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

Posted on December 19, 2016 by Godsmanforever

      “The Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ” 

                                                 (Revised from 7/11/2013)

           

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

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)… whose 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)

After being drawn in by God, then 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, after the unbeliever is drawn in by God (John 6:44), 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 within 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 breathe 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 sinner’s prayer”, which 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 He first draws in (John 6:44), who then are able to seek Jesus with  ALL of their heart, mind soul, and strength…

God finally graced me with salvation after He drew me in, and I prayed with true godly sorrow and a repentant heart…  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 John 1:9… 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

If you have any questions, from the USA you can call my cell  @  1-856-430-1448

or contact me by email @  brucermillslast@comcast.net

A great app for reading (or listening to) the whole Bible in one year-   www.bibleinoneyear.org

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

“Acts: I Cannot Tell a Lie” 6/09/2023 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on June 9, 2023 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

24 Bible Verses about Lying - ESV - DailyVerses.net

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

Original post @ https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com/2023/05/01/acts-i-cannot-tell-a-lie/

Acts: I Cannot Tell a Lie

POSTED ON MAY 1, 2023 BY BETH ANDREWS

What sets the church apart from every other organization? Consider all the benevolent organizations in the world that are dedicated to good causes. What makes the church different?  I see two things in today’s Scripture – grab your Bible and read Acts 4:32-5:11. Luke wrote, “All the believers were one in heart and mind” (Acts 4:32). Unity is the first point that stood out. Their focus was caring for one another and proclaiming the resurrection of the Lord Jesus (v. 32-33). The first is at the heart of today’s Scripture lesson, but the second, declaring the gospel, was – and still is – the mission of the church and we’ll see that as we continue through Acts and into the history of the church.

The first believers were selfless and “shared everything they had” so that “there were no needy persons among them” (vs. 32, 34).  We’ve been through some very tough times financially, but God put us on someone’s heart and they met our needs with gracious plenty. I am forever grateful for their compassion and the Lord’s provision.

Not only did the believers share out of their own supply, but they often sold property and brought the money to the church for distribution. And this brings us to another distinguishing mark of the church: integrity. A man named Ananias and his wife Sapphira sold some property and brought some of the money to the apostles as an offering. But he told them it was the full amount. The Lord was not pleased – not because of the sum of money given, but because of the lie. Peter told Ananias that the money was his to do with as he chose. He would not have been at fault for bringing a portion of the money – if he had been honest about it. Peter said, “You have lied to the Holy Spirit . . . you have not lied to men but to God (v. 3, 4).” His wife confirmed the same lie. Both Ananias and Sapphira were struck dead for their deception.

That seems pretty extreme, but we have to understand that dishonesty is an ugly stain on the church. It harms the reputation and the mission of the Body of Christ. When a person is known for deceitfulness, we disregard everything they say. When a representative of the church is dishonest, even their testimony about Christ is in doubt.  Simply put, nobody trusts a liar, even when they are speaking the truth. When a church member is untrustworthy in their business or their marriage or their relationships, nothing they say is worth believing.

The Bible is clear: “God does not lie” (Nu 23:19; Titus 1:2; Heb 6:18). Nor should we. For the sake of Christ and the gospel, we must be people of integrity. Beloved, you were made in the image of God – speak in His image too.

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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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“Your First Second in Eternity” 6/08/2023 Written by Bill Rudge for “Bill Rudge Ministries”

Posted on June 8, 2023 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Come" - Plain Bible Teaching

Written by Bill Rudge for “Bill Rudge Ministries” @  https://billrudgeministries.wordpress.com/

Original post @ https://billrudgeministries.wordpress.com/2023/06/02/your-first-second-in-eternity/

Your First Second in Eternity

JUNE 2, 2023~ BRM7

By Bill Rudge

One second is all it takes to transform disbelief into belief, indifference into astonishment, and mockery into reverence. In just one second, life-long thoughts, attitudes, and emotions will be forever altered. In one second, all false hypotheses will vanish. In one second, the ingenuity and magnificence of the Creator will be unveiled. In that one second, you will know the reality of the One you embraced, ignored, or abhorred.

Now is the time to come to know your Creator. If you meet Him as Savior, that first second will bring great joy. However, if you stand before the Lord of Heaven and Earth as Judge, you will surely tremble in terror.

That initial second will alter everything forever! It will either begin an eternity in His presence, with “fullness of joy and pleasures evermore,” or be a terrifying experience of “falling into the hands of the living God” and the realization that you are eternally separated from Him and all He has prepared for those who love Him.

Be assured, that one second will come. It will definitely happen. How you prepare for your first second in eternity will make all the difference. Do not wait for another second. Accept His free gift of salvation now! I promise that when you stand before Him you will be overjoyed and forever grateful that you did. Revelation 22:17 is God’s final offer of salvation in Scripture: “…And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost.”

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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=APwXEdfTDT6k8katop2MAXUrdybpd3phkw:1686192464363&q=image+rev+22:17&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=M28zUr8RI7edmM%252C8p75WiDaZwVNGM%252C_%253BHwn8H7fUnujLKM%252C8p75WiDaZwVNGM%252C_%253B2v0LGurzeuhA_M%252CPQEOKGFMmWbKAM%252C_%253BCGpPSL6yADL4oM%252CEPufUReJLZi0uM%252C_%253BoP7kZlIFtjOhrM%252CGgdZrV_5OQMkUM%252C_%253Bzvg89CVKgU1XCM%252C8M_6hmOd0Oi4PM%252C_%253BgfGh-0yo8DGdkM%252CC5DJ6-VDoe2H1M%252C_%253Bf2Dcb27-Nnr6iM%252CJolKZc2evhkeaM%252C_%253BjvDQ5rAgd6-YmM%252CASuKWMxi0ZSXhM%252C_%253BquqosotYxxlPGM%252CvtxFk0ofn24vPM%252C_%253BmLYWjzZwgqs74M%252Cy8ARcp1NW70dQM%252C_%253B7FNTAKeIGxECyM%252C6NeFzhkeBJRxkM%252C_%253BpdLwtgxp5yK_LM%252Ct-BP5ni-ceTwXM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kRaMF7kNGU3IlhU1bwQoO1y_cebbw&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj8xfG21LL_AhUaFVkFHYI3BGMQ7Al6BAgaEEQ&biw=1582&bih=848&dpr=1#imgrc=78kMi-seKkEjHM

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“6 Ways to Drink Christ as the Living Water” 6/07/2023 Posted for Bibles for America

Posted on June 7, 2023 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org 

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

6 Ways to Drink Christ as the Living Water

Posted for Bibles for America @  https://blog.biblesforamerica.org/

 

6 Ways to Drink Christ as the Living Water

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Throughout the Bible, numerous verses show us God’s desire for us to take Him in, to drink of Him as the living water. For example, in John 7:37-38 we see that God’s desire for us to drink of Him is so great, Jesus actually stood up and cried out during a feast, issuing a call for people to come to Him and drink:

“Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes into Me, as the Scripture said, out of his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water.”

So how do we come to Him and drink? Only the Lord Jesus can quench our inner thirst; only He is the living water. He wants us to drink of Him to quench our thirst, and even  to drink until rivers of living water flow out of our innermost being to others. But quite often, instead of feeling satisfied and watered, we feel dry and even dead. We may want to drink the living water, but not know how.

How to drink the living water

In Isaiah 12:3-6, we see six ways we can drink Christ as the living water:

“Therefore you will draw water with rejoicing
From the springs of salvation,
And you will say in that day,
Give thanks to Jehovah; call upon His name!
Make His deeds known among the peoples;
Remind them that His name is exalted.
Sing psalms to Jehovah, for He has done something majestic!
Let it be made known in all the earth!
Cry out and give a ringing shout, O inhabitant of Zion,
For great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.”

Let’s look at how to practice these six ways to drink living water.

1. Give thanks to Jehovah

We can drink the living water by thanking the Lord. This is something we can easily do first thing in the morning, before meals, and throughout the day.

It’s healthy for us as Christians to be thankful and to practice thanking the Lord all the time. The Lord Jesus has done so much for us through His death and resurrection, and He cares for all of our needs. We all have so much to thank Him for, and He is worthy to be thanked!

The opposite of being thankful is being unthankful. Second Timothy 3 lists being unthankful with being lovers of self, lovers of money, boasters, arrogant, revilers, disobedient, unholy, without natural affection, and many more negative things. We surely don’t want any of these negative characteristics to apply to us.

Our own experience tells us the more we’re unthankful or complain about things, the dryer we become. Our situation doesn’t improve, and we feel worse and worse. But when we thank the Lord, we’re saved from being unthankful and we take a drink of living water. This water supplies and refreshes us, whatever our outward situation may be.

Being thankful is something we can practice. First thing in the morning, we can say, “Lord Jesus, thank You for another day. Thank You for dying for me, for shedding Your blood for me, and for giving me another day to experience Your grace.” We can continue by thanking the Lord for our health, our family members, our job, and whatever else the Lord touches us to thank Him for.

We can especially thank Him for all He is and all He’s done. We can pray, “Lord, thank You for being the light of the world. Thank You, Lord, for coming to us and loving us. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being my light and my way. Thank You for Your life in me.”

We can continue thanking the Lord throughout the rest of the day for anything and everything He reminds us to thank Him for. Even simply saying, “Thank You, Lord Jesus,” throughout the day waters us. Every time we utter thanks to Him, we drink of Christ as the living water. It’s like taking a drink from a refreshing spring. Instead of being dry, we’re watered and revived.

 

2. Call upon His name

The next way to drink revealed in Isaiah 12 is to call upon the Lord’s name. Right after instructing us to give thanks to Jehovah, verse 4 directs us to call upon the Lord’s name.

This may be new to many of us, but calling on the name of the Lord is a practice that’s found throughout the Bible, beginning in ancient times in the Old Testament. It’s first recorded in Genesis 4:26 where it says that at the time Enosh was born, men began to call upon the name of Jehovah.

The practice of calling upon the name of the Lord continues in the New Testament. Acts 7:59 records how Stephen called upon the Lord’s name as he was being stoned. Note 1 on Acts 2:21 in the New Testament Recovery Version is a wonderful and full note tracing this practice throughout the whole Old and New Testaments, and is worth reading.

Today, we can call on the Lord’s name throughout the day by saying, “Oh Lord Jesus,” or “Lord Jesus, I love You.” Each time we audibly call on His name, we drink of the living water.

3. Make His deeds known among the people

We can also drink by making Christ’s deeds known among people. He’s done so much that we can speak to others about! He came to this earth and lived a perfect life; He died for the sins of all mankind; He resurrected and ascended; He became a life-giving Spirit to give us eternal life; and He produced the church as His Body through His death and resurrection.

How wonderful all of this is! And additionally, He is still doing so much in each of our lives! We have so many marvelous things to speak concerning Christ. We shouldn’t be silent; we should tell others about the Lord’s deeds.

We can speak to our neighbors, our classmates, our family, and other people we meet during the day. As we speak to them, we minister Christ to them, and at the same time, we take a life-giving drink. Our making the Lord’s deeds known to others is an effective and wonderful way for us to drink the living water.

Perhaps we feel dry because we haven’t spoken to anyone for a while about Christ. But when we open our mouth to tell someone about Him, we ourselves take a drink and are watered and refreshed by the living water.

4. Remind people that His name is exalted

In addition to telling people about the Lord’s wonderful deeds, we can remind others that Christ’s name is exalted. Philippians 2:9 tells us that Christ’s name is above every name. This is something we can speak to those around us.

We can ask people, “Do you know that Jesus’ name is exalted?” Or we can declare this fact, telling them that Jesus is Lord and that His name is the highest name in heaven and on earth. Even our personal exalting of Jesus’ name, when witnessed by others, will remind them that His is the highest name. When we tell others that the name of Jesus is exalted and that Jesus is Lord, we drink living water from the well of salvation.

5. Sing Psalms to Jehovah

Did you know that singing is a way to drink? Opening our mouths and singing hymns to the Lord is one of the best ways to drink from the fountain of living water. As we sing, this fountain begins to well up in us, and even overflows. Singing is such an enjoyable way to drink!

So what should we do? We can sing hymns as we start our day in the morning, we can sing hymns as we drive to work, and we can sing more hymns when we’re with fellow believers. Ephesians 5:19 even instructs us to speak to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, and also to sing and psalm with our heart to the Lord. The more we sing with our hearts to the Lord throughout our day, the more watered and refreshed we’ll be!

6. Cry out and give a ringing shout

We can drink the water of life by crying out and giving a ringing shout.

Have you ever done this? Many times we pray quietly to the Lord, but have you ever cried out to the Lord and given a ringing shout? If you haven’t, give it a try!

Sometimes we may find it difficult to pray. This can be because our mind is full of thoughts and anxieties. It’s not that God doesn’t hear us when we pray quietly. The problem is more with us. To get through all our mental activity, sometimes we have to shout out loud. We can break through the desert of our mind by crying out and even giving a ringing shout.

A great place to try this is when you’re alone at home or in a car. You can cry out desperately, “Oh Lord, I need You! I need You right now! I’m so dry, and I’m even so dead. Lord Jesus, be my life. I can’t make it without You. Lord, I come to You to drink. Oh Lord, quench my thirst!”

You can also cry out to praise and to thank the Lord, and give a ringing shout by saying loudly, “Praise the Lord! Jesus, You are so good! I love You, Lord Jesus!”

When we cry out like this to the Lord, we get saved from all the thoughts in our mind and take a deep drink of the life-giving Spirit as the water of life.

Daily practice

You can practice these six ways to drink every day. Whenever you feel dry or depressed, you can try thanking the Lord, calling on His name, speaking about Christ to someone, telling someone that Jesus is Lord and that His name is the highest name, singing with your heart to the Lord, or crying out and giving a ringing shout.

You’ll drink Christ as the living water, be refreshed and revived in your Christian life, and even overflow rivers of living water to others.

Praise the Lord, we can drink of Him as the living water every day!

Here’s a link to an enjoyable song based on Isaiah 12:3-6 that you can practice singing to the Lord to drink the living water.

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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=APwXEdedd6-R6-V2iaXR68ohkcFmEX9m-w:1685879679232&q=image+thirst+for+living+water+Bible&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=l74eM-akYkEMaM%252CCY7dXAPMlH9CYM%252C_%253B2MJOLGpm1asoIM%252C-ISOk965yghjpM%252C_%253BTc3ZkS5mAgK5OM%252Cxd_Ucj7ypS2LcM%252C_%253BO5S7NXh29yQO8M%252CMlLbyieQlIxbhM%252C_%253B9WmGdSRyLBV6eM%252CPEpes0i6d8JcgM%252C_%253B5C5zVjS5GVu7mM%252CnLQM79X79oCyIM%252C_%253B0JSaFDoO_3-O8M%252Cj2-1VOQ22yUEKM%252C_%253BBStnbU3J-J7WEM%252Cpti9-zM6R-5u9M%252C_%253B3O-V3Ij7JkLmiM%252CMacYsH6SBnhQ_M%252C_%253BlK-ezD0lzCP6ZM%252CvsgIt4TmaFJbyM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kSMA_eE0cNxA13tudif3-EoI_2l2w&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj3o6ibx6n_AhUukIkEHXTGCZwQ7Al6BAgnEE0&biw=1502&bih=905&dpr=1#imgrc=0JSaFDoO_3-O8M

 

 

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“God’s living and powerful Word !!” 6/06/2023 Written by Louis Mize, a good friend

Posted on June 6, 2023 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

   Hebrews 4 12 - Scripture on the Walls

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

“God’s living and powerful Word !!”

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12

Here is a newsflash for us: When our word contradicts God’s word, guess who is wrong? June is another one of those so-called “Prideful” months. You see, clueless people in their profound arrogance are walking around among us, claiming what God has called evil is actually good. They are teaching the children and younger generation that the Word of God is wrong or not true. And all the while they are doing it, they have to know just how depraved they really have become.

Someone made this observation: Right in the center of the word they are throwing in our faces, (PRIDEMONTH)) is a defining word.

That word is DEMON…

You see, thumbing your nose at God and denying the truth of His Word is demonic in nature. And demons are right DEAD CENTER of anything human beings do that goes against God and His word. And we better KNOW IT. And we better BELIEVE IT too. Most of all, we must act on our beliefs. Read and study the Word of God. It will change your life and attitude for the better, and never for the worse.

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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=APwXEddGICuwJ0DjirkXETf0NYR23UyJVQ:1686052509163&q=image+Heb+4:12,&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=dq05OSk-qVzO9M%252CJd14UFNPEg4dzM%252C_%253BsU7lOH5474DEjM%252CN1rjC7eMJLpGZM%252C_%253BDKLtLN2Y1RvoDM%252ClFYRPY4VgYiL9M%252C_%253BCTp0HAo4KrhcpM%252ClwdBhEelaLz4mM%252C_%253BWHYdee-WILSLLM%252Cbm7HSfQrknXOeM%252C_%253BFkQ3iUQ55hyC6M%252CQ8QKFt5yNy-hjM%252C_%253BSS4a7VZUFvQSYM%252CJd14UFNPEg4dzM%252C_%253B3hiJ06C4X1GpIM%252CneEDGjfPMoGatM%252C_%253BkZs3x-OV_9e7HM%252CoskxQjW8xAhjPM%252C_%253BPF306jBfyrkzUM%252C8qh7ZFRdsjtuqM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kTKGT3y4AOhTbfUNIxxe_oIztagoA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjc_IWHy67_AhUYmokEHWKkCOoQ7Al6BAgYEEo&biw=1502&bih=905&dpr=1#imgrc=b1XVAbzMUFNXyM

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“The Joy of Inadequacy” 6/05/2023 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org from Spurgeon’s writing

Posted on June 5, 2023 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

2 Corinthians 12:10 KJV - 2 Corinthians 1210 Kjv - Sticker | TeePublic

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

Original post @ https://www.truthforlife.org/daily/?tab=alistair_begg_devotional&date=05%2F12%2F2023&src=23ELEB0&utm_campaign=Alistair%20Begg%20Daily%20Devotion&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=257912915&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-80BjLaoOJ-t8HFsZO6l_oVN-Tf6yHAUfeJ-mmRyzNS-gcdh7p1qiwAkLhyXdzD6JMrlliY7rbdvk_WLlWo3bZlvlhBWfv-bD14uFb1UnwwuBzLJ2c&utm_content=257912915&utm_source=hs_email

 

 

The Joy of Inadequacy

 

Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant.

2 Corinthians 3:5-6

 

God’s purpose for His people at every age is that we will depend upon Him entirely.

This dependence does not come naturally to us because one of the great idols of every age is that of power. Its allure is strong, its ability to corrupt even stronger. And what’s true now has always been so: those who obtain power are those bold enough to pursue it, and they tend to be marked by characteristics like charisma and strong personalities. This is how many measure strength and usefulness. Tragically, even within the church, leaders have often been given authority and influence because of their magnetism rather than their character and because of their ambition rather than their humility.

Paul was well acquainted with such miscalculations. In fact, he even spent portions of two letters instructing the Corinthian church not to evaluate spiritual leaders by worldly standards. On some occasions, the Corinthians were tempted to align themselves with their favorite orators and to cherish worldly wisdom. On others, Paul had to combat the influence of so-called “super-apostles” whose strength, gifting, and power were observable in a way the Corinthians found appealing (2 Corinthians 11:5; 12:11).

By contrast, Paul said, “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). He knew that the power of Christ was put on display in his weakness, and he readily confessed that he was not adequate for the work entrusted to him: “Who is sufficient for these things?” (2:16).

We may not be “super-apostles,” but we can relate to the temptation of worldly thinking. We are all prone to rely on ourselves—on our personalities or on our gifts. What we must learn is that spiritual usefulness isn’t found in such things. Instead, it is discovered when we humble ourselves before God when we acknowledge that we are wholly inadequate. Paul’s confession must be ours: weakness is actually a strength. The very nature of the “new covenant,” made by Jesus in His blood and to which we bring nothing but our sin, should be all we need to remind us that we do not have what we need but that He does. God is at work to bring us to that point—to convince us that He alone is adequate. Do we want to grow in boldness? Then we must embrace our weakness before God, and He will lead us to faith-filled boldness before others. Do we want to grow in usefulness? Then we must embrace our inadequacy in private, and God will prove His sufficiency through us.

Have you considered the possibility that one of the greatest barriers to your usefulness in serving God may actually be your own sense of personal adequacy? Be sure to commit time to prayer and ask God to show you whether the delusion of self-sufficiency has seeped into your thinking in one way or another. Ask Him to take it from you, that you may serve in the freedom and joy of inadequacy—and watch Him do the work!

 

Questions for Thought

How is God calling me to think differently?

How is God reordering my heart’s affections — what I love?

What is God calling me to do as I go about my day today?

 

Further Reading

Judges 7:1-8

Judges 7:16-25

Topics: Dependence on God, Leadership, Pride

 

Devotional material is taken from the Truth For Life daily devotionals by Alistair Begg, published by The Good Book Company, thegoodbook.com. Used by Truth For Life with permission. Copyright © 2021, 2022, The Good Book Company.

 

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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=APwXEdcGZHNVFlVG17RK_1IJ7cWf_XPGTQ:1685967134071&q=image+2+cor+12:10&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=dU72G6AtuHWaDM%252CRbWuePLWJvk-4M%252C_%253BtM6qQDW_XRZ3JM%252C25Nb4o9oC_0F5M%252C_%253BneivR2Mq71q_3M%252C6YOIsh6o8caPXM%252C_%253BWFXqAkXBKg3cmM%252CHw0PjSWcY_tX5M%252C_%253B9yL8GZQ7V3zJfM%252CiitugKfog5PB0M%252C_%253Bi5I_Z3FEZiiimM%252CQmOYuNfSZwNrCM%252C_%253BAnDtZXS-PpSkPM%252C25Nb4o9oC_0F5M%252C_%253BovY7BpUrQg1P1M%252CELu9Fp8PhDa3lM%252C_%253Bhmkco5csc71_WM%252C_2dIZ81k8KiLzM%252C_%253BgdSxr1UxzjCqeM%252Cm2apCSgSUuxJkM%252C_%253BrVjGyw5fhfXhOM%252CV0DO8I7XUmBEBM%252C_%253BEJ2Z7LAiQBZ4RM%252CGY5ibTirm5jZ0M%252C_%253BIqmZMS4ysEwk5M%252CErnQCNyWMrgtnM%252C_%253BWiiCngytwIwVlM%252C18rrAyb-j2WUUM%252C_%253BYaC4bliWzI9M1M%252C2HxsB5TXPZ8cMM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kQD81A-SyfoDow2_mGrh74MdwIDKg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiP7YOBjaz_AhVYF1kFHaE_At4Q7Al6BAgbEEA&biw=1502&bih=905&dpr=1#imgrc=KOJLnix32F-WVM

 

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“A Thirst for Living Water” 6/04/2023 Posted by David Kitz for “I Love the Psalms”

Posted on June 4, 2023 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

6 Ways to Drink Christ as the Living Water

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

Original post found @ https://davidkitz.blog/2023/05/22/a-thirst-for-living-water/

A Thirst for Living Water

22MondayMay 2023

Posted by davidkitz in Psalm 42, Psalms

Tags Jesus, living water, spiritual, thirst for God, thirsting for God

 

Reading: Psalm 42:1-5
For the director of music. A maskil of the Sons of Korah.


As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, my God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
My tears have been my food day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
These things I remember as I pour out my soul:
how I used to go to the house of God
under the protection of the Mighty One
with shouts of joy and praise
among the festive throng.
Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God (NIV). *

Creek 2021-04-24

Photo by David Kitz

 

Reflection
Thirst is one of our most basic cravings. Our need for water far exceeds our need for food. The human body can go 60 days or more without food, but only about ten days without water. Your body needs water because it is water. About two-thirds, (2/3) of your body weight is water.

But you are more than skin filled with bones and water. Paul, the apostle, closes his first letter to the Thessalonians with this prayer, “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (Thessalonians 5:23).

As Paul states, we are spirit, soul, and body. By nature—by God’s design—you are two thirds, (2/3) spiritual. You are more than a collection of molecules. You are a living soul with a spirit that was designed and intended to commune with God. Therefore, just as our physical body thirsts for water, so our spiritual man thirsts for God.

This should be our constant prayer, “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?”

Are you thirsting for God? The truth is we all thirst for God. Some of us know how to mask our thirst or we substitute other things for the true living water. But the thirst remains. We need to heed Jesus’ invitation. On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink” (John 7:37).

Response: LORD God, I thank you for Jesus. I am thankful you are the true water of life and when we drink of your Spirit, springs of water flow from us. Hallelujah! Amen.

Your Turn: Have you tasted the life-changing, life-invigorating water of Christ?

* 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=APwXEdedd6-R6-V2iaXR68ohkcFmEX9m-w:1685879679232&q=image+thirst+for+living+water+Bible&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=l74eM-akYkEMaM%252CCY7dXAPMlH9CYM%252C_%253B2MJOLGpm1asoIM%252C-ISOk965yghjpM%252C_%253BTc3ZkS5mAgK5OM%252Cxd_Ucj7ypS2LcM%252C_%253BO5S7NXh29yQO8M%252CMlLbyieQlIxbhM%252C_%253B9WmGdSRyLBV6eM%252CPEpes0i6d8JcgM%252C_%253B5C5zVjS5GVu7mM%252CnLQM79X79oCyIM%252C_%253B0JSaFDoO_3-O8M%252Cj2-1VOQ22yUEKM%252C_%253BBStnbU3J-J7WEM%252Cpti9-zM6R-5u9M%252C_%253B3O-V3Ij7JkLmiM%252CMacYsH6SBnhQ_M%252C_%253BlK-ezD0lzCP6ZM%252CvsgIt4TmaFJbyM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kSMA_eE0cNxA13tudif3-EoI_2l2w&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj3o6ibx6n_AhUukIkEHXTGCZwQ7Al6BAgnEE0&biw=1502&bih=905&dpr=1#imgrc=0JSaFDoO_3-O8M

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“Guest Post: Carrying a Heavy Load” 6/03/2023 Posted by Pastor Jim Lee for “The Domain for Truth”

Posted on June 3, 2023 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

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

Original post @ https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2023/04/26/guest-post-carrying-a-heavy-load/

Guest Post: Carrying a Heavy Load

April 26, 2023 by SLIMJIM

heavyload

Note: This is a guest post since presently I am overseas.  This is by Bruce.  Bruce is no stranger to some of you who read this blog.  His blog be found here.

Matthew 11:28-30 NASB

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.”

These are the words that Jesus speaks to all of us and I have pondered them considerably as of late. A lot of us carry heavy loads, especially concerns of the heart about loved ones, not to mention our own ability or inability to address or weather the various storms that we face.

I find, in my own case, that sometimes I can become overwhelmed with the totality of the concerns of the heart that I often experience and my own inability to know what to say or to do, or what not to say or do.

And then there are those externals over which I have little if any control. This journey that I have been on for many years with Jesus has taught me that bringing about change in others is much harder than it appears. And coming to terms with external influences that I individually am unable to change, is a reality that all of us have to learn. And there are times when a sense of helplessness can indeed make itself known.

And when I also take into consideration my own inadequacies, the magnitude of the task at hand can very easily become a burden that weighs one down. This is where we allow our own inadequacies within and the externals that surround us, to isolate us from our source, and we feel alone. This is us without being yoked to our Shepherd, to lighten our load.

Jesus tells us to let go of our burden and take His burden as our own. And by doing so, our yoke will indeed become comfortable and our burden light, and we will find rest for our souls.

Rest for our souls, deep within. This speaks of the peace of God that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7), which is a gift from Him. It’s a mindset that sees beyond what we see or what we feel. Having faith in God is trusting in God’s promises and goodness, and His provision for us. Jesus tells us this in Matthew 6:25-33.

Jesus also tells us to focus on the day that we are in and not to dwell too much on what may or may not come to fruition tomorrow (Matthew 6:34). I find that is a good place to start, as I enter each new day, because that which I have any real measure of input, primarily has to do with me. And there is only one source that can address my ability or inabilities and that source is indeed Jesus.

Remember that Jesus said that without Him, we could do nothing (John 15:5).

So I go to Him in prayer and after I thank Him for all that He has done, I tell God what is on my heart and all that I need His help with. And I ask Him for His grace to go through this day, because I need His peace within me, I need to trust and rely in Him. And when I do this, God never fails to meet me where I am with His grace.

Jesus is our rock, there is none other and I praise His Holy Name!

Worthy is the Lamb! Blessings!

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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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“We Don’t Win Down Here?” 6/02/2023 Written by Gabrielle Guthrie for “See, there’s this thing called biology…~insanitybytes”

Posted on June 2, 2023 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

70 Epic Bible Verses About Victory In Christ (Praise Jesus)

Click link for 70 Bible verses about our victory in Christ-  https://biblereasons.com/bible-verses-about-victory-in-christ/

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

Original post found @  https://insanitybytes2.wordpress.com/2023/05/17/we-dont-win-down-here/

“We Don’t Win Down Here?”

17WednesdayMay 2023

Posted by insanitybytes22 in Uncategorized

Tags culture, humor, insanitybytes, life, opinion, politics

Recently Jmac stirred the pot and created some controversy by saying, “We don’t win down here, we lose!”

In a lot of ways, I agree with him. Mark this day down in history because I don’t always agree with MacArthur, but I think he really nailed it here. I also believe there is a lot of Biblical precedent that supports what he is saying. The last shall go first, the meek shall inherit the Earth. Our Savior Himself did not ride into victory to conquer the Romans and “win.” By earthly measures, it doesn’t look like a “win.” Jmac says “we lose on this battlefield,” key words being “this battlefield.” The war itself has already been won.

In faith we are called to pour ourselves out, to use everything we have been given, with little or no earthly reward, without reaping the glory, without the victory. Hopefully we “lose” everything. Things like pride, envy, wrath, idols……

These words also needed to be said because in the Western world, we are just obsessed with “winning,” to the point of having nearly lost all perspective. There are men invading women’s sports right now in part because the primary goal is “winning.” Forget sportsmanship, forget opportunity, it’s all about winning.

Politics no longer resemble any kind of cooperative human venture either, it’s all about winners and losers and owning the other side. I don’t know how anyone sensible could claim all this “political winning” is benefiting anyone.

In marriage there are quite a few so-called Christian teachings about who gets to be the “tiebreaker,” the winner, or the boss. Let me tell you if you think the goal of marriage is to win, to figure how who is the more powerful “tiebreaker,” that’s the fastest path to divorce. If you don’t divorce, at the very least you will completely destroy another person, the one you claim to love. I’m horrified that “who gets to be the tie-breaker” is even a part of the discussion. Love doesn’t care about “winning” it wants to lift up, elevate another, serve, cooperate, listen, and sacrifice. Husbands are supposed to love their wives like Christ loved the church. In an earthly sense, in a worldly definition, there was no “winning” going on there. Jesus simply poured Himself out and laid down His life.

Victory looks a whole lot different in the spiritual realm than it does in the worldly world.

I need to put in a good word for the objectors, however, for those upset about what Jmac said. They aren’t totally wrong. They also make a valid point about how MacArthur really fought against covid lockdowns with the intention of winning. And he did win! He has also certainly accumulated some wealth along the path of all this “Christian losing.” So we have a case of, “do as I say, not as I do.”

Also, if the battle is already lost, then why bother? Why do we do the things we do, serve others, and try to make the world a better place? I think that’s where the strong meat of faith comes in, the understanding that we will lose, but we fight on anyway. Some things are just worth fighting for, even when losing the battle is guaranteed. In fact, what we choose to fight for even knowing it will cost us everything and result in no worldly victory helps to demonstrate what we truly value, what genuinely has worth and value to us.

This is what we mean when we say, “Some people are so heavenly-minded they do no earthly good.” So now nobody has to speak up about injustice because the world is not my home?! There are numerous examples of people using faith as a form of avoidance, as a way of never having to participate in the dreaded, “social justice.” I realize those words are packed with political biases, but we are supposed to care about the well-being of our fellow human beings and what our neighborhoods and nations look like!

Also, while the world is indeed full of suffering and sorrow, we are not commanded to live in a “vale of tears,” lamenting the delay of the return of the Lord. We have been granted some authority over our own circumstances! At least make your bed, take out the garbage, and go spread some good cheer.

Ultimately I suppose this is an eschatological debate which is why I keep stamping my foot and proclaiming, abiding panism. That’s where you just abide in the Lord and trust that it will all pan out.

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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=APwXEddCQn7NhRtayQCgc-8XDzpa_XzmUQ:1685706201349&q=image+we+don%27t+win+the+battle,+but+the+war+is+over+bible&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=UC6h4BcP3q05bM%252CucWBTZysEbu0nM%252C_%253Ba-FmuADG0OPcfM%252CiLhVPZuWR4gAmM%252C_%253BFiDOImHJvOkEIM%252CXrQGj6oeaNyb-M%252C_%253BQvb6nOzLUFcF9M%252CD1Z83zhI6IuiSM%252C_%253BEW4dYtv9XB6K7M%252Ckhp-dU-WxM1mNM%252C_%253BuGtBQGOZ1fJOQM%252CiLhVPZuWR4gAmM%252C_%253BR4mv5FEt2ApgSM%252CRbxYuQvY5KHzfM%252C_%253BEgtkQoxLu4lAiM%252C6l_SxPyDhvZD7M%252C_%253BZnUR2lQ7WAl6nM%252CWh-YZ7wl6MSXmM%252C_%253BoRSnB2562h6zdM%252CiLhVPZuWR4gAmM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kSvHF-5EQCaxN4REw3XysldoH0yBQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjkr876wKT_AhWWGFkFHet1BeUQ7Al6BAgWEBM&biw=1128&bih=905&dpr=1#imgrc=aebTq-7T8wqmlM

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“The Great Physician” 6/01/2023 Written by Elihu Anderson for “Elihu’s Corner”

Posted on June 1, 2023 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Written by Elihu Anderson  for “Elihu’s Corner” @   http://elihuscorner.com/

Original post @ https://elihuscorner.com/2023/05/31/the-great-physician-june-2023-scripture-writing-plan/

CHRISTIAN LIVING , FORGIVENESS , GOD’S LOVE , KNOWING GOD , SCRIPTURE WRITING PLANS

The Great Physician: June 2023 Scripture Writing Plan

May 31, 2023Elihu

Franny J. Crosby was a well-known American poet and lyricist, known today for the many hymns she composed.

She was also blind.

At 6 weeks old, a doctor’s incorrect treatment of her eye infection caused permanent blindness. (Some scholars assert that she was born blind.)

A preacher once said to her,  “I think it is a great pity that the Master did not give you sight when he showered so many other gifts up on you.”

Without hesitation, she replied, “Do you know that if at birth I had been able to make one petition, it would have been that I was born blind? Because when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior.”

Crosby’s disability—which would have discouraged most people—was used to show the power of Christ in her.

Even for the most faithful Christian, sickness, disability, and incurable diseases are challenging. Inevitably, many wonder why God doesn’t provide healing or relief. Watching loved ones suffer is its own form of pain, particularly when healing seems improbable, or worse, impossible.

When Jesus lived on earth, he did the impossible for many who suffered. Some of the things he cured include:

  • blindness
  • deafness
  • muteness
  • lameness
  • paralysis
  • fever
  • leprosy
  • demon-possession
  • death

In each case, the glory and power of God and His Son was revealed to the person healed and the people who observed. Many who had been gripped by grief and hopelessness were invigorated with joy and hope.

Of even greater importance, Jesus provided a cure for the disease no Physician could conquer: sin.

This month, we will write out scriptures from the book of Luke (who was himself a physician). The passages at the beginning and end of the plan are prophecies from the book of Isaiah pointing to Jesus being a healer of both physical illness and spiritual disease. As you write through the passages, be sure to read the context surrounding them.

Here are some questions to consider as you read/write these passages:

  • What illness/disease is being healed?
  • What is the attitude of the person who seeks healing?
  • How does the miracle support Jesus’ claims?
  • How does the miracle bring glory to God?

I hope you find encouragement as you write through the plan this month, particularly if you are wrestling with illness, infirmity, or disease. As always, there will be regular posts throughout the month on the Elihu’s Corner Facebook & Instagram pages. I am currently working on putting together an email list service for those who wish to receive the daily posts via email. Stay Tuned!

Download a printable copy of the plan here:

june 2023 scripture writingDOWNLOAD

Download tracing and copying sheets for your young scripture writers below:

kids scripture writing tracing june 2023DOWNLOAD

kids scripture writing copying june 2023DOWNLOAD

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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/

Posted in CHRISTIAN LIVING , FORGIVENESS , GOD'S LOVE , KNOWING GOD , SCRIPTURE WRITING PLANS | Tagged | Leave a comment

“Put a Bounce in Your Step!” 5/31/2023 Written by Nancy Ruegge for “From The Inside Out”

Posted on May 31, 2023 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Empowered By The Holy Spirit - Acts 1:8 - Bible Verse - Sticker | TeePublic

Written by Nancy Ruegge for “From The Inside Out” @  http://nancyaruegg.com

View original post @ https://nancyaruegg.com/2023/05/11/put-a-bounce-in-your-step/

Put a Bounce in Your Step!

May 11, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Discouragement bombards us from every direction—from disheartening newscasts to difficult neighbors, from incompetent coworkers to family frustrations.

Secular sources offer strategies like these to combat despair:

  • Let go of anger and accept people as they are. (Easier said than done!)
  • Stand up straight—good posture helps. (Help, perhaps. Absolute remedy? Seems doubtful.)
  • Learn something new; do something fun! (And when the distraction is over, what then?)

An anonymous psalmist offers us this God-inspired example instead:

Can you affirm that our sovereign God is a mighty, majestic, and miracle-working God?

If so, you’ll agree with this assertion:

“As long as our eyes are on God’s majesty

there is a bounce in our step!”

–Max Lucado [1]

Look up majesty in a thesaurus and you’ll find such awe-inspiring synonyms as magnificence, glory, awesomeness, and superbness.

But how can we keep our eyes on the majesty of a God who’s invisible?

We can see its manifestations–they’re all around us.

For example:

We See God’s Majesty in Creation

While reading on the deck one afternoon, a house wren landed at one end of the rail, then dashed across its length before pausing and flying away. Never would I have expected such a small bird to run so fast. You’d think she had wheels, not legs!

And I marveled at this work of God: a small, nondescript bird with the extraordinary gift of great speed.

We See God’s Majesty in Circumstances

H. asked if I’d like to join her for a church-sponsored concert that she knew we’d both enjoy. I purchased my ticket online, only to learn later the transaction hadn’t completed, even though the last page on the website announced a successful purchase. The ticket was never emailed.

Kicking myself for not taking a screen shot, I contacted the credit card company, but there was no record of the payment yet. My husband urged me to attend the concert anyway. Upon arrival we learned there’d been a problem with the website. They graciously invited those of us without tickets to attend free of charge!

We See God’s Majesty in Scripture

Not long ago I let myself slip into a cesspool of self-pity while cleaning the house—a task I deplore. Suddenly God broke through my negativity and redirected my thoughts with this gem of advice: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).

He reminded me why I was cleaning. I could rejoice that our younger son and daughter-in-love were coming to visit. And I prayed, “Help me practice gratitude, Father, and enjoy your company—even as I clean.”

(Please revive my attitudes also, Lord!)

We See God’s Majesty in Jesus

No one is as glorious and majestic as our righteous King! And yet he concerns himself with us.

He is:

Our Priest to atone

Our fountain to cleanse

Our Intercessor to plead

Our Foundation to support

Our Counselor to advise

Our Prophet to teach

Our Sun to enlighten

Our Bread to nourish

Our Father to provide

Our Shepherd to protect

Our Emmanuel to attend

Our Peace to comfort

Our Lord of glory to reign![2]

May such truths as these help to dispel discouragement and put a bounce in our step–today and always!

What truths would you add to this starter-list? Please share in the comments!

[1] Grace for the Moment, 289.

[2] V. 1: Hebrews 2:17; Zechariah 13:1; Romans 8:34; 1 Corinthians 3:11. V. 2: Isaiah 9:6; Deuteronomy 18:15; Malachi 4:2; John 6:35. V. 3: Isaiah 9:6; John 10:11; Matthew 1:22-23; 2 Thessalonians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 2:8.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pexels.com, Yan Krukau; http://www.canva.com; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net, Sheila Brown; http://www.canva.com; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net, Lynn Greyling; http://www.wallpaperflare.com.

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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=APwXEdfVAu-TTacduwUfWdaX2pG73eboHA:1685533888895&q=image+empowered+by+the+Holy+Spirit+Bible&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=ekHKYXlyEaLZ8M%252C35g1MMZKZnxLnM%252C_%253B48H2JJGC47pm3M%252CqePU80szGaouiM%252C_%253BBEUGJNqENG_tiM%252C-mxamVqWOz7AXM%252C_%253Bfn0areCoXRbYbM%252CjqpIBnUP3mRsxM%252C_%253BYa6gfs7RtI-6jM%252CEx4vrBzNVkB3PM%252C_%253BnyY7RcNVwgqkPM%252CWZgn7X-ImkCavM%252C_%253Btj6zFFz_NutuPM%252C7VRB6rRoz8zWGM%252C_%253BYl7hyCj9D0ylJM%252Cim08FplVBPMq3M%252C_%253BbnHvs9s9-BCj7M%252CM1vmObr6TDcirM%252C_%253BrpabVuTruA5oJM%252C7VRB6rRoz8zWGM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kReqAbFEFVsmGqSJjN0XsJ3e_ft-g&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjVgtGFv5__AhXZMlkFHfXPAXsQ7Al6BAgiEEs&biw=1128&bih=905&dpr=1#imgrc=cpAX4jgWOWFlBM

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