“From Holey to Holy” 6/25/2024 Written by Elisa Morgan for “Our Daily Bread”

Posted on June 25, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY – 1 Peter 1:15-16 | Mission Venture Ministries

 

Written by Elisa Morgan 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 post link below]

Original post @ https://odb.org/2024/06/01/from-holey-to-holy

June 1

From Holey to Holy

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.

2 Timothy 1:9

 

Today’s Scripture & Insight :

2 Timothy 1:6-10

As a child, my daughter loved playing with her Swiss cheese at lunch. She’d place the pastel yellow square on her face like a mask, saying, “Look, Mom,” her sparkly green eyes peeking out from two holes in the cheese. As a young mom, that Swiss cheese mask summed up my feelings about my efforts—genuinely offered, full of love, but so very imperfect. Holey, not holy.

Oh, how we long to live a holy life—a life set apart for God and characterized by being like Jesus. But day after day, holiness seems out of reach. In its place, our “holeyness” remains.

In 2 Timothy 1:6-7, Paul writes to his protégé Timothy, urging him to live up to his holy calling. The apostle then clarified that “[God] has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace” (v. 9). This life is possible not because of our character, but because of God’s grace. Paul continues, “This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time” (v. 9). Can we accept God’s grace and live from the platform of power it provides?

Whether in parenting, marriage, work, or loving our neighbor, God calls us to a holy life—made possible not because of our efforts to be perfect but because of His grace.

By:  Elisa Morgan

Reflect & Pray

How do you view personal holiness? In what ways will you ask God to remind you of His all-surpassing grace that brings about His holiness in your life?

Dear God, please help me to lean into Your grace and not my efforts to live a holy life.

 

For further study, read Why Would Anyone Want to Be Holy?

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=cbd4c375e27fda27&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&sxsrf=ADLYWILU1McxgIEv2MyTZbWNyr0-vZgFVg:1719316916343&q=image+1pet1:15-16&udm=2&source=univ&fir=gnBNmLczg_v6IM%252CJKQceHZmbx0gpM%252C_%253BAtyO7BTEiWwQmM%252CsnDI7OwUfdfqXM%252C_%253BybrVyJeUOL2yWM%252C4jD5g1KxBKBMoM%252C_%253B0kBqR7SAPGAx5M%252Cba6Bc4De3bOwsM%252C_%253BufqSo9sUk3tiNM%252C9ViZA_iTlSMA6M%252C_%253B8J99BkwuEfvRTM%252C8O5XQK4-K1UjxM%252C_%253BhWlBsAWOHQXdUM%252CJahQCY5h3eMnIM%252C_%253Br9UNusO3ug7a1M%252C8O5XQK4-K1UjxM%252C_%253BUbIkN8YBi0Q5wM%252CFKu8iFx-wqE3_M%252C_%253BMlWdN8fHZ2IOxM%252C8O5XQK4-K1UjxM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kS_gqDr2JfszZBbQwi2GHUsJwrbsw&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj35rfQ2vaGAxUWEFkFHfjVAaoQ7Al6BAgTEAo&biw=1302&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=KOKxnbMnfUJWGM&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , | Leave a comment

“JOYFUL, PATIENT & FAITHFUL” 6/24/2024 Written by Kathy Boecher for “atimetoshare”

Posted on June 24, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

   John 15:11 - Bible verse (NKJV) - DailyVerses.net

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

Original post @ https://atimetoshare.me/2024/04/30/joyful-patient-faithful/

JOYFUL, PATIENT & FAITHFUL

Posted on April 30, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“All good things arrive unto them that wait–and don’t die in the meantime.”  Mark Twain

 

“God writes a lot of comedy … the trouble is, he’s stuck with so many bad actors who don’t know how to play funny.” Garrison Keeler

Joy, Patience, and faithfulness are formidable character traits, but when you add words like hope, affliction, and prayer, you see there is more to them than meets the eye.  How often do we give thanks when our hopes have been dashed? How do you grow patient when everything around you is moving at a snail’s pace? How’s our prayer life? Do we just reach out to God when we need Him, or do we have numerous conversations with Him throughout the day?

God is not simply an aging old man in the sky, managing His kingdom like a puppeteer pulling all the right strings.  He definitely has a sense of humor, because He created me.  He looks after us as a loving father who cares for His children.  He wants the very best for us and has a blueprint all drawn out for what He has in store for us.

He’s also demanding of us.  He wants our obedience because He’s our Creator.  He wants us to share our love and trust in Him with those in desperate need of the Gospel.  He’s given us the command to love one another as we love ourselves.  He wants us to know that nothing we do is going to pay for our inability to live up to His expectations, but He also provided a way out for us.

We don’t just automatically become joyful when we turn things over to God.  Sometimes it takes Him a long time to answer.  Sometimes He does that to build character and patience, other times He’s refining us.  Sometimes He looks into the future and knows what’s best for us.  Maybe the thing we’re praying for isn’t for our good.  Many times He doesn’t answer at all, but He guides us through the path that He’s pre-determined for us.  He gives us discernment, wisdom, and the ability to make the right choices.

God feeds us when we get a daily diet of His Word.  He nourishes our bodies and souls with the love He exhibits for us on those pages.  Plan on filling yourself up with his truth and He will bestow on you hope, patience, and faithfulness.

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=fdded5f414667f33&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&sxsrf=ADLYWILcbZyF0w-4pXll5hexgAmbwQY_EA:1719232192460&q=image+John+15:11&udm=2&source=univ&fir=mHc_R7_oeBdhzM%252CIa2yzz1NcGLfTM%252C_%253Bch2SXjM1H9LNpM%252CoEU0kuAroKPVXM%252C_%253Ba4_EOwgGZvbARM%252Cdjl8ZD2QMZwHUM%252C_%253BxZPjPEnSJq1I0M%252C07hpviYWwS5cPM%252C_%253Br2ivAMU3hHtAJM%252CTI25xH8qbtvluM%252C_%253Blzxldfuw0SDZ2M%252CtXBX35UU3RmroM%252C_%253BCV-56B_vBv-opM%252C34yTMPvcvrYI1M%252C_%253BmQ1-fHZKIhiyIM%252CbQa2S_jfMsEQUM%252C_%253BpKBsX8N2OZgzEM%252C9J3yY9-ZOEDgJM%252C_%253Boj7ctOVvfsfkIM%252Cdjl8ZD2QMZwHUM%252C_%253BLRovyAB-0SPSjM%252CD3Wfgd-SLhdgcM%252C_%253B6ZWdRZtB_74RLM%252CpOBVUbofWHgS1M%252C_%253BwBiS3kC5C1gYJM%252Cj1_B_sCSUEPfcM%252C_%253BhPcT1cxBpwb9ZM%252CSRPYPOnml8TuDM%252C_%253BuoQVUboI6TP97M%252CefTEC_ShKEZgGM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kScSS8fS2gDZDSaIPd5tP5HoV7HMQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjRyfiAn_SGAxXKvokEHXWmAcwQ7Al6BAgQEAo&biw=1302&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=lcmE_4FskJoBwM&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

“Do You Have An Answer?” 6/23/2024 Written by Dawn Ivey for “Drawing closer to Christ”

Posted on June 23, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

1 Peter 3:15 - Bible verse (ESV) - DailyVerses.net

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

Original post @  https://drawingclosertochrist.com/2024/06/17/are-you-prepared/

Do You Have An Answer?

1 Peter 3:15-16 NIV, “15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. 16 But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.”

Photo by: August de Richelieu

Recently while attending a small Bible study group, the speaker asked the question, “What keeps you committed to Christ?” For me, it was a very timely question because I had been thinking about this just a few days earlier.

These verses in 1 Peter tell us to be prepared to answer this question. We never know when we will be given the opportunity to share with someone the reason we have chosen to put our hope in Jesus Christ.

When it was my turn to answer the question, and share about something that keeps me committed to Christ, I said, “He always sees and He always hears.”

I love that Jesus is the God who always sees me. He is always aware of me and what I am going through. Although I am blessed to have people who care about me, people cannot always see what He can. I am never out of His sight. He understands me and my circumstances completely.

Secondly, I love that Jesus is the God who always hears me. I can pray at anytime and He will hear me. No appointment needed. He is always available. He does not slumber or sleep.

Psalm 121:3-5 NLT, “3 He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. 4 Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. 5 The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade.”

Photo by: Mental Health America 

I was glad the Bible study leader asked us this question. I was reminded to always be ready to give others an answer for the hope Jesus gives me and why I choose to stay committed to Him. It could be a non-Christian asking us about our faith in Christ or even another Christian who needs encouragement. Whatever the case, we should be ready.

I could use some encouragement and I am sure others can too, so I am asking you to please share in the comments, “What keeps you committed to Christ?”

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=d418a5ca43beae34&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&sxsrf=ADLYWIIlEa0WSGV1rYUd2O9j2ofWB4oyFg:1719144069526&q=image+1+peter+3:15-16&udm=2&source=univ&fir=E3bplDiqVbKW-M%252ClNcNbSsZi8I4YM%252C_%253B1_yjdKHIuOFsoM%252CtJs2H2QOm1t80M%252C_%253BwG65w7Rgpc5pAM%252CRgUZI3N6p92KgM%252C_%253B0IiFo9B4h7UD5M%252CtJs2H2QOm1t80M%252C_%253BUmi4J5mJz0i9jM%252CBPBHtySvbWwLhM%252C_%253BjT7Qg1LDHrUQyM%252CpoP5zJy72mYYkM%252C_%253B9CGzicRodcz3DM%252Cs7VFXcc-dn9GqM%252C_%253BlWu-1kcJx0iq_M%252C_tFzJ7JXH_IhUM%252C_%253BT2MypZbPbsiEwM%252C-Lng4H1uP_lbzM%252C_%253BaG9-7VRDBBFH0M%252CFS–qgkGcfbSdM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kQABRMLt7lkEKkmMIHb9tSOg8b6FA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiOw9Pc1vGGAxXbkYkEHXlXDHMQ7Al6BAgaEAo&biw=1302&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=jHlNt4ecWKYf9M&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

“Worship and Awe” 6/22/2024 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on June 22, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Psalm 145:1-2 - Honoring and Praising God

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

Original post @ https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com/2024/06/21/worship-and-awe/

Worship and Awe

POSTED ON JUNE 21, 2024 BY BETH ANDREWS

I am a woman of many words. I love words and have since I was a little girl. Ask my teachers – I spent much time in the corner for talking. I probably should still. I like to believe that the Lord called me to be His spokesman and filled me with all these words, but I suspect He would like for me to be a little less verbose at times.

King Solomon said, “There is . . . a time to be silent and a time to speak (Ecc 3:7). The Old Testament prophet Habakkuk said something that was probably written just for me: “The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth be silent before Him” (Hab 2:20).

Oh, how I need to learn the art of silence.

Habakkuk followed his statement with this prayer: “Lord, I have heard of Your fame; I stand in awe of Your deeds, O Lord” (3:2). Have you ever just stood in silent awe of God? Have you ever considered who He is and what He has done?

If all God ever did was exist, He would still be worthy of worship. He Himself is enough.

And if all God did was create the heavens and the earth, and mountains and trees and stars, He would be worthy of praise.

If all God ever did was order the sun and the moon and command day and night, He would deserve our adoration.

If all the Lord God ever did was scoop up some dust and create human life, that life would owe Him honor and glory.

If all He ever did was make the world continue to spin on its axis yet make gravity just strong enough to keep everything in place, He would be worthy of exaltation.

But God sent His Son to show us Himself. He sent His very best to die on the cross to redeem us from our sins. He paid the highest price to set us free. Surely His praise should ring throughout the earth.

And yet God did even more: By raising His Son to life, He gave us eternal life and an eternal home with Him. Can our praises ever be loud enough to honor Him?

God gave you and me the gift of words so that we can declare His worth and worship Him. Beloved, let’s use our words to lift His praises high.

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?q=image+ps+145%3A1&sca_esv=689b2325b95f8dd1&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&udm=2&biw=1302&bih=910&sxsrf=ADLYWIJgm_UMt9aPr1jUHyjiX7a6VkOo_A%3A1719057904959&ei=8L12Zt6fOrKB5OMPi-iL-Ak&ved=0ahUKEwje15fele-GAxWyAHkGHQv0Ap8Q4dUDCBA&uact=5&oq=image+ps+145%3A1&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiDmltYWdlIHBzIDE0NToxSJEPUJ8JWJ8JcAF4AJABAJgBNaABNaoBATG4AQPIAQD4AQGYAgCgAgCYAwCIBgGSBwCgBy0&sclient=gws-wiz-serp#vhid=KaPmjZaWOzxjhM&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

“That’s God!” 6/21/2024 Written by Dr. Lawson Murry for “SEIZE The DAY”

Posted on June 21, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

John 14:26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you.

Written by Dr. Lawson Murry for “SEIZE The DAY”  @  https://seizetheday-blog.com

Original post @   https://seizetheday-blog.com/2024/05/10/thats-god-6/

That’s God!

MAY 10, 2024

Praying hands

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26 (NIV)

 

Have you ever had a burden to pray earnestly for someone, a burden that comes out of the blue and won’t let go until you’ve prayed it through . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He causes you to pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.

Have you ever stepped out in faith and attempted something you wouldn’t normally do and then seen it all come together . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He delights in doing more than we can imagine.

Have you ever been just sitting there and all of a sudden you’ve felt you should be doing something special for someone . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He prompts you through the Holy Spirit to do good works.

Have you ever been down in the dumps and had someone came along at just the time when you were needing a tonic to cheer you up . . . THAT’S GOD . . . His Spirit prompts people to encourage and comfort you.

Have you ever been thinking about somebody you haven’t seen for some time and then next thing you know you hear from them or receive a visit . . . THAT’S GOD . . . there is no such thing as “coincidence.”

Have you ever done something that you thought was no big deal, yet you were shown esteem because of it . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He honours those who serve Him.

Have you ever been trying to help someone through a problem and had verses of Scripture and spiritual principles come to you from somewhere beyond your own resources and abilities . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He gives us more than we can ask or imagine.

Have you ever been frustrated because of a delay and then discovered that if you’d proceeded as you’d intended it could have been disastrous . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He orders our days according to His ways.

Have you ever received something wonderful that you didn’t ask for, like money in the mail, a debt that’s been mysteriously cleared, or a voucher for a department store where you’d recently seen something you wanted but couldn’t really afford . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He knows the desires of your heart.

Have you ever been in what seemed to be an impossible situation, one in which you had exhausted every possible solution, and then despite the odds you came out on top . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He provides a way through.

And does it seem as if this devotion was meant to be on this particular day . . . THAT’S GOD . . . He knows what you need even before you ask Him.

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=5da6c0e4b63a9ce6&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&sxsrf=ADLYWIJF2QWnnefdGlCb7vNFIJyWR6nwjA:1718973282345&q=image+john+14:26&udm=2&source=univ&fir=x5Gl2CW2zs-IMM%252CYnYFYZfDJmLXtM%252C_%253BaE0MFa9286Y5iM%252ChfAsyU_OuqtdXM%252C_%253B3fpujyjnLPe2ZM%252CVYvVTCNMQOXibM%252C_%253BKIbbPtnaMw0YbM%252CcpK4tXCk-NJDUM%252C_%253BrIpBz0ged7XT7M%252C_yiKYAAphmPyAM%252C_%253B17yVWUUnILMmcM%252CTu35HVnc-Q4WIM%252C_%253Bo3Upq-e2BxhrcM%252CBFXJZ9WuaJ1xAM%252C_%253Bd-muVpfUee82hM%252C1Gj57bs2X-nIWM%252C_%253BVde9njqSOxPoyM%252C0rUC2TdU-m8cVM%252C_%253BPTStYEHmaRa5pM%252CO4BWL15G3OLuCM%252C_%253BPF4rxZ0bG1eQ1M%252CYC_4lDGPfYLVtM%252C_%253BX856O-2iW8aSkM%252C_yiKYAAphmPyAM%252C_%253BfzDL73hoDlfD4M%252CbC8Ijc1N97pfVM%252C_%253BPgRkNcYFpJ05qM%252CZempBtPiFt0I0M%252C_%253Bgo51nwtqZO6ZlM%252C-XisGBeiGFFbkM%252C_%253BwO1gG12JrGNQHM%252CltAs4jh1hLkH_M%252C_%253BLOPTqDOkL4niZM%252CPy5JDn4oRupP4M%252C_%253Bi2Nojrj2KrJwqM%252Ci8CpVmcJxbSBKM%252C_%253BWTJHZpYD4HNpJM%252CDP0okfST0AgB9M%252C_%253BcmuPdBFs4NgNqM%252CTu35HVnc-Q4WIM%252C_%253BQNybsRM1f1e2DM%252CrhZMwKfjleTR0M%252C_%253B5QCaPis-uh_vHM%252CkMSXnuKqes-ePM%252C_%253B1pz-ykOIyMqiFM%252CWf_B41MQWVWTWM%252C_%253BJog3w78Bzqdh7M%252CTu35HVnc-Q4WIM%252C_%253Bqh77_soNIpW4eM%252C1ZqcrLDuzPA0KM%252C_%253BLAI4zM0FpOZ8LM%252CVDtjLdHJ9ycQ-M%252C_%253BlFKXVopBTKXE4M%252CrhZMwKfjleTR0M%252C_%253BD0VH6hmHsHPgWM%252CTu35HVnc-Q4WIM%252C_%253BuRkTwq6BZqtj8M%252CltAs4jh1hLkH_M%252C_%253BJDMN4ga2syGdRM%252C0h69f3FE-b3mmM%252C_%253B2wh04Kb55QrtGM%252CyCju8842MbzYUM%252C_%253BKNpKJMkWaEjCoM%252CQCcy-rQ6v-F4BM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kQK9WqlZ3NvgQiSWa35ySHeATn3uw&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwizm_2-2uyGAxU5g4kEHVR-ATwQ7Al6BAgeED0&biw=1302&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=3fpujyjnLPe2ZM&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged | Leave a comment

“7 THINGS GOD FINDS DISGUSTING” 6/20/2024 Posted by Pastor Randy Burbank for “Kingdom Pastor”

Posted on June 20, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Posted by Pastor Randy Burbank for “Kingdom Pastor”  @  https://kingdompastor.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://kingdompastor.wordpress.com/2021/04/13/7-things-god-finds-disgusting-feet-that-race-to-do-wrong/

7 THINGS GOD FINDS DISGUSTING: FEET THAT RACE TO DO WRONG!

Posted on April 13, 2021 by Pastor Randy

Drivers, start your engines!

 

16 There are six things the Lord hates—
no, seven things he detests:
18 . . . feet that race to do wrong,

Proverbs 6:16, 18 NLT

And the race is on–to do what is wrong. This Disgusting Thing is about making Quick Choices–and with any and all choices, there is always a consequence. The word I’m looking for is Impetuous. Impetuous Choices are those decisions we make abruptly, even eagerly, because–well–just because. They lack the rhyme and reason that comes only from Godly Wisdom.

When questioned, What were you thinking?”, many folks try to excuse their Poor Choices by saying, “Well, I wasn’t thinking.” This simply isn’t true. They chose their thinking by not thinking. Not thinking is a prevalent form of thinking these days–well, this has been around since Adam and Eve. Their choice to eat from the forbidden fruit was to think by not thinking. If they had chosen to think through their decision, the outcome would have been much different.

The Hebrew phrase Solomon chose means “evil, misery, distress, injury“. As we rush to wrong actions, wrong conclusions, and wrong thinking–it opens the door to evil–it creates misery, puts us in distress–and causes injuries, to us and those around us. God created us to be thinking beings–to analyze, discern, and discover. The key, though, is to think through BEFORE a decision is made. We reach the wrong decisions about events, circumstances, and people when we rush by choosing to think by not thinking.

Correct decisions come as the result of seeking God’s Wisdom–AND using His Wisdom to make the right choice. We rush and race toward decisions because we do not desire God’s wisdom–and it always leads us to the wrong choice. Created in His Image–made to think things through like He does–but when we rush–it’s Disgusting to God.

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/25614291621285963/

Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , | Leave a comment

“Light in Our Darkness” 6/19/2024 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org from Spurgeon’s writing

Posted on June 19, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Psalm 27:1 King James Version (KJV) Bible Verse Typography

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

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

Original post @ https://info.truthforlife.org/lie-low-before-the-throne-3?ecid=ACsprvsM_roQL_4CdGk9IDWSZFj_fK6h7j1kvVOHdw4gQNhc2VCNPKalkfdmtTk_3jrRYCMAqkxo&utm_campaign=Spurgeon%20Daily%20Devotion&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8_98-q4oD_9R9hsK8drcOUdbDE8D8AqxT9J1BU-148D50I5xN_cjru5K3knZvGml87UcRA_8KirKqJTo0oaOpMwzhm8YzxpC_M6VEpk906g393Xfw&_hsmi=311622243&utm_content=311622243&utm_source=hs_email

JUNE 16

Light in Our Darkness

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 27:1

The LORD is my light and my salvation.” Here is personal interest: “my light,” “my salvation“; the soul is assured of it, and therefore declares it boldly. Into the soul at the new birth, divine light is poured as the forerunner of salvation; where there is not enough light to reveal our own darkness and to make us long for the Lord Jesus, there is no evidence of salvation.

After conversion our God is our joy, comfort, guide, teacher, and in every sense our light: He is light within us, light around us, light reflected from us, and light to be revealed to us. Note, it does not just say that the Lord gives light, but that He is light; nor that He gives salvation, but that He is salvation; so, then, whoever by faith has laid hold upon God has all the covenant blessings in their possession. Once this fact is assured, the deduction from it is put in the form of a question, “Whom shall I fear?” A question that is its own answer. The powers of darkness are not to be feared, for the Lord, our light, destroys them; and we need not dread the damnation of hell, for the Lord is our salvation.

This is a very different challenge from that of boastful Goliath, for it rests not upon the conceited vigor of human strength, but upon the real power of the omnipotent I AM. “The LORD is the stronghold of my life.” Here is a third glowing quality showing that the writer’s hope was fastened with a threefold cord that could not be broken. It is no surprise that we accumulate terms of praise where the Lord lavishes deeds of grace.

Our life derives all its strength from God; and if He deigns to make us strong, we cannot be weakened by all the cunning movements of our adversary. “Whom shall I fear?” The bold question looks into the future as well as the present. “If God is for us, who can be against us,”1 either now or in time to come?

  1. Romans 8:31
Devotional material is taken from Morning and Evening, written by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright © 2003, Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers, Wheaton, IL 60187, www.crossway.org. Used by Truth For Life with written permission.

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=2e0ce3e94bcd66ce&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&sxsrf=ADLYWIKnq3ifw1dz6egv6-uLvhVSmkPGVg:1718798031666&q=image+ps+27:1&udm=2&source=univ&fir=XoEAMFXTdcd_pM%252CultsM7zG5P6PUM%252C_%253B-MPo_LyjIPWNaM%252CXAta6RcAuj2q3M%252C_%253B_QPyDFM5EWpMXM%252CaiqZwGRyRMbSXM%252C_%253BTP5CdN2q61g5eM%252C5HSlkYHG4YkgqM%252C_%253BeYzzNml5LeDPIM%252CDLQgTqCmRtXLiM%252C_%253Bb-RklW_gZbkAKM%252CmLnh_oyGERbl1M%252C_%253BwhFrKIFr8l_bDM%252CaiqZwGRyRMbSXM%252C_%253BtOravuQUE2-YLM%252CAAHieq8hO_t3oM%252C_%253BmBSmpSe6F0kPQM%252CaaBzucscE_jD_M%252C_%253BnC_gJVT6S-xiHM%252CIbzZ9VMSorwI5M%252C_%253B6sYAQZxjmo3taM%252Clnh6hHVPHdeFZM%252C_%253BqXZQYHYQ8gZ8AM%252CmisOrmff2yYpfM%252C_%253B0OBLi1fNDxTCsM%252CFWK5jYv1lbizoM%252C_%253Bn69kStC-jw6lVM%252CwZa2ibnPlfNaIM%252C_%253BrNgCQYF0G741UM%252CaiqZwGRyRMbSXM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kQ4kK0NrCYJT8yecHp7jTZ4tF3_Ew&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjU0vjQzeeGAxUSrokEHZUtCn8Q7Al6BAgREEk&biw=1302&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=IonSVTHKG0vbXM&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

“The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is peace?” 6/18/2024 Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Posted on June 18, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Our Lady Of Lebanon London Daily Bible Quotes By, 57% OFF

Posted by www.gotquestions.org

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

QUESTION

The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is peace?

ANSWER

In Romans 12:18, Paul exhorts, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” What a perfect example of our role in the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. We are to submit our wills to God’s leading and our actions to God’s Word, but the actual results are up to Him. Only God can create peace through the work of the Holy Spirit. Especially the peace mentioned in Galatians 5—the peace of a harmonious relationship with God.

We are born at war. At birth, our sinful nature has already declared war on God and His truth. Our heart’s desire is to be separated from Him, and if we persist in this desire until death, He will give us what we want.

But God’s methods of warfare are not what we expected. Instead of a battle, He sent us the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Jesus’ goal in coming to earth was more than simply to cease hostilities; He came to bring about a full and abiding relationship of restoration and love. The cost of this peace was His life (Isaiah 53:5).

But, just as we cannot force another to be at peace with us, even Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross did not ensure that we would accept His terms of peace. Romans 3:10b-11 explains, “There is none righteous, not even one; there is none who understands, there is none who seeks for God.” None of us can accept Jesus’ offer of peace through our own will and power. Our natural selves do not want it. Only God can lead us to want peace with Him; the Holy Spirit leads us to want Jesus and His message. Once the Spirit draws us, we believe in Jesus, and the peace comes. “Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

However, the fruit of the Spirit includes a peace that goes beyond that of salvation. It is a sweet relationship. We are called to His presence (Ephesians 2:11-18) and called to be confident in that presence (Hebrews 4:16) because we are His friends (John 15:15). As Isaiah 26:3 says, “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You.”

God’s peace transcends earthly matters, as Philippians 4:4-7 illustrates. Believers are to be “anxious for nothing,” for God promises to “guard your hearts and minds.” It is a peace “which transcends all understanding”; that is, to the worldly mind, such peace is incomprehensible. Its source is the Holy Spirit of God, whom the world neither sees nor knows (John 14:17).

The Spirit-filled Christian has a peace that is abundant, available in every situation, and unlike anything that the world has to offer (John 14:27). The alternative to being filled with the Spirit and His peace is to be filled with alarm, filled with doubt, filled with foreboding, or filled with dread. How much better to let the Spirit have control and perform His work of growing fruit to the glory of God!

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=9808eceaba48aaa9&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&sxsrf=ADLYWIKJX-ZYJ1JyMjXV2Wjic0Vhiop4_g:1718711972626&q=image+phil+4:6-7&udm=2&source=univ&fir=s-zdXOPolrYa7M%252CD3tDu2V9cJRYKM%252C_%253BjKjodg77Fut9zM%252COMitcH2144UKiM%252C_%253BoN7omzygiyf-wM%252CdjR44lXm96etlM%252C_%253BgAQxDZ6-TqZgEM%252C1veXMp2z–MmlM%252C_%253BHN9SdObrDu6nrM%252CEYqjnmUTv_dp8M%252C_%253BFA7RRgfDY86gRM%252C01z2iUKPARhnQM%252C_%253BhDVAdJi10myPmM%252CRXqkpWLZayvpLM%252C_%253BaclarGE82a2K9M%252Cm7kK4uRHgon2lM%252C_%253BYFIxXttAdAT_SM%252CSqBQcKHHfEnGXM%252C_%253B65-mCLg6nu9qQM%252CysveCyl_RGR42M%252C_%253B73wDVyeVyxMBrM%252CA3R1U5eq5fEFfM%252C_%253B_Ldh5SGM0qpvdM%252CRGsSenFflJ2y0M%252C_%253B25Cwwh1k2uWt0M%252CB5LzhT1smhFSaM%252C_%253BeznnEgYm5fF-_M%252CknYOpjUzhbItUM%252C_%253BAhHin6FB5x-n0M%252Crkzhz1eAmS6ALM%252C_%253BFqRYEv6XHc6s7M%252C7P8eBWNPdpDmJM%252C_%253ByYx0n_NtnmDRHM%252CRXqkpWLZayvpLM%252C_%253BeIBGji-7nvOORM%252CqcABz0Fll0d_LM%252C_%253BQ6Xy_ZdYHTg6OM%252CUeAw7lNC2h3pUM%252C_%253BUTrVgTSFog0TMM%252Cz3OU_7pbLYfNUM%252C_%253BxQ019u3c-C3kCM%252CZ4u51ytBGnLubM%252C_%253B90vxIyM0z8XrmM%252Cm7kK4uRHgon2lM%252C_%253BJML_QnbUqdYFgM%252CIdM2CbyFSwbhWM%252C_%253BlWyttfyMsnJ3JM%252CRXqkpWLZayvpLM%252C_%253BAAkAb8kEAYHJ4M%252Cb1k0y9vM2TVYaM%252C_%253B7Rp8UupcHdNnxM%252CT2Ur_CfG8mSwOM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kRbNvJfdD7u9MdVVy2q0wmraKuSFQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwip4OWEjeWGAxUoj4kEHRMmCDwQ7Al6BAgPEEg&biw=1302&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=FA7RRgfDY86gRM&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

“Every Moment Counts” 6/17/2024 Written by Xochitl Dixon for “Our Daily Bread”

Posted on June 17, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

September 19, 2023 - Bible verse of the day (ESV) - Romans 1:16 - DailyVerses.net

Written by Xochitl Dixon 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 post link below]

Original post @ https://odb.org/2024/06/10/every-moment-counts

June 10

Every Moment Counts

Keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist.

2 Timothy 4:5

 

Today’s Scripture & Insight :

2 Timothy 4:1-8

When the Titanic hit an iceberg in April 1912, Pastor John Harper secured a spot for his six-year-old daughter in one of the limited number of lifeboats. He gave his life vest to a fellow passenger and shared the gospel with anyone who would listen. As the vessel sank and hundreds of people awaited an unlikely rescue, Harper swam from one person to another and said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” (Acts 16:31 kjv).

During a meeting for survivors of the Titanic in Ontario, Canada, one man referred to himself as “the last convert of John Harper.” Having rejected Harper’s first invitation, the man received Christ when the preacher asked him again. He watched as Harper devoted the last moments of his life to sharing Jesus before succumbing to hypothermia and sinking below the surface of the icy water.

In his charge to Timothy, the apostle Paul encourages a similar urgency and dedication to selfless evangelism. Affirming God’s constant presence and the inevitable return of Jesus, Paul charges Timothy to preach with patience and precision (2 Timothy 4:1-2). The apostle reminds the young preacher to remain focused, though some people will reject Jesus (vv. 3-5).

Our days are limited, so every moment counts. We can be confident that our Father secured our spot in heaven as we proclaim, “Jesus saves!”

By:  Xochitl Dixon

Reflect & Pray

How does knowing your days are limited increase your urgency to share the good news of Jesus’ love? How will you reach out to others today?

Jesus, please give me opportunities to share Your love with others.

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

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…

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=7898575184a519fd&rlz=1C1UEAD_enUS1112US1112&sxsrf=ADLYWIKpFg0Eh3D2tV6qxLRD2Bq6lp8yOg:1718624504813&q=image+rom+1:16&udm=2&source=univ&fir=wJ8GPSgINgDZqM%252CpqiRj5_kKIyBTM%252C_%253BUARwJlPTVbAnQM%252CESWd6tjtjsjb6M%252C_%253BIV1W5J54zmkmqM%252C0p-IgaLW0ccoDM%252C_%253BdX1OIZIs665D3M%252Cgshs8mNJH4eT9M%252C_%253BVUBeYDdUsV-MKM%252C_0yFWNgNOeGa-M%252C_%253Bw4aU_B4yEV9ZFM%252CdudeLNF9ofxZSM%252C_%253BVUg1KjTHjW_YyM%252CIXLMVNA6oeSd-M%252C_%253BzDNkXslhakkKRM%252CmDtbBtYIBMMQ9M%252C_%253BrOgdJqSfBxkTSM%252Cvo7sj7oya2-CXM%252C_%253BXW9Ac9pdLPjquM%252CIXLMVNA6oeSd-M%252C_&usg=AI4_-kQfejTLNIHza5DCrIV35QFfbyAEnA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjXjPKYx-KGAxUGAHkGHTUdDv8Q7Al6BAgPEEQ&biw=1302&bih=910&dpr=1#vhid=3oF00pegj9yzLM&vssid=mosaic
Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

“Why did God create evil?” 6/16/2024 Re-posted by my good friend Michael Hudson Sr.

Posted on June 16, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

      May be an image of 1 person

Re-posted by my good friend Michael Hudson Sr.

 

“Why did God create evil?”

 

Why did God create evil? The answer struck me to the core of my soul!

A professor at the university asked his students the following question:

– Everything that exists, was it created by God?

One student bravely answered:

– Yes, created by God.

– Did God create everything? – a professor asked.

“Yes, sir,” replied the student.

The professor asked :

– If God created everything, then God created evil, since it exists. And according to the principle that our deeds define ourselves, then God is evil.

The student became silent after hearing such an answer. The professor was very pleased with himself. He boasted to students for proving once again that faith in God is a myth.

Another student raised his hand and said:

– Can I ask you a question, professor?

“Of course,” replied the professor.

A student got up and asked:

– Professor, is cold a thing?

– What kind of question? Of course it exists. Have you ever been cold?

Students laughed at the young man’s question. The young man answered:

– Actually, sir, cold doesn’t exist.

According to the laws of physics, what we consider cold is actually the absence of heat. A person or object can be studied on whether it has or transmits energy.

Absolute zero (-460 degrees Fahrenheit) is a complete absence of heat. All matter becomes inert and unable to react at this temperature.

Cold does not exist. We created this word to describe what we feel in the absence of heat.

The student continued:

– Professor, does darkness exist?

— Of course it exists.

– You’re wrong again, sir. Darkness also does not exist. Darkness is actually the absence of light. We can study the light but not the darkness.

We can use Newton’s prism to spread white light across multiple colors and explore the different wavelengths of each color. You can’t measure darkness. A simple ray of light can break into the world of darkness and and illuminate it. How can you tell how dark a certain space is? You measure how much light is presented. Isn’t it so? Darkness is a term man uses to describe what happens in the absence of light.

In the end, the young man asked the professor:

– Sir. does evil exist?

This time it was uncertain, the professor answered:

– Of course, as I said before. We see him every day. Cruelty, numerous crimes and violence throughout the world. These examples are nothing but a manifestation of evil.

To this, the student answered:

– Evil does not exist, sir, or at least it does not exist for itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is like darkness and cold—a man-made word to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is not faith or love, which exist as light and warmth. Evil is the result of the absence of Divine love in the human heart. It’s the kind of cold that comes when there is no heat, or the kind of darkness that comes when there’s no light.

The student’s name was Albert Einstein.

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

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…

 

Posted in Daily Devotion | Tagged , | Leave a comment