“The Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ” 12/18/2016 written by bruce r. mills

Posted on December 19, 2016 by

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Written by bruce r. mills @  www.Godsmanforever.com

 

                       

      “The Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ” 

                              (Revised from 7/11/2013)

Here is the truth about sin, and how God’s grace through saving faith alone in the Lord Jesus Christ is given by God, to those who understand and obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…

Romans 5:12… Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned— (NKJV)

 

Most people believe sin began in the Garden of Eden, but it didn’t.  Sin began when God’s top angel Lucifer, decided to flex his power, and wanted to become equal to God…Isaiah 14:12-14…

Sin, by its very nature, is born into every human being, since Adam and Eve fell in the Garden of Eden, to the serpent’s (Satan’s) temptations.  This natural sin nature is part of everyone’s natural make-up, from the time they are young children, until the time that they pass on from this life.

That 3 year old, who is told NO by their parents, goes right ahead and disobeys their parents at the first chance they get.  This rebellion against their parents turns into rebellion against God, as a child grows older.  God hates sin, because it is independent rebellion against God; and will devastate the lives of everyone that remains living in sin…in bondage to Satan and the ways of the world…1 John 2:15-16…

The sad truth about sin, is that it blinds the unbeliever…

2 Corinthians 4:4… whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. (NKJV)   (More about “the light of the gospel” of our Lord Jesus Christ, later)

Satan is the father of sin (John 8:44), and a master of disguise.  The Apostle Paul warns us about false prophets, and Satan himself, in...

2 Corinthians 11:12-14… For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. (NKJV)

Thank goodness God sent His Son Jesus Christ, born to the Virgin Mary (Matthew 1:18)…who’s shed blood on the cross at Calvary, will cleanse the sins of those who are first drawn in by God…

John 6:44… No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. (NKJV)

Upon understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, the sins of the unbeliever will be replaced with the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:9…&…2 Corinthians 5:21)…as God’s free gift of grace, through saving faith alone in Jesus Christ, fills the heart, mind, and soul of the new redeemed child of God.

Ephesians 2:8-9… For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. (NKJV)

There is nothing an unbeliever can do on their own merit.  No amount of good works done in the name of the Lord, can cleanse away sins.  All of our own righteousness is absolutely worthless…Isaiah 64:6…  Jesus warns those who falsely believe that their good works done in the name of the Lord (like going to church every week), will forgive sins…when Jesus warns those around Him (and us) about this, in.

Matthew 7:21-23… “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” (NKJV)

Having one’s lifetime of sins forgiven, is pure grace given to the unredeemed sinner by God.  God’s grace is given by God to those who seek Jesus Christ to become their personal Lord and Savior, through a personal one on One relationship, that is established between the unredeemed sinner and Jesus Christ.

This is accomplished through saving faith alone in Jesus Christ, through obedience to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, when the sinner realizes they can in no way save themselves, and turns to the Lord to receive God’s grace… (More about obeying the Gospel of Christ later)

So why should you desire to become a redeemed child of God ??  Very simply, to be in-dwelt with the Holy Spirit by God, to be supernaturally empowered to defeat Satan’s temptations, and our own carnal fleshly desires constantly urging us to sin… 1 John 2:15-16…

The Holy Spirit living with-in the “born again” Christian, has been given to them by God to guide and direct EVERY facet of the redeemed child of God’s life…  It is the Holy Spirit that helps the Christian grow and mature the fruit of the Spirit, which the Apostle Paul pens, in…

 

Galatians 5:22-23…  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23  gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.  (ESV)

Look at this list of attributes the Holy Spirit will empower you with !!

Love, Joy, and Peace, are the most important of these 9 fruit of the Spirit…

How would you like to have a supernatural love that surpasses your mortal knowledge (Ephesians 3:19)…  A love empowered by the Holy Spirit that will enable you to love even someone screaming in your face, as Jesus tells us to do, in…Matthew 5:43-44…

And how about having a supernatural  joy that enables you to go through life’s most difficult trial, and still be able to find joy…  The Apostle James tells us about this joy, in…James 1:2-4…

 

 And wouldn’t you like to have a supernatural peace that will allow you to look upon your own death…knowing without a shadow of a doubt that you will be face to face with Jesus in heaven, the instant you breath your last breath here on earth !!  (2 Corinthians 5:8)

This supernatural peace surpasses our mortal understanding, as the Apostle Paul pens, in…

Philippians 4:6-7… Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God,which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (NKJV)

 

All of these God given blessings will be given to you by God, if you understand and obey the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…  How is this done ??  You must pray to God, with what some call “the sinners prayer”, that should go something like this…

 

“Father I am sorry for my lifetime of sins…  I believe with ALL my heart, that Your Son Jesus suffered and died on the cross, shedding His blood to cleanse away all of my sins…  I believe that Jesus was buried, and rose again in 3 days…  I repent and turn from my sins with godly sorrow and a repentant heart…seeking Jesus Christ to come into my heart to direct my life…  Father, hear my plea to receive Your grace…  Grant me eternal life with You…  Fill me with the Holy Spirit…and I thank You and praise You in Jesus’ most precious name…Amen”

 

I can only tell you from my own personal experience…that I made this prayer seeking salvation several times, before God graced me with salvation.  It’s not the prayer that saves us; it is a changed heart that is regenerated by God Himself…  God knows our heart, and He will only grant saving grace to those who seek Jesus with ALL of their heart, mind soul, and strength…

God finally graced me with salvation when I prayed with true godly sorrow and a repentant heart…and I absolutely knew beyond any doubt, that I was just then a redeemed child of God…(Romans 8-16) It is   God’s decision, and God’s perfect timing, to grace someone with eternal life with Him in heaven.

Failure to obey the Gospel of Christ before you die will result in eternal separation from God, and you will forever forfeit your place in heaven…

 

2 Thessalonians 1:8-9…  in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.9 These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,  (NKJV)

All Christians who are Walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), should absolutely, positively know for sure, that they are indeed a redeemed child of God.  The Apostle Paul tells us this, in…

 

Romans 8:15-16…  For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.”  16 The Spirit Himself  bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, (NKJV)

There should be no doubts for the Spirit filled Christian about where they will be headed upon their death.  No wondering if they are good enough to get into heaven.  Because none of us are good enough…

Romans 3:23…  for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (NKJV)    

The power of the Holy Spirit can and will conquer sin, by those who without question, have placed their lives in the hands of the Lord.  The Apostle James says this best, when he penned this, in…

James 4:7-8… Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. (NKJV)

 

My friends, these blessings of spiritual fruit are totally indescribable, and have to be experienced to be believed !!

For those who have been graced with salvation…we must do our best to remain walking in the Spirit…  We see this penned by the Apostle Paul, in…

Galatians 5:16…   I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.  (NKJV)

We as Christians can only remain filled with the Holy Spirit (as the Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:18-20), if we live in obedience to God’s will and God’s ways…  Any unconfessed sin will leave us in a state of broken (or at least hindered) fellowship with God…

 

To become righteous again in God’s eyes (from a practical standpoint, because we are always positionally righteous before God), we must confess our sins before the Lord…repent of them…and turn from them… We see this very clearly, as penned by the Apostle John, in…

1 John1:9… If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (NKJV)

Living for the Lord, with the Holy Spirit in total charge of your life, is a blessing that I pray everyone will come to experience…

Heavenly Father, Your Word is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword…Hebrews 4:12-13… I pray Lord, that You would draw to Yourself those that don’t yet know You as their personal Lord and Savior…John 6:44…  And that the truth from Your Word through obedience to the Gospel of Your Son Jesus Christ, would set them free from Satan’s chains of bondage to sin and shame…John 8:32…  I pray for this fullness of Christ in all of our lives, in Jesus’ most precious name and for His sake…Amen…

 

Blessings in Christ, bruce r. mills

 

(Message me here, or send me an e-mail @ brucermillslast@comcast.net with any questions)

P.S.  For those who still believe they can earn their own way into heaven, listen to John Piper’s audio on… “Can My Good Works Outweigh My Bad?

https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/can-my-good-works-outweigh-my-bad

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advertisements
Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

“Giving Up your Head…’ 3/20/2019 Written by Gabrielle Guthrie for “See, there’s this thing called biology…~ insanitybytes”

Posted on March 20, 2019 by

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Image result for image die to self

Written by Gabrielle Guthrie for  “See, there’s this thing called biology…~ insanitybytes”  @  https://insanitybytes2.wordpress.com/

Original post found @  https://insanitybytes2.wordpress.com/2019/03/18/giving-up-your-head/

Giving Up your Head…

18MondayMar 2019

Posted by 

Tags  , , , , 

page

Someone I admire was speaking of martyrdom, of a willingness to die for our beliefs, and asked, “how many of us are willing to give up our heads?”

All in good humor here, but must we always be so harsh?? So dramatic, so violent? I am quite serious, so often we like to present a rather glamorous and romanticized version of our own imagined heroism. I don’t wish to shame that, heroes are really important, and martyrdom while extremely heartbreaking, can also be quite beautiful. So no disrespect intended.

But I so want us to just back up, to ponder the idea of “giving up our heads” in a more metaphorical sense. How many of us are willing to “give up our heads,” in the sense of letting go of ourselves and allowing the mind of Christ to come in?

Look up, look around, look out at others, rather then simply living in our own heads?

I’m afraid in that context the answer to my friend’s question, “how many of you are willing to give up your heads,” is very slim indeed. Not many. We really struggle there.

headI talk to a lot of hurting people and one of the hardest things to try to communicate to them is that a huge part of our suffering is related to living in our own head. I mean, it is dark and scary up there and you are so very alone! Or perhaps you are not alone at all, perhaps you have allowed others to live there rent free, others who are just couch surfing and really contribute nothing of value to your well being?

Regardless, it’s a hard point to communicate. There’s not much glamor involved, it doesn’t sell well, and it’s just not the kind of “dying to self” that people quite have in mind. Also, it can trigger guilt about selfishness, about being self absorbed. That’s not it at all, living in your head is not selfish at all, it is actually more like self abuse. Like, you need to come out of your head and let the Lord love you fully, so that you can then love others from that overflow.

It’s a strange paradox, but we simply cannot get into ourselves, until we are ready to come out of ourselves.  To die is gain? Less of me, more of Him? I hope this makes some sense.

I definitely am one of those people who live in my head too much, or perhaps just more than I should. I think many writers are called to do just that, and many introverts too. There is just a lot going on in our inner worlds that needs attending to. So by virtue of our personalities or our calling, we’re all varied and diverse. Ha! I mean some people probably really do need to look inside, because it is evident they have no self awareness at all! Whatever they got going on in there must be very scary indeed.

But for the rest of us, I think living in our heads too much can become a real affliction. So “off with your head,” in the gentlest way, simply because we get to exchange all that anxiety and angst, for some peace, some joy, some rest.

There are lots of different ways to go about it, praise and worship is one of my favorites, taking a walk, getting out in nature, taking the time to listen to and serve other people. Exercise, “taking our thoughts into captivity,” whatever works for you.

I was pondering this whole notion in the context of “self care.” Self care is wonderful thing, I mean the Lord made a tremendous investment in us, so value and protect His investment and do everything you can to be kind to yourself. But sometimes the culture speaks about “self care” in way that simply promotes the idea of much more “self” and much more fleeing into our own heads.

One of my favorite acts of self care is actually surrender, letting go and trusting that the Lord will take care of me. He always has, faithfully, He always provides just what I need. But that can be another paradox, somewhat counter intuitive. Self care in the context of just letting go of your “cares” and letting go of your “self.” That is what “self care” is really all about.

*****************************************************************************

P.S. (from bruce) When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

Picture credit:  https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&q=image+die+to+self&tbm=isch&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwim24XDt4zhAhVImeAKHamFCgsQsAR6BAgCEAE&biw=1321&bih=820#imgrc=QGqRMbUC1DaxbM:

 

Posted in Daily Devotion, Giving Up your Head | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

“I’m OFFENDED!” 3/19/2019 Written by Patrick Hawthorne for “SGM”

Posted on March 19, 2019 by

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Written by Patrick Hawthorne for “SGM” @    http://servinggrace.com

Original post @  https://servinggrace.com/2019/03/18/im-offended/

 

I’m OFFENDED!

Posted on March 18, 2019 by patrickhawthorne01

By Patrick Hawthorne

out-of-order

OK, I’m not really offended.  I’m just spouting a popular tag line that has permeated pretty much everything.

“I’m offended by that.”

“By what?”

“By your lack of offense in my offense.  You are a beast of a man.”

I remember the day that I jumped all over a particular individual for an obvious breech of common intelligence.  The first thing out of this individual’s mouth, upon being called out for their flagrant moral depravity, was “That offends me.”  Of course, I was immediately humbled and deflated by the mention of their offense.  NOT!

The Bible tells us that in these last days, offense will abound more and more.  We are already seeing this.  The funny part is that, in many of the cases, those who shout the loudest, “Crucify the offenders!” are usually the ones who are later caught up in the same crime.

With tears produced from a bottle of eye drops, we hear, “I humbly apologize for any offense that may have occurred by my being caught.”

And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. (Matthew 24:10-12 KJV.)

I’ve written on offense before, but it can never be overstated.  When we walk in offense, we lock ourselves away in a prison cell of our own making.  Even though we hold the key to our freedom, often times we do not want to let go of our grip on the cell bars long enough to reach the lock to turn the key.

Offense is a gateway, an open door, to deception.  It is through this opening that we are drawn to the subtle calls of demonic forces as they attempt to lure us away from the loving hands of our Heavenly Father.  Once they have succeeded it is as the proverb states, “A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city.” (Proverbs 18:19  KJV).   From offense to betrayal, from betrayal to hatred; it is a path leading to death.

Jesus said that the world would hate us (born again believers) just as it hated Him (John 15:18). If you allow offense to rule your life, the devil has just succeeded in putting a basket over the light within in you, making you as dark as the world.

You have the choice to not let offense rule.  Which way will you choose?  Be blessed.

***********************************************************************************

P.S. (from bruce) When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

Posted in Daily Devotion, I’m OFFENDED! | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

A Psalm of Resurrection” 3/18/2019 Posted by David Kitz for “I Love the Psalms”

Posted on March 18, 2019 by

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

                            Image result for image Jesus' resurrection

Posted by David Kitz for “I Love the Psalms” @  https://davidkitz.wordpress.com/

Original post found @  https://davidkitz.blog/2019/03/18/a-psalm-of-resurrection/

 

A Psalm of Resurrection

18MondayMar 2019

Posted by  in Psalm 47, Psalms

Tags , , , , 

Reading: Psalm 47

For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. A psalm.


Clap your hands, all you nations;
shout to God with cries of joy.
For the LORD Most High is awesome,
the great King over all the earth.
He subdued nations under us,
peoples under our feet.
He chose our inheritance for us,
the pride of Jacob, whom he loved.
God has ascended amid shouts of joy,
the LORD amid the sounding of trumpets.
Sing praises to God, sing praises;
sing praises to our King, sing praises.
For God is the King of all the earth;
sing to him a psalm of praise.
God reigns over the nations;
God is seated on his holy throne.
The nobles of the nations assemble
as the people of the God of Abraham,
for the kings of the earth belong to God;
he is greatly exalted (NIV).

20161205_150201_HDR (1)

Reflection
I appreciate God’s timing; it brings a smile to my face. Yesterday’s psalm reading seemed particularly appropriate as we reflected on the events of Good Friday. Today’s psalm posting is fitting as we rejoice in the triumph of the resurrection. I can’t help but think of the risen Christ as I read these words: God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD amid the sounding of trumpets.

Psalm 47 calls forth a spontaneous joy. It is a song of celebration to the LORD for the victories of the LORD. He has conquered! What has He conquered? The LORD has conquered the nations. Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise. God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne.

In its original context, Psalm 47 celebrated the victory of Israel over the surrounding nations. But that is a feeble victory compared to Christ the King’s triumph over death, hell and the power of the grave. Hallelujah! The King is alive. He arose from the dead. The power of sin and Satan are defeated, and because He lives and reigns we too will live and reign with Him through eternity. For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! (Romans 5:10).

In the resurrection of Jesus we have the ultimate cause for celebration. Shout to God with cries of joy!

Response: LORD God, I thank you for the victory of Jesus! He is my forerunner. I will live and reign through Him. Amen.

Your Turn: The resurrection means the dead in Christ will be raised. Who will you want to greet first?

************************************************************************

P.S. (from bruce) When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

Picture credit:  https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&q=image+Jesus%27+resurrection&tbm=isch&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjLgsSqzIvhAhUkpFkKHQJ2AQkQsAR6BAgEEAE&biw=1321&bih=869#imgrc=7FXfsZSBVlPwNM:

 

Posted in A Psalm of Resurrection, Daily Devotion | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

“Priorities” 3/17/2019 Posted by Don Merritt for “The Life Project”

Posted on March 17, 2019 by

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie http://www.harvest.org/devotional

       Image result for image doing God's will

Posted by Don Merritt for “The Life Project” @  https://lifereference.wordpress.com

Original post @   https://lifereference.wordpress.com/2019/03/14/priorities-6/

 

 

Priorities

Posted on March 14, 2019by 

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.

James 4:13-17

The fourth chapter ends with a curious little section, one in which James points us squarely at our priority systems. He starts in verse 13 with a business example pointing to our big plans to do something. Yes, we have these plans and we’re going to do such and such… but in truth, we don’t even know what tomorrow will bring, how can we be so sure about all of those plans?

He makes it quite clear that our lives are short and that the time flies by and what are we doing?

Oh, we’re making plans as though we were in charge of things, but we aren’t really in charge, are we? We mustn’t be so arrogant that we think we are more than we are, we mustn’t be so arrogant that we think that the priorities of this world are really our guiding principles, for we will come to ruin on this path.

Instead, we should recognize that whatever our plans may be, God is the one who is in control, and that our plans are subject to His will. Yes, His will, not ours. That opens up a can of worms, don’t you think? If our plans are subject to God’s will and our plans are only about making money and a place in this world then how can we think our plans are anywhere within His will?

Remember Jesus telling His disciples, on three different occasions, that anything they asked for in His name would be granted to them? Do you also recall the context? Each of these times was in the midst of a section that was about doing God’s will, so that anything we ask in Jesus’ name to do God’s will, God will grant. Keeping this in mind, doesn’t it seem like James is really saying the same thing? Before you answer, let’s have a look at the last verse:  If we know what good we should be doing, but we don’t do it, that is sin for us. If we know that we are to do His will in our lives and we don’t, what is that?

I have no idea what God’s special plan just for me is. To be perfectly candid with you, I don’t know that He has a special plan just for me; who am I? But I do know what His plan is for all of us… don’t you?

We are called to love one another, to share His love with others, to serve Him by serving others in a way that advances His purpose… in short, His will is that we each do our part to make disciples for Jesus Christ. Since we know this is what He wants of us, what does James call it when we know but don’t do?

*******************************************************************************

P.S. (from bruce) When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

Picture credit:   https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&q=image+doing+God%27s+will&tbm=isch&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjlwpnj9oHhAhXnct8KHe7bDzQQsAR6BAgDEAE&biw=1321&bih=820#imgrc=hIcsVtS_EtZvuM:

 

 

 

Posted in Daily Devotion, Priorities | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

“A Stranger With You” 3/16/2019 Posted by Alister Begg for “Truth for Life”

Posted on March 16, 2019 by

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

 The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

     

A Stranger With You

Posted by Alister Begg for “Truth for Life”  @  http://info.truthforlife.org

Original post @  https://info.truthforlife.org/devo-march16-2019?ecid=ACsprvv09iyOFQJiQr0gmfZgvVlhMsgRw1aTBnmcNHBh8ScpBkcsyxe9q7xslzJVRbHYivTv4Umn&utm_campaign=Daily%20Devotion%20Emails&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=70762363&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8fN_XoOdot_ZNKCpB1E5Zlatkng33HCzRDhJaD8M5MYwcQVJp1koBeGWrRCcZPqUX3Omk-CwravFgbLdHjdMpf5nsaNx4JNdEjnfi0mMvuhLVnBTk&_hsmi=70762363

 

DAILY DEVOTIONAL MARCH 16, 2019

A Stranger With You

I am a sojourner with you. 
Psalm 39:12

Yes, O Lord, with You, but not to You. All my natural alienation from You, Your grace has effectually removed; and now, in fellowship with Yourself, I walk through this sinful world as a pilgrim in a foreign country. You are a stranger in Your own world. Man forgets You, dishonors You, sets up new laws and alien customs, and knows You not.

When Your dear Son came unto His own, His own received Him not. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world did not recognize Him. There was never a foreigner who stood out from the inhabitants of any country as much as your beloved Son among His mother’s brethren. It is no marvel, then, if I who live the life of Jesus should be unknown and a stranger here below. Lord, I would not be a citizen where Jesus was an alien. His pierced hand has loosened the cords that once bound my soul to earth, and now I find myself a stranger in the land. My speech seems to these pagans among whom I dwell a strange tongue; my manners are singular, and my actions are outlandish. A prince would be more at home in the ghetto than I could ever be in the haunts of sinners.

But here is the sweetness of my circumstance: I am a stranger with You. You are my fellow-sufferer, my fellow-pilgrim. Oh, what joy to wander in such blessed company! My heart burns within me on the journey when You speak to me, and though I am a traveler, I am far more blessed than those who sit on thrones, and far more at home than those who live in their comfortable homes.

To me remains nor place, nor time:
My country is in every clime;
I can be calm and free from care
On any shore, since God is there.

While place we seek, or place we shun,
The soul finds happiness in none:
But with a God to guide our way,
‘Tis equal joy to go or stay.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Devotional material is taken from “Morning and Evening,” written by C.H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright © 2003, Good News Publishers and used by Truth For Life with written permission.

********************************************************************************

P.S. (from bruce) When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

Posted in A Stranger With You, Daily Devotion | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

“LIVING WATER” 3/15/2019 Written by Kathy Boecher for “atimetoshare”

Posted on March 15, 2019 by

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Image result for image living water Bible

Written by Kathy Boecher for “atimetoshare” @   http://atimetoshare.me

Original post @  https://atimetoshare.me/2019/03/14/living-water-2/

 

LIVING WATER

Posted on March 14, 2019by 

jesuswell

Read John 4:1-30

It had been a tiring day.  Jesus was thirsty and as His disciples went to town to get food, he sat by the well.  A woman from Samaria came to draw water.  She was alone.  Usually women traveled in groups.  This woman’s reputation may have set her apart from the others in her community – an outcast of sorts.

Samaritans were Jews who had intermarried people of other religions.  They built their own temple to worship God, but those who believed in the true God of  Abraham, shunned them.  The fact that she was a Samaritan as well as a woman, were reasons enough for Jesus not to associate with her, but Jesus isn’t like that.  He came into this world for all people – no matter if they are rich, poor, healthy, sick, evil or righteous, clean or dirty.  His mission as the incarnate Son of God was to save sinners, which includes everyone who has ever walked upon this earth.

He asked the Samaritan woman for a drink of water.  She was stunned because He was talking to her, a woman and Samaritan.  She began to ask Him questions.  Why was He talking to her?   Jesus spoke to her about “living water,”  She asked where she could find this water.  When Jesus began to list her indiscretions.  She was astounded that He spoke of her adultery.  How could He know? He seemed to know a lot.  He spoke of things she didn’t yet understand.  He spoke with such authority.  She wanted to know  more.

She thought Jesus was a prophet,because he knew her thoughts and talked about the coming Messiah.  She told Him that she believed the Messiah was coming soon and He would reveal all things.  Jesus said, “I who speak to you am Him.”

At that point, the disciples returned and asked Him why he was talking to a Samaritan woman.  The woman left her water jug and ran back to her town to become one of Jesus’ first missionaries.  She told the people of her town that she met  someone who knew all things.  People wanted to know more so they went to hear Jesus speak and many became followers.

How often do we turn someone away from Christ by our actions, words and opinions about them?  Churches can learn a lot from this interaction between the Samaritan woman and the Son of God.  We shouldn’t judge others by their background, the way they dress, the amount of tattoos they have, the way they live.  Everyone is entitled to the blessings of God through His Son.  If we turn people away for any reason, we’re denying them the opportunity to be given free salvation.  Our hearts should always be Spirit filled and open to everyone.

Jesus exhibits an open hand to all people.  He invites us to drink the living water of the Word of God.  Through that gift, written by inspired men of God, our communion with Him will grow and grow and grow.

**************************************************************************

P.S. (from bruce) When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

Picture credit:   https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&q=image+living+water+Bible&tbm=isch&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj33KKr84HhAhVxUN8KHanQDKcQsAR6BAgFEAE&biw=1321&bih=820#imgrc=c_fWUimvjL0BtM:

 

 

Posted in Daily Devotion, LIVING WATER | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

“Proverbs 3:11-12 – Wisdom Is Valuable” 3/14/2019 Written by Ann V. Friend for “afriendofJESUS2013Blog”

Posted on March 14, 2019 by

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Image result for image God chastens

Written by Ann V. Friend for “afriendofJESUS2013Blog”  @ http://afriendofjesus2013.com/

View original post @  https://afriendofjesus2013.com/2019/03/09/proverbs-311-12-wisdom-is-valuable-pt-5/

 

 BY 

Proverbs 3:11-12 – Wisdom Is Valuable Pt 5

1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
John 15:1-4

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23

Sharing my thoughts…..

Wisdom is valuable when we understand God’s chastening and correction is done because he loves us.

Correction teaches discipline and grows us spiritually to abide in him.


Scripture references to verse:

Verse 11

17 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: 18 For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.
Job 5:17-18

5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, not faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6 for whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
Hebrews 12:5-6

Abundant blessings and have a marvelous day!

The just shall live by faith. Praise The Lord.

As always, I welcome your thoughts.

©Ann V Friend, afriendofjesus2013Blog, Aug 2013 to present.

***********************************************************************************

P.S. (from bruce) When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

Picture credit:  https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&biw=1321&bih=869&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=1WSJXNiSPOWxggfO1p2QCg&q=image+God+chastens&oq=image+God+chastens&gs_l=img.3…29166.29166..31880…0.0..0.69.69.1……1….1..gws-wiz-img.eL3Xbvnof2o#imgrc=4dMr6MAYk76YnM:

 

 

Posted in Daily Devotion, Proverbs 3:11-12 – Wisdom Is Valuable | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment
%d bloggers like this: