“Depths of Love” 1/07/2021 Written by Elisa Morganor for “Our Daily Bread”

Posted on January 7, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

 

When Your Toddler Knows Your First Name – Heather C. King – Room to Breathe

Written by Elisa Morgan for “Our Daily Bread” @  http://odb.org

Original post @  https://odb.org/US/2021/01/06/depths-of-love

January 6

Depths of Love

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

1 John 3:1

 

Today’s Scripture & Insight:

1 John 3:1–6

Three-year-old Dylan McCoy had just learned to swim when he fell through a rotted plywood covering into a forty-foot deep, stone-walled well in his grandfather’s backyard. Dylan managed to stay afloat in ten feet of water until his father went down to rescue him. Firefighters brought ropes to raise the boy, but the father was so worried about his son that he’d already climbed down the slippery rocks to make sure he was safe.

Oh, the love of a parent! Oh, the lengths (and depths) we will go for our children!

When the apostle John writes to believers in the early church who were struggling to find footing for their faith as false teaching swirled about them, he extends these words like a life-preserver: “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1). Naming believers in Jesus as “children” of God was an intimate and legal labeling that brought validity to all who trust in Him.

Oh, the lengths and depths God will go for His children!

There are actions a parent will take only for their child—like Dylan’s dad descending into a well to save his son. And like the ultimate act of our heavenly Father, who sent His only Son to gather us close to His heart and restore us to life with Him (vv. 5–6).

By:  Elisa Morgan

Reflect & Pray

When has God rescued you from a dark well of need? How have you seen Him bring you to a place of hope?

Oh, heavenly Father, thank You for reaching into the well of my need to rescue me and bring me back to You!

Read more about the love of God at DiscoverySeries.org/Q0612.

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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 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

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 are you “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?sxsrf=ALeKk00vlyLLnd_ef4eZMfyeTAEsLjJcww:1609980724200&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=image+1+john+3:1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjOq6TJzYjuAhWqGFkFHSeJB5QQjJkEegQIARAB&biw=974&bih=499#imgrc=72BeJ7HxwHLBxM

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“Forgiveness” 1/06/2021 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on January 6, 2021 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/2021/01/05/forgiveness/

See the source image

Forgiveness

POSTED ON JANUARY 5, 2021 BY BETH ANDREWS

Matthew called them “debts,” Luke called them “sins.” Either way, debts and sins require forgiveness. Both for us and from us.  In “The Lord’s Prayer,” Jesus taught His disciples that forgiveness is “a two-way street” which oddly always leads to the same destination: righteousness. It is something we must request from God and something we must give to others.  Sin always leaves the sinner in debt – to God ultimately, but also to the one that was sinned against.  Forgiveness is the only remedy for the debt of sin.

We like to be forgiven. We want that feeling of relief when the weight of our sin is lifted off our shoulders. It is a gift not to be taken lightly or for granted. Peter reminds us that our redemption was more costly than “perishable things such as silver or gold . . . but [was bought] with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Pet 1:18, 19). So when we confess our sins and repent from them – which is part of seeking forgiveness – we are cashing in on the blood of Christ Jesus to cleanse us of our sins and pay the debt we owe to God because of them. That sense of freedom is breathtaking.

But Jesus also said that we must forgive the debts of those who have sinned against us. We must give to others the same grace that has been given to us. What’s more, He said, “If you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins (Matt 6:14-15). That’s pretty sobering. Matthew also recorded the parable of the servant who, after receiving mercy from the king to whom he was deeply indebted, refused to give the same to a fellow servant who owed him a much smaller debt. The king withdrew his mercy and threw the servant into prison. Jesus said, “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart” (18:35).

Consider the debt you owe God for your sins. Now consider the debt someone owes you. Which debt is greater? Forgiveness is not just a nice thing to give, it is commanded of us on the basis of God’s forgiveness. If God has forgiven you, Beloved, what can you hold against anyone? To whom will you give the gift of forgiveness?

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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 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

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 are you “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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“HE SAVED A WRETCH LIKE ME” 1/05/2021 Written by Kathy Boecher for “atimetoshare”

Posted on January 5, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

 

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

                                  

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

 

Original post @ https://atimetoshare.me/2020/12/28/he-saved-a-wretch-like-me/

 

HE SAVED A WRETCH LIKE ME

 

Posted on December 28, 2020by atimetoshare.me

 

One of the things I miss most about not attending church “in person” is singing with my fellow believers in Jesus. This time of year especially is usually filled with songs filled with joy and celebration for the birth of Jesus. One of my favorite hymns is one that shows how God looks at us now, after His Son took on human form and paid the ransom for our souls. That grace truly is amazing. I know that we will sing in church again someday, but now I’m looking forward to singing with angels even more.

“Amazing Grace,” written by Englishman, John Newton, first appeared in print in 1779.  He was a rebellious youth who became a sailor  trafficking in slavery.  The hymn has been a mainstay for funerals for many years.   Legend has it that while crossing a turbulent sea, Newton converted to Christianity. During a storm he was replaced on deck by another sailor who perished in his place.

He continued in the slave trade for 40 years after his conversion, but fought for better conditions for them.  It took him a long time to realize that true freedom for him would only come if he fought for those who were enslaved.  He was later ordained as a minister and became an abolitionist.

We are all somewhat like John Newton.  We see injustice in this world.  We tolerate it for a time.  When we see how great God’s amazing grace is, we start to realize we can no longer accept prejudice, pride, hatred and fear.  Our lives should change when we experience God’s grace.

Grace literally means undeserved love.  We’re all equal in God’s sight.  When He looks at us, He sees sinful wretches, despite what our works may show – but when He looks at us through the payment Jesus made , we are cleansed of that sin..

Not everyone accepts this grace.  Many turn away from it.  There are those that spit on it and say they don’t need it.  It took a long time for Newton to see that real changes needed to be made.  For some it takes a lifetime.  Now is the time to accept God’s gift with thanksgiving and show our gratitude by living for the One who saved us.

When we’ve been here ten thousand years…
bright shining as the sun.
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise…
then when we’ve first begun.

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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 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

 

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 are you “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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“Out With the Old Man (and His Mouth)” 1/04/2021 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on January 4, 2021 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/2021/01/03/out-with-the-old-man-and-his-mouth/

Out With the Old Man (and His Mouth)

POSTED ON JANUARY 3, 2021 BY BETH ANDREWS

“Who in the Bible do you most identify with?” the teacher asked. Most of the class said they are most like Peter, the brash, impulsive, reckless disciple.  In many ways, I think I am as well. In fact, I identify with several Bible characters for a variety of reasons, but I truly believe I am most like Paul in at least one way: Paul was under the grace of God but he still struggled with sin. He said, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do” (Romans 7:15). In that statement, he perfectly expressed the battle within me of the old (wo)man and the new. Though I am a new creation in Christ, the old me who lived for sin and self is still hanging around. That showed itself very clearly this week.

A few nights ago I had rocked my granddaughter to sleep and was carrying her to her bed when she shifted in my arms and whacked her head against my shoulder – the one I had surgery on just a few weeks ago. The expression that came out of my mouth was very un-Christlike – very much like the old man. The Holy Spirit quickly reminded me of Jesus’ words in Matthew 15:18: “The things that come out of the mouth come from the heart.” In other words, there is still some ungodly, impure stuff in my heart. Mind you, I am careful with my words  But it’s at my most unguarded moments – when I respond out of fatigue, pain, or raw emotion – that the ugly stuff comes out of my mouth. But the answer is not just watching what I say – the issue is much deeper than that.

My prayer since that night has been David’s prayer: “Create in me a pure heart, O God” (Psalm 51:10). Watching my mouth only masks the root of the problem. I need God to take my impure heart of stone and replace it with a pure, soft heart so that I speak worthy words at all times, especially when my guard is down.  My desire in those moments is that when I “open my lips, my mouth will declare God’s praise” (51:15). Even when pain rocks my body and my life.

Beloved, what do your unguarded moments reveal about your heart?

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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 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

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 are you “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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“What are we learning?” 1/03/2021 Written by Mel Wild for “In My Father’s House”

Posted on January 3, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

James 1:22 KJV | Bible quotes kjv, Doers of the word, Trust god

Written by Mel Wild for “In My Father’s House” @ https://melwild.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://melwild.wordpress.com/2020/12/28/what-are-we-learning/

What are we learning?

 

Posted on December 28, 2020by Mel Wild

A soul that’s not self-reflective is a superficial and impoverished soul. It has no knowledge of its own shortcomings. Its focus is more often on the shortcomings of others. It has no governing capability to mitigate against its own hypocritical double-standards. It looks into the mirror but never to discover its true nature, which can only come through reflective revelation.

I don’t mean to suggest that we should go into some mind-numbing navel-gazing exercise. Quite the opposite. I’m suggesting we learn how to respond to the voice of God.

I say this because our Christian culture seems to be very well trained at hearing but not in responding to what we hear. We love a good messages with lots of truth bombs, we listen to podcasts, we have stuffed lots of information about God into our minds. In some ways, that’s good. But we tend to listen to good teachings, even read the Bible, like a good novel or a guide book of good principles, to be wowed, even entertained, rather than letting it pierce our soul and locate us.

As James says, this type of unresponsive learning is practicing self-deception.

22 Don’t just listen to the Word of Truth and not respond to it, for that is the essence of self-deception. So always let his Word become like poetry written and fulfilled by your life! (James 1:22 TPT*)

 

For this “Word of Truth” is a Living Person, working in us, “dividing soul and spirit…judging the thoughts and attitudes of the heart, which is meant to produce the fruit of the Spirit (Heb.4:12; Gal.5:22-23). But we cannot imitate fruit; we must enter into this cooperative process with Truth in order to walk in its freedom. If we don’t let the Bible study us in this way, we become what James calls “forgetful hearers”:

23 If you listen to the Word and don’t live out the message you hear, you become like the person who looks in the mirror of the Word to discover the reflection of his face in the beginning. 24 You perceive how God sees you in the mirror of the Word, but then you go out and forget your divine origin.  (James 1:23 TPT*)

 

When we read what God says about us in His Living Word, we begin to discover our true identity. But if we don’t respond to this reflection by faith, and act on it, we put ourselves on a path of self-deception. We’ve deceived ourselves into thinking we’re spiritually mature when our soul remains impoverished, still in need of milk, because it has not been trained through practice.

13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (Heb.5:13 NIV*)

I said all of that to say this…

What have we learned about ourselves in 2020?

Have the adverse events and circumstances of 2020 colored, or clouded, our perception of what God is actually doing in us, and around us?  Are we responding to our circumstances or to what God is saying to us?

Furthermore, what hidden treasure is waiting for us as our vision clears?

I think it would be good for us to reflect on these questions and honestly assess our hearts as this unique and troubling year comes to a close. Because God has been speaking to all of us. And when we turn our hearts toward Him, we will hear what He’s saying. The only thing left for us to do is respond. I will close with this promise from God to those who will enter into this cooperative process with Him.

25 But those who set their gaze deeply into the perfecting law of liberty are fascinated by and respond to the truth they hear and are strengthened by it—they experience God’s blessing in all that they do! (James 1:25 TPT)

* All emphasis added.

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

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

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 are you “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=ALeKk01EBo6_lcyc9R1n5Y2675jtA6h9QA:1609177082976&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=image+James+1:22&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiJgaXjm_HtAhUliOAKHf4MB5YQjJkEegQIBRAB&biw=1366&bih=900#imgrc=0k_7XbmGGWWI8M

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“New Year Reflection” 1/02/2021 Posted by Karina Susanto for “KARINA’S THOUGHT”

Posted on January 2, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Posted by Karina Susanto for “KARINA’S THOUGHT”  @   http://karinasussanto.wordpress.com/

Original post  @  https://karinasussanto.wordpress.com/2021/01/01/new-year-reflection/

New Year Reflection

Jan1

Hello my beloved reader! It’s me again. I’m grateful to God Almighty at the beginning of this new year I could post my first post in 2021. In the first day of this new year, I love to take all us take a time for a moment to reflect all that happened in 2020

The year 2020 will be a long history throughout this century. even the same history anywhere in the world. in 2020, only about 60 days we live our life normally. After that everything changed very drastically. We have to live this life with strict rules especially with regard to our health. We must live our lives using health protocols which we inevitably, like it or not, we must comply with. Must use mask, take a social distancing, and many more.

Suddenly, the whole process of life changes. Suddenly we have the same habits, suddenly we have the same worries. Suddenly, the whole nations in this world even no matter what the religion have the same prayer. We bowed down, crying, begging, and hoping that everything will be back as before. Without mask, without social distancing, and without any strict health protocol.

We feel tired and bored with all kinds of that rules and protocols. Hard to close our eyes though the night was very late. There’s deep longing can only be expressed by words only. We long to hug those we love very much as we usually do without fear and worry. Beside grumbling, there’s only one question in our minds, “When it all will be over?”

My beloved friends, in this New Year moment I would love to let all of us know that when we all gasp because suddenly the world became so silent and everyone in this world has the same fear, we are afraid for something invisible yet dangerous and deadly, let us know and trust that God Almighty has a plan and God’s plan is always wonderful. God said:

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Everything that is happening in our lives today is not a coincidence. If God has properly started His work for us, then He will continue His good work until the end. Philippians said:

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.     (Philippians 1:6)

We also have to trust that,

I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. (Jobs 42:2)

If we ask why God allows all this to happen, we have to remember that,

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)

Personally, everything that happened in 2020 and still goes on made me learn to be patient and surrender more and more to God. Also reminds me that we are all weak human beings even powerless to face something very very small and invisible.

My dear friends, about 10 months we keep trying to survive and let us keep survive. Keep trust and relying on God.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

 God always gives a rainbow in every rain, calm in every storm, laughter in every tear, answers to every prayer and blessings in every trial. God never gives trials to thwart our strength.

No temptation has overtaken you except something common to mankind; and God is faithful, so He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Maybe we will never understand all that is happening at this time. But, please remember that the trials we experience will not exceed our strength. We should never be afraid because God will never leave us alone, will always help us, and He will carry us because He has made us.

For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:1)

 

And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. (Mathew 10:30-31)

I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. (Isaiah 46:4 NIV)

Let us live this new year in with full of hope in God.

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. (Psalm 62:5)

Happy New year, my beloved readers. God Bless all of us!

Karina – Living by faith

image source:googleimages

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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 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

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 are you “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 New Year Reflection | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments

“Allow the Holy Spirit to set your heart “ON FIRE for the Lord BEFORE Communion” 1/01/2020 Written by Bruce R. Mills for “Gods group”

Posted on January 1, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

The Holy Spirit will set your "Soul on Fire" for God! | Holy spirit, Soul on fire, Scripture quotes

Written by Bruce R. Mills for “Gods group” @ www.Godsmanforever.com

“Allow the Holy Spirit to set your heart “ON FIRE for the Lord BEFORE Communion”

 

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)

My friends, I wrote about the importance of understanding and invoking 1 John 1:9…in the life of the believer, with this absolutely most important piece of opening scripture for the “born again” Christian…   There are at least 5 circumstances we as believers should be participating in on a regular basis…  And before each of these, we should be right with the Lord, to allow the Holy Spirit to work in our heart and life…    These 5 circumstances are:  A) before we pray…B) before we read scripture (to have it illuminated by the Holy Spirit)…C) before we open our hearts and minds to hearing a sermon in Church on Sunday… D) before we share our faith with someone who has not yet been saved by God’s grace alone…and E) especially before we take part in Communion at Church…     You can read about these in the link found in Reference number 1. below

Today I am going to focus on Communion, and why we MUST be right with God, “with God first in our lives”, before we partake of Communion at Church…

I emphasize that God MUST be “first in our lives” before we partake of Communion…or we are risking God’s chastisement (Hebrews 12:6-11), or worse, God snuffing out our life…if we take Communion as a “born again” Christian in an unworthy manner…

 

The Apostle Paul tells us about this when he wrote about the institution of the Lord Supper, and our need to examine ourselves in…1 Corinthians 11:17-32…  [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+cor+11%3A17-32&version=NKJV]

1 Corinthians 11:27-29…   Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.  (NKJV)

The Apostle Paul goes on to tell us this, in…Corinthians 11:30…  For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep.  (NKJV)    When Paul pens “many sleep”, he means God takes their lives early, because they continued to take Communion in an unworthy manner… I believe this warning is a VERY IMPORTANT part of Communion…  I have heard this from a few Pastors…  Failure of the Pastor to share this warning, and urge every member to be sure God is first in their lives before taking Communion…is doing an injustice to the congregation, because many don’t understand that their very lives could be in jeopardy if they partake of the Lord’s Supper in an unworthy manner…  We all sin, but I am thinking of someone living in willful unrepentant sin, that is NOT going to stop…but still takes Communion…

When the Apostle Paul tells us to “let a man examine himself”, he wants us to ask God to forgive us of our sins to be right with the Lord before Communion…  But God’s Word also teaches us, that God won’t hear our prayers if we have iniquity in our heart…  (Psalm 66:18, Isaiah 59:1-2, and 1 Peter 3:12)   My friends, if God is not first in our lives, we are living in the worst sin of all !!  The sin of omission, as penned by the Apostle James, in…

James 4:17…  Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.  (NKJV)

We know as “born again” believers, that God wants us to love Him first with ALL of our heart, mind, soul, and strength…  The first, and most important Commandment, found in…Luke 10:27…  If we want God to hear our prayers, and He is not first in our lives, we must FIRST pray to God to forgive us of this most drastic sin, and to take back control of our lives, to allow the Holy Spirit to have total control of what we say and do…  With this MAJOR sin confessed, repented of, and turned from…we will be able to examine ourselves to confess any and all known sins to God, before Communion…  But I like to ask the Lord to search my heart, and show me any hidden sins…because our hearts are deceitful above all things, as we see in…Jeremiah 17:9…  God promises that anything we ask in His will He will hear us, in…1 John 5:14…  Of course God will show us any hidden sins, if we ask Him with a heart filled with the Holy Spirit…

When we are right with God, with all sins confessed  (1 John 1:9) and our heart is filled with the Holy Spirit…we are able to worship the Lord with our hymns and spiritual songs as we see penned by the Apostle Paul in…

Ephesians 5:18-20…  And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord,20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,  (NKJV)

I believe this use of 1 John 1:9 before any Church service begins, with the Pastor urging the congregation to ask God to search their hearts for any hidden sins like King David did in…Psalm 139:23-24…and to be sure God is First in their lives, will allow and the Holy Spirit to convict the hearts of many church member to put God first… It is indeed the power of the Holy Spirit that helps keep hearts and minds focused on the Lord, and on the Pastors sermon…  Lives will be blessed and God will be glorified with the Holy Spirit is active and alive in the hearts of the church members !!

Gracious God and heavenly Father, I pray all eyes who have read today’s post, will understand the importance of confessing their sins (1 John 1:9) any time the Holy Spirit convicts them that they have sinned…  I pray Father, that Your living and powerful Word (Hebrews 4:12) will cut right to the bone and marrow of anyone who is a believer, and is now living with known unconfessed sins in their lives…  I pray You set hearts “ON FIRE” by the power of the Holy Spirit, so that lives will be molded and conformed by You into the image of Your Son Jesus Christ…Romans 8:29…  I pray these lives not living for You first, will be change by You today, in the sweet name of Your Son Jesus, 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 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

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 are you “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=ALeKk00hE6tYFEQ-YIj8O5LLD5nkD_J6Hw:1609272360802&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=image+Holy+Spirit+setting+hearts+on+fire&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiC-qXb_vPtAhWDT98KHRkYCpAQjJkEegQIBhAB&biw=1366&bih=957#imgrc=KhyfKCcsT7vcoM

REFERENCES:

 

  1. 5 reasons for invoking 1 John 1:9 writing –  https://godsmanforever.com/2020/09/24/the-importance-of-1-john-19-for-the-born-again-christian-9-24-2020-written-by-bruce-r-mills-for-gods-group/

 

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“With a Heavy Heart” 12/31/2020 Written by my friend Bill Sweeney’s wife Mary, for Bill stricken with ALS 24 years ago.

Posted on December 31, 2020 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

 

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

Unshakable Hope! - Jodi Rosser

 

Written by my friend Bill Sweeney’s wife Mary, for Bill who was stricken with ALS 24 years ago, and finally with the Lord…  Bill use to write by using an eye-tracking computer, with only his eye movements…  ☹

Read all about Bill @  https://unshakablehope.wordpress.com/about/,  and if you have not read any of his posts, click on some listed below and read them, and see why Bill’s “Unshakable Hope” all those years should give us all a reason to count our blessings !! 

 

 

 

With a Heavy Heart

DEC 30

Posted by Bill Sweeney’s wife Mary

Dearest faithful followers of Unshakable Hope,

 

It’s with a heavy heart that I inform you that Bill has finished the race that was set before him. He has fought the good fight of faith, and is now receiving his reward.

The heavy heart is only because of the hole that will be left in my heart, and the hearts of everyone that was lucky enough to share life with him.
I’m happy that he is where he has longed to be. Shortly before passing, he told us that he was excited to go home. We are grateful he is now in his eternal home praising God with a body that’s totally healed of the disease that has so ravished his body.

Thank you to all who read his blog, posted encouraging comments, prayed (some did this daily), supported us financially, and loved us.

I can’t put into words the gratitude in my heart.

Gratefully yours,
Mary and family

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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 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

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

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832&sxsrf=ALeKk03oDHnesX5uWOWc7QltKMO_2ue4Mw:1586011032404&q=image+unshakable+Hope+in+God&tbm=isch&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjB0sjB_87oAhUwj3IEHewRBDwQsAR6BAgJEAE&biw=1245&bih=693#imgrc=1k_WJBCpm_WKNM

Some of Bill’s writing:

  1. https://unshakablehope.com/2020/12/04/gods-last-enemy/

  2. https://unshakablehope.com/2013/05/24/why-are-so-many-christians-depressed/

  3. https://unshakablehope.com/2013/12/06/thankful/

  4. https://unshakablehope.com/2013/01/21/overcoming-regrets/

  5. https://unshakablehope.com/2015/01/08/opportunities-in-trials/

  6. https://unshakablehope.com/2013/03/06/a-temptation-i-can-relate-to/

  7. https://unshakablehope.com/2020/04/03/the-war-of-faith/

  8. https://unshakablehope.com/2013/07/29/one-day-at-a-time-2/

 

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“When We Worship God, We Are Empowered!” 12/30/2020 Written by Pastor Tim Burt for “Fresh Manna”

Posted on December 30, 2020 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Acts 1:8 For some this occurs from a young age ❤️ | Acts 1 8, Bible study scripture, Holy spirit

Written by Pastor Tim Burt for “Fresh Manna”  @ https://timburt.org/

Original post @  https://timburt.org/2018/03/05/this-is-what-happens-when-we-worship-the-lord/

When We Worship God, We Are Empowered!

 

MARCH 5, 2018 / PASTOR TIM

Fresh Manna

by Pastor Tim Burt

One morning while I was praying and worshiping the Lord, the Lord spoke to me. It was very clear and what He said was a fresh word to my heart. By that I mean that I had never before had the thought He was communicating to me. As I was worshiping Him He spoke to my heart and said, Tim, worship isn’t for my benefit. When the Lord speaks to me He usually doesn’t say a lot. He’ll make a statement and then as I pause, think and pray about what He has said, scriptures will come to my mind and the Lord will continue the conversation through those verses. That is the benefit if having much of God’s word in your heart. He will most often speak to us through His Word but if you don’t have His Word in your heart, it’s more difficult to discern between your own imagination and what God is truly saying to you.

The Lord had said,  Tim, worship isn’t for my benefit. As I began to think about what the Lord said, I heard more. I heard Him say, I am not ego deprived. That was all I heard. I just began to meditate further and think about what the Lord had spoken. Suddenly, it was as if the lights came on.

I am a worshiper of God and always have been since I gave my life to Jesus. I was so thankful for Him saving me that I always wanted to find ways to express my thanks and love to Him. Besides that, the Word of God instructs us to worship the Lord. The Lord alone is worthy of and deserves our worship and I’ve never questioned it. Yet now I could see worship in a new light. The Lord said, Tim, worship isn’t for my benefit. The Lord was showing me that worshiping Him was for my benefit, not His. It was so easy to see. And so true!

Sometimes life seems like more than a plateful. As a man, a husband, a father, a Pastor, a son, a brother, a friend, and a Christian, it can sometimes seem like there are so many responsibilities—so many things I should do and do well. I want to be good at every one of these things. I want to be diligent and do what’s right and show the proper respect and love and friendship while being responsible to each of these areas of my life. Because I do, it brings me to this simple truth; outside of God, I can’t do it. Jesus warned us of that in John 15:5 (NIV).  “He said, ‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.’”

It’s only when I’ve ever thought I could do all this and attempted to do it in my own strength that I’ve fallen flat on my face feeling overwhelmed or like a failure. God never created us to live outside His grace, strength, and help. The grace of God is His supernatural help given to us to do all the things He has given us to do well. He knew we’d feel overwhelmed without Him. He wanted us to lean on and count on Him—on His grace. When we learn to really focus on the greatness of our God and upon the covenant of blessing He established with us and for our benefit, when we meditate on His love that surpasses human understanding that He has for us, when we truly believe He desires and is willing to help us, then and only then will we lean on Him, ask, and have faith in His grace to help us. We would gain the strength to look anything in the eye and know He’d help us handle it. When we did, then we’d feel like the writer of Psalm 46:1-3 (NIV) who wrote,  “God is our refuge and strength, and ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”

You have to admit, if you were anywhere near mountains falling or caught in roaring seas, you’d be shaking in your boots. These are the kinds of things that cause instant panic. But the revelation being shared in these verses is that when our heart deeply worships God, His presence grows within us. In worship, the revelation of His love, power and might are magnified. As He’s magnified our problems and feelings of being overwhelmed shrink. The light and revelation of His faithfulness, promise and love strengthen us so that in His strength, we can manage the challenges before us a step at a time.

That is why the Lord said to me, Tim, worship isn’t for my benefit. Worshiping the Lord is for us—for our benefit. Psalm 95:6-7 9 (NIV) says, “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.” Psalm 34:3 (NIV) says, “Oh, magnify the LORD with me, And let us exalt His name together.”

 

God is not egotistical. He does not tell us to worship Him for Himself. He tells us to worship Him so that when we look at the magnificence of the Heavens or of the creation around us—reflecting that He created it all. And He is the one watching over us as His children day by day.

Worship elevates the Lord in our hearts to His rightful place. When we worship the awesomeness of God, He is magnified in our spirit, and the cares, worries and lies of the devil shrink. When we worship the Lord our faith grows in our heart and the supernatural help of God flows into our lives. When we worship the Lord, He becomes Almighty God and we become His children. Praise His Holy Name!

Psalms 89:15 (NLT) “Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, Lord.” 

In His Love,
Pastor Tim Burt

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If Fresh Manna is a blessing to you, let me know how. I’d love to hear from you!  Write me at FreshMannaFeedback@gmail.com




Published by Pastor Tim Burt
Copyright© 2018 All rights reserved
http://timburt.org/

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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 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

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, are you “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+acts+1%3A8&tbm=isch&ved=2ahUKEwiQ2cfeyfPtAhXoYd8KHRb0AbsQ2-cCegQIABAA&oq=image+acts+1%3A8&gs_lcp=CgNpbWcQAzoECCMQJzoCCAA6BAgAEB46BggAEAgQHlDMwydYmeInYLfmJ2gAcAB4AIABbYgBxASSAQM3LjGYAQCgAQGqAQtnd3Mtd2l6LWltZ8ABAQ&sclient=img&ei=nFTrX5CbIujD_QaW6IfYCw&bih=900&biw=1366&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS832US832#imgrc=146ytRqBCpt0IM

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“Servants of the Lord” 12/29/2020 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org

Posted on December 29, 2020 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Colossians 3:23-24 Who Are You Working For ? - YouTube

 

Posted by Alister Begg   for   www.truthforlife.org

 

Original post @  https://www.truthforlife.org/resources/daily-devotionals/12/11/0/?ecid=ACsprvu9_Ji7G5PXIEV9Rb9pAvfkAJVE292u4WaGVmLiBuXhMe2cvz1IYXrlhct3EyrqsNb4LIEG&utm_campaign=Daily%20Devotion%20Emails&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=102529559&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9TsCRHhkQF4ZRGVNrbVngOBEHZY_fZEAIWS3OMb0kHv13JqQMOZwNwvxWEu3m9bKszwsjbOVMMK7Vx5oa8Uf2fJ1CBM3aYKJBgDB53UQtHwkE9wrs&utm_content=102529559&utm_source=hs_email

 

Servants of the Lord

You are serving the Lord Christ.

 Colossians 3:24

 

To what special group was this word spoken? To kings who proudly boast a divine right? No! Too often they serve themselves or Satan and forget God who patiently permits them to wear their majestic crowns for a little while. Is the apostle speaking to those so-called “right reverend fathers in God,” the bishops or “the venerable archdeacons”? No; in fact, Paul knew nothing of these man-made titles. This word was not spoken even to pastors and teachers or to the wealthy and highly regarded among believers, but to servants and to slaves.

Among the toiling multitudes—the journeymen, the day laborers, the domestic servants, the drudges of the kitchen—the apostle found, as we still find, some of the Lord’s chosen, and he says to them, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” This saying grants significance to the weary routine of earthly employments and sheds a halo around the most humble occupations.

To wash feet may be servile, but to wash His feet is royal work. To untie sandals is poor employment, but to unloose the Master’s shoe is a princely privilege. The shop, the barn, the kitchen, and the workbench become temples when men and women do all to the glory of God! Then divine service does not take place for a few hours and in a few places, but all life becomes holiness to the Lord, and every place and thing as consecrated as the tabernacle and its contents.

Teach me, my God and King, in all things Thee to see;
And what I do in anything to do it as to Thee.
All may of Thee partake, nothing can be so mean,
Which with this tincture, for Thy sake, will not grow bright and clean.
A servant with this clause makes drudgery divine;
Who sweeps a room, as for Thy laws, makes that and the action fine.

 

Devotional material is taken from “Morning and Evening,” written by C.H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright (c) 2003, Good News Publishers and used by Truth For Life with written permission. Today’s Bible Reading material is taken from McCheyne Bible reading plan and used by Truth For Life with permission. Scripture quotations are taken from Holy Bible: English Standard Version, copyright (c) 2001, Good News Publishers.

 

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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 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

 

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

 

Check out the Bible in a year with audio for the scriptures and commentary !!  No more excuses for not feeding your spirit every day with the Word of God !! –  www.bibleinoneyear.org

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