“Lord, help me overcome my unbelief !” 10/10/2024 Written by Louis Mize, a good friend

Posted on October 10, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Overcome Your Unbelief | The Consecrated Woman

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

“Lord, help me overcome my unbelief !”

And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.

Matthew 13:58

Jesus traveled back into His own country and into the town of Nazareth. His purpose was to minister to and proclaim God’s word to His friends, family, and neighbors. But something strange happened. Although the people were astonished at His knowledge and understanding of the Word of God, they rejected the message because they thought they knew the messenger. And through all this, a valuable lesson is to be learned by us. The message is this: the greatest hinderance to a person coming to Christ is UNBELIEF.

To not believe God is man’s greatest tragedy. It is always rooted in bad soil The bad soil is cold, calloused, and hard hearts of unbelief.

Unbelief causes us not to see or hear God. It causes us to reject the truth of the Word of God. It steals away our senses, and it causes us to throw cold water on the warm flames of the gospel. It is fatalistic behavior that causes unending death instead of unending life. And it separates chief friends and even families.

This morning, I thanked God for people who have the good sense to trust in Him. I thank Him for people who truly believe in Him. I thank Him for tearing down barriers and removing hinderances that keep us from hearing Him. I thank Him for the gifts of faith and trust. For you see, even our faith and trust in God are wonderful gifts that will lead us to believe Him in all things and to ultimately experience unending, eternal, and everlasting life. Don’t just merely believe in God but learn to believe Him in ALL THINGS. For that is the kind of belief that truly saves souls.

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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…

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“Grieving Sin” 10/09/2024 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org from Spurgeon’s writing

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Godsmanforever

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

Original post @ https://www.truthforlife.org/devotionals/spurgeon/9/14/2024/?ecid=ACsprvtwpx_1im3obXcrb9-1PxP2LMVo6YikgjkTtJNEtnvpNmyM56FtFWOpvucG5C2BIG4R3xMs&utm_campaign=Spurgeon+Daily+Devotion&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_DGfoEvrUN1J27jG6Ye7eb93fWbF3fqMdKEST7nTh70Lvys0-0sKGzn3DC87uHGWG7dGpLzuyZQKzUUW4bFW65EI6rGMJyYgG091f26chuEYhfp7s&_hsmi=324340922&utm_content=324340922&utm_source=hs_email

Grieving Sin

 

I acknowledged my sin unto you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.

Psalms 32:5

David’s grief for sin was bitter. Its effects were visible on his outward frame: His bones wasted away; his strength dried up like the drought of summer. He was unable to find a remedy until he made a full confession before the throne of heavenly grace. He tells us that for a time he kept silent, and his heart was filled with grief and his lips with groaning: Like a mountain stream that is blocked, his soul was swollen with torrents of sorrow. He created excuses, and he tried to divert his thoughts, but it was all to no purpose; like a festering sore his anguish gathered, and, unwilling to use the scalpel of confession, his spirit was tormented and knew no peace.

At last, it came to this, that he must return to God in humble penitence or die outright; so he hurried to the mercy seat and there unrolled the volume of his iniquities before the all-seeing God, acknowledging all the evil of his ways in the terms of the Fifty-first and other penitential Psalms. Having confessed, a task so simple and yet so hard for the proud, he immediately received the token of divine forgiveness; the bones that had been wasted were made to rejoice, and he emerged from his prayers to sing the joyful songs of the one whose transgression is forgiven.

Do you see the value of this grace-led confession of sin? It is to be prized above everything, for in every case where there is a genuine, gracious confession, mercy is freely given—not because the repentance and confession deserve mercy, but for Christ’s sake. May God be praised, there is always healing for the broken heart; the fountain is ever flowing to cleanse us from our sins. Truly, O Lord, You are a God “ready to forgive.”1 Therefore we will humbly acknowledge our iniquities.

1) Nehemiah 9:17

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…

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“What Motivates Your Heart?” 10/08/2024 Posted by David Kitz for “I Love the Psalms”

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

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

Original post found @ https://davidkitz.blog/2024/09/27/what-motivates-your-heart/

What Motivates Your Heart?

27FridaySep 2024

Posted by davidkitz in Psalms

Tags Christianity, courage, evil, faith, hope, justice, love, peace, Psalms, redemption, Righteousness, sacrifice, service

 

Reading: Psalm 37:30-34

The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom,
and their tongues speak what is just.
The law of their God is in their hearts;
their feet do not slip.
The wicked lie in wait for the righteous,
intent on putting them to death;
but the LORD will not leave them in the power of the wicked
or let them be condemned when brought to trial.
Hope in the LORD and keep his way.
He will exalt you to inherit the land;
when the wicked are destroyed, you will see it (NIV).

Reflection
A few years ago, here in Canada’s capital, we saw aspects of this psalm play out in real time. David, the psalmist states, “The wicked lie in wait for the righteous, intent on putting them to death.” A terrorist, with planned intent gunned down Corporal Nathan Cirillo, while he stood guard before the National War Memorial. This cowardly act highlights the contempt of those who celebrate evil, for those who stand for righteousness, truth, and justice. The contrast between those who love peace and those who revel in violence is stark indeed.

The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.

When evil raises its brutal head, we need not be intimidated. We need to take heart. When we stand on the side of truth, justice, and love, we do not stand alone. God is with us. He is on our side. He has our back. As the psalmist declares, we need to, “Hope in the LORD and keep his way.”

The way of the LORD is the way of love. Jesus said to his disciples, “No one has greater love than this—that one lays down his life for his friends” (John 15:13 NET). Jesus then went on to demonstrate that supreme love by laying down his life on the cross for our redemption.

The questions we need to continually ask ourselves are “What is my motivation? Am I motivated by love or am I driven by hate? Am I drawing close to the God of love and hope? Is my life a demonstration of God’s redeeming love, or am I only concerned about my selfish interests?”

Corporal Nathan Cirillo laid down his life in the service of his country. Which god will you serve? Will you serve the god of self, or the selfless God—the God whose hands were pierced for you? The choice is yours.

Response: LORD God, we live in a very troubled world. When evil rises, we put our trust in you. Help me to walk in the way of love. Surround me with your peace. Keep those who serve their country safe. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Your Turn: How can you honor those who lay down their lives in the service of their country? What makes their sacrifice special for you?

Para la publicación de Salmos 365 de hoy en español haga clic aquí.

* 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…

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“Holy Anxiety” 10/07/2024 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org from Spurgeon’s writing

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Philippians 4 6 7 - Scripture on the Walls

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

Original post @ https://www.truthforlife.org/devotionals/spurgeon/9/21/2024/?ecid=ACsprvthYcT3IDEBsklQS3l8X32fG7kig4XIa1cm08HX6EEXjQZhs-h3–kSMN3A6gTxW2OVSau0&utm_campaign=Spurgeon+Daily+Devotion&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9b-qKwh25-xtNG-C0k1GCgE4l3D5e8PLJA_IM2N-yjySclX2qrjVVhb7r6ybrZq_YlRcsyIbOR9w9Q5E-MYMCU727SsVUYVYOtYh4KZ4SovQ3XF2I&_hsmi=325397683&utm_content=325397683&utm_source=hs_email

Holy Anxiety

 

Do not sweep my soul away with sinners.

Psalms 26:9

Fear made David pray like this, for something whispered, “Perhaps, after all, you may be swept away with sinners.” That fear springs mainly from holy anxiety, arising from the recollection of past sin. Even the pardoned man will inquire, “What if at the end my sins should be remembered, and I should be left out of the company of the saved?”

He thinks about his present condition—so little grace, so little love, so little holiness; and looking forward to the future, he considers his weakness and the many temptations that surround him, and he fears that he may fall and become prey to the enemy. A sense of sin and present evil and his prevailing corruptions compel him to pray, in fear and trembling, “Do not sweep my soul away with sinners.”

Reader, if you have prayed this prayer, and if your character is correctly described in the Psalm from which it is taken, you need not be afraid that you will be swept away with sinners. Do you have the two virtues that David had—the outward walking in integrity and the inward trusting in the Lord? Are you resting upon Christ’s sacrifice, and can you approach the altar of God with humble hope? If so, rest assured, you will never be swept away with sinners, for that calamity is impossible. At the judgment, the command will be given, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”1

If then, you are like God’s people, you will be with God’s people. You cannot be swept away with sinners, for you have been purchased at too high a price. Redeemed by the blood of Christ, you are His forever, and where He is, there His people must be. You are loved too much to be swept away with reprobates. Will one who is dear to Christ perish? Impossible! Hell cannot hold you! Heaven claims you! Trust in Christ, and do not fear!

1) Matthew 13:30

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. 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…

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“The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is patience?” 10/06/2024 Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Posted on October 6, 2024 by Godsmanforever

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Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Click on the original post and speaker at the top…  You can listen to the whole post !!

Original post @  https://www.gotquestions.org/fruit-Holy-Spirit-patience.html

Question

The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is patience?

Answer



There are two Greek words translated as “patience” in the New Testament. Hupomonē means “a remaining under,” as when one bears up under a burden. It refers to steadfastness in difficult circumstances. Makrothumia, which is used in Galatians 5:22, is a compound formed by makros (“long”) and thumos (“passion” or “temper”). “Patience” in Galatians 5:22 literally means “long temper,” in the sense of “the ability to hold one’s temper for a long time.” The KJV translates it as “longsuffering.” A patient person is able to endure much pain and suffering without complaining. A patient person is slow to anger as he waits for God to provide comfort and punish wrongdoing. Since it is a fruit of the Spirit, we can only possess makrothumia through the power and work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Patience comes from a position of power. A person may have the ability to take revenge or cause trouble, but patience brings self-restraint and careful thinking. Losing patience is a sign of weakness. We are patient through trying situations out of hope for a coming deliverance; we are patient with a trying person out of compassion. We choose to love that person and want what’s best for him.

As the Spirit produces patience in us, He is making us more Christlike. Second Thessalonians 3:5 speaks of the “patience of Christ” (ASV). Christ is even now patiently awaiting the completion of the Father’s plan: after Jesus “had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. Since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool” (Hebrews 10:12-13). We should be patient, even as He is patient.

God is patient with sinners. Romans 2:4 says that God’s patience leads to our repentance. Romans 9:22 points out that only God’s patience prevents Him from destroying “the objects of his wrath.” Paul glorifies the Lord for His “unlimited patience” that saved him, “the worst of sinners” (1 Timothy 1:16). Peter highlights the patience of God in 1 Peter 3:20, pointing out that God had immense patience with the evil people of Noah’s day, delaying judgment as long as possible (Genesis 6). Today, “our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved” (2 Peter 3:15, NLT).

James urges believers to be patient and not to complain as we wait for Jesus to return. James holds up the prophets as models of patience (James 5:7-11). The Old Testament prophets ceaselessly spoke God’s Word to unheeding and abusive audiences. Jeremiah was thrown into a cistern (Jeremiah 38:1-16), Elijah was so worn out from his fight with Jezebel that he wanted to die (1 Kings 19:1-8), and Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den—by a king who was his friend (Daniel 6:16-28). While God delayed judgment, Noah prophesied of the coming destruction, and in 120 years did not have a single convert (2 Peter 2:5).

The opposite of patience is agitation, discouragement, and a desire for revenge. God does not want His children to live in agitation but in peace (John 14:27). He wants to dispel discouragement and replace it with hope and praise (Psalm 42:5). We are not to avenge ourselves; rather, we are to love others (Romans 12:19; Leviticus 19:18).

God is patient, and His Spirit produces the fruit of patience in us. When we are patient, we leave room for God to work in our hearts and in our relationships. We lay down our schedule and trust in God. We thank the Lord for what and whom He’s brought into our lives. We let God be God.

For Further Study

The Spirit-Filled Life: Discovering the Joy of Surrendering to the Holy Spirit by Charles Stanley

 

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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…

Photo credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=a5db118e05c2ad26&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&udm=2&q=image+jam+1:2-4&spell=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjLsbDK3PmIAxW3lokEHRdyFBwQBSgAegQIBhAB&biw=1303&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=836fZnHYi_GXMM&vssid=mosaic

 

 

 

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“A Christlike Response” 10/05/2024 Written by Bill Crowder for “Our Daily Bread”

Posted on October 5, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

We need to be Saved from Ambition and from Rebelling against God's Deputy Authority

Written by Bill Crowder for “Our Daily Bread” @  http://odb.org

[Click on the Original post below, the start audio arrow, and listen to the audio version at the top, including the prayer at the end]

Original post by Bill Crowder @ https://odb.org/2024/10/04/a-hard-day

October 4

A Christlike Response

 

When they hurled their insults at [Jesus], he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

1 Peter 2:23

 

Today’s Scripture & Insight :

1 Peter 2:21-25

George was working on a construction job in the heat of the Carolina summer sun when someone living nearby walked into the yard where he was working. Clearly angry, the neighbor began to curse and criticize everything about the project and how it was being done. George received the verbal blows without response until the angry neighbor stopped yelling. Then he gently responded, “You’ve had a really hard day, haven’t you?” Suddenly, the angry neighbor’s face softened, his head dipped, and he said, “I’m sorry for the way I spoke to you.” George’s kindness had defused the neighbor’s wrath.

There are times when we want to strike back. To give abuse for abuse and insult for insult. What George modeled instead was a kindness seen most perfectly in the way Jesus bore the consequences of our sins:

“When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly”   (1 Peter 2:23).

All of us will face moments when we’re misunderstood, misrepresented, or attacked. We may want to respond in kind, but the heart of Jesus calls us to be kind, to pursue peace and display understanding. As He enables us today, perhaps God could use us to bless someone enduring a hard day.

By:  Bill Crowder

Reflect & Pray

 

What makes it so easy to strike back at others for their unkind words? How can you be more intentional about showing kindness to those who are unkind to you?

 

Caring Father, please help me to find in You the strength, grace, and wisdom to display the heart of Jesus.

 

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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…

Photo credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=e31fc9e1c89d4511&rlz=1C1SLLM_enUS1047US1047&q=image+1pet2:23&udm=2&fbs=AEQNm0Aa4sjWe7Rqy32pFwRj0UkWd8nbOJfsBGGB5IQQO6L3J_86uWOeqwdnV0yaSF-x2jpXXSZVlK6C0YPjHbsLu8HQWfm38FRPm5FVWQmVvNxikPuGUro0kULs737NLvYt_770cqPBb-7c9YW98tWSpANkOcZZylZvCbVkKD2SeH_fJOnPgXdUsVXCVyRh_eSp_T6GxUwRZE0bpoVyiYh4GfPMFOiP6w&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwisjIDJ_PWIAxUhEFkFHUuiMIUQtKgLegQIDRAB&biw=914&bih=485&dpr=1.25#vhid=3JUhRM_f_BjPFM&vssid=mosaic
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“THE WEEK IN REVIEW . . .” 10/04/2024 Written by Kathy Boecher for “atimetoshare”

Posted on October 4, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

PPT - 1 Peter 5:6-7 PowerPoint Presentation, free download - ID:2432445

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

Original post @ https://atimetoshare.me/2024/09/20/the-week-in-review/#like-66886

THE WEEK IN REVIEW . . .

 

Posted on September 20, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Looking back and looking forward both bring challenges and joy. My problem is that I often lose sight of the highlights of the past week and the good things that lay ahead. Many times, we get lost in the mundane issues of living and we lose sight of those events that brought a glimmer of hope, a laugh, a beautiful landscape, the sound of birds singing, the smells of apple pie and pumpkin spice. All the positive things we encounter each and every day, get swallowed up by the daily news and the cacophony of the world outside our front door.

This past week for me was filled with a conglomeration of tears, hysterical laughter, good friends, family, wonder about the future, and if I would survive another day. These can become all-consuming if we let them weigh us down. The next week is full of excitement. We have a new baby coming into the family. We’re going to celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary. We’re expecting a visit from our S. Carolina family. It looks like an amazing week ahead. There are days when nothing happens, but weeks that can be full to the brim with excitement and wonder.

It’s all in how we look at things. If we worry and fret about the small things, how will we handle the big stuff that often gets in our way? We can stew about what might be or we can enjoy the moment. I prefer the second option, but that doesn’t happen every day. So how do we look forward instead of retreating into the past and the mistakes that we’ve made? The Bible has an answer to that.

1 Peter 5:6-7 ESV  “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

Sounds so simple, doesn’t it? The Bible should be our first point of reference in every aspect of our lives. In good times and bad, God is there for us. He never leaves us. Through Him, we can gain confidence that every day is worthwhile. Being positive about the future is partially the result of the past. Knowing that we have the Creator of all things at our side, takes the pressure away. He does this because of His unconditional love and care for us.

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

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…

Photo credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=fe1d248b964710f2&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&udm=2&q=image+1+pet+5:6-7&spell=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj7uPXa0_SIAxWnFlkFHbzaH_MQBSgAegQIBhAB&biw=1303&bih=910&dpr=1
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“God Doesn’t Miss a Trick “ 10/03/2024 Written by bruce r. mills for “God’s group” 

Posted on October 3, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Hebrews 4:13 (NIV) - Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes... – @wiirocku on Tumblr

Written by bruce r. mills for “God’s group”      [Revised from 9/04/2012]

“God Doesn’t Miss a Trick “

 

Hebrews 4:13… And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.  (NKJV)

In God’s eyes, people who are Christians have been called by God and have received the Word (the gospel of Jesus Christ)… They have understood the gospel…and they have obeyed the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… The true Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation…and from this point on; they have been justified by God as one of His children…

Here is a link about Justification (theology), as I believe God reveals through His Word, the Bible… http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justification_%28theology%29

As a justified Christian, all past sins of the unbeliever have been forgiven; and the new Christian has been filled with the righteousness of Christ…2 Corinthians 5:21…

This is only the beginning of the Christian’s walk with the Lord…  And the Christian can only be walking with the Lord, as long as they remain righteous in His sight…  The moment a Christian sins…this sweet fellowship of walking in lockstep with the Lord is compromised… The Christian becomes unrighteous in God’s eyes until their sins are confessed with godly sorrow and repented of…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)

As the opening scripture reminds us, every sin, no matter how seemingly small it is believed to be…is seen by the Lord… There are some things I am sure that Christians do, that they don’t even think of as a sin…  Some examples would be taking home that roll of scotch tape, or any other office supply, without the owner or someone of authority saying it is OK…

And how about going to an amusement park with a 6 and 8-year-old…and lying about one child’s age because 8 and up are to pay adult prices ??

And how about going to a buffet-type restaurant, where seniors get a discount at the age of 62, and you are only 61 ??

These are all sins that I was guilty of before I became a Christian… Not anymore…  The absolute God-given supernatural peace (Philippians 4:6-7), that only a Spirit-filled Christian walking with the Lord is going to have…just isn’t worth compromising, because of any material gains that can be easily attained… All of the pleasurable lusts of the world the apostle John writes about, in…1 John 2:15-16…are to be turned away from by the Christian…  It’s only by the grace of God and the full power of the Holy Spirit, along with God’s spiritual amor firmly held in place with prayer, that helps me take a stand against almost all sins…

We will all slip up and sin once in a while…  There is no way around avoiding some sins…especially sins because of our untamable tongue…  Read this link for the apostle James writing about the tongue, in…James 3:1-12…       [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=jam3%3A1-12&version=NKJV]

But consistent sins that we have to confess over and over again, or sins that we know we are committing, but just don’t want to stop…indicates that the Christian is doing more walking away from the Lord…than they are walking with the Lord in sweet fellowship…

Heavenly Father, Your Word is filled with everything anyone needs to know, in order to live their lives in a way that will be pleasing in Your sight…  Open the eyes Lord, of anyone who has not yet obeyed the gospel of Christ…that this is the only way that they can become a Christian in Your eyes…  Help all of Your redeemed children Lord, to turn from and confess their sins…in order to regain the sweet fellowship and the blessings that You want to provide for those that are living in Your will and Your ways… I pray that all of Your children could learn to walk worthy of the gift of grace You have given them, in Jesus’ most precious name and for His sake…Amen…

 

Blessings in Christ,  bruce

 

P.S. 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…

Photo credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=934816c23164b941&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&q=image+HGeb+4:13&udm=2&source=univ&fir=qoELK5q4LTYXJM%252CED8J8mVG8LeNPM%252C_%253BFv4QOIjra7PknM%252CoEPAOSLZWVEa8M%252C_%253Bdp7WNqMJK1sp-M%252ChzhSPPOVrzyIrM%252C_%253BhfUBgZbzBqQVIM%252CHBTxP4Cu12q77M%252C_%253BxDEthInyFFZ1EM%252CUm89dp7fGjjq_M%252C_%253BrJsEjTySdW_g6M%252Cm5Gguv9fzdYIoM%252C_%253B9fofO-08RcpDNM%252CUm89dp7fGjjq_M%252C_%253Bg1F_BAh6GQrsJM%252Cwtc5IdzAKhwMKM%252C_%253BXEpLOIZtUQ_BEM%252Cwtc5IdzAKhwMKM%252C_%253BYcROdVjkCz19aM%252Cwtc5IdzAKhwMKM%252C_%253BaCrYuVdBZVyDjM%252CjkMOHg2K2s1WGM%252C_%253BkGb5lZLD-AwCPM%252CDFCFTp3OYV10jM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kQPOLXkud8L0-koVF-_HNHLWKIVlA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjm9dmY_fCIAxUqAHkGHQ5ME1kQ7Al6BAhQEAo&biw=1303&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=quY8Unq5fHeReM&vssid=mosaic

 

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“Persevere in Hope” 10/02/2024 Written by Dawn Ivey for “Drawing closer to Christ”

Posted on October 2, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

25 Best Bible Verses About HOPE - Encouraging Scriptures

Written by  Dawn Ivey for “Drawing closer to Christ”  @  https://drawingclosertochrist.com

Original post @ https://drawingclosertochrist.com/2024/09/23/persevere-in-hope/

Persevere in Hope

Romans 15:13 NIV, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

If you live here in the U.S., welcome to Fall!  I hope that you had an enjoyable summer. Or whatever part of the world you’re in, welcome to your new season! My daughter is spending some time in South America, and she says they just entered spring, which is my favorite season. I consider her lucky to get to enjoy spring twice.

At the beginning of the year, I shared that persevere was my word for 2024. Almost ten months into the year, I can definitely see why the Lord gave me that word. I have certainly had to persevere through some difficult things. As you reflect on the word persevere, I am sure you can think of multiple things you too have had to persevere through. Or perhaps, you’re still in the battle.

Photo by:Yelena Odintsova of England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

I have been thinking about hope lately, and I think that to remain hopeful takes courage, determination, and perseverance. Especially in the midst of the many changes that life often brings our way.

I saw this simple definition of hope from Oxford languages, “a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.” This definition alerts us to the close relationship between hope, expectation and desire. When we’re hoping in someone or something, we usually have expectations and desires attached to that hope.

We all know it can be disappointing when our expectations are not met, and our desires go unfulfilled. Even sometimes when we hope in God and have expectations of Him, we may feel He has somehow let us down. However, I love it when God’s word reminds me of His faithfulness in the midst of my anxious thoughts…

Psalm 145:16 NIV, “You open Your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing.”

Psalm 37:4 NIV, “Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

I believe there is hope in the fact that God always sees and hears us and will ultimately do what is best for us. Even when we don’t see the results right away.

In my own life, I have had to decide, sometimes daily, not to give up on hope. Romans 15:13 tells us, God is called the God of hope, and He is willing to fill us with joy and peace that will cause us to overflow with hope. This promise assures us that we can keep persevering in hope, by His grace.

Photo by: Lynnelle Richardson of Australia

My biggest hope is to live eternally in heaven with Jesus, but as long as I am here on Earth, I have hopes for this life. I trust God to meet my needs and show me His goodness in this life. I encourage you to keep trusting Him as well.

Psalm 27:13 NIV, “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.”

Even in the midst of persecution, trials, difficult people or disappointing circumstances, decide not to lose hope. Decide not to give up on the God of Hope. He is the Giver of Hope and of all good things.

James 1:17 NLT, “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.”

Remember, God has not forgotten you and He never will. So don’t lose hope.

Have a blessed and hope-filled day.

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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…

Photo credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=4997d9601951f80e&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&q=Image+Hope+Bible&udm=2&source=univ&fir=LRe4ZcoVtQjrbM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253Bhb2O4uOqSr2jSM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BtjY_9ZYPKOY2KM%252CJ-KCdL2R1grPDM%252C_%253BzUqpXV1EAMk4mM%252CL884yP0loWRKRM%252C_%253BNtJzppe_Qd6SFM%252CT36GoVv3Js-15M%252C_%253Btp4CftVUEodyMM%252CyMFfV5zwRfVPkM%252C_%253BqViR9fm4rkVuUM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253B_GxZjtkDdeoICM%252CyMFfV5zwRfVPkM%252C_%253BInbH2RBdr99bLM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BblwFa6yruaB_PM%252Cq0jVzIX0c0iJOM%252C_%253B1MzrDSaZMPUorM%252CW1vfvmhZEfr8RM%252C_%253BkKALeIYGR4xbUM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BLotUwLvxLxzvpM%252C_gn6WcGwluFSAM%252C_%253BTPPVjhKixCdO-M%252CyMFfV5zwRfVPkM%252C_%253BBDZKxXRsjYy2EM%252Cq0jVzIX0c0iJOM%252C_%253BbQoAPBwxYIYQgM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253Bb7EZh7vz2UIVhM%252ClIszAYpBizun8M%252C_%253BwWUJBXVnCVO1VM%252CvtOE-_0o1y4RLM%252C_%253BlDYwj5SDcAVBPM%252Ck8bdXOlfRuTgIM%252C_%253B1xx_9ylCaV_p9M%252Ckw0S-_7PJPxaxM%252C_%253BJoFiXqjgLcrA9M%252CUohSFrQvzLh5CM%252C_%253BC9EKIKtpwWRq_M%252CvtOE-_0o1y4RLM%252C_%253B4H3zhUBLvJruKM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BI6OJIxyrtZ0CtM%252C1Poag7maCYF_YM%252C_%253BgMhQ-FaKRPDDSM%252Cq0jVzIX0c0iJOM%252C_%253BK4DVEj26lMJW6M%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BMPlkcKYRBJ73BM%252Cq0jVzIX0c0iJOM%252C_%253BJxpQ7VwVdxhd-M%252CesM-cItfdUa7qM%252C_%253Bh8HQVmoK_UvB1M%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BTzBQk7ZlcKjYbM%252CyMFfV5zwRfVPkM%252C_%253BZXxKdMxS90UVHM%252C_M8HKaODWZAA9M%252C_%253BqquGzyz6wbjAJM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BkbeThBsYNX8tVM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BJhzdPkqQh383zM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BLog12P_aQISlDM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BuLbLz2h5-h7gHM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253Bh2LyN5eCkTVy4M%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BOwtSd8IXR4vt4M%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_%253BPHvPWs98z8jylM%252C_M8HKaODWZAA9M%252C_%253BULzyCeEtQ1EByM%252CQkro5NebGAdkMM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kT2JIK4ElSRd6drnyRo8-5k5un71w&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLtKHf0u-IAxViv4kEHZZnKqEQ7Al6BAglEAw&biw=1303&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=1xx_9ylCaV_p9M&vssid=mosaic
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“What Does it Mean to Follow Jesus?” 10/01/2024 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on October 1, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

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

Original post @ https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com/2024/09/23/what-does-it-mean-to-follow-jesus/

What Does it Mean to Follow Jesus?

Posted on September 23, 2024 by Beth Andrews

Back in the day, I went to many women’s conferences with ladies from my church. We would load up a couple of cars and head to Atlanta or Orlando and I almost always drove because I get antsy when I’m a passenger. On one trip one of the ladies had this new-fangled thing called a GPS that gave her turn-by-turn directions so we put her in the lead and I followed behind. I knew the first part of the route, so I wasn’t too worried, but I wasn’t familiar with the Atlanta end of the journey so I stuck to her bumper like glue. Wherever she turned I turned, which was great except at one point she turned the wrong way down a one-way street and I went in right after her. I trusted that she and her navigator knew what they were doing. Thankfully, we got to our destination and made it back home again.

In fifty-plus years of following Jesus, I have learned that the journey is not always straight and smooth. Sometimes He takes me down paths that looked like the wrong way. Sometimes He turns left when I think we need to go right, or He’ll go straight when I am convinced we should have turned. Sometimes He goes into dark tunnels or tight, narrow paths and I wonder if I will make it through. And the hardest part of it all is that I can’t see past Him; I don’t know what’s down the road and, honestly, if I could have foreseen what was ahead, I probably would have made a fast U-turn.

Jesus offers us the greatest and most challenging adventure. He doesn’t tell us where He’s going or how the journey will be. He doesn’t let us see the map or use a GPS or even print out the directions. He simply says, “Follow me” (Lk 9:59).

I was meditating on His words and wrote this in the margin of my Bible: “Child, will you follow me to hard places, down exhausting trails into deep valleys and up steep, impossible cliffs? Will you go with me to painful places? Are you willing to lose everything to walk with me?” My heart says “Yes,” but, honestly, sometimes my weary body and my anxious mind are not so sure.

Beloved, the Christian life is a journey, a step-by-step walk of faith. But you and I can trust our Guide, to get us all the way Home.

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

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…

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