“The Almighty Dollar” 6/08/2021 Posted by David Kitz for “I Love the Psalms”

Posted on June 8, 2021 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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                     Quotes About God And Money. QuotesGram

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

Original post found @ https://davidkitz.blog/2021/06/07/the-almighty-dollar/

The Almighty Dollar

07MondayJun 2021

Posted by davidkitz in Psalms

Reading: Psalm 135:15-21

The idols of the nations are silver and gold,
made by human hands.
They have mouths, but cannot speak,
eyes, but cannot see.
They have ears, but cannot hear,
nor is there breath in their mouths.
Those who make them will be like them,
and so will all who trust in them.
All you Israelites, praise the LORD;
house of Aaron, praise the LORD;
house of Levi, praise the LORD;
you who fear him, praise the LORD.
Praise be to the LORD from Zion,
to him who dwells in Jerusalem.
Praise the LORD (NIV).*

img_20210531_1130599

The Ottawa River — photo by David Kitz

 

Reflection
Though it may not be obvious, there is something timeless about the first sentence from today’s reading: The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by human hands.

 

In today’s world shaping silver or gold into an idol may be unusual, but it still occurs. India and the nations of Southeast Asia have plenty of gold and silver idols. This is not a dying worship form. Many have been cast in recent years.

In the western world we frown on such openly idolatrous displays of wealth and worship. Or do we? Gold and silver represent wealth. In reality, we have simply transformed our worship of wealth from bulky commodities like silver and gold to more transferable assets like securities and paper currency. We are still guilty of bowing before silver and gold, but it comes with a different name. Now we call it the almighty dollar.

The almighty dollar, or more broadly speaking, the market, determines the ebb and flow of commerce, and by extension impacts every aspect of our daily lives. It is not an exaggeration to say we are caught up in financial system that is deeply idolatrous. Our society has taken the worship of wealth (Mammon) to new heights. We elect our political leaders not on the basis of morality or personal integrity, but rather can they deliver a higher level of GDP—put more money in our pockets.

Into this corrupt world, St. Peter speaks these words to those who have been called to follow Christ:  For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect (1 Peter 1:18-19).

Response: Father God, I need the right perspective on wealth and finances. Your precious blood is worth more than all the silver and gold this world has to offer. I bow before You as my Almighty Savior. Amen.

Your Turn: Is Jesus the Lord of your finances? Is your Redeemer more important than wealth?

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

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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT 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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“Don’t Decorate Your Life With Jesus” 6/07/2021 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on June 7, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Do You Know God? 1 John 2:3-6 October 10 - AM. Knowing God Some think: –No one can know God personally –Any claim to know God is brazen –We want to know. - ppt download

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

Original post @ https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com/2021/05/28/dont-decorate-your-life-with-jesus/

Don’t Decorate Your Life With Jesus

POSTED ON MAY 28, 2021 BY BETH ANDREWS

See the source image

I love roosters. I love their colors. I love how they strut. I love to hear their “cock-a-doodle-do! I love the life they represent – rural, peaceful, simple. Oh, I’ve never had a rooster. But I love them. For decoration. My kitchen and dining room are an artistic barnyard with figurines and pictures of roosters all over. I love how they look and the peaceful feeling they inspire, but that’s the extent of my connection to roosters.

Paul lamented people who go through life “having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:5). People who love the idea of Jesus and the teachings of Jesus and the wisdom of Jesus. But they don’t know Jesus. He talked about “weak-willed women who are  . . . always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth” (v. 6, 7). As a Bible teacher, I’ve seen this too many times. Women – and men – who, like the Greeks in Athens, love to listen and talk about the latest ideas, but nothing takes hold in the soil of their hearts. They can sound Christiany and they post great Jesus memes, but there’s nothing of substance and no fruit growing in their lives.  They like the peace and love that Jesus talked about, but they don’t want the righteousness, holiness, and suffering Jesus also talked about. My heart breaks for them because they are only deceiving themselves.

Friend, I don’t want you to follow me – I want you to follow Jesus. I don’t want you to take my words to heart – I want you to take The Word to heart. I want you to put your own roots down deep into the rich truths of Scripture and grow and flourish with sweet fruit. I want you to love Jesus and the Word because you have a real relationship with Him. Beloved, if all you ever do is decorate your life with Jesus stuff, my ministry will have been in vain. I want you to know and love Him with all your heart and mind and soul. I want you to “take hold of the life that is truly life” (1 Timothy 6:19). The life 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…

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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“Our God Sings!” 6/06/2021 Written by Nancy Ruegg for “From the Inside Out”

Posted on June 6, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org 

 

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

Zephaniah 3:17 | News and Views

 

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

 

View original post @ https://nancyaruegg.com/2021/06/03/our-god-sings/

Our God Sings!

June 3, 2021 by Nancy Ruegg

Given that everything in the universe has its origin in God [1], it stands to reason music originated with God. 

Granted, he could have bestowed the gift without participating himself, but scripture indicates otherwise.

In Psalm 42:8b we’re comforted with this assurance: “by night his song is with me.”  Our part is to pay attention to the lyrics that proclaim his perfections and good works—lyrics he sings over us straight from his Word. When we memorize verses of God’s Song, they can comfort our hearts even in the darkest of times [2].

In Psalm 32:7 we read of God’s “songs of deliverance” that encourage and inspire.  Where might we hear these songs?

In the calming sounds of nature.  Creation is full of God-Song—beyond the musical offerings of birds.  Think of burbling streams, the wind humming through evergreens, frogs ha-rumphing, crickets chirping, and the soulful underwater cries of humpback whales. 

Indeed, God-Song surrounds us in the air, on land, and in the sea, reminding us we’re enveloped in his love.  And because of that love, he provides deliverance from fear, trouble, distress, and the evil one [3].

Second, we hear songs affirming his goodness, dependability, and compassion in his Word [4].

Third, we hear God’s Song through the uplift of hymns and other Christian music. Men or women may be listed as the composers and lyricists, but surely all would give God the credit for his inspiration and empowering.

In Zephaniah 3:17 the prophet depicts God delighting in his people with song. 

“He rejoices with joy and joys with his singing,

which shows how delighted he is with his people . . .

his own righteousness upon them,

his own grace in them.”

— John Gill

Of course, God wants us to make music also, and not just with our voices and instruments.  God longs to come alongside, and within the sphere of his influence, make sublime music with our lives—much more beautiful and satisfying than anything we could accomplish on our own.

Perhaps you saw the video—based on an actual event (and available on YouTube):

A young father settles into his concert hall seat next to his wife, just as a performance is about to begin.

“Where’s Tommy?” he asks.

“I thought he was with you,” she exclaims, worry lines already criss-crossing her forehead.

At that moment the curtain goes up to reveal a little boy, oblivious to the audience, sitting at a grand piano, legs dangling above the pedals.  Tommy.

 One single note at a time—and rather haltingly at that—he begins to play “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”

“Go get him!” Mom cries in a stage whisper.

Too late.  A tuxedoed man is already approaching the piano from behind Tommy.

Will he reprimand the boy for touching the concert grand? Will he demand that the parents of the delinquent come to collect him?

No, he quietly leans over the boy and tells him to keep playing.  Then he envelopes Tommy with his arms, and begins to add Mozart’s intricacies to the simple melody.  Together they make sublime music, and both smile with pleasure.  So does the audience.

That’s a picture of how the Virtuoso of the universe delights to make music with us, to raise our paltry human effort into transcendent God-Song.  With his righteousness over us, and his grace in us, we can make beautiful music. 

And those around us will hear and smile with pleasure, including the Maestro himself [5].

If you’d like to watch the video:

Art & photos credits: http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.pixabay.com.

[1] Colossians 1:16

[2] Psalm 23:4

[3] Psalm 34:4, 17; 107:6; Matthew 6:13

[4] Psalm 31:19; 145:17; 103:13-14

[5] Ephesians 3:20

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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…

 

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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“God’s Faithfulness” 6/05/2021 written by Mary Sweeney

Posted on June 5, 2021 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, who stood beside Bill, stricken with ALS 23 years ago, and who is now with the Lord…

Read all about Bill @  https://unshakablehope.wordpress.com/about/

Original post @ https://unshakablehope.com/2021/06/03/gods-faithfulness/

God’s Faithfulness

JUN 3

Posted by Mary Sweeney

 

“Don’t think for a minute that God failed us!”

A month before Bill went to heaven, he sent me an email.  The top line read:

“If I go home:

Don’t think for a minute that God failed us!  You know how faithful God has been.” 

He continued with a list of things that I needed to take care of (his book, his funeral, etc.), but all I could see and hear were his words above.   These words have replayed over and over in my mind since running across this email.  God knew I needed to read these words as I navigated through the grieving process.  He knew I would question His sovereignty and that I needed to remember His faithfulness throughout the past 24 years.  He made provision in all areas of our life as we walked through the valley of the shadow death.  Bill WAS a miracle! The doctors gave him a 3-5-year death sentence, but God added 20 more years to his life!

Did God fail us?  No, He didn’t fail us. Is God still faithful? Yes, He is.

Because of the loving devotion of the LORD, we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness!  (Lamentations 3:22-23)

The day after Bill went home, I sat in my living room alone for the first time in years, not knowing what to do with myself.  The silence in our home that night was so loud as I sat there staring out the window.  I couldn’t believe that Bill was gone.  I asked God to talk to me.  I closed my eyes and waited.  I saw myself pushing Bill over the finish line in his wheelchair.  I am left standing there as I watched him slowly disappear. With tears running down my face, I realized that I had been running Bill’s race beside him for 24 years.  It was our race together.  We were a team.  A team that included Jesus as the cord that held us together to move forward for His glory.  That marathon was finished.

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

(Ecclesiastes 4:12)

I’m not sure what my race without Bill beside me looks like, but I do know that I want to finish strong as Bill did.  I always told Bill he reminded me of Paul.  Metaphorically, Bill was imprisoned inside his body for 24 years.  They both used their time in prison to encourage others.  They kept the faith and didn’t give up no matter how tough life got.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.  (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Bill allowed God’s grace to carry him so he could be an example to all of us that God’s grace is sufficient.  Now, I must let God’s grace hold me as I figure out the race without Bill beside me.

 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

I have cried more in the past five months than I have in my entire life. I don’t think I allowed myself to grieve during his illness like I should have, so now I mourn the loss of his absence and all the other losses that ALS took from him and our family.  God is healing my heart each day as I put my trust in Him.  He said he’d never leave us. He said he’d direct our path.  So, I wait on Him.

Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!  (Psalms 27:14)

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)

Has God failed us?  No, He hasn’t.  Is God still faithful? Yes, He is.

My prayer is that Bill’s words will help someone else as much as they did me.

“Don’t think for a minute that God failed us (you)!  You know how faithful God has been.” 

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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT 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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“Death Zone” 6/04/2021 Written by Mike Wittmer for “Our Daily Bread”

Posted on June 4, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

 

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

 

Amazon.com: James 4:10, 12"x22" Vinyl Wall Decal, Humble Yourselves in The Sight of The Lord and He Will Lift You Up, Creation Vinyls: Kitchen & Dining

 

Written by Mike Wittmer for “Our Daily Bread” @  http://odb.org

 

[Click on the “Listen Online” link and listen to the audio version at the top, including the prayer at the end in the original link below] 

 

Original post @ https://odb.org/US/2021/05/29/death-zone

 

May 29

Death Zone

But David remained in Jerusalem.

2 Samuel 11:1

 

Today’s Scripture & Insight:

2 Samuel 11:1–6, 12–15

In 2019, a climber saw his last sunrise from the peak of Mount Everest. He survived the dangerous ascent, but the high altitude squeezed his heart, and he passed away on the trek down. One medical expert warns climbers not to think of the summit as their journey’s end. They must get up and down quickly, remembering “they’re in the death zone.”

David survived his dangerous climb to the top. He killed lions and bears, slew Goliath, dodged Saul’s spear and pursuing army, and conquered Philistines and Ammonites to become king of the mountain.

But David forgot he was in the death zone. At the peak of his success, as “the Lord gave David victory wherever he went” (2 Samuel 8:6), he committed adultery and murder. His initial mistake? He lingered on the mountaintop. When his army set out for new challenges, he “remained in Jerusalem” (11:1). David once had volunteered to fight Goliath; now he relaxed in the accolades of his triumphs.

It’s hard to stay grounded when everyone, including God, says you’re special (7:11–16). But we must. If we’ve achieved some success, we may appropriately celebrate the accomplishment and accept congratulations, but we must keep moving. We’re in the death zone. Come down the mountain. Humbly serve others in the valley—asking God to guard your heart and your steps.

By:  Mike Wittmer

Reflect & Pray

Are you climbing your mountain or near the top? How might you avoid the pitfalls that come with success?

Father, grant me success, and protect me from its excess.

 

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

 

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

 

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT 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 does it mean to have the fear of God?” 6/03/2021 Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Posted on June 3, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Original website: https://www.gotquestions.org/fear-God.html

What does it mean to have the fear of God?

ANSWER
For the unbeliever, the fear of God is the fear of the judgment of God and eternal death, which is eternal separation from God (Luke 12:5; Hebrews 10:31). For the believer, the fear of God is something much different. The believer’s fear is reverence of God. Hebrews 12:28-29 is a good description of this: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ’God is a consuming fire.’” This reverence and awe is exactly what the fear of God means for Christians. This is the motivating factor for us to surrender to the Creator of the Universe.

Proverbs 1:7 declares, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” Until we understand who God is and develop a reverential fear of Him, we cannot have true wisdom. True wisdom comes only from understanding who God is and that He is holy, just, and righteous. Deuteronomy 10:12, 20-21 records, “And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. Fear the LORD your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes.” The fear of God is the basis for our walking in His ways, serving Him, and, yes, loving Him.

Some redefine the fear of God for believers to “respecting” Him. While respect is definitely included in the concept of fearing God, there is more to it than that. A biblical fear of God, for the believer, includes understanding how much God hates sin and fearing His judgment on sin—even in the life of a believer. Hebrews 12:5-11 describes God’s discipline of the believer. While it is done in love (Hebrews 12:6), it is still a fearful thing. As children, the fear of discipline from our parents no doubt prevented some evil actions. The same should be true in our relationship with God. We should fear His discipline, and therefore seek to live our lives in such a way that pleases Him.

Believers are not to be scared of God. We have no reason to be scared of Him. We have His promise that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39). We have His promise that He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Fearing God means having such a reverence for Him that it has a great impact on the way we live our lives. The fear of God is respecting Him, obeying Him, submitting to His discipline, and worshiping Him in awe.

RELATED TOPICS

Knowing God by J.I. Packer

More insights from your Bible study – Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT 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://images.search.yahoo.com/yhs/search;_ylt=AwrEeNsuObhgfSoA3BAPxQt.;_ylu=Y29sbwNiZjEEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Nj?p=image+fear+of+the+Lord&type=asbw_8923_CHW_US_tid1304&param1=C%2BXSdM69IE4Fp4xLpZRnc6Rmx6j%2BUsZdftJ22R5wvLYRQfPfvFTSu9WDNYk1S73k&param2=9dUI1n2R0BLDxNuWfiP4aSFOTltNdSPoIx38%2BUf%2FiXrvPdoGmStdlfwLFZYDvqkAJrWWk4yNReCLnBD%2FqPsDZd7olTZcV8HMx1G%2Fk786sE2Tis1g8dJd8zxVWs%2BbKztBnq1TfqUiqPYK9pXifXmJF23GuXP%2F%2FuMqmznMxQq%2BppDKdrrI0ui9skTCfL5mL%2FzEmUq%2B8EpSnk7e5VL74sdlFM8NT5Xo1fpuxHBZ5d1KwjJo3Os8wAZrZxr%2BS9APbVxwvnyyCNcfqWk35rgdL8YgePY41q%2BiOfCUQP6udCE5h6ywqcRIxK5V6D4bM3FCKZ9BI2jlWWwdPh1IGm%2B4dzzGqw%3D%3D&param3=NwVEMR%2FzKcG52XsVBYEh2zk2Yklq85vdfspZPoqz2M1qypHRDDTed5vIiOf0QJloIYNIhURx5ygk43IbuWBmnSO6VJi0Lg%2BHXK15j4L%2FFbtWkrI4tZva2CSdO%2BO8zcxNbLhvWNCxu7qqZlXKkcHyRKCMhxPHeeJNqVNvkLjEudHLIr2CqH1nrwy4f5bVkfZw34DyPJMWxURPzZ13qfFRk3jKBX67xfkUE0mTUL%2FwMCyOuCg7ShutmKpe4JP8yqOnsKJY07BzwKY4t9ubLaZtoZwl17faMLnPIBVoWHjABJYxKhq6gjBjiD3gi0nTGKoD6Le%2F3%2BOwWiM98iYN4I4SvQ%3D%3D&param4=hCnqV8iYhcxJ8iNIX4W0h5lX%2BTiGVQRFr9QrJ7mD9OE%3D&hsimp=yhs-syn&hspart=iba&ei=UTF-8&fr=yhs-iba-syn#id=17&iurl=https%3A%2F%2Fdgw7l17furt3h.cloudfront.net%2Fuploads%2Fcovers%2F296%2Fpicture%2Fsmall_14e28b64213e4adec6663faa.jpg&action=click

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“All Hands On Deck” 6/02/2021 Written by Keith Haney for “THE LIGHT BREAKS THROUGH”

Posted on June 2, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Written by  Keith Haney for “THE LIGHT BREAKS THROUGH” @ https://alightbreaksthrough.org

Original post @ https://alightbreaksthrough.org/all-hands-on-deck/

All Hands On Deck

ByKeith Haney

 

MAY 6, 2021

Whenever the call to all hands on deck goes out, it means the situation requires all sailors to be called to duty. Whatever is going on is so grave that it needs everyone to work hard to achieve an aim or do a task. You can almost hear the captain say, “Come on then, boys, all hands on deck tonight, we need all the help we can get. Your job was so big that we needed all hands on deck.”

I believe it is time the church member hears that same plea. “Come on gang, all spiritual gifts are needed. Look at the plight of the neighbors, the community, and the world in which we live. Our mission from God is big we need all hands on deck to accomplish it. Not a gift is too small to be ignored, no task to minimal, everyone has a critical role to play.

When the topic of using our spiritual gifts comes up, this illustration comes to mind.

The great violinist, Nicolo Paganini, willed his marvelous violin to Genoa — the city of his birth — but only on condition that the instrument never is played upon. It was an unfortunate situation, for it is a peculiarity of wood that as long as it is used and handled, it shows little wear. As soon as it is discarded, it begins to decay.  The beautiful, mellow-toned violin has become worm-eaten in its beautiful case, valueless except as a relic. The moldering instrument is a reminder that a life withdrawn from all service to others loses its meaning. -Bits & Pieces, June 25, 1992.

But far too often those people resources go under-utilized and sit in our buildings rotting like an unused violin. The apostle Paul wanted the church not to be ignorant about the use and importance of spiritual gifts.  God gave the church these gifts to be used and often used for the advancement of the gospel.

The Common Good

 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. –1 Corinthians 12: 7.

The Holy Spirit gives gifts to the church to unite it around a common good of announcing to the world the reign of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.  Spiritual gifts are intended never to divide the body or cause in-fighting, or jealousy.  The concept Paul introduces of “the common good”, is a powerful and inspiring phrase, one worth holding on and lifting up often in our congregations. The old Adam has a strong desire to live a selfish, self-centered existence, seeking to use his or her gifts solely for personal gain or boasting.

However, the new man recreated in Christ through the washing of regeneration understands that our spiritual gifts are for the enjoyment and advancement of the whole body of Christ and the kingdom. This revelation begs the question then, “How can I use my God-given gifts in, with and among the body of believers?” And not “Do I want to exercise my spiritual gift?”
Paul accentuates the authority of the Spirit in the distribution of the gifts (v. 11).

All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

Next week we will look at the gifts listed in I Corinthians 12 in more detail, but understand this: the Holy Spirit does not give all Christians the same gift or gifts. Rather he gives them “…just as he determines…” (v. 11).

I know when I started out in ministry I wanted certain gifts that I thought would make ministry easier and benefit the body of Christ.  Like the gift of evangelism.  But the Spirit did not grant me that wish.  So, while we may pray for particular spiritual gifts, “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.”1 Corinthians 14:1.  The Holy Spirit has the authority to give gifts as He determines.  Gifts that the Holy Spirit feels will benefit the body and meet the needs of the body of Christ.  Whatever gifts you have been given, use them to the glory of God and the common good of the body of Christ.  The body needs you. The mission of God needs you.  Go and be a blessing.

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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT 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://images.search.yahoo.com/yhs/search;_ylt=AwrDQq7.bbdgsYsATQEPxQt.;_ylu=Y29sbwNiZjEEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Nj?p=image+1+peter+4%3A10+Bible&type=asbw_8923_CHW_US_tid1304&param1=xnxO2mm%2B2M4TpqI79VN6z1QU5WYO%2BnfXvvNN8avUSHL%2FnkLHrVGvejmHcF%2B7KufI&param2=9dUI1n2R0BLDxNuWfiP4aSFOTltNdSPoIx38%2BUf%2FiXrvPdoGmStdlfwLFZYDvqkAJrWWk4yNReCLnBD%2FqPsDZd7olTZcV8HMx1G%2Fk786sE2Tis1g8dJd8zxVWs%2BbKztBnq1TfqUiqPYK9pXifXmJF23GuXP%2F%2FuMqmznMxQq%2BppDKdrrI0ui9skTCfL5mL%2FzEmUq%2B8EpSnk7e5VL74sdlFM8NT5Xo1fpuxHBZ5d1KwjJo3Os8wAZrZxr%2BS9APbVxwRh%2Fr6Ne4yhHusecEWDJBZ0tX3lSd4ExEAvYsSvSaeJjPQwRLBNnxHaqh%2BiwxkiUQ1M%2BdTBCydEHwEumseQRgiQ%3D%3D&param3=NwVEMR%2FzKcG52XsVBYEh2zk2Yklq85vdfspZPoqz2M1qypHRDDTed5vIiOf0QJloIYNIhURx5ygk43IbuWBmnSO6VJi0Lg%2BHXK15j4L%2FFbtWkrI4tZva2CSdO%2BO8zcxNbLhvWNCxu7qqZlXKkcHyRNM5K0CuccUUcedbmIwKH6PnKt2khyN9UVKXXI70PuNoQuDM%2BuWae22vy7mGgoxkkOhIT04p1sPRUah08wmDQkUewB2C9ToKgMENQiWcirTcpSrKrT5T%2B7zhkkBG0AWyK%2BLOzRGj7sXa%2BHmcSt0o5s6rNAIscYXHarEZX9hvvzN2cpd00UoPS9p0UFi%2FoualKd%2FvYUcpgPO6jItLIjCUnrE%3D&param4=0BUmxZ47cFVehkq7xfVhT5ry5HN9exk%2Fk6UoJPQQuYw%3D&hsimp=yhs-syn&hspart=iba&ei=UTF-8&fr=yhs-iba-syn#id=3&iurl=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia-cache-ak0.pinimg.com%2F736x%2Fb7%2F41%2F26%2Fb74126861c9c6af5b61a2c7cda0fa2c0.jpg&action=click

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“How Firm a Foundation: June 2021 Scripture Writing Plan” 6/01/2021 Written by Elihu Anderson for “Elihu’s Corner”

Posted on June 1, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Jesus is our Firm Foundation - Matthew 7:24-27 - Master's Hand Collection

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

Original post @ https://elihuscorner.com/2021/05/31/how-firm-a-foundation-june-2021-scripture-writing-plan/

How Firm a Foundation: June 2021 Scripture Writing Plan

May 31, 2021Elihu

“How firm a foundation, you saints of the Lord
Is laid for your faith in His excellent word!
What more can He say than to you He has said
to you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?”

From “How Firm a Foundation” by K. (c. 1787)

About a month ago we moved into a new house outside of town. After we moved in, we had a foundation poured for my husband to have a workshop for welding, car maintenance/repairs, woodworking, etc. I enjoyed watching them pour the concrete slab. My kids enjoyed rollerblading on the completed slab. As we stood on that wide concrete foundation, none of us feared that it would suddenly give way beneath our feet. Even when there was a tornado warning, I wasn’t worried about that slab pulling up from the ground. It was (and is) firmly fixed. This particular foundation can be destroyed by bombs, explosions, or even the slow decay of time, but it won’t easily crumble.

In a similar way, our Heavenly Father is Himself a strong foundation. He is unshakeable, unchangeable, immovable. He has laid for our faith a firm foundation through Jesus Christ and His resurrection.

Ask yourself:

On what (or on whom) is my faith built?

Does it depend on fallible people or an infallible savior?

Do I trust that He is be able to answer all my doubts?

When times are easy do I stay close to Him? When times are hard is He my refuge?

As you continue to progress in your faith, make sure you continue to build on God’s foundation and not the unstable foundations of mankind.

I hope you will be built up as you write your way through this month’s plan! I have included several catch-up days as I know many of you are transitioning to summer schedules. If you are new to scripture writing, be sure to check out this post: How to Use Scripture Writing Plans

Sara McBroom has once again provided tracing and copying sheets for your young scripture writers. I am so thankful for Sara and Liz for helping me with these plans each month!

To download the tracing and copying sheets, click the links below:

kids scripture writing copying june 2021DOWNLOAD

kids scripture writing tracing june 2021DOWNLOAD

To download a printable PDF of this month’s plan, click the link below:

june-2021-scripture-writing-planDOWNLOAD

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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT 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=ALeKk01zaH29XhrYKFSPcsAibb-VChPtbg:1622547366001&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=image+firm+foundation+Bible&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiKsIb7q_bwAhUIOs0KHfDPBesQjJkEegQIBhAB&biw=1239&bih=900#imgrc=pxswB69Jjim3fM

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“Today, we remember” 5/31/2021 Written by Louis Mize, a Facebook friend

Posted on May 31, 2021 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

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

May be an image of text

“Today, we remember”

And almost all things are by the law purged with blood, and without shedding of blood is no remission.

Hebrews 9:22

Much blood has been shed for us. Monday, we memorialize those that have paid with their life blood, the cost of freedom. We honor them and their family the best way we know how to do it. We thank God for freedom, and those who have shed life’s blood to accomplish it for us.

We also remember the blood that our Lord Jesus Christ shed on the cross at Calvary, in order to accomplish our ultimate freedom. I give thanks for the blood of brave men and women who have fought and died to keep us free. More especially for the sinless blood of Christ, so that we can be free from our sins. I thank God that Jesus paid it all with His precious blood, For you see, only HIS shed blood is able to save us from our sins.

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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT 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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Let’s Headbutt Lobsterman!

Posted on May 30, 2021 by Godsmanforever

Read this, and was urged to re-post… Blessings in Christ, bruce

Open this link- https://insanitybytes2.wordpress.com/2021/05/30/lets-headbutt-lobsterman/

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