“Counteracting Our Selfishness” 4/06/2024 Posted by David Kitz for “I Love the Psalms”

Posted on April 6, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Fear Not, Little Flock ” - ppt download

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

Original post found @ https://davidkitz.blog/2024/03/25/counteracting-our-selfishness/

Counteracting Our Selfishness

25MondayMar 2024

Posted by davidkitz in Psalm 135, Psalms

Tags  adoration, Jesus, prairie, praise the LORD, Psalms, Savior, selfishness, the LORD, worship

 

Today’s Devotion from the Psalms

Reading: Psalm 135:1-7


Praise the LORD.
Praise the name of the LORD;
praise him, you servants of the LORD,
you who minister in the house of the LORD,
in the courts of the house of our God.
Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good;
sing praise to his name, for that is pleasant.
For the LORD has chosen Jacob to be his own,
Israel to be his treasured possession.
I know that the LORD is great,
that our Lord is greater than all gods.
The LORD does whatever pleases him,
in the heavens and on the earth,
in the seas and all their depths.
He makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth;
he sends lightning with the rain
and brings out the wind from his storehouses (NIV). *

woman in meadow under veil

Photo by Sydney Sang on Pexels.com

 

Reflection
Like many of the psalms, Psalm 135 begins by calling us to worship. Specifically, this is a call to praise the LORD. Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; sing praise to his name, for that is pleasant.

So, what is the difference between praise and worship? Worship is a broad term that expresses itself in a variety of ways. The Encarta Dictionary defines worship as “the adoration, devotion, and respect given to a deity.”

We can show devotion, adoration, and respect for God in a wide range of ways. We can use our bodies to express worship by bowing, kneeling, falling prostrate, or lifting our hands and faces heavenward. We read that both David and Miriam danced before the LORD as an act of worship. See 2 Samuel 6:13-15 and Exodus 15:20-21.

Praise and thanksgiving are verbal forms of worship that reflect a heart of adoration. But why do the Psalms call on us to praise God so frequently? Is the LORD a grand, heavenly egomaniac who demands our worship to satisfy His desire for recognition and importance? Hardly.

Just the opposite is true. God does not need our worship. We are the egomaniacs. Praise and worship counteract the selfishness that is at the root of our sinful nature. We desperately need to get our eyes off ourselves and onto the One who is worthy of all praise. So here to counter what ails us is a simple but powerful prescription from your heavenly Father: Praise the LORD.

Response: Father God, I worship You. Thank You for sending Jesus to be my Savior. Holy Spirit, infuse my praise and worship with joy. You are so very good—so very kind to me. Let praise in all its varied forms flow from me to You. Amen.

Your Turn: What forms or expressions of worship are most meaningful to you? Why are they meaningful?

* 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 is your soul “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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“Twenty Five years ago today I place my faith in Jesus Christ” 4/05/2024 Written by Pastor Jim Lee for “The Domain for Truth”

Posted on April 5, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Romans 5:9 Much More Then, Having Now Been Justified By His, 44% OFF

Written by Pastor Jim Lee for “The Domain for Truth” @ veritasdomain.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2024/04/04/twenty-five-years-ago-today-i-place-my-faith-in-jesus-christ/#more-35909

Twenty-Five years ago today I placed my faith in Jesus Christ

April 4, 2024 by SLIMJIM

Prayer-Banner

On this day twenty-five years ago I placed my trust in Jesus Christ.

It was Easter morning in 1999.  I was a kid that got expelled for a year from high school.

I had nothing to do.

So, I started reading the Bible.

This went on for months.

Months of also listening to Christian radio of preachers and teachers.

My parents freaked out since my dad was an atheist and my mom was a Buddhist.

Coming to trust in Jesus as Savior and being saved through the works and person of Jesus Christ changed my life’s direction.

It changed my trajectory of wanting to be in the military and politics, a passion of mine as a kid.

God increase my passion for knowing Him and His Word.

The door was open for me to be a Pastor and study God’s Word and teach it.

In my wildest dream as a kid who got expelled in my Sophomore year in High School, I would never have imagined the idea I would be teaching other things.  My grades were as low as 1.7 for my GPA for one semester, and I was lacking a lot of self-discipline.

But more than even the trajectory of my present life, coming to trust in Jesus changed my eternity.  The Good News in the Bible promises that if we see the sinfulness of our sins and realize we deserve the wrath of God, and if we come to see that Christ came to live a perfect life and die for sinners, and that if we trust in Jesus died for our sins, we can be saved.  This act of Jesus demonstrates the love, mercy, and compassion of God.

I was reminded and encouraged yesterday that when I do ministry and there are others around that doesn’t always mean everyone is a Christian.  We had news that during a training someone who helped us logistically and administratively in another country found out she was not saved and came to trust in Jesus.  Our team was so busy preaching and teaching to equip pastors as our focus and yet God intended that our teaching last January to save this woman.

Being reminded of that from yesterday I want to say this: If you are reading this and do not know Him, please trust in Jesus Christ as Savior today, to be saved from Hell and the wrath of God.

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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 is your soul “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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“Redress of Grievances” 4/04/2024 Written by Gabrielle Guthrie for “See, there’s this thing called biology…~insanitybytes”

Posted on April 4, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Ephesians 4:29 Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.

Written by Gabrielle Guthrie for “See, there’s this thing called biology…~insanitybytes” @ https://insanitybytes2.wordpress.com/

Original post found @ https://insanitybytes2.wordpress.com/2024/04/02/redress-of-grievances/

Redress of Grievances

02TuesdayApr 2024

Posted by insanitybytes22 i

Tags  blogging, culture, freedom, insanitybytes22, opinion, politics

I adore that phrase, “redress of grievances,” in part because it is so foundational to our democracy that it is enshrined in the First Amendment. One might even say it is why America exists today, the Declaration of Independence once lamented that very thing, “In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury.”

It’s a concept that is vital and necessary for freedom to flourish. It is the antidote to tyranny. It reduces conflict. It’s not just a good concept in terms of democracy but rather all healthy, flourishing systems, like employment, families, and churches. Flat out if people have the ability to petition for a redress of grievances and actually be heard, it’s a healthy system. If they don’t, it’s dysfunctional.

We aren’t just speaking of redress as legal action and going to court, but rather an environment that cultivates the notion of being able to express your complaints, lamentations, and offenses, and to participate in solving them.

Being able to “petition for redress” represents and promotes several important psychological and spiritual needs people have like a need for safety and justice. Without that right, that freedom, you have a closed system, a rigged system, or a criminal enterprise. Even the military has a system in place to enable people to petition for redress, to go up the chain of command.

Here where I live we kind of went and defunded the cops, we legalized some bad behaviors, and at the same time, we restricted the rights of law-abiding people. It’s really served to create this awful sense of powerlessness, apathy, and this inability to participate in any solutions.

I used to have this pastor who would lament about his least favorite four-letter word, “fine.” Everybody is always “fine.” How was my sermon? It was just “fine.” We live in this rather hellish existence full of interpersonal conflicts and life challenges and everybody is always “fine.” That passive/aggressive “fine” is why people have a county-wide church split over carpet colors. “Fine” means you have stopped participating and become stagnant water. He was a good person too, because he would say if everyone is “fine,” that’s on me, that means I haven’t done my job. That means the cup is all shiny on the outside, but nobody feels safe enough to speak the truth. I so appreciate all the valuable things he taught me. In fact, I still use his words as great tools to discern the nature of freedom and what it all means.

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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 is your soul “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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“Men’s Worst, God’s Best” 4/03/2024 Written by Nancy Ruegge for “From The Inside Out”

Posted on April 3, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org 

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

Your Daily Bible Verses — Philippians 2:8,10-11 — Integrated Catholic Life™

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

View original post @ https://nancyaruegg.com/2024/03/28/mens-worst-gods-best/

 

Men’s Worst, God’s Best

March 28, 2024 by Nancy Ruegg

 

Many of those who haven’t asked Christ into their lives yet will still admit: historical evidence proves Jesus once lived on earth. They’ll agree he was a good man who taught wise principles to live by.

But even they might wonder: Why would God allow his Son to suffer such a cruel death at the hands of hateful men?

Welsh pastor and author Selwyn Hughes provided this insightful answer: what seemed to be the worst thing that could happen to Jesus—crucifixion—turned out to be the best thing for him [1].

That sounds ludicrous at first reading until we consider what Christ has enjoyed since returning to heaven, and what he’s looking forward to in the future–all because he fulfilled his mission at the cross.

As he suffered for us, Jesus kept in mind the joys set before him (Hebrews 12:2):

  • Sitting in the ultimate place of honor in the universe, at the right hand of the Majesty on high (Hebrews 1:3b).
  • Angels acclaiming him, saying, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth, wisdom and strength, honor, glory and praise” (Revelation 5:12).
  • God appointing him to be head over everything for the good of the church (Ephesians 1:22 GNT).
  • Being given authority and sovereign power that will last into eternity (Daniel 7:14).
  • All kings bowing before him one day, and all nations serving him (Psalm 72:11 NLT).
  • All nations and people of every language worshiping him (Daniel 7:14).
  • Being given the name above every name (Philippians 2:9).

And why is that last fact significant?  Jesus is the One and only Son of God, the only Redeemer and Savior, the only Christ and Anointed One of God. “His rank, his titles, his dignity, are above all others” [2].

Perhaps no one has explained the significance of Jesus’ name(s) more eloquently than theologian Charles Spurgeon:

Jesus’ name is “the sum total of all delights. It is the music with which the bells of heaven ring; a song in a word; an ocean for comprehension; although a drop for brevity, a matchless oratorio in two syllables; a gathering up of the hallelujahs of eternity in five letters” [3].

Charles Spurgeon

But Jesus doesn’t want to enjoy these accolades and privileges alone. Max Lucado wrote:

Jesus desires for us to be one with him, continually availing ourselves of all he has to offer.

Even more astonishing? Because of what Christ accomplished on the cross, we who’ve accepted Jesus into our lives get to share in his power and wealth, wisdom and strength, honor and glory!

For example:

  • The immeasurable and surpassing greatness of God’s spiritual POWER is in us who believe (Ephesians 1:19 AMP).
  • He supplies spiritual RICHES and blessings that cannot be fully understood or measured (Ephesians 3:8-9).
  • Christ’s word with all its WISDOM lives within us so we can experience his joy (Colossians 3:16; John 15:10-11).
  • We’re equipped for anything and equal to anything, through Christ who infuses us with inner STRENGTH (Philippians 4:13 AMP).
  • As beloved children adopted into God’s family through Christ, we are precious in his sight (Isaiah 43:4). He’s crowned us with HONOR and GLORY (Psalm 8:5; Romans 2:10), including the honor of representing Jesus in this world, and the glory of his character at work within us [4].

On this eve of Good Friday, we’d do well to remember:

We can pick up our own cross, inspired by Jesus’ example, empowered by God’s Spirit within us, and encouraged by the glorious outcome yet to be [5].

The worst circumstances we might face will become God’s best in our lives too.

[1] Every Day Light, 285.

[2] Barnes’ Notes on the Bible at www.biblehub.org

[3] Morning by Morning, 41.

[4] See also 2 Corinthians 5:17, 20

[5] To “pick up our cross” means trusting in God even when suffering comes our way, putting aside our self-will and embracing God’s will instead.

Photo credits: http://www.freebibleimages.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.quotefancy.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pexels.com.

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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 is your soul “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 Was and What Will Come” 4/02/2024 Written by Dr. Lawson Murry for “SEIZE The DAY”

Posted on April 2, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/ 

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

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

Original post @  https://seizetheday-blog.com/2024/04/02/what-was-and-what-will-come-5/

What Was and What Will Come

 

APRIL 2, 2024

what was and what will come

Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come … Revelation 1:4 (NIV)

Christians, bound as we are by time, live at the intersection of the past and the future. The past and the future, while distinct, are yet related because they both serve to shape our stories. The past shapes us by giving us a story of origin, identity, tradition and history. And the future shapes us by giving us a vision and goals to pursue.

In considering the relationship of time and faith I believe that in order to worship God, who is not bound by time, we need to bring both the past and the future into the present. This is done through anamnesis and prolepsis. Anamnesis is an ancient Greek term meaning “recollection” or “reminiscence.” In Christian usage anamnesis means the “drawing near of memory” and has its origins in Jesus’ words at the last supper, “… do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). Anamnesis therefore calls on us to bring a remembrance of the passion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ into the present. Prolepsis is another ancient Greek word which means “to anticipate.” In Christian usage prolepsis means “to take beforehand” and can be understood to be an invitation to flash forward and celebrate the promised future of Christ’s return.

Anamnesis and prolepsis – the remembrance of what was and the anticipation of what will come. So remember, and anticipate:

Remember the time when people took palm branches and went out to meet Jesus as he entered Jerusalem (cf. John 12:13) and anticipate the time when the twenty-four elders will lay their crowns before Jesus and say, “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honour and power …” (Revelation 4:11).

Remember the time when Jesus, with cloaks and branches from the trees spread out on the road for Him, entered Jerusalem on a young donkey (cf. Matthew 21:7) and anticipate the time when Jesus will ride a white horse with the armies of Heaven following Him (cf. Revelation 19:11-14).

Remember the time when Jesus came gently (cf. Zechariah 9:9) and anticipate the time when Jesus will come to conquer and make war (cf. Revelation 19:11-21).

What was and what will come; as you remember Jesus’ triumphal entry (cf. Luke 19:28-44) be sure to likewise anticipate Jesus’ triumphal return (cf. Revelation 1:7).

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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 is your soul “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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“Magnify the Lord: Scripture Writing Plan ” 4/01/2024 Written by Elihu Anderson for “Elihu’s Corner”

Posted on April 1, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

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

Original post @ https://elihuscorner.com/2024/03/31/magnify-the-lord-scripture-writing-plan-april-2024/

KNOWING GOD , SCRIPTURE WRITING PLANS

Magnify the Lord: Scripture Writing Plan April 2024

March 31, 2024Elihu

Have you ever gazed into a microscope to explore the structure of a cell (which is invisible to the naked eye)? Have you ever used a telescope to gaze at Saturn or Jupiter? Have you ever used a magnifying glass to read fine print? A microscope, a telescope, and a magnifying glass each use different lenses suited to their purpose, but they all bring us more knowledge and wonder about the created universe in which we live.

When using a magnifying lens, there are typically 1 of 3 things that happen:

  1. Smaller items are brought into focus
  2. Distant objects are seen clearly
  3. Small images are projected into larger proportions (often for a larger audience).

If we consider “magnifying” the Lord, we should be doing all three of these things. As we dig into His word and meditate on who He is, aspects of His nature come into focus. Time spent in prayer draws Him closer to our hearts. If we live for Him, we project His love into this world.

Throughout the first half of April, we will be writing through Psalm 34, in which David wrote of magnifying, praising, and seeking the Lord. As you write through this Psalm, notice the blessings and joys that accompany “magnifying the Lord” and “exalting His name.” I hope that as you consider each scripture this month, you will be encouraged to magnify the Lord with me.

To download a copy of a free printable PDF of the plan, click the link below:

April 2024 Scripture Writing PlanDOWNLOAD

Sara McBroom has provided her wonderful Tracing and Copying Sheets for your littlest scripture writers!

Click the links to download below:

kids scripture writing tracing april 2024DOWNLOAD

kids scripture writing copying april 2024DOWNLOAD

If you have questions, please comment below!

For reflections on each day’s scripture, drop by the Elihu’s Corner Facebook page or Instagram (@elihuscorner).

**Special thanks to Sara McBroom and Liz Smith for assisting me each month with these plans**

Related

Witnesses to God’s Faithfulness: October 2020 Scripture Writing PlanSeptember 30, 2020In “Scripture Writing Plans”

Serve Like Jesus: July 2023 Scripture Writing PlanJune 30, 2023In “Christian community”

Made One in Christ: Scripture Writing Plan June 2019May 31, 2019In “Scripture Writing Plans”

Published by Elihu

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

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P.S. (from bruce)  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 is your soul “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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“Look To the Cross” 3/30/2024 Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org from Spurgeon’s writing

Posted on March 30, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

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/the-incense-of-your-praise-2?ecid=ACsprvtuVODvuc1PYyN_M6j7kHV-pv0wcTqqohwvvWTMdqXNqDbX4sTqPCRJuOUHx0QMRhfPzu5T&utm_campaign=Spurgeon%20Daily%20Devotion&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=300053485&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–hjbjTY-vCMo6Xiecvbt-dg6ljfizyU8pOSS2uWqFVFYz9yFq6qbyLsnFCLSc0zhUqL9HFinGLIHIZoJwA72nU2MWtbY02X-FczovCbrWoV_qLoNw

MARCH 30

Look To the Cross

Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the Lord!

Lamentations 3:40
The wife who fondly loves her absent husband longs for his return; a long protracted separation from him is a semi-death to her spirit. And so it is with souls who love the Savior much; they need to see His face; they cannot bear that He should be away, thus depriving them of communion with Him. A reproaching glance, or an uplifted finger will be grievous to loving children who fear offending their tender father and are only happy in his smile.

Beloved, it was so once this way with you. A text of Scripture, a threatening, a touch of the rod of affliction, and you went to your Father’s feet, crying, “Let me know why you contend against me.” Is that still the case? Or are you content to follow Jesus from a distance? Can you contemplate broken communion with Christ without being alarmed? Can you bear to have your Beloved walking contrary to you, because you walk contrary to Him? Have your sins separated between you and your God, and is your heart at rest?

Let me affectionately warn you, for it is a grievous thing when we can live contentedly without the present enjoyment of the Savior’s face. Let us work to feel what an evil thing this is—little love to our own dying Savior, little joy in His company, little time with the Beloved! Hold a true Lent in your souls, while you sorrow over your hardness of heart. Do not stop at sorrow! Remember where you first received salvation. Go at once to the cross. There, and there only, can you get your spirit quickened. No matter how hard, how insensible, how dead we may have become, let us go again in all the rags and poverty and defilement of our natural condition. Let us clasp that cross, let us look into those languid eyes, let us bathe in that fountain filled with blood—this will bring back to us our first love; this will restore the simplicity of our faith and the tenderness of our heart.
Devotional material is taken from Morning and Evening, written by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright © 2003, Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers, Wheaton, IL 60187, www.crossway.org. Used by Truth For Life with written permission.

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

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

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “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 is Good Friday / Holy Friday?” 3/29/2024 Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Posted on March 29, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

                               

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted by www.gotquestions.org  

Original post @ https://www.gotquestions.org/Good-Friday.html

 

 

QUESTION

 

What is Good Friday / Holy Friday?

 

ANSWER

Good Friday, also known as “Holy Friday,” is the Friday immediately preceding Easter Sunday. It is celebrated traditionally as the day on which Jesus was crucified. If you are interested in a study of the issue, please see our article that discusses the various views on which day Jesus was crucified. Assuming that Jesus was crucified and died on a Friday, should Christians remember Jesus’ death by celebrating Good Friday?

The Bible does not instruct Christians to remember Christ’s death by honoring a certain day. The Bible does give us freedom in these matters, however. Romans 14:5 tells us, “One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.” Rather than remembering Christ’s death on a certain day, once a year, the Bible instructs us to remember Christ’s death by observing the Lord’s Supper. First Corinthians 11:24-26 declares, “…do this in remembrance of me…for whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

Why is Good Friday referred to as “good”? What the Jewish authorities and Romans did to Jesus was definitely not good (see Matthew chapters 26-27). However, the results of Christ’s death are very good! Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” First Peter 3:18 tells us, “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit.”

Many Christian churches celebrate Good Friday with a subdued service, usually in the evening, in which Christ’s death is remembered with solemn hymns, prayers of thanksgiving, a message centered on Christ’s suffering for our sakes, and observance of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not Christians choose to “celebrate” Good Friday, the events of that day should be ever on our minds because the death of Christ on the cross—along with His bodily resurrection—is the paramount event of the Christian faith.

If you would like to learn more about why Jesus’ death on the cross was so “good,” please read the following article: What does it mean to accept Jesus as your personal Savior?

Good Friday Calendar:
2024 — March 29
2025 — April 18

FOR FURTHER STUDY

The Final Days of Jesus: The Most Important Week of the Most Important Person Who Ever Lived by Kostenberger, Taylor, & StewartMore 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 is your soul “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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“Fruitful Believers in Christ” 3/28/2024 Written by Mike Wittmer for “Our Daily Bread”

Posted on March 28, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

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

Love, Contentment and Fruit of the Spirit - Chapter 5 | God Is Our Refuge And Strength

Here is an excellent sidebar about spiritual fruit in a believer-  https://www.amazon.com/Fruit-Spirit-pamphlet-Through-Believers/dp/1890947814

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 post link below]

Original post @ https://odb.org/2024/03/27/fruitful-believers

March 27

“Fruitful Believers in Christ”

Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit.

Mark 11:13

 

Today’s Scripture & Insight :

Mark 11:12–20

Cindy was excited for her new job in a nonprofit company. What an opportunity to make a difference! She soon discovered her coworkers didn’t share her enthusiasm. They mocked the company’s mission and made excuses for their poor performance as they looked elsewhere for more lucrative positions. Cindy wished she’d never applied for this job. What looked great from afar was disappointing up close.

This was Jesus’ problem with the fig tree mentioned in today’s story (Mark 11:13). It was early in the season, yet the tree’s leaves signaled it might have early figs. Nope. The tree had sprouted leaves, but it hadn’t yet produced fruit. Disappointed, Jesus cursed the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again” (v. 14). By the next morning the tree had entirely withered (v. 20).

Christ once fasted forty days, so He knew how to go without food. Cursing the fig tree was not about His appetite. It was an object lesson. The tree represented Israel, which had the trappings of true religion but had lost the point. They were about to kill their Messiah, the Son of God. How more barren could they be?

We may look good from afar, but Jesus comes near, looking for fruit that only His Spirit can produce. Our fruit need not be spectacular. But it must be supernatural, such as love, joy, and peace in hard times (Galatians 5:22). Relying on the Spirit, we can bear fruit even then for Jesus.

By:  Mike Wittmer

Reflect & Pray

What fruit do others see in you? How might you be more fruitful?

Holy Spirit, prune me so I might bear more fruit.

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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 is your soul “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?sca_esv=5d7305874509b4d4&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS1066US1066&sxsrf=ACQVn0-Wy9rqEuUEVLc6W2_2NgA38RacOw:1711628038168&q=image+believers+produce+spiritual+fruit+Bible&udm=2&source=univ&fir=Tl6NOVYnaQ_9TM%252Cyt605E1diO-6iM%252C_%253B60bkwFQsL9N1eM%252CUtR2dz6-tH6vYM%252C_%253BZLRnl9TfgylV1M%252ClF4rnoU-jAK3_M%252C_%253BD0FsxFb2xoby9M%252Czmr0cPz2-cs-JM%252C_%253BoXryUZQqXziZOM%252CuDX094S0jX9ECM%252C_%253B6f0N2EM7q9INzM%252CcU_IsOK_Ap9Y3M%252C_%253BMWJftviSeK7v6M%252CObXyKt61DqAaiM%252C_%253BlxZBkMofiFiVwM%252CuDX094S0jX9ECM%252C_%253Bu2LnFtkjE_SXoM%252CLFWuT0kw2s8Q5M%252C_%253B9gmQD0uTZmNK9M%252C11IU8wiMrOhmxM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kRp5rfj1eFcN5WANsbDJzOct6z4uw&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi-ic-p95aFAxW9hIkEHfAADowQ7Al6BAhGED8&biw=1395&bih=867&dpr=1#imgrc=Tl6NOVYnaQ_9TM&imgdii=LqtLdDZ6WksI7M
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“Keep Being Available and Aware” 3/27/2024 Written by Dawn Ivey for “Drawing closer to Christ”

Posted on March 27, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

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

Matthew 5:15-16 - Bible verse (KJV) - DailyVerses.net

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

Original post @  https://drawingclosertochrist.com/2024/03/18/keep-being-available-and-aware/

Keep Being Available and Aware

Matthew 5:16 NASB, “Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

A coworker was sharing last week about an encounter she had with a lady while coming out of the doctor’s office. She said the lady was crying, so she stopped to ask her if she was ok. Once they began talking, she found out the lady was upset because she had received several diagnoses from her doctor and the prognosis wasn’t good.

During the conversation, the lady also revealed that she had become angry with the Lord over the years and therefore had turned away from him, especially after the death of her husband. She said she knew that she really needed to get back in touch with the Lord. My coworker had the opportunity to encourage the lady, offer her some comfort, and pray with her.

Photo by: Kaique Rocha of the Netherlands

I was thankful to hear my coworker’s testimony. It was an encouragement to remain available and aware because we never know who God will bring across our path that needs to know about His love.

I heard a minister say recently, “It’s not about our ability, it’s about our availability.” The Holy Spirit will give us the ability we need. He will give us the words and power to help others.

God may not always bring a stranger your way, it could be someone you already know who needs your love and attention. It could be a family member, a friend, a coworker, a neighbor, or someone you see sitting alone during the service at your church, who could use a word of encouragement. We just need to remain available and aware.

Photo by: TimaMiroshnichenko of Poland

As we seek the Lord and grow in intimacy with Him, our desire and concern for others will also grow. Part of being available and aware means we must go beyond our own ideas of what our faith should look like, and instead open our hearts and our lives to what God wants us to do. He wants to stretch our faith in ways we may not have yet considered. Of course, this may interrupt our plans or lead us out of our comfort zones. However, God is pleased when we walk by faith and has promised to reward us when we diligently seek Him.

Hebrews 11:6   “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.”

I love that God doesn’t leave us alone to complete anything He calls us to do. He is with us through the presence of His Holy Spirit, and we can pray continuously as we go through our day (1 Thessalonians 1:17). We serve a God who loves us and will supply our every need (Philippians 4:19).

Heavenly Father,

Help us to make you a priority each day. Create in us a clean heart. A heart that is available to you and aware of the ways you are working in our lives. Help us to be willing and ready to share our love with those around us. Give us the courage to embrace the opportunities you bring our way to be a light in a dark world. Thank you for the love you give us that makes a difference in our lives each day.

In the name of Jesus. Amen.

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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 is your soul “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?sca_esv=682bc0c6acac9898&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS1066US1066&sxsrf=ACQVn09FpB0mrSYGrF1_GdxaNqpnnF5uzA:1711540617045&q=image+mat+5:16&udm=2&source=univ&fir=a3cN0VRpBo01QM%252CTryRwBcljHhFIM%252C_%253Bat5uV05C7xyk1M%252Cqu5YpCOWA6rTdM%252C_%253B1uyspc9BUWPlaM%252C1w2WcoYQ71QpOM%252C_%253BBuRoX2oCSklP8M%252C78dd9PK9OOd5aM%252C_%253BSV8ZCQRf1hyDFM%252CkRffnt0Qq3Q57M%252C_%253BdkCohkwT6AV70M%252CBCtkrVldEpEqSM%252C_%253BkFsBtyahFOqipM%252CNfZNSJPMmNJyoM%252C_%253BAye8wR8XU5XyZM%252Cxy_OzFnzs9fixM%252C_%253BxP6ICrHawuA-zM%252CbR8aXJC3GDr-zM%252C_%253BtGd988PF477o7M%252ChKZLC9hY_53paM%252C_%253BN7tMAOs1La-8IM%252Czz-QIVWUozOouM%252C_%253B1khotUrk_iULPM%252CbR8aXJC3GDr-zM%252C_%253BVXDjsn3drYNnnM%252CAPEBvxICUQ9DQM%252C_%253ByFLeejadDMctcM%252CfZ5AsS-_A5sQCM%252C_%253BEAN0xMgE4mxPrM%252Cxy_OzFnzs9fixM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kSfn1x-9TpPVtMwqrOaakzCDjuH4A&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwinov3TsZSFAxWYj4kEHaV3B_sQ7Al6BAgREFQ&biw=1395&bih=867&dpr=1#vhid=uIokE-c-_iiEjM&vssid=mosaic
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