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

Posted on December 19, 2016 by Godsmanforever

“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…  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, with any questions)

From the USA, call my cell@  856-430-1448

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

Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 14 Comments

“Real-Life Wisdom” 5/20/2022 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on May 20, 2022 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

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Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”  @  https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com/2022/04/28/real-life-wisdom/

Real-Life Wisdom

Posted on April 28, 2022 by Beth Andrews

What do we do with the failures of our past? Now that we have survived some of the trials and struggles of life, now that we have lived through the results of our own mistakes, now that we have found that sowing wild oats doesn’t bring much of a harvest—what do we do with all that hard-earned wisdom?  Paul offers the best advice: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).  We reach back and help someone else who is struggling in the same manner.  Why is AA so powerful? Because it is built on experience and a shared struggle.  It is one person who has found freedom from addiction walking alongside someone who is trying to break free. The best counselors (either formal or informal) are the one who have “been there, done that, and have the T-shirt to prove it.”

I have a lifetime of experience with the consequences of my own foolishness. But I also have a lifetime of experience with God’s faithfulness and mercy. The Lord has rescued me many, many times and now I am able to offer a hand up and a bit of wisdom and encouragement to someone else in the same kind of pit.  When God rescues us and we in turn lead others to Him for freedom, we have turned the devil’s handiwork against him.  We can say with Joseph, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20).

Dear friends, this is how we redeem our foolish past—we take our experiences, our failures, and our sins to the table and say to another struggling soul, “I know where you are, I understand what you’re feeling and I will take you to the One who rescued me. I will walk the whole way with you until you are free.”  Beloved, don’t let the enemy bury you in shame.  Let God use you and your scars to turn mistakes into ministry and heartbreak into hope.

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&sxsrf=ALiCzsYgL6ABuJD6fRnkGTj_Fkg-OKbrLQ:1653047511203&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=image+wisdom+shared+to+others&fir=YL4FJgxCgMPoGM%252CEdpDuJ3trW5j4M%252C_%253B54BbkGvd8oskRM%252CEdpDuJ3trW5j4M%252C_%253B5knblQr8_nTIVM%252CZ0LTiR3g7F5EdM%252C_%253Bc_I7rukokzEzRM%252CGZTw7dsYVPlnmM%252C_%253Bb5-zcCAoqSBU5M%252CNyGrN6Bifv9DiM%252C_%253B8itIvK3zXCtKTM%252CtNqXM50GPl6BsM%252C_%253BgHPzaVlsXcZ2sM%252CsNRdBl9oQeXyXM%252C_%253BWdUA7V2Bz7HKCM%252CGZTw7dsYVPlnmM%252C_%253BGNkcgnwrH6dm1M%252CrnABfTcsESOIAM%252C_%253BGrObt9EPZs43xM%252CsNRdBl9oQeXyXM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kRTHCAqLzgGFLEaU0nkv5Vac-Uk4A&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiM3c7tge73AhX6lIkEHcLRDwsQ7Al6BAgDED4&biw=1417&bih=877&dpr=1#imgrc=WD4eL7uGSK-0OM

 

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“Know God” 5/19/2022 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org

Posted on May 19, 2022 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Be Still? The Context of Psalm 46:10 — The Messed Up Church

Posted by Alister Begg   for   www.truthforlife.org  from Spurgeon’s writing

Original post @ https://www.truthforlife.org/devotionals/spurgeon/5/8/2022/?ecid=ACsprvvtiuj4AOhUXh6SuKiTjC1Uj_o5ZDuVBNaKHV_R3Bn_9aOLhpyipDM0BFivqUxMjM_Dk1Au&utm_campaign=Spurgeon%20Daily%20Devotion&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=212270838&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9t6kDXhrpOhwgBSFrfMSnqc8QPla5lVURXVPvaA54Sdk95DUYcQrRYGm7vhyjbSvEuQNk9_cGJT5hiF92npOaec2ZbehDv7gUeSqvbOQbh2TiKOdk&utm_content=212270838&utm_source=hs_email

Know God

 

Agree with God, and be at peace.

Job 22:21

In order to properly “agree with God, and be at peace,” we must know Him as He has revealed Himself, not only in the unity of His essence and subsistence, but also in the plurality of His persons. God said, “Let us make man in our image”1—man must not be content until he knows something of the “us” from whom his being was derived.

Endeavor to know the Father. Approach Him in deep repentance, and confess that you are not worthy to be called His son; receive the kiss of His love; let the ring that is the token of His eternal faithfulness be on your finger; sit at His table and let your heart rejoice in His grace.

Then press forward and seek to know much of the Son of God who although He is the brightness of His Father’s glory humbled Himself and became man for our sakes. Know Him in the singular complexity of His nature: eternal God, and yet suffering, finite man; follow Him as He walks the waters with the tread of deity, and as He sits down at the well tired in the weariness of humanity. Do not be satisfied unless you know much of Jesus Christ as your Friend, your Brother, your Husband, your all.

Do not forget the Holy Spirit. Endeavor to obtain a clear view of His nature and character, His attributes, and His works. Behold the Spirit of the Lord, who first of all moved upon chaos and brought forth order, who now visits the chaos of your soul and creates the order of holiness. Behold Him as the Lord and giver of spiritual life, the Illuminator, the Instructor, the Comforter, and the Sanctifier. Behold Him as He descends upon the head of Jesus, and then as He rests upon you.

Such an intelligent, scriptural, and experiential belief in the Trinity is yours if you truly know God; and such knowledge brings peace indeed.

1) Genesis 1:26

Devotional material is taken from Morning and Evening, written by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright © 2003, Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers, Wheaton, IL 60187, www.crossway.org. Used by Truth For Life with written permission.

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“Sins forgiven, and forgotten by God !!” 5/18/2022 Written by Louis Mize, a good friend

Posted on May 18, 2022 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Hebrews 8:12 (a prayer of the day) - YouTube

Written by Louis Mize, a good friend  @  https://www.facebook.com/louis.mize

“Sins forgiven, and forgotten by God !!”

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Romans 8:1

Paul was speaking to the Romans in the here and now! He understood and taught them the difference in them BEFORE they had come to Christ in faith, and right now, AFTER they had come to Him in faith. And when Paul encouraged them by telling them the amount of condemnation they faced after God’s Spirit indwelled them, he stressed that amount was ZERO, NADA, absolutely NONE! For you see, after a person comes to Christ in faith, that person is a new creation. Old things are passed away, and all things have become new.

It is hard to understand and accept the fact that as long as we remain on earth, in the flesh, that our sin nature is still with us. But God’s Holy Spirit is with us too! And He can overrule our desire to sin. We start to desire to please Him and serve Him. And when we do sin, it makes us ashamed and sorrowful. We come to our Savior in repentance, confessing our sins. And when we do that, there is no condemnation from the Righteous Judge for our sins. For you see, He has already paid the Supreme price for those sins. So, this morning, I give God thanksgiving and praise that even when others may condemn me, because of His Spirit within me, He does not. And this is a wonderful thing to experience and accept in humble gratitude, in faith and by faith, by the grace of God.

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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“Your Enemies Growl” 5/17/2022 Posted by David Kitz for “I Love the Psalms”

Posted on May 17, 2022 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Scripture Pictures from the Book of 1st Peter | Amazing Facts

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

Original post found @ https://davidkitz.blog/2022/05/02/your-enemies-growl-2/

Your Enemies Growl

02MondayMay 2022

Posted by davidkitz in Psalm 83

Tags  armor of God, enemies, follower of Jesus

 

Reading: Psalm 83:1-8


A psalm of Asaph.


O God, do not remain silent;
do not turn a deaf ear,
do not stand aloof, O God.
See how your enemies growl,
how your foes rear their heads.
With cunning they conspire against your people;
they plot against those you cherish.
“Come,” they say, “let us destroy them as a nation,
so that Israel’s name is remembered no more.”
With one mind they plot together;
they form an alliance against you—
the tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites,
of Moab and the Hagrites,
Byblos, Ammon and Amalek,
Philistia, with the people of Tyre.
Even Assyria has joined them
to reinforce Lot’s descendants (NIV).*

img_20220424_1614208

Photo by David Kitz

 

Reflection:
Do you have enemies? Ancient Israel certainly did. Here in Psalm 83, Asaph lists ten traditional enemies of Israel. The psalmist clearly states the objective of these foreign powers. Their objective was the annihilation of Israel as a nation. “Come,” they say, “let us destroy them as a nation, so that Israel’s name is remembered no more.”

In the spiritual realm every born-again follower of Jesus has a host of enemies who are trying to tear him down and annihilate his or her faith. Therefore, St. Paul gives us this advice:  Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:11-12).

Though they may not have a physical form, our enemies are real. The trap called pornography is real. The idolatrous nature of greed is real. The crippling effects of resentment and bitterness are real. These sins and the demonic forces that continually prompt us to disobey God are real. They are constantly working to annihilate our faith.

Our enemies growl and like cobras they rear their heads to strike. But in our hour of need, if we call out to God, He will not stand aloof. He will deliver us. Lord, teach us to pray. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

Response: LORD God, we have a powerful opponent, but we have victory through Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. I call on Your awesome name. Give me victory over sin and the forces of evil that are out to destroy my life. My strength is in You. Amen.

Your Turn: Can you identify the sins and snares the enemy has set for you? Are there patterns of behavior that trigger defeat?

* NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, COPYRIGHT ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 BY BIBLICA

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&sxsrf=ALiCzsYL_voIcjPVZS_ZVvxJHCoQ8WL6hg:1652788267691&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=Image+1+peter+5:8&fir=vtcF8_KEMIx4LM%252CpPFioIKvnSjY1M%252C_%253BFP8J8d7jKyLpzM%252CevpWdW_3tjL0SM%252C_%253BcjpmcGPNTYk7DM%252CK4EYAJRSTxvpyM%252C_%253BnKeMB-if4m0bUM%252C3S8CIihYoFVWAM%252C_%253BoW0ZKVo4TtCtrM%252CQGGk69YyZkVV_M%252C_%253BNE_EeCxcdUGoKM%252CjO8mfgV0FoG4ZM%252C_%253BbAWbZgey5kIXkM%252C6wOKoEFk6snLDM%252C_%253BiaVfF2Re0lNhvM%252CqNxFdiL-nH9SKM%252C_%253B4GivyAVtysGBDM%252C6wOKoEFk6snLDM%252C_%253BjsKOeJiSMP6p1M%252CRyaDPolqMqF-0M%252C_%253BsANW59bHOwUKJM%252C5XhqlolNNrkxGM%252C_%253BhYwu9iDLGKySHM%252CLRPGyNwOlLyiaM%252C_%253BAT3OGoX7Vu0dMM%252Cvtv4JSo09GaZrM%252C_%253B3KhcA2DgIOXBrM%252C0deVuneXPi0M1M%252C_&usg=AI4_-kShV0wVOH6u0A7ILCd647CZZee9WQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjQrdaMvOb3AhVljokEHeILAmwQ7Al6BAgDED8&biw=1104&bih=877&dpr=1#imgrc=4GivyAVtysGBDM

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“Why Reason is Not Enough”” 5/16/2022 Written by Gabrielle Guthrie for “See, there’s this thing called biology.~insanitybytes”

Posted on May 16, 2022 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Pin on ReD

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

Original post found @ https://insanitybytes2.wordpress.com/2022/05/16/why-reason-is-not-enough/

Why Reason is Not Enough

16MondayMay 2022

Posted by insanitybytes22 in Uncategorized

Tags  blogging, books, faith, insanitybytes22

Malcolm Guite has written a newly published book called, “Lifting The Veil: Imagination and the Kingdom of God.”

For those who don’t know, Malcolm Guite is a British poet, author, and an Anglican priest.

In the article linked above, we get a delightful quote that offers us a peek into what it is all about, “I want to make the case for a recovery and reintegration of the imagination together with the reason as modes of knowing, and, further, I want to affirm that the healing of that split, the reconciliation of that division, is to be found in the incarnation, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He comes not only to save us from our sins but also to heal the tragic fracture in our ways of knowing.”

 

Oh, amen to that. A good chunk of what I blog on, such as “mythos and logos,” “down with objective truth,” and “the value of fairytales,” are really just lamentations and wailings about postmodernism, about the enlightenment, about the compartmentalism and subsequent divisions within our modern world and how that all impacts our faith.

So, just knowing similar things are on the minds of others, that whole books are being written, and that people are paying attention, brings me a certain degree of comfort and causes a great sigh of relief.

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&sxsrf=ALiCzsbC8f4cG74KSY8ev2I2IDnXQWRdZQ:1652703637493&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=image+Jesus+came+to+save+us+from+our+sins+Bible&fir=whOZPdOD3gNXrM%252C4ICGJFMwfeVJcM%252C_%253Bx3Pg9mGYfio5NM%252CqaG4uMqz6AAyqM%252C_%253BTbmBMm7jcP7TlM%252CUyTmQrhJh7eLmM%252C_%253BR2lUL_eVgYVkVM%252C4ZQWxbJUvuD65M%252C_%253BeiFFbEBCiFf2WM%252CVQbhlh_USxHhVM%252C_%253B_D7OGM1onulgpM%252C3j5Kl_wRTJ0lJM%252C_%253B3xTWyx-4QT1WWM%252C7ZLHGqpuzZdMcM%252C_%253BnHS5U9V3yxY6RM%252C75_6VconfGSiiM%252C_%253BUmeg84knEwVptM%252CV3jB9_g5wJmvLM%252C_%253By3AWvJEamIjVXM%252CDLS9wN6M38SxPM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kRYCfOIzXRr2cLFqvJmh_y_qhW08A&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjA7-zpgOT3AhU6hIkEHb2NAs4Q7Al6BAgCEE8&biw=1104&bih=877&dpr=1#imgrc=TbmBMm7jcP7TlM

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“Ministry and Revelation 21:4” 5/15/2022 Posted by Pastor Jim Lee for “THE DOMAIN FOR TRUTH”

Posted on May 15, 2022 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Mourning Revelation 21:4 Wipe Away Every Tear

Posted by Pastor Jim Lee for “The Domain for Truth” @  https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2022/05/05/ministry-and-revelation-214/

Ministry and Revelation 21:4

May 5, 2022 by SLIMJIM

new-jerusalem-coming-down-out-of-heaven

I’ll have a busy day with ministry today.  Pastoral visitation in the morning and also an evening with a memorial for a member who passed away unexpectedly.

It got me thinking about a verse.  Revelation 21:4.

Revelation 21:4 states:

and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.”

This is such an amazing truth.

Amazing since in our time on earth there will be mourning, crying, pain and death.

And here’s a promise that they will one day be no more.

And God will comfort us is the basis for that being one day no more.

This incredible verse must be seen in the context of the chapter.

Revelation 21 is about the New Heaven and New Earth that’s coming one day.

But not everyone goes there.  Because of sin we read in Revelation 21:8 about judgment for sinners:

But for the cowardly, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and sexually immoral persons, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

 

Of course, we all have sinned.  But we can be saved!  Two verses earlier in Revelation 21:6 it draws us to look to Jesus:

Then He said to me, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give water to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life, without cost.

 

Jesus came to die for the sins of those who would trust in Him.  This is a free gift of grace.  But you got to trust in Him.

Trust in Him today.  You never know when you leave this world and enter eternity.  Have you trusted in Him?

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+Revelation+21%3A4&tbm=isch&ved=2ahUKEwiPtt6MxOH3AhVIs3IEHZNyAKQQ2-cCegQIABAA&oq=image+Revelation+21%3A4&gs_lcp=CgNpbWcQA1AAWABgliFoAHAAeACAATWIATWSAQExmAEAqgELZ3dzLXdpei1pbWfAAQE&sclient=img&ei=ePWAYo-aJcjmytMPk-WBoAo&bih=877&biw=1104&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832#imgrc=7EN3e-moaKcbNM

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“Making it Count” 5/14/2022 Written by Dr. Lawson Murry for “SEIZE The DAY”

Posted on May 14, 2022 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Written by Dr. Lawson Murry for “SEIZE The DAY”  @  https://seizetheday-blog.com

Original post @ https://seizetheday-blog.com/2022/04/25/making-it-count-6/

Making it Count

APRIL 25, 2022

 

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.                 1 John 3:18 (NIV)

As an Evangelical Christian, I have to admit we sometimes keep closer company with the Pharisees than we do with Jesus Christ. Like the Pharisees, we can be guilty of non-loving confrontations, judgmental pronouncements, self-absorbed concerns, and self-righteous invitations. We can be proud, rigid, condescending, moralistic, demanding, dogmatic, patronizing, lacking in compassion, and hypocritical. On top of that, we’re often preoccupied with the pursuit of personal health and happiness at the expense of humble acts of charity and sacrificial works of service.

When a church directs its efforts to save souls, serve the congregation, and stand up for the faith, yet fails to engage the community at its point of need, it falls far short of the mark. We will only live and thrive in society when we embrace the Great Commandment and the Great Commission: Love for our neighbor must go hand in glove with making disciples; good works must accompany the proclamation of God’s Word, and vital social involvement must be coupled with vigorous evangelism.

It’s time for evangelicals to make it count for Christ. God’s people can’t press on with a business as usual approach. We must recognize we’ve been our own worst enemies in advancing the cause of Christ and confess we’ve been wrapped up in the Word but failed to significantly make the Word flesh.

Change is a painful process. If we want to be more like Christ we’ll have to take responsibility for whom we’ve been and who we want to become. Pharisaism must be rooted out and destroyed. God’s people must humble themselves, seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways. Let’s not forget that as the church goes – so goes the nation. The buck stops in the pew. If you’re a Christian you’ve got to stand up and be counted. Sound theology and orthodoxy are not enough. It’s time to walk the talk!

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“AND GUESS WHAT HAPPENED THIS MORNING?” 5/13/2022 Posted by Pastor Randy Burbank for “Kingdom Pastor”

Posted on May 13, 2022 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Posted by Pastor Randy Burbank  for “Kingdom Pastor”  @  https://kingdompastor.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://kingdompastor.wordpress.com/2022/04/30/and-guess-what-happened-this-morning/

AND GUESS WHAT HAPPENED THIS MORNING?

Posted on April 30, 2022 by Pastor Randy

 

Before my thoughts spill out all over the Wacky World Web, take a moment and slowly read this passage. Just one time. Wait! Scratch that. Read it slowly 3 times.

22 Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.

Lamentations chapter 3, verses 22 and 23 from the New King James Version

 

Did you read this slowly 3 times? I think not! Go back and read it slowly 3 times. Now we can proceed. Back to my opening question: AND GUESS WHAT HAPPENED THIS MORNING? Now, write down your guess and we will see if you win today’s grand prize! Got your answer? Good. And the correct answer is There’s A Brand New Sunrise! It’s not like yesterday’s or last week’s or last year’s! It’s brand new! Now, let’s cut to the chase: Does this excite you about the potential for today? Or does it fill your mind and heart with fear, anxiety, and dread?

Now go back to the words from Jeremiah’s heart! Do you know when and why he wrote those words? Knowing what’s happening as the writers share their hearts helps us see the power of their words! Jerusalem and Judea had just been invaded by their neighboring enemies, the Babylonians. The Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and looted and devastated The Temple. And the people who lived through the onslaught are carried away into captivity as prisoners of war and slaves.

Yet, I said YET! Jeremiah sees the sunrise! “They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” What is the They? God’s mercies! If on this Saturday morning you feel like a prisoner of war or something’s slave, listen to the hope from Jeremiah. With this newest sunrise, God has brand new mercies and They are new this morning. This is good news because what we think is the outcome of our messes, His Mercies provide a different outcome. As bad as it may seem sometimes, the problems will not consume you! All you have to do is give up! Give up everything inside of you and ask God for His Mercies! Then believe there is an abundance of Mercy all because of what Jesus did on the Cross for all of us.

It’s a new day, and it’s filled with Fresh Mercies! His mercy always delivers us! Always! Now go out there and love God with all your heart. Love others the way Jesus loves you. And make sure all the glory goes to Him! Now, if you will excuse me, there are some new mercies on this Saturday for me. . .and for you!

Watch this video !!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yZf1nd1d50&t=174s

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“The Spirit’s Power” 5/12/2022 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org

Posted on May 12, 2022 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

My Bible - Top #100 Verse Countdown: #48 ➪ ➪ Acts 1:8 Power from the Holy Spirit = Witnessing to the Ends of the Earth!! The late "Bill Bright - Campus Crusade

Posted by Alister Begg   for   www.truthforlife.org

Original post @ https://www.truthforlife.org/daily/?tab=alistair_begg_devotional&date=05%2F08%2F2022&src=22ELEB0&utm_campaign=Alistair%20Begg%20Daily%20Devotion&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=212000785&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_7SDVIWsWG8telN9qwkbRZ1ydDm8Huis4UZOgMgmIz1TvCfF0yQ-rIDq6zgkqK37b-vWlRMKHok_PO5ehyFnq73y2avafw7eHB-DzsJm2JkrIWCRk&utm_content=212000785&utm_source=hs_email

The Spirit’s Power

 

You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.

Acts 1:8

The Holy Spirit is given to us so that God’s people may bring God’s word to God’s world.

Without the Spirit, the events of the book of Acts—which tells the story of the gospel expanding, with Jesus’ disciples hitting the streets of Jerusalem proclaiming the message of the risen Christ—could not have happened. After all, a few weeks previously, these same disciples had been hiding behind closed doors, a frightened little group mourning their crucified King. What accounts for their sudden transformation?

The answer is found in Jesus’ triumph over the grave and the promise He gave to His disciples—the promise of His Holy Spirit to enable and empower them. This promise was coupled with a command: Jesus’ followers were to go into all the world and preach the good news.

Before the disciples went out with enthusiasm, Jesus sharpened their focus. They had not yet grasped the fact that His concern was not limited to Israel but was for all people everywhere. (And it would take them some time more to fully appreciate this truth: see Acts 10:1 – 11:18.) Jesus, therefore, commanded His followers to be His “witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Following Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit descended upon His followers, just as Jesus had promised—and then the great story of the spread of the church throughout the known world began. That is a story that has not yet finished, and it includes every believer as the gospel continues to be preached all around this world.

If you are in Christ, you possess this very same Spirit, and you are enabled by His power to spread the truth about Jesus throughout the world. The Spirit wasn’t given so that you and I could sit around and tell other Christians about our spiritual experiences. Rather, we are to use our gifts and talents to take the gospel to the nations. For some of us, that means going overseas on mission. For others, it means crossing our street or our city, as part of that same mission.

God calls you to love and serve even those with whom you share no common earthly citizenship. He calls you to cross divides and come alongside those to whom you would naturally be indifferent, or even those who live in enmity towards you. But He does not call you to summon up the love and courage that that requires. No—we must be transformed by a power outside of ourselves, and that is what Jesus promised and what the Spirit provides. So ask God to pour out His Spirit afresh in your life today, that you may proclaim the good news with courage and zeal.

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&sxsrf=ALiCzsbNDpZm2jP7jyeOlV87MhGnHr9BZg:1652317842592&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=image+acts+1:8&fir=QJjEsk95DizEfM%252CJdQ3mUeYrGT4sM%252C_%253BSmstunPCKcs82M%252CzzFueF-37tYRKM%252C_%253BCE9RUmV1YOBdiM%252CQhS6eff0gOGOeM%252C_%253Bahn_TbL8MK4WBM%252CuzGh55pXJxemlM%252C_%253BgYOi8boO7yp3VM%252CROsiiVtxWcNl0M%252C_%253BRKT4kTa5FxmclM%252CAYtC64ZmAObE4M%252C_%253Boxt_9FuBWPbemM%252Cstfg4WJkTiZ_dM%252C_%253B4B4OCHM1XS3BDM%252Ct4BZXvLG8WzsdM%252C_%253BGSbcpgVRSlGLgM%252CevkkrV–BGcEjM%252C_%253BVxZlgZDyXO3_iM%252Cf6mQ9SKwSfWFGM%252C_%253BwZHRZ0nPQk8adM%252CXAAsumFm1dfFCM%252C_%253BKZsDBadolpoabM%252CrKSCAd4pZN2VUM%252C_%253BZdjqGn2Y8O4DtM%252Cgqd–V02uQMZaM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kQPt6VylbjmcgWqtBcHeW0bF5EtUQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwia_cDQ49j3AhUTkokEHXcyCVMQ7Al6BAgFEE4&biw=1369&bih=873&dpr=1#imgrc=qZuxy9TKvMZxXM

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“Jesus Stands Among Us” 5/11/2022 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org

Posted on May 11, 2022 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Matthew 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Posted by Alister Begg   for   www.truthforlife.org

Original post @ https://www.truthforlife.org/daily/?tab=alistair_begg_devotional&date=04%2F03%2F2022&src=22ELDB0&utm_campaign=Alistair%20Begg%20Daily%20Devotion&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=208717146&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9AbTAXjXiiBYzae5BfYcQ2yMUr9Ib8Be1SsUpisM9xcvFFfaCmHvYAJsYmLjPM8ELch7ycs5ZdGmH498dOwtzGdIDkcD7GOsigXsv2YykwMNohHo8&utm_content=208717146&utm_source=hs_email

Jesus Stands Among Us

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’

John 20:19

When Jesus first appeared to the disciples after His resurrection, they were cowering behind locked doors, fearing what the authorities who had crucified their leader would do next. But locked doors couldn’t stop Jesus! Nothing stopped Him from entering the house and re-entering their lives, proving Himself to be their Savior and their living hope. He was able to be seen, heard, touched, known—and He approaches our lives in the same manner. No matter where we are or what we have done, Christ can enter our lives—our sadness, our darkness, our fear, our doubts—and make Himself seen and known, declaring, “Peace be with you.”

Maybe you’re a “doubting Thomas,” quick to question matters of faith. To some degree, questions are good and healthy. Thomas was straightforward with Jesus, essentially saying, I’m not going to believe in You unless I can actually put my finger in Your scars. Jesus replied to Thomas, All right, if that’s what it takes for you, here you are (John 20:24-29). Jesus can meet us in our doubts. Or maybe you’re denying Peter, quick to renounce your identity in Christ, and quick to feel condemnation for how you’ve messed up. Jesus took Peter, who had questioned Him countless times but crumbled before the question of a servant girl, and made him the rock on which His church was built (Matthew 16:18). Jesus accepts us despite our shortcomings and uses our lives in transformative ways. Or perhaps you’re a disgraced Mary Magdalene, whose past haunts you, making you feel unworthy of Jesus’ love and acceptance. Yet God did not ordain Jesus’ first recorded encounter after His resurrection to be with a Sunday-school teacher but with a woman who had a sordid past riddled with sin and had even suffered demon possession. It was no haphazard coincidence that the first embrace, as it were, from the resurrected Christ was with such a person. He offers this same redemptive embrace to us.

Jesus can get past locked doors; He can get through to hardened hearts. Through His death and resurrection, He was able to bridge the gap that sin had opened between rebellious humanity and a righteous God. We must receive the salvation He freely offers. It must be fresh in our minds each day.

Have you done this? Have you received Jesus unconditionally and unreservedly? Do you embrace Him daily? Do you rehearse His gospel to yourself each morning? To trust in this way means we give ourselves to God in service. We submit ourselves to His lordship as our Savior. We take God’s promises to heart, and we take the salvation He freely offers. With this belief, you will see that He stands beside you, offering you an eternal, intimate peace that triumphs over and transforms your sadness, your darkness, your fear, your doubts. Hear the risen Christ say to you, “Peace be with you.”

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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 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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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