“All Of Your Ways” 10/16/2018 Written by Wally Fry for “Truth in Palmyra”

Posted on October 16, 2018 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org

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

Written by Wally Fry for “Truth in Palmyra” @ https://truthinpalmyra.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://truthinpalmyra.wordpress.com/2018/10/15/all-of-your-ways-3/

All Of Your Ways

Proverbs 3 5.6.JPG

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

This particular Proverb is often quoted by people as one that provides comfort and illustrates how God oversees and directs our lives; and it should be, as that is exactly what it illustrates to us.

On the other hand, there are large numbers of people who fail to see and feel the guiding hand of God in their lives, and then question God as to why and even hold it against Him.

What we sometimes fail to see is that this Proverb has two parts; it is a conditional statement. If we want to see the realization of one part of God’s Word, we have to meet the requirements of another part; this Proverb is a great example of that.

“If” we acknowledge Him in all of our ways, then He will direct our paths. In other words, as normal, God has to be the focus rather than us. When we expect God’s guidance and hand in our lives but offer nothing in return, then it only becomes another sad example of our faith being man-centered rather than God-centered. What, then, does it mean to acknowledge Him in all of your ways?

Its like a sport in some ways; we only have to get back to the basics:

Are you saved? If you aren’t, your sin has you separated from God, both in this life and eternally. Until that gulf is crossed by the restorative work of Jesus Christ, God cannot direct your paths.
Do you read and study God’s Word daily? If we aren’t seeking His revealed will from His Word, why would we expect any special guidance and direction?
Do we pray, meditate and spend alone time with God daily? Seeking His guidance means seeking His will. We can only know His will if we know Him. Study and prayer are the ways we accomplish that.
Are we striving to live like Jesus and for Jesus? It seems that if we are constantly out of line with the life He would have us live, that His efforts will be solely devoted to getting us back in line. Once again, why would He share with us His special guidance if we aren’t even following His specific guidance?

Become saved by the Grace of God through Jesus Christ. Read, study and meditate daily. Spend time in prayer and communion with God daily. Do these things and acknowledge Him in all of your ways, and He will direct your paths.

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P.S. (from bruce) If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ?? Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

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

picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+trust+in+the+Lord&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjpv8_90YneAhWumeAKHcbOBC8QsAR6BAgGEAE#imgrc=3FQxN07OFrW0GM:

“Come as You Are, But.” 10/15/2018 Written by Elihu Anderson for “Elihu’s Corner”

Posted on October 15, 2018 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/2018/10/12/come-as-you-are-but/

Come as You Are, But…

October 12, 2018Elihu

samuel-martins-631378-unsplash

The young man lay on his pallet, his face reddening in shame. He couldn’t even walk to see the Messiah, but had to be carried! His four dear and faithful friends bore him along as gently as possible to the house where Jesus was teaching. Observing the people standing outside the door, his heart sank. How would they get inside?

He shut his eyes, attempting to bottle the welling disappointment. One of his friends spoke up, “Let’s hoist him onto the roof and bring him down through there!”

The four men grinned at one another and set to work. Two climbed on the roof while two remained on the ground with him. Before long, he found himself being let down through the roof of the house, his pallet coming to rest directly in front of Jesus.

Would Jesus send him away?

Would he again feel the shame of being told ‘you are useless’?

But Jesus looked into his eyes and said warmly, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

This was not quite what he had expected. Forgiveness of his sins was a gift only God could give. Tension hung in the air as a sudden hush fell over the room.

The young paralytic watched Jesus’ eyes. They gazed at the crowd with a mixture of sadness, perceptiveness, and determination.

Jesus’ voice rose, “Why do you question these things in your hearts?”

The paralytic sensed that Jesus was not merely addressing his own thoughts, but the doubts of others in the room.

“Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your bed and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins—”

Jesus paused, and those gentle eyes fixed upon the paralytic’s once more, as he said, “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.”

Sensations immediately returned to his limbs. He could feel the bumpiness of the ground under his legs. He wriggled his toes back and forth. He sat up in amazement, then leapt to his feet, longing to dance and sing! Jesus had blessed him healing of the body and healing of the heart. There was no doubt in His mind that Jesus had the power to forgive sins if he could heal such an impossible injury.

Once again, his eyes met Jesus’ eyes, and there was no mistaking the delight in them. He had come to Jesus a broken man, and now he walked out of the house on two working legs, healed and whole! His friends ran to him, tears of joy streaming down their cheeks. There was no denying the power of what Jesus had done. The voices rising crowd indicated that they too marveled and rejoiced at the transformative miracle they had witnessed that day.

(To read the full biblical account of the paralytic in Matthew 9 or Mark 2, click the links)

Come—just as you are

I’ve seen many signs in front of church buildings that read, “Come as you are,” and often wondered what message they hoped to convey. I know that regardless of “how” I show up to services, God knows whether my heart is focused on Him or caught up in self.

I may come impeccably dressed while my heart is in shambles.

I might wear threadbare clothes while possessing a heart receptive to God’s discipline.

Our attire, whether stainless or shabby, might be able to create a certain impression on people, but it will not conceal from God the state of our hearts or our minds.

Whether we acknowledge it or not, whenever we approach the Lord in worship, in prayer, or in study, we come in a state of imperfection. It is the intercessory blood of Jesus that allows us to stand before the Lord as a child of His. We can only come before God “as we are”; it is Jesus who transforms us into “who we ought to be.”

Come—with reverence.

In the narrative of the paralytic, there were two types of hearts in the house: the proud and the humble. If we come to Jesus with an attitude of arrogance, we will be rejected. God does not tolerate proud hearts as we see throughout the scriptures in His condemnations of Pharaoh, Nadab, Abihu, the Israelites, King Saul, and the Pharisees.

If, however, we approach God with reverence, we will be able to see His transformative power. Like the paralytic, our transformation—however small—will magnify God’s glory to a world lost in darkness.

Go out—transformed.

Moses beheld God on Mount Sinai, and his face shone so brightly that the Israelites couldn’t bear to look at him.

Isaiah saw a vision, and cried out, “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!”

Daniel looked upon visions from God and stood trembling before Him.

Thomas witnessed the scars of the risen Savior, and His doubts were erased.

John, seeing Jesus on the aisle of Patmos, fell down as though dead.

We cannot come into the presence of God without being changed in some way. The hardened heart will leave God’s presence harder than when it came. The humble heart will walk with God, healed and ready to serve.

Go out—and pour out.

There is a beautiful adaptation of the hymn, “Just as I am” called “Just as I am/I Come Broken,” and this is the middle section:

I come broken to be mended
I come wounded to be healed
I come desperate to be rescued
I come empty to be filled
I come guilty to be pardoned
By the blood of Christ the Lamb
And I’m welcomed with open arms
Praise God, just as I am

When Jesus gives us healing, strength, or any gifts such as these, it is not for our benefit alone. Our healing should be used to strengthen us in His service; our “filling” should be poured into others; our rescue should magnify His power. Whatever transformation He pours into our lives should then be poured into His service.

Do not bury His gifts in the ground! Invest them in His service and allow Him to bring about the increase.

So come, just as you are, but don’t remain as you are. Know the Lord, and be transformed.

But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.

~ 2 Corinthians 3.16-18, ESV

Published by Elihu

Elihu Anderson is a California refugee currently thriving on the West Texas plains. She is the founder of elihuscorner.com and is a contributor to Kirk Cameron’s website TheCourage.com. When she isn’t writing, reading, or teaching, she is sipping on some iced homemade chai and enjoying time with a good friend. Come by and say hi at elihuscorner.com or visit me on Facebook.com/elihuscorner View all posts by Elihu

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P.S. (from bruce) If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ?? Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

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

picture credit: https://weheartit.com/joe_559/collections/11756399-bible-verses

Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ, Love, Mercy, Peace, Praise, Uncategorized | Tagged christ jesus, christianity, daily bread, Daily Devotion, Eternal Life, Evangelism, faith, Gentleness, God, gospel of the kingdom, Grace, heart mind and soul, Joy, Kindness, lord jesus christ, Love, Patience, Peace, power of the holy spirit, Praise, religion, Salvation, self-control, spirituality, theology | Leave a comment

“Love’s Strength” 10/14/2018 Posted by Alister Begg for “Truth for Life”

Posted on October 14, 2018 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org/

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

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

Original post @ https://info.truthforlife.org/devo-oct13-2018?ecid=ACsprvss5ZGgGQMLyytOfPp0Yia8csO5wdMJ27jhGHhmc4Epc0HnpDV3fk-p-HWJ7ipdZ23mCDGk&utm_campaign=Daily%20Devotion%20Emails&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=66461880&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-90HuR5MeIGr9WaZ5_8Kap9-l4ghkx1Mx8Euaujn2mZ-QZbNohJsEEwRew3ZkbSpSocGDGg17Hq8tcilbztzttDHRuwyg7I0-saMZ1fUbQp_ctP0nc&_hsmi=66461880

DAILY DEVOTIONAL OCTOBER 13, 2018

Love’s Strength

Love is strong as death.
Song of Songs 8:6

This age is peculiarly the dispensation of the Holy Spirit, in which Jesus cheers us not by His personal presence, as He will do soon enough, but by the indwelling and constant abiding of the Holy Spirit, who is forever the Comforter of the church. It is the Spirit’s role to console the hearts of God’s people. He convinces of sin; He illumines and instructs; but the main part of His work still lies in gladdening the hearts of the renewed, confirming the weak, and lifting up all those who are bowed down. He does this by revealing Jesus to them. The Holy Spirit consoles, but Christ is the consolation.

If we may use the figure, the Holy Spirit is the Physician, but Jesus is the medicine. He heals the wound, but it is by applying the holy ointment of Christ’s name and grace. He does not take of His own things, but of the things of Christ. So if we give to the Holy Spirit the Greek name of Paraclete, as we sometimes do, then our heart confers on our blessed Lord Jesus the title of Paraclesis. If one is the Comforter, the other is the Comfort.

Now, with such rich provision for his need, why should the Christian be sad and despondent? The Holy Spirit has graciously committed to be your Comforter: Do you imagine, weak and trembling believer, that He will neglect this sacred trust? Do you suppose that He has undertaken what He cannot or will not perform? If it is His special work to strengthen you and to comfort you, do you suppose He has forgotten His business or that He will fail in fulfilling His loving task of sustaining you? Don’t think so poorly of the tender and blessed Spirit whose name is the Comforter.

He delights to give the oil of joy for mourning and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Trust in Him, and He will surely comfort you until the house of mourning is closed forever, and the marriage feast has begun.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

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

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P.S. (from bruce) If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ?? Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

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

picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+holy+spirit+helper&rlz=1C1VFKB_enUS610US619&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi39aai44DeAhWkTN8KHQ2WBMsQsAR6BAgCEAE#imgrc=p28SBLtH4XzuUM:

Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ, Love, Mercy, Peace, Praise, Uncategorized | Tagged Christ, christ jesus, christianity, daily bread, Daily Devotion, Eternal Life, Evangelism, faith, Gentleness, God, gospel of the kingdom, Grace, heart mind and soul, Joy, Kindness, lord jesus christ, Love, Patience, Peace, power of the holy spirit, Praise, religion, Salvation, self-control, spirituality, theology | Leave a comment

“Why does God allow natural disasters” 10/13/2018 Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Posted on October 13, 2018 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org/

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

Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Original post @ https://www.gotquestions.org/QOTW.htm

Question: “Why does God allow natural disasters, i.e. earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis?”

Answer: Why does God allow earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, typhoons, cyclones, mudslides, wildfires, and other natural disasters? Tragedies cause many people to question God’s goodness. It is distressing that natural disasters are often termed “acts of God” while no “credit” is given to God for years, decades, or even centuries of peaceful weather. God created the whole universe and the laws of nature (Genesis 1:1). Most natural disasters are a result of these laws at work. Hurricanes, typhoons, and tornadoes are the results of divergent weather patterns colliding. Earthquakes are the result of the earth’s plate structure shifting. A tsunami is caused by an underwater earthquake.

The Bible proclaims that Jesus Christ holds all of nature together (Colossians 1:16-17). Could God prevent natural disasters? Absolutely! Does God sometimes influence the weather? Yes, as we see in Deuteronomy 11:17 and James 5:17. Numbers 16:30-34 shows us that God sometimes causes natural disasters as a judgment against sin. The book of Revelation describes many events which could definitely be described as natural disasters (Revelation chapters 6, 8, and 16). Is every natural disaster a punishment from God? Absolutely not.

In much the same way that God allows evil people to commit evil acts, God allows the earth to reflect the consequences sin has had on creation. Romans 8:19-21 tells us, “The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.” The fall of humanity into sin had effects on everything, including the world we inhabit. Everything in creation is subject to “frustration” and “decay.” Sin is the ultimate cause of natural disasters just as it is the cause of death, disease, and suffering.

We can understand why natural disasters occur. What we do not understand is why God allows them to occur. Why did God allow a tsunami to kill over 225,000 people in Asia? Why does God allow hurricanes to destroy the homes of thousands of people? For one thing, such events shake our confidence in this life and force us to think about eternity. Churches are usually filled after disasters as people realize how tenuous their lives really are and how life can be taken away in an instant. What we do know is this: God is good! Many amazing miracles occurred during the course of natural disasters that prevented even greater loss of life. Natural disasters cause millions of people to reevaluate their priorities in life. Hundreds of millions of dollars in aid is sent to help the people who are suffering. Christian ministries have the opportunity to help, minister, counsel, pray, and lead people to saving faith in Christ! God can, and does, bring great good out of terrible tragedies (Romans 8:28).

Recommended Resource: An Act of God?: Answers to Tough Questions About God’s Role in Natural Disasters by Erwin Lutzer

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P.S. (from bruce) If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ?? Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

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

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+of+God+and+natural+disasters&rlz=1C1VFKB_enUS610US619&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwizjL_L44HeAhVsoFkKHdL5CycQsAR6BAgGEAE&biw=1208&bih=883#imgrc=SM8wrpgVzUosPM:

Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ, Love, Mercy, Peace, Praise, Uncategorized | Tagged Christ, christ jesus, christianity, daily bread, Daily Devotion, Eternal Life, Evangelism, faith, Gentleness, God, gospel of the kingdom, Grace, heart mind and soul, Joy, Kindness, lord jesus christ, Love, Patience, Peace, power of the holy spirit, Praise, religion, Salvation, self-control, spirituality, theology | Leave a comment

“The Holy Spirit’s Role” 10/12/2018 Posted by Alister Begg for “Truth for Life”

Posted on October 12, 2018 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org/

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

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

Original post @ https://info.truthforlife.org/devo-oct12-2018?ecid=ACsprvvNbw4H0w1gQU8CkKLrxvsE0u3sUxhQYgPpWf2msaIP9ktgSPd7htlKWMSwiCFE_Z1eOk26&utm_campaign=Daily%20Devotion%20Emails&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=66462200&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–lCtLwa20Jfz3a0-tpEZ3c1VEFspzhVwrVENKLUCPzsANeAFigo7S8O7uNcv-b7dWSVC6ZNZYKp6Op-iMjuNM9lRIR4ztIEk5Jl8-XHX8JmS9AuuQ&_hsmi=66462200

DAILY DEVOTIONAL OCTOBER 12, 2018

The Holy Spirit’s Role

The Helper, the Holy Spirit.
John 14:26

This age is peculiarly the dispensation of the Holy Spirit, in which Jesus cheers us not by His personal presence, as He will do soon enough, but by the indwelling and constant abiding of the Holy Spirit, who is forever the Comforter of the church. It is the Spirit’s role to console the hearts of God’s people. He convinces of sin; He illumines and instructs; but the main part of His work still lies in gladdening the hearts of the renewed, confirming the weak, and lifting up all those who are bowed down. He does this by revealing Jesus to them. The Holy Spirit consoles, but Christ is the consolation.

If we may use the figure, the Holy Spirit is the Physician, but Jesus is the medicine. He heals the wound, but it is by applying the holy ointment of Christ’s name and grace. He does not take of His own things, but of the things of Christ. So if we give to the Holy Spirit the Greek name of Paraclete, as we sometimes do, then our heart confers on our blessed Lord Jesus the title of Paraclesis. If one is the Comforter, the other is the Comfort.

Now, with such rich provision for his need, why should the Christian be sad and despondent? The Holy Spirit has graciously committed to be your Comforter: Do you imagine, weak and trembling believer, that He will neglect this sacred trust? Do you suppose that He has undertaken what He cannot or will not perform? If it is His special work to strengthen you and to comfort you, do you suppose He has forgotten His business or that He will fail in fulfilling His loving task of sustaining you? Don’t think so poorly of the tender and blessed Spirit whose name is the Comforter.

He delights to give the oil of joy for mourning and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Trust in Him, and He will surely comfort you until the house of mourning is closed forever, and the marriage feast has begun.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

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

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

P.S. (from bruce) If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ?? Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

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

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+holy+spirit+helper&rlz=1C1VFKB_enUS610US619&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi39aai44DeAhWkTN8KHQ2WBMsQsAR6BAgCEAE#imgrc=p28SBLtH4XzuUM:

Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ, Love, Mercy, Peace, Praise, Uncategorized | Tagged Christ, christ jesus, christianity, daily bread, Daily Devotion, Eternal Life, Evangelism, faith, Gentleness, God, gospel of the kingdom, Grace, heart mind and soul, Joy, Kindness, lord jesus christ, Love, Patience, Peace, power of the holy spirit, Praise, religion, Salvation, self-control, spirituality, theology | Leave a comment

“Jesus Paid It All and the Payment Was Permanent” 10/11/2018 Written by Wally Fry for “Truth in Palmyra”

Posted on October 11, 2018 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org

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

Written by Wally Fry for “Truth in Palmyra” @ https://truthinpalmyra.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://truthinpalmyra.wordpress.com/2018/10/10/jesus-paid-it-all-and-the-payment-was-permanent-part-seven-2/

Jesus Paid It All and the Payment Was Permanent (Part Seven)

The Doctrine of conditional salvation, or that one can lose their salvation, is a product of Satan himself. I am not saying that those who believe it are of Satan; I am saying the thought is from him. Why would I say such a thing? Allow me to briefly explain. First, let’s take a look at the following passage:

Ephesians 6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

In that passage, Paul was speaking to saved believers. What he was passing along from God was that we are to put on our helmet, and that helmet is the helmet of Salvation. He simply meant that Satan desperately wants us to be in a constant state of doubting our salvation. Paul was teaching us not to be distracted by those doubts, but to live secure in the assurance of our status as reconciled children of God.

Why does Satan care? The basic reason is that if we rest assured that our salvation is secure, then we can move along to the work God really wants us to do. If we spend our entire lives in a mad scramble to stay saved, then that is all we can do. I hate to sound repetitive, but it’s not about us! It is about our works done to honor and glorify God and not our efforts either to get saved or to stay saved.

As with works based salvation, works maintained salvation becomes about men rather than God. God has laid out the conditions that must be met for salvation: repentance toward God and faith in His Son Jesus Christ. Any other rules are not God’s rules, they are man’s rules. Who makes any such list of rules and conditions necessary to maintain salvation? Some person, of course. When we follow rules set by man, we begin to abandon God’s guidelines as revealed in His Word. When we do that, we begin to follow men rather than God; worse, we begin to follow ourselves. And that is what got us into trouble in the first place way back in Genesis Chapter 3

Are you saved? If you are, rest assured that your salvation is secure for all eternity. Quit worrying about what you have to do to keep it, and get busy doing the works God has actually called you to do.

Are you lost? Understand that this security can belong to you as well. Admit you are a sinner. Agree with God that He is right and you are wrong. Turn from your sin. Believe that Jesus paid your due penalty on the cross, and accept Him as your Savior and Lord today. Then, pick up your cross and follow Him.

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P.S. (from bruce) If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ?? Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

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

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+we+cannot+lose+our+salvation&rlz=1C1VFKB_enUS610US619&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiuyeyR7PzdAhXRTd8KHfD-BHcQsAR6BAgDEAE&biw=1208&bih=883#imgrc=Kg0uxH46fVIGoM:

Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ, Love, Mercy, Peace, Praise, Uncategorized | Tagged Christ, christ jesus, christianity, daily bread, Daily Devotion, Eternal Life, Evangelism, faith, Gentleness, God, gospel of the kingdom, Grace, heart mind and soul, Joy, Kindness, lord jesus christ, Love, Patience, Peace, power of the holy spirit, Praise, religion, Salvation, self-control, spirituality, theology | Leave a comment

“Feeding Instructions” 10/10/2018 Written by Matthew Winters for “HONEST THOUGHTS FROM A PASTOR”

Posted on October 10, 2018 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org/

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

Written by Matthew Winters for “HONEST THOUGHTS FROM A PASTOR” @ https://mdw4christ.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://mdw4christ.wordpress.com/2018/10/10/feeding-instructions/

Feeding Instructions

OCTOBER 10, 2018 / MATTHEW WINTERS (THE COMEBACK PASTOR)

How many of you have heard church people say the words “I’m not being fed”? I would imagine most of you have. Maybe some of you have said it. This comes from a mentality that the preacher or small group leader feeds and the ones who fill the room eat. I want to approach this subject from levels of spiritual maturity.

First Peter 2:2 says “as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word that you may grow thereby.” Babies are dependent upon their parent or guardian. That parent/guardian is responsible for taking ALL the steps of feeding. That baby eventually is able to be taught how to beginning feeding himself and moving on to thicker foods. It is a process that takes time and still must be guided. Eventually, that baby becomes independent enough and develops the digestive system to tolerate even thicker foods. One day, that person is old enough to feed himself without assistance and is able to digest meat.

Notice the progression. The Bible first talks about babes in Christ digesting milk. Their spiritual systems cannot handle anything else. The writer of Hebrews says this about meat: “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews‬ ‭5:14‬ ‭NKJV‬‬).

According to the writer of Hebrews, someone who is spiritually of age should not expect to “be fed”. That comes from a consumer mentality. We are not consumers; we are worshipers and servants of the Lord Jesus Christ who exercise the spiritual discipline to continue to grow in our faith.

If you find yourself “not being fed”, I would like to submit to you some “feeding instructions”.

Pray. Sounds simple, right? Talk to God. It isn’t as complicated as you may think. Before you can gain spiritual understanding, you must ask the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s truth to you.
Be receptive. Your attitude makes all the difference. If you approach spiritual disciplines like you know everything or that a pastor/preacher can’t teach you anything, repent of that wicked spirit of pride. Ultimately, it is the Holy Spirit who teaches you. The teacher is just the mouthpiece. If you have an issue with the teacher, get it right or find another teacher if you cannot resolve it.
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy‬ ‭2:15‬ ‭KJV‬‬). This is a command not a suggestion. There are so many good study tools available today. You can go to a Christian bookstore or order commentaries online. The website, preceptaustin.org, is a great resource as well for reading what preachers and commentators say with even deep explanations of the Greek and Hebrew words that were translated into our language. There are study Bibles galore and multiple Bible versions. We have the most Bible study tools at our fingertips, yet we are the most biblically illiterate society.

I am not saying that preachers and teachers should not adequately prepare. From the perspective of one who has preached since I was 14, I can tell you that preaching to a crowd is a challenge. I have preached to at most 400-500 people. Those people are all at differing levels of spiritual maturity, emotional and mental maturity, and the preacher has the challenge of trying to preach a message that will try to cover this broad span. Guess what? Not everyone will connect with the message. Sometimes it’s the preacher. Sometimes it’s the listener. Sometimes it’s the fact that God did not necessarily touch your heart the way He did for someone else. Bottom line – It’s not about you!!! It’s about God accomplishing the bigger picture of His will. The mature believer will rejoice when someone else gets the blessing because there was a time when you were the one to whom God spoke while others rejoiced at what He did in you.

I hope these feeding instructions were helpful. Maybe you gained some perspective. Maybe God won’t use this in the least for you. That’s okay. At least be open to something that God may want to teach you. If you have questions, start digging until you get to the bottom of it.

Photo from parents.com

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P.S. (from bruce) If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ?? Here is the truth for this most important days writing, about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ… https://godsmanforever.com/2016/12/19/the-gospel-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-12182016-written-by-bruce-r-mills/

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

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+solid+food+Bible&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwianJe77vrdAhVMhuAKHaQ1AMoQsAR6BAgEEAE#imgrc=imI0HNMTSQ0lYM:

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“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org

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Written by Wally Fry for “Truth in Palmyra” @ https://truthinpalmyra.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://truthinpalmyra.wordpress.com/2018/10/15/all-of-your-ways-3/

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

This particular Proverb is often quoted by people as one that provides comfort and illustrates how God oversees and directs our lives; and it should be, as that is exactly what it illustrates to us.

On the other hand, there are large numbers of people who fail to see and feel the guiding hand of God in their lives, and then question God as to why and even hold it against Him.

What we sometimes fail to see is that this Proverb has two parts; it is a conditional statement. If we want to see the realization of one part of God’s Word, we have to meet the requirements of another part; this Proverb is a great example of that.

Its like a sport in some ways; we only have to get back to the basics:

Are you saved? If you aren’t, your sin has you separated from God, both in this life and eternally. Until that gulf is crossed by the restorative work of Jesus Christ, God cannot direct your paths.

Do you read and study God’s Word daily? If we aren’t seeking His revealed will from His Word, why would we expect any special guidance and direction?

Do we pray, meditate and spend alone time with God daily? Seeking His guidance means seeking His will. We can only know His will if we know Him. Study and prayer are the ways we accomplish that.

Become saved by the Grace of God through Jesus Christ. Read, study and meditate daily. Spend time in prayer and communion with God daily. Do these things and acknowledge Him in all of your ways, and He will direct your paths.

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

Original post @ https://elihuscorner.com/2018/10/12/come-as-you-are-but/

He shut his eyes, attempting to bottle the welling disappointment. One of his friends spoke up, “Let’s hoist him onto the roof and bring him down through there!”

The four men grinned at one another and set to work. Two climbed on the roof while two remained on the ground with him. Before long, he found himself being let down through the roof of the house, his pallet coming to rest directly in front of Jesus.

Would Jesus send him away?

Would he again feel the shame of being told ‘you are useless’?

But Jesus looked into his eyes and said warmly, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

This was not quite what he had expected. Forgiveness of his sins was a gift only God could give. Tension hung in the air as a sudden hush fell over the room.

The young paralytic watched Jesus’ eyes. They gazed at the crowd with a mixture of sadness, perceptiveness, and determination.

Jesus’ voice rose, “Why do you question these things in your hearts?”

The paralytic sensed that Jesus was not merely addressing his own thoughts, but the doubts of others in the room.

“Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your bed and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins—”

Jesus paused, and those gentle eyes fixed upon the paralytic’s once more, as he said, “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.”

(To read the full biblical account of the paralytic in Matthew 9 or Mark 2, click the links)

Come—just as you are

I’ve seen many signs in front of church buildings that read, “Come as you are,” and often wondered what message they hoped to convey. I know that regardless of “how” I show up to services, God knows whether my heart is focused on Him or caught up in self.

I may come impeccably dressed while my heart is in shambles.

I might wear threadbare clothes while possessing a heart receptive to God’s discipline.

Our attire, whether stainless or shabby, might be able to create a certain impression on people, but it will not conceal from God the state of our hearts or our minds.

Come—with reverence.

If, however, we approach God with reverence, we will be able to see His transformative power. Like the paralytic, our transformation—however small—will magnify God’s glory to a world lost in darkness.

Go out—transformed.

Moses beheld God on Mount Sinai, and his face shone so brightly that the Israelites couldn’t bear to look at him.

Isaiah saw a vision, and cried out, “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!”

Daniel looked upon visions from God and stood trembling before Him.

Thomas witnessed the scars of the risen Savior, and His doubts were erased.

John, seeing Jesus on the aisle of Patmos, fell down as though dead.

We cannot come into the presence of God without being changed in some way. The hardened heart will leave God’s presence harder than when it came. The humble heart will walk with God, healed and ready to serve.

Go out—and pour out.

There is a beautiful adaptation of the hymn, “Just as I am” called “Just as I am/I Come Broken,” and this is the middle section:

Do not bury His gifts in the ground! Invest them in His service and allow Him to bring about the increase.

So come, just as you are, but don’t remain as you are. Know the Lord, and be transformed.

But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.

~ 2 Corinthians 3.16-18, ESV

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Published by Elihu

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“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org/

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

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

DAILY DEVOTIONAL OCTOBER 13, 2018

Love is strong as death. Song of Songs 8:6

He delights to give the oil of joy for mourning and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Trust in Him, and He will surely comfort you until the house of mourning is closed forever, and the marriage feast has begun.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

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

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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Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Original post @ https://www.gotquestions.org/QOTW.htm

Question: “Why does God allow natural disasters, i.e. earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis?”

Recommended Resource: An Act of God?: Answers to Tough Questions About God’s Role in Natural Disasters by Erwin Lutzer

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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“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org/

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

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

Love is strong as death.
Song of Songs 8:6

The Helper, the Holy Spirit.
John 14:26