, “Send me anywhere, only go with me. Lay any burden on me, only sustain me. Sever me from any tie but the tie that binds me to your service and to your heart”. Question to Consider: Do we inspire anyone else by the way we live, love, and labor? Point to Ponder: His perseverance provokes me to keep on serving the Lord in spite of my oppression and affliction. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, I know I’m a work in progress, but thanks to Jesus, I’m not the man I used to be. I need Your help, as I continue to learn from You, lean on You, love You and look for You. In Jesus Name, AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com
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The Problem with Pride (Proverbs 16:18)
Proverbs 16:18, Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Pride is the worst of all sins. It is also the original sin. Pride is not self-esteem although we need self-esteem and should have it. Pride is arrogance or having an exaggerated opinion of oneself. Pride carries with it a must-be-seen attitude. There was a turtle who wanted to spend the winter in Florida, but he knew he could never walk that far. The turtle convinced a couple of geese to help him, each taking one end of a piece of rope, while he clamped his vise-like jaws in the center. The flight went fine until someone on the ground looked up in admiration and asked, "Who in the world thought of that?" Unable to resist the chance to take credit, the turtle opened his mouth to shout, "I ahhhhhh............." Pride is the predecessor to destruction and is the forerunner of trouble. Arrogance or a bighead always precedes a fall. Pride and arrogance are balloons that are soon popped. In Muhammad Ali’s heyday as the heavy weight champion in boxing, he had taken his seat on a 747 which was starting to taxi down the runway for take off. The flight attendant walked by and noticed Ali did not have on his seatbelt, and said, “Please fasten your seatbelt, sir.” He looked up proudly and snapped, “Superman don’t need no seatbelt.” Without hesitation she stared at him and said, “Superman don’t need no plane.” Everything you and I have comes from God. A man once said to one of his customers, "I built and earned everything I have with these two hands." The customer responded asking him? "Where did you get those hands?" Who gave you your mind, your talents, and your abilities? There is only one cause for not being close to God and that is pride. Have you noticed the middle letter in the words "pride" and "sin?" When we have an "I" problem, it pushes us away from God. Another word for pride is "ego," which someone has said stands for "edging God out." Pride causes one to become unteachable. Prideful people tend not to listen to warnings and cautions from others. When those warnings go unheeded, then sudden destruction may come. Pride also makes us feel invincible. We may think, "Nothing can hurt me or I can handle anything that comes my way." Then something does come along that does hurt us and we cannot handle it. If you don't get a grip on your pride, it will destroy you. Solomon warned us extensively about pride and its destructiveness. He addresses the issue of pride 13 times in Proverbs. Only one thing can destroy pride in our lives, and that is humility. Humility is the opposite of pride. Humility can push pride out of our hearts. The ultimate example of humility is Jesus Christ. That's why He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross (Philippians 2:8). Prayer, Father in Heaven, too often I have knowingly and ignorantly come against Your will and Your ways. Open my eyes to the blessings of humility. Let me view it in its beauty and fullness of joy not as the world sees it. While I desire a life of godly humility, pride pulls hard to overpower me. In my warfare against pride, help me to fight against ego and the flesh as I pursue humility. Your Son left the pleasures of heaven for a life of service on earth. He gave His life for ungodly, ungrateful and undeserving people. Help me have His attitude, remembering that You resist the proud and give grace to the humble. In Jesus name, Amen! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com God Has Never Failed You (Deuteronomy 31:6-8)
Deuteronomy 31:8, And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed. One tribe of native Americans had a unique practice for training young braves. On the night of a boy's thirteenth birthday, he was placed in a dense forest to spend the entire night alone. Until then he had never been away from the security of his family and tribe. But on this night he was blindfolded and taken miles away. When he took off the blindfold, he was in the middle of thick woods. By himself. All night long. Every time a twig snapped, he probably visualized a wild animal ready to pounce. Every time an animal howled, he imagined a wolf leaping out of the darkness. Every time the wind blew, he wondered what more sinister sound it masked. No doubt it was a terrifying night for many. After what seemed like an eternity, the first rays of sunlight entered the interior of the forest. Looking around, the boy saw flowers, trees, and the outline of the path. Then, to his utter astonishment, he beheld the figure of a man standing just a few feet away, armed with a bow and arrow. It was the boy's father. He had been there all night long. Can you think of any better way for a child to learn how God allows us to face the tests of life? God is always present with us. God's presence is unseen, but it is more real than life itself. Moses instructed Israel to be “strong and of a good courage” because their God would not fail them nor forsake them. These words are very familiar to us. No doubt Hebrews 13:5 is quoted here. Hebrews 13:5b,… for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. We have the promise of His presence. God’s almighty power will keep you from failing what He has called you to do. God will not forsake you. He will faithfully abide with you all the days of your life. One of the most foolish statements a tongue can utter is “God has failed me” Yet most of us have thought or said it at one time or another—if not through our words, at least through our actions. When trying times come, we ponder, How could God have let this happen? Doesn't He know I had a plan? Isn't He paying attention? How could He fail me like this? God has never failed at anything and God has never failed anyone! We're certain we know what's best for our future, and when God doesn't cooperate, we're quick to remind Him how out of line He is. In confusion we question if only He could see things our way, He'd understand. At least that's how it seems from our point of view. But is God really so out of touch? Do we really think He isn't paying attention? There have been literally billions of people on the planet since the days of Adam, and God has never failed one of them, yet somehow, we convince ourselves that He has forgotten our predicament. What message does that send to God about the level of our trust? God's power is most evident when it seems that our life is most out of control. When we are the weakest, He is the strongest. When we need Him most, He is nearer than ever. Even when it seems that life has left us alone, God is right beside us, holding us in His mighty hand. The worst we can do during these times of trial is to blame God and fight Him for control. The best we can do is to let go and believe His promises. Points to Ponder: Confidently know that God is with you and that He is committed to you. You can fearlessly trust Him in the midst of your troubles. Questions to Consider: When is the last time you felt like God had forsaken you? Has He ever let you down in the past? How have you experienced God’s presence in hard times? What comfort do you draw from this truth today? Prayer, Father, today I need to renew my confidence and faith in You. Help me now to lay hold of Your promise that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Help me to speak and live fearlessly because I’m confident I’m in Your presence. Lord, You are with me. I am never alone. I commit this truth to my heart right now. In Jesus I pray, amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com A Loyal Friend (I Samuel 18:1-4)
I Samuel 18:1-4, And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house. Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle. Jonathan was a faithful, mighty warrior, and one of the bravest men who had ever lived. Jonathan’s victorious strategy at the battle of Michmash was successfully used in World War I at the same exact location 3,000 years later, which has been considered the most successful military tactics ever used in battle. One-night, Major Vivian Gilbert of the British army was contemplating the situation against the Ottoman forces. He remembered a town by the name of Michmash written somewhere in the Bible. He found the verses, and discovered that there was supposedly a secret path around the town. Incredibly, he managed to find that secret path, and with the British forces using this path to outmaneuver the Ottomans, the British took the town British troops, under the command of General Edmund Allenby, captured the city of Jerusalem on December 9th, 1917. Jonathan and David were great friends, likened to brothers. The Scriptures suggests they could not have been closer had they been actual brothers, in spite of the fact that David had been chosen by God to take Jonathan’s place as the next king of Israel. It was David who killed Goliath and defended the people. This was enough to earn Jonathan’s respect and trust. Yet rather than being resentful, Jonathan poured his heart into his friend, making his life better. Decide to be the kind of friend who makes the lives of others better rather than seeking the best for yourself. Jonathan came to David and put all that he had at his feet (I Samuel 18:4). He began with his robe. Jonathan's robe suggests his position, for it was the robe of a king's son, the robe of a crown prince of Israel. Jonathan also gave his garments to David. His garments speak of his possessions, the things which most personally belonged to him. Jonathan gave David his sword. His sword speaks of his protection, his right of self-defense. Jonathan put his bow at David's feet. Jonathan's bow suggests his prowess; it represents a skill he had. Finally, Jonathan put his girdle at David's feet. His girdle suggests his plans. This was not something King Saul received well. Saul wanted David out of the picture, regardless of what God had already decided. This resulted in David becoming a hunted man. He was the number one wanted man on Saul’s hitlist. Taking his father’s side would have been easy to do, but Jonathan was “born for adversity” (Proverbs 17:17). David and Jonathan are the epitome of what true friendship should be. No family ties, loyalties, or blood kinship could surpass the loyalty of these true friends. The souls of Jonathan and David were knit to the death. And no fault, failure, flaw, or foulness of David could waiver Jonathan's loyalty to him or make him love him less. If a friend is anything, it is someone who knows everything about you and loves you nonetheless. Jonathan, along with his two brothers and father, was killed in a battle with the Philistines (I Samuel 31:2-6). Upon hearing this, David was brokenhearted. He lamented the death of his dear friend, especially referring to his courage, saying he was swifter than an eagle and stronger than a lion (II Samuel 1:17-26). David could not hide his love for Jonathan and God cannot hide His love for you. He loved you so much that He sent His only begotten Son to die on a cross, that He might spend eternity with you. Points to Ponder: · If you have a friend, cherish that friendship. · Be a true friend to someone else today. · A true friendship is a great treasure and exceedingly rare. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, help me to be as true and loyal as Jonathan was to David. In Jesus name, Amen! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Lord, I Will Praise You In This Pain (I Peter 1:6-7)
I Peter 1:6-7, Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: The Bible gives reasons for rejoicing in the midst of our afflictions that we can consider suffering to be beneficial. Clearly, Peter could hardly contain his joy as he wrote to his scattered flock. We can easily identify with such high spirits if, like Peter, we review all the blessings we have in Christ. Joy is normal to the Christian. But in this same passage Peter reminds his readers that, "Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations" (I Peter 1:6). 1. PAIN (ROMANS 5:3-4) The reason the Bible instructs us to rejoice in our sufferings is because of what sufferings can produce. In Romans 5, Paul explains that we rejoice in our sufferings, “but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope” (Romans 5:3-4). Suffering produces endurance and a Christlike character. Suffering teaches us patience and endurance, especially as we press closer to Christ through the reading of His Word. Through afflictions we learn more deeply "the fellowship of his sufferings," as Paul put it (Philippians 3:10). 2. PERPLEXITIES (II CORINTHIANS 4:8) The pressures of life have a way of developing endurance in us, and this endurance can be exercised only when we are placed under pressure. The very trials we dread are thus used by God to strengthen us. II Corinthians 4:8, “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair.” Troubles exposed Paul’s weakness, but at the same time, God showed His strength through Paul. 3. PERSECUTIONS (I PETER 4:12-14) Peter also saw that our afflictions are opportunities to participate in Christ's sufferings (I Peter 4:12-14). “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” Questions to Consider: Are you in the midst of trials and perplexities? Do others notice your joy in spite of your suffering? Points to Ponder: God often performs His greatest work through our suffering. How we respond to our sufferings speaks volumes of our faith in God in the trials. PRAYER: LORD, thank You for helping me to see that there is a purpose for pain I endure. I understand that You are using hard times to refine my conduct and my character. I accept this trial as from You and for my good rather than resisting it. I can trust You because You love 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 Noah (Genesis 6:5, 9, 11)
Genesis 6:5, And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. Genesis 6:9, These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God. Genesis 6:11, The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. In the days of Noah, the human race had become so wicked. People were completely depraved in their sexual morality, and the earth was filled with violence. The people had abundant evidence of God’s goodness, however, they turned away from their knowledge of God and toward their own pleasures. God had enough (Genesis 6:3-7). Only one man found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Noah was a righteous man who faithfully walked with God and was obedient to His instructions (Genesis 6:22). Because of his faith in God, he was justified. Though the world around him was absolute corrupt, Noah was basically without blemish before God. Noah was a just man. Noah preached in a day when “the wickedness of man was great in the earth” (Genesis 6:5). The Scriptures reveal Noah being just, being perfect (entire or without blemish), and walking with God. The corruption and violence of man caused God to send a world-wide flood. However, in God’s mercy, He sent Noah, a preacher of righteousness, to warn and plead with the people for 120 years, while the ark was being built. Noah must have stood out in the world in that day, building an ark when it had never rained. But what made him stand out more was his walk with God (Genesis 6:12). Noah was a man who walked with God and preached right living. 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 on of the three most righteous men in history as recorded in Ezekiel 14. When tempted to lie, he told the truth. When tempted to steal, he was honest. When tempted with immorality, he determined to be pure. When tempted to lose his temper and curse, he held his tongue. When tempted to become bitter or jealous, he maintained a right spirit. When it seemed easier to not put the Lord first, he refused. When he realized another in need, he sought to help him. When directed by God to begin a task no one else in human history had ever done, Noah took God at His Word and obeyed. In a world filled with mockers and skepticism, Noah had unwavering confidence in God’s Word. In that day, God planned to destroy the population of the wicked world. His plan was to send a world-wide flood upon the earth to such a degree that all would be drown. God called Noah to build an ark where his family and two of every species of animal of the earth would be saved. Every day Noah labored on the ark was a call to repentance and a declaration that judgment was coming. Just as those in the days of Noah ignored the warning and rejected the message that would save them. Jesus warned us of making the same mistake (Matthew 24:37-39). Noah believed God, when He warned him of the impending judgment. Noah took God at His Word and simply did what God said 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, 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 the judgment of God. Just as there was one door (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. No amount of righteousness on man’s part can gain eternal life (Titus 3:5). Righteousness after salvation is an act of obedience and desire to know God. Salvation does not excuse the responsibility to live righteously (Romans 6:15). Righteousness is conforming our hearts and lives to God’s divine law. Paul told Titus, “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;” (Titus 2:12). Point to Ponder:
Question to Consider:
PRAYER: LORD, my desire is to please and honor You in my daily walk with You before others. I know that there is not one thing that I ever perform or ponder that is concealed from You. As You examine my heart, help me to live a life of holiness, honesty, and humility. I ask for strength, patience, and wisdom as I aim to practice Your Word. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Spiritual Fog (Psalm 119:105)
Psalm 119:105, Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. There has already been several mornings this year where we have seen a fog in our area. A fog is the result of air being cooled to the point where it can no longer hold all water vapor it contains. It takes a lot of effort to get out of bed on these foggy, gloomy mornings. For some, gloom can have a serious impact on their outlook on life. The fog causes limited visibility and one can only see so far ahead. The fog can cause you to become disoriented. When we are on a busy schedule and with all the disruption, we can easily drown God out. The busyness of life can often cause one to focus primarily on self, causing us not to prioritize on the Lord. Fog creeps in making me lose clarity on my situation. It’s very hard to make wise decisions when the direction is distorted. God is working behind the scenes. It would be easy to think He was actually absent but this is not true. It’s only when the sun begins to rise that the fog gets thinner. We have to wait for God to burn off the spiritual fog, the fog of confusion or disillusionment. Then are we able to see clearly. The Lord often tests us with spiritual fogs in life. Fogs cause us to slow down in life or to learn to wait! During these times we are not too hasty decisions. When you cannot see clearly it is the time to stop and wait. Wait until the fog lifts. No matter how much pressure is put on you by man or other things. Many are so impatient when in waiting mode. Psalm 5:3, My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. We must be mindful that there are spiritual fogs. Walking in the Spirit is not denying the fact that the fog exists in our lives. Walking in the Spirit helps us to keep our eyes on what God has said in His Word in spite of the presence of the fog. Walking in the Spirit helps us to see through the fog that surrounds us. Walking in the Spirit is having a clear and present awareness of the presence of the Spirit of God in our lives. When nothing is normal, so to speak, stop, look at the consistency of God’s Word. It’s here you can say, “I know I’m on the right path. He’s led me here, but it’s foggy right now”. And God’s silence seems deafening. Go back to what you know is true and wait for God to show you more. Stand there and trust that the LORD will give you clear direction. Just as the sun burns away the foggy mist in the air that we may see clearly, the Son gives us clarity of mind that we may focus on what He has before us. It doesn’t always “feel” good when we wait. We must learn discipline to wait on the LORD. In His time, He will give us our release. The LORD knows the rest of the story; however, He wants us to know if we believe Him. Why? He wants us to see our own heart. If we cannot wait on God we will get into trouble. This is a time of testing for many. Stand on what God has already told you in His Word. There are times and seasons when we must trust even though we can’t see a thing. I’m waiting on exciting pieces of God’s giant puzzle to fit together in my life. So wait, knowing you worship a sovereign God Who is in control. And in His perfect timing, the fog will be lifted and the light will shine clearly and perfectly on the path He has chosen for me. I was allowing God’s light in only a little. Therefore, the fog had been thinning but still existent. God’s message was loud and clear. I needed to let His light shine in full radiance on my fog-filled life. Once I do my part, His light will naturally burn away the fog. I need to do my part willingly and not just as an act of obedience. Do as He asks cheerfully and be ready to receive His promises to you! Allow His light to shine in full radiance in your life! As you do, the fog will be lifted and His light will clearly shine through your life! PRAYER: Thank You that You do not give me confusion, but You give me clarity. Your Word instructs me, Your people counsel me, and Your Spirit leads me. Help me to fill up on the Word, to seek wise advice, and to rely on Your Spirit, who is always with me. In Jesus name I pray, AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com The Dimensions of God’s Love (Ephesians 3:18-19)
Ephesians 3:18-19, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. During the Napoleonic period in Europe, some of Napoleon's soldiers opened a prison that had been used in the Spanish Inquisition. There were many dark dungeons in that prison, but in one of the cells the soldiers found something that was particularly interesting. They found the small remains of a prisoner, his flesh and clothing were long gone, but there was one ankle bone that remained in a shackle. It was the message that was carved on the wall that spoke volumes. Using a sharp piece of metal, the prisoner carved into stone a crude cross. Inscribed around the cross were the Spanish words for the four dimensions mentioned in Ephesians 3:18, height, depth, breadth, and length. As this prisoner was dying in his chains, his heart, mind, and soul were free from the chains of despair. He found comfort, grace, love, strength and satisfaction in the love of Christ that satisfied him wholly. The truth of God's Word and the comfort of the Holy Spirit were anchors to his soul. The word comprehend means "to lay hold of, to seize." It carries the idea of having a firm grasp on something. Paul wanted believers to get a hold of what God's love means. Paul lists four dimensions of God's love. 1. The breadth of the love of God—"God so loved the world." Breadth speaks of the width and suggests God’s love is all encompassing. God's love is wide enough to save whosoever will (Romans 10:13). 2. The length of the love of God—"He gave His only begotten Son." Length speaks of the duration of God's love. God never stops loving. Paul asked the question, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” (Romans 8:35). He goes on to show that nothing or no one can curve God's love for us. 3. The depth of the love of God—"That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish." The depth of God's love is seen in the fact that He gave His only begotten Son to save lost man (John 3:16). The depth of God's love is fathomless. 4. The height of the love of God—"But have everlasting life." Height of God's love reaches to the heavens. This is the very home of God from which every believer is blessed (Ephesians 1:3). Paul wants us to know the love of Christ but notice that His love passeth knowledge. His love is beyond our ability to comprehend. The word know means "to be aware of, to perceive, to understand." It carries the idea of having an experiential knowledge. The human finite mind cannot fully understand God's infinite love, but we can experience it. Paul prays for the believer enter into and experience that love. We can never know it completely, because it is unfathomable. While on this earth, we will never come to the place of saying that we know all that there is to know of Christ’s great love for us, however, we can come to know more about His love for us as we walk with Him. PRAYER: LORD, I thank You for loving me unconditionally. The more I read Your love letter, the Bible, the more I come to know You more and understand how much You love me. I pray I never lose the desire to dig each day into Your Word and also, to share Your love letter, the Bible, with others. In Jesus name AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com God’s GPS (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. When traveling abroad or to an area I’m unfamiliar with, I travel with my GPS. The GPS lets you know where you are and where you need to go. Once you enter your destination, within seconds you have detailed directions anywhere in the world. It is so detailed that it allows you to begin your journey from the place you are currently at. From the location you are currently at it will take you to your desired destination. All you have to do is trust it (Psalm 119:105; 48:14). At times, we may feel like we are off course. Perhaps we feel like we have taken a wrong turn or failed to make a turn and believe we are heading in the wrong direction. All because the way doesn’t seem right. As with the GPS, if we get off course, it doesn’t shut down; its reconfigures. It turns us around and gives us a detailed path to put us back on course. We may ignore the GPS, but it still continues to configure and never stops. So, it is with the Lord. He will never leave us nor forsake us. However, the LORD is with us at every turn. God has a plan for your life. If we trusted the Lord the same way we trust our GPS, life would be far less complicated. Many people fail to embrace His plan because they do not realize the starting point. Right here, right now, God is inviting all of us to follow Him, to trust Him, and to listen to Him. Like a GPS, as soon as we deviate from the designed path charted for us, the device lets us know we have gone off course; so it is with the Spirit of God. Psalm 37:23, The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way He has mapped this way, He has scouted the trail, He has charted the course. He has already surveyed the scenery and knows the exact turns we should take. Start at your current location and listen to His instruction and guidance. Right here, right now you can begin to trust God. Not only will you get to your desired location, you’ll enjoy the trip. Faith is like a GPS: 1. You Have to Listen for Direction 2. You Have to Start Where You Are 3. You will have to Re-route from Time to Time 4. You will be Responsible for the Drive Life doesn’t always follow a planned route. At times in our Christian walk we come to a juncture and we need to know the direction God has for us. At other times the road may be filled with obstacles, littered with pot holes, or tied up in “construction.” Just like David, we need to hear God’s advice and counsel. Here is the great part; all we have to do is turn on our GPS (God’s Positioning System). He is our creator, our Father, and friend. God says in Psalm 32:8, I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Just as a compass can guide sailors through dark and uncharted waters, God’s Word can guide us through uncertain and difficult circumstances. We must simply trust it over our feelings, over our own wisdom, and over contrary advice others may give us. He will never lead us down the wrong route or leave us when the road gets rough. Although we may not always understand why He steers us on a particular road, we can be confident that He knows how to get us safely to our final destination. Jim Elliot said, It’s His (God’s) business to lead, command, send, and call…it is your business to obey, follow, move, respond. If we don't know where we are going, find out which way God is moving and then get going in the same direction. Throughout Scripture we are reminded of God’s direction over our lives. He is our good Shepherd who leads us and He desires that we follow the path that leads to joy and contentment. When we pray for God’s guidance and for discernment through the Holy Spirit, we can rest assured that God will provide wisdom! We do not have to worry about our next step or about tomorrow because we know Who guides our way! God not only knows the way – He knows the best way, and He knows the way you should take today. By faith trust Him, listen to Him, and enjoy the ride. Do not rush your day without going before God to seek guidance! Question to Consider: Who do you listen to when seeking direction in life? Point to Ponder: We must not try to direct our own lives, but yield to the direction of Jesus. PRAYER: Lord, Heavenly Father, thank You for Your guidance. Forgive me for getting ahead of Your plans, and help me know when to stop and listen for Your direction. Your ways are perfect. In Jesus name, AMEN. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com God’s Greatest Gift to Us (Galatians 4:4-5)
Galatians 4:4-5, But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. When a mule's mind has been made, it takes a whole lot of persuading to get him to "unmake" it. A farmer had a mule he owned for many years. Over that time, he picked up on the mule's stubborn streaks. He got so good, he could see a stubborn streak coming and going. He also learned how to get the animal's attention: whenever it acted up, he beat it on the head with a wooden board until it decided to obey him. One day, another farmer stopped by to return some borrowed tools. He watched the farmer hit his mule on the head and said, "Well, it looks like you've figured out how to fix his problem." The farmer said, "I just know how to get his attention. He hasn't been cured yet." When God wanted to get the world's attention, He didn't beat us over the head with a board. He gave us His law so we would know that we were sinners who fell short of perfection (Galatians 3:24-25). The law showed us that our hatred was murder and our covetousness was idolatry, etc. It got our attention in a way nothing else ever could. God is also merciful. Not only did He get our attention, but He also provided a cure for our problem. Paul wrote that God sent Jesus "to redeem them that were under the law." He was talking about each one of us. By ourselves, we could not be restored to a relationship with Him. But God wanted us to be freed from sin and to live in harmony with Him. So He sent Jesus "that we might receive the adoption as sons." He sent His Son to die and shed His blood to pay for all of our sins, so we could go to Heaven. Once we get saved, God starts to work in our lives to help us be like Christ. God loves you and wants a personal relationship with you. He wants you to be part of His family and it is His gift, and it is available to each of us. When a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Saviour, that person is adopted into the family of God. The implications of this new sonship include eternal life and cleansing from all sins. If the believer needs further assurance, God has provided it in His Word. There’s no doubt about it, Christian. When you put your trust in Christ, you’re in the family — for good. Don’t second-guess it. Don’t doubt it. Just live like it. Today. Has God been trying to get your attention lately? Maybe you heard a preacher give an invitation to put your trust in Christ. You were convicted about your sins, but you never accepted Christ as your Saviour. Get the matter settled today, once and for all. God doesn't try to get your attention to hurt you, but to get you to try His cure. Won't you trust in Christ right now? Prayer, Father, thank You for sending Jesus. Thank You that I could be adopted into Your family. Thank you for being my Father. In His 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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