Please read this article on my friends blog. It is a short story illustrating the ignorance of those who proclaim, proliferate, and profit from the evolution lie.
http://hardtruth.squarespace.com/home/2009/8/6/two-scientists-walk-into-a-field.html
Friday, August 7, 2009
Friday, July 31, 2009
TAKE THE "I" OUT OF YOUR EYE
The Puritans believed sin is the raw material for the heart's idol factory. Idolatry is really about self as the secular trinity: Me, Myself and I. We were created to worship God, but at the root of sin is the idolatry of self-worship. At the heart of idolatry is the desire to control and/or manipulate people or things for the benefit of self. It supplies self-centered desires and comforts.
In spite of God's warning to Israel not to make idols, idolaters did so in order to worship that which they believed God could not supply. Carving of idols is not limited to wood, metal, stone or other materials, but is the end-product of the spirit of idolatry that begins in the heart. Idols are carved because of the false notion that worship of God cannot supply all our needs. We need something more. The spirit of idolatry is not about the object or the other person; it is about self.
The root cause begins with what "I" see with my "Eyes." "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat..." Genesis 3:6. In the end, idolatry turns us away from the love of Christ to the love of self. We will never understand the true love of our Redeemer until we take the "I" out of our "Eye."
In spite of God's warning to Israel not to make idols, idolaters did so in order to worship that which they believed God could not supply. Carving of idols is not limited to wood, metal, stone or other materials, but is the end-product of the spirit of idolatry that begins in the heart. Idols are carved because of the false notion that worship of God cannot supply all our needs. We need something more. The spirit of idolatry is not about the object or the other person; it is about self.
The root cause begins with what "I" see with my "Eyes." "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat..." Genesis 3:6. In the end, idolatry turns us away from the love of Christ to the love of self. We will never understand the true love of our Redeemer until we take the "I" out of our "Eye."
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Skin-Sin
What does summer mean to you? Some think of an exciting vacation, a family holiday or extended weekends, warm weather, swimming and a gorgeous tan. Yet others find the summer a difficult season struggling with “Skin-Sin.”
Whether going to the beach, pool or the local shopping plaza, many men, young and old, struggle with their thoughts after looking at all the skin that is exposed by some women, young and old, some who may be just trying to stay cool.
Some would look to the women for a solution to this temptation and establish a legalistic definition and ground rules for maintaining modesty. Scripture does say “that women (are to) adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” (1Tim 2:9, 10) The questions still remain, what does modesty look like, what is proper, what is reasonable?
One Scripture needed to guide the heart of women can be found in Philippians 2:3,4. Here Paul takes the focus off of oneself and puts the primary focus on loving others. He says, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” If women only knew the temptation their skin had on men, it would go a long way to encourage a different standard for modesty and address this summer problem. Romans
Even though women who are believers can help, men must take responsibility for themselves defeating skin-sin. It might encourage you that Job must have had a similar problem with his eyes and looking at women. He asked God to help him control his eyes and his mind. Men need to be so determined not to commit skin-sin that they make the same covenant with God that Job made. “I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?” (Job 31:1)
Paul’s instruction in 2Cor 10:5 places responsibility on men to also control their thought life. Paul told us to take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. Men, be encouraged. It is possible to take control of our thoughts and not let our mind think whatever comes to it. Paul would not have even asked us to think obediently if it were impossible.
So let’s all work together this summer, women and men, young and old, taking responsibility to doing our part in applying God’s Word. Ask God to help us defeat “skin-sin” in our hearts, families and churches.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
EIGHT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FAILURE
1. TO FAIL IS NOT THE SAME AS BEING A FAILURE.
One may have many failings and yet still be far from being a failure.
2. TO FAIL IS NOT THE DISGRACE EVERYONE THINKS IT IS.
To err is to do nothing more than to join the human race.
3. FAILURE IS ONLY A TEMPORARY SETBACK.
Failure is never the final chapter of the book of your life unless you give up and quit.
4. NOTHING WORTHWHILE IS EVER ACHIEVED WITHOUT RUNNING THE RISK OF FAILURE.
The man who risks everything to try to achieve something truly worthwhile and fails is anything but a disgraceful failure.
5. FAILURE IS A NATURAL PREPARATION FOR, SUCCESS.
Strange as it may seem to some of you, success is much more difficult to live with successfully than is failure.
6. EVERY FAILING BRINGS WITH IT THE POSSIBILITIES OF SOMETHING GREATER.
Analyze failure under whatever circumstances you choose, and you will discover some seeds for turning failure into success,
7. WHAT YOU DO WITH FAILURES IN YOUR LIFE IS UP TO YOU.
Failure is either a blessing or a curse, depending upon the individuals reaction or response to it.
8. FAILINGS ARE OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN HOW TO DO THINGS BETTER THE NEXT TIME-TO LEARN WHERE THE PITFALLS ARE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM.
The best possible thing to do with failure is to learn all you can from it.
One may have many failings and yet still be far from being a failure.
2. TO FAIL IS NOT THE DISGRACE EVERYONE THINKS IT IS.
To err is to do nothing more than to join the human race.
3. FAILURE IS ONLY A TEMPORARY SETBACK.
Failure is never the final chapter of the book of your life unless you give up and quit.
4. NOTHING WORTHWHILE IS EVER ACHIEVED WITHOUT RUNNING THE RISK OF FAILURE.
The man who risks everything to try to achieve something truly worthwhile and fails is anything but a disgraceful failure.
5. FAILURE IS A NATURAL PREPARATION FOR, SUCCESS.
Strange as it may seem to some of you, success is much more difficult to live with successfully than is failure.
6. EVERY FAILING BRINGS WITH IT THE POSSIBILITIES OF SOMETHING GREATER.
Analyze failure under whatever circumstances you choose, and you will discover some seeds for turning failure into success,
7. WHAT YOU DO WITH FAILURES IN YOUR LIFE IS UP TO YOU.
Failure is either a blessing or a curse, depending upon the individuals reaction or response to it.
8. FAILINGS ARE OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN HOW TO DO THINGS BETTER THE NEXT TIME-TO LEARN WHERE THE PITFALLS ARE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM.
The best possible thing to do with failure is to learn all you can from it.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Different By Divine Design
The Christian life is to be a condition of the heart that shows up in a lifestyle. Throughout Scripture, God commands us to keep a right heart with Him and to live a lifestyle that pleases Him. Yet, many Christians today seem to believe, “God doesn’t care what I do, so long as my heart is right on the inside!”
God desires for His children to have a biblical lifestyle. I challenge other Christians not to separate “who you are” from “how you behave.” If Christ has truly changed us on the inside, we should live very differently from the world and from today’s “pop-culture.” We are to “walk worthy” —to live in a way that outwardly honors the Lord —to allow our relationship with Christ to flow into every act, every word, every thought, every deed, and every attitude of life.
“Have it your way” Christianity is empty, frustrating, self-centered, fruitless, and pointless. God teaches us in His Word that we are to be different — by His design! A godly life is a different life, and God’s way of living is still the best way!
God desires for His children to have a biblical lifestyle. I challenge other Christians not to separate “who you are” from “how you behave.” If Christ has truly changed us on the inside, we should live very differently from the world and from today’s “pop-culture.” We are to “walk worthy” —to live in a way that outwardly honors the Lord —to allow our relationship with Christ to flow into every act, every word, every thought, every deed, and every attitude of life.
“Have it your way” Christianity is empty, frustrating, self-centered, fruitless, and pointless. God teaches us in His Word that we are to be different — by His design! A godly life is a different life, and God’s way of living is still the best way!
Friday, July 3, 2009
A Philosophy Contrary to the World
A philosophy is a sum of beliefs or ideas. A Christian’s beliefs are based on the Word of God, while the world’s system of values is rooted in their own exaggerated intellect and foolish imaginations, inconstant and varying with the whims of society. In the Bible, we read, “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools... [they] became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened…[they] changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man.” (Romans 1:22, 21b, 23a) Corroboration of this passage is as near as the newspaper on your desk. Saturated by the world’s philosophy—a liberal slant in practically every commentary—it contains hardly any evidence that our nation was founded on Biblical principles.
The Environment and Animal Rights - The environmentalists and animal rights activists are hurting more than helping America. Three decades ago, the population of the country was approximately 200 million. Now, 33 years later, the population is over 300 million. People need places to live; churches, schools, stores, and other facilities must be developed and built to accommodate the growing populace. Yet so often, projects toward this justifiable purpose are inundated with costly requirements relating to the study of endangered animals on the premises or some other superfluous factor. Rather than relocate the animals or determine a reasonable solution regarding their habitation, the world’s philosophy dictates that the families be displaced instead. The world would have us believe that the animal supersedes man or, at least, is his equivalent. Certainly, we should tend to what God has created for man and be aware of how our daily routines might adversely affect or pollute the environment. We should, as we read in the book of Proverbs, regard the life of a beast. Yet I remind our readers that the Lord created man as the most superior in all His creation. Man is to “have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” (Genesis 1:26b) The earth was given to man, not to the animal.
The Sanctity of Human Life - The word is pro-choice, advocating rights for the expectant mother; yet the word deceitfully veils a deed nearly unparalleled in depravity—the murder of unborn babies, numbering in the countless millions. For over thirty-five years, we have witnessed the world’s philosophy ingrain itself into how a people regard life, resulting in a culture of death. Our children are being taught that human life is valueless as they learn of abortion, euthanasia, and suicide—and we wonder why our young people are involved in so many mass murders. If a child is not protected in what should be the safest place in the world (a mother’s womb), then why would it be important for a man or woman, boy or girl to consider the life of another person or even his own?
Psalm 139:13-16 “… thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret…”
Jeremiah 1:5a “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee…”
The Welfare System - We find a number of illustrations in the Bible of people caring for those in need—King David cared for a handicapped Mephibosheth when he could not provide for himself, a good Samaritan assisted a fallen traveler, Stephen and six other men helped the widows, and others. The recipients of these benevolent acts could not help themselves at the time because of one circumstance or another. Thousands of years later, the belief of helping those in need has been distorted by the world’s philosophy. Rather than being a help to others, people want to be helped and believe that they are entitled to that help in whatever form and by whatever avenue. In II Thessalonians 3:10, we read, “…that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” The philosophy of the world nurtures idleness and indolence, resulting in a self-serving people unwilling to work. Why, then, should it come as a surprise when we learn of those considering the financial advantages of having children out of wedlock or participating in multi-million-dollar embezzlement scams?
The Home - In Genesis 5:2, we read, “Male and female created he them.” Before the establishment of kingdoms and government, God had already defined the institution of marriage—one man with one woman (Adam and Eve). The world views homosexual marriage as a matter of personal rights and presses for laws to be passed to allow for those rights; but the right to define what constitutes a marriage belongs not to man or to government but solely to God. The media is strongly pushing the world’s philosophy, proposing that holding the Biblical position of marriage be classified a hate crime.
Wicked Kings - The Bible is clear about not negotiating or collaborating with godless kings, leaders, presidents, and authorities. How foolish it is, then, to think that we can negotiate peace with other countries when the foundation of peace is not there. (A foundation is not a glass of wine or a signed document.) Furthermore, I am sickened as I see our nation apologizing for what we are and what we believe. The God of America is the God Jehovah, not Allah or Buddha. I praise the Lord that our Supreme Court has thrice declared that America is a Christian nation. I certainly do not believe that everyone in our nation is a Christian; but in reading the founding documents and history of our nation, one can arrive at no other conclusion except that America was founded as a Christian nation.
Isaiah 57:21 “There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.”
Psalm 33:12 “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.”
The Answer - The New Testament churches are the answer for our nation. A church that preaches the gospel and warns people of an impending judgment called Hell and a wonderful place called Heaven can bring about only good in a community. A preacher of the gospel is far more important than a new bank, a gas station, a sports team, a restaurant, or any other business or program that can be brought to a city. I believe that the Flat Rock Missionary Baptist Church was a great addition in 1951 to the city of Flat Rock, Michigan. Eternity will reveal how many crimes were not committed, how many lives were changed, how many sorrows were avoided, how many homes were salvaged, and how many children’s lives were saved as a result of the preaching of the gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. Oh how many more we need to reach!
The world’s philosophy will continue in its downward spiral, threatening to destroy America at every turn. So much the more ought we to give ourselves to the things of Christ and be prepared for the days that lie ahead.
The Environment and Animal Rights - The environmentalists and animal rights activists are hurting more than helping America. Three decades ago, the population of the country was approximately 200 million. Now, 33 years later, the population is over 300 million. People need places to live; churches, schools, stores, and other facilities must be developed and built to accommodate the growing populace. Yet so often, projects toward this justifiable purpose are inundated with costly requirements relating to the study of endangered animals on the premises or some other superfluous factor. Rather than relocate the animals or determine a reasonable solution regarding their habitation, the world’s philosophy dictates that the families be displaced instead. The world would have us believe that the animal supersedes man or, at least, is his equivalent. Certainly, we should tend to what God has created for man and be aware of how our daily routines might adversely affect or pollute the environment. We should, as we read in the book of Proverbs, regard the life of a beast. Yet I remind our readers that the Lord created man as the most superior in all His creation. Man is to “have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” (Genesis 1:26b) The earth was given to man, not to the animal.
The Sanctity of Human Life - The word is pro-choice, advocating rights for the expectant mother; yet the word deceitfully veils a deed nearly unparalleled in depravity—the murder of unborn babies, numbering in the countless millions. For over thirty-five years, we have witnessed the world’s philosophy ingrain itself into how a people regard life, resulting in a culture of death. Our children are being taught that human life is valueless as they learn of abortion, euthanasia, and suicide—and we wonder why our young people are involved in so many mass murders. If a child is not protected in what should be the safest place in the world (a mother’s womb), then why would it be important for a man or woman, boy or girl to consider the life of another person or even his own?
Psalm 139:13-16 “… thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret…”
Jeremiah 1:5a “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee…”
The Welfare System - We find a number of illustrations in the Bible of people caring for those in need—King David cared for a handicapped Mephibosheth when he could not provide for himself, a good Samaritan assisted a fallen traveler, Stephen and six other men helped the widows, and others. The recipients of these benevolent acts could not help themselves at the time because of one circumstance or another. Thousands of years later, the belief of helping those in need has been distorted by the world’s philosophy. Rather than being a help to others, people want to be helped and believe that they are entitled to that help in whatever form and by whatever avenue. In II Thessalonians 3:10, we read, “…that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” The philosophy of the world nurtures idleness and indolence, resulting in a self-serving people unwilling to work. Why, then, should it come as a surprise when we learn of those considering the financial advantages of having children out of wedlock or participating in multi-million-dollar embezzlement scams?
The Home - In Genesis 5:2, we read, “Male and female created he them.” Before the establishment of kingdoms and government, God had already defined the institution of marriage—one man with one woman (Adam and Eve). The world views homosexual marriage as a matter of personal rights and presses for laws to be passed to allow for those rights; but the right to define what constitutes a marriage belongs not to man or to government but solely to God. The media is strongly pushing the world’s philosophy, proposing that holding the Biblical position of marriage be classified a hate crime.
Wicked Kings - The Bible is clear about not negotiating or collaborating with godless kings, leaders, presidents, and authorities. How foolish it is, then, to think that we can negotiate peace with other countries when the foundation of peace is not there. (A foundation is not a glass of wine or a signed document.) Furthermore, I am sickened as I see our nation apologizing for what we are and what we believe. The God of America is the God Jehovah, not Allah or Buddha. I praise the Lord that our Supreme Court has thrice declared that America is a Christian nation. I certainly do not believe that everyone in our nation is a Christian; but in reading the founding documents and history of our nation, one can arrive at no other conclusion except that America was founded as a Christian nation.
Isaiah 57:21 “There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.”
Psalm 33:12 “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.”
The Answer - The New Testament churches are the answer for our nation. A church that preaches the gospel and warns people of an impending judgment called Hell and a wonderful place called Heaven can bring about only good in a community. A preacher of the gospel is far more important than a new bank, a gas station, a sports team, a restaurant, or any other business or program that can be brought to a city. I believe that the Flat Rock Missionary Baptist Church was a great addition in 1951 to the city of Flat Rock, Michigan. Eternity will reveal how many crimes were not committed, how many lives were changed, how many sorrows were avoided, how many homes were salvaged, and how many children’s lives were saved as a result of the preaching of the gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. Oh how many more we need to reach!
The world’s philosophy will continue in its downward spiral, threatening to destroy America at every turn. So much the more ought we to give ourselves to the things of Christ and be prepared for the days that lie ahead.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
The Truth About Legalism
Bible-believing Baptists are often accused of being legalistic. This is merely an attempt to give excuse to a faulty license for sinful living. I'm tired of being expected to lower my standards that are based on Biblical precepts and principles for carnal, self-absorbed Christianettes.
For those who use liberty as a license to "do your own thing", read this if you dare to have your security blanket taken away. In reality, if you submit to Biblical truth, you will indeed be set free from the bondage of antinomianism!
For those who love the Word of God and Love to please Him by a godly lifestyle, they can read this article and be grateful that our loving Heavenly Father guides us in His Truth. He doesn't just tell us to please Him; He tells us how to do it.
2 Cor. 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
James 2:18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
Read "The Truth About Legalism at www.frmbc.com
For those who use liberty as a license to "do your own thing", read this if you dare to have your security blanket taken away. In reality, if you submit to Biblical truth, you will indeed be set free from the bondage of antinomianism!
For those who love the Word of God and Love to please Him by a godly lifestyle, they can read this article and be grateful that our loving Heavenly Father guides us in His Truth. He doesn't just tell us to please Him; He tells us how to do it.
2 Cor. 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
James 2:18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
Read "The Truth About Legalism at www.frmbc.com
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Held by His Omnipotent Hand
I’ve heard people say, “Pray for me that I’ll hold out faithful to the end.” I think I know what they mean, but I always smile. I picture Noah’s ark, and I can see Noah and his wife and family. Rather than being on the inside, they’re holding on to some slimy pegs on the outside of the ark. And Noah says to Mrs. Noah, “Honey, pray for me that I’ll hold out faithful to the end.” But God said to Noah, “Come into the ark,” and the same God that shut the water out, shut Noah in. Now Noah may have fallen down inside that ark, but he never fell out of it. It’s not that we hold on to Him, but that He holds on to us. We should Spend time praising God for His faithfulness, His steadfastness, and His unconditional love. Christians are in the "ark" of salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God. We should walk and talk with the confidence that, since God placed us in His salvation ark, we are safe. Therefore we can boldly live for the cause of Christ without waver.
Psalm 139:10 Even there shall Thy hand lead me, and Thy right hand shall hold me.
Psalm 139:10 Even there shall Thy hand lead me, and Thy right hand shall hold me.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Flattery (Final Thoughts)
FLATTERY DISTORTS THE TRUTH.
In trying to persuade people, we may be tempted to alter our position just enough to make our point more palatable or to use flattery or praise.
FLATTERY HIDES REAL MOTIVES.
It’s disgusting to hear a person “butter up” someone. Flattery is phony and a false cover-up for a person’s real intentions. Christians should not be flatterers. Are you honest and straightforward in your words and actions, while at the same time courtious and kind? Or do you tell people what they want to hear in order to get what you want or to get ahead?
FLATTERY DESTROYS INTEGRITY.
When we witness for Christ and serve Him, our focus should not be on the impressions we make. As true ministers of Christ, we should point to Him, not to ourself.
In trying to persuade people, we may be tempted to alter our position just enough to make our point more palatable or to use flattery or praise.
FLATTERY HIDES REAL MOTIVES.
It’s disgusting to hear a person “butter up” someone. Flattery is phony and a false cover-up for a person’s real intentions. Christians should not be flatterers. Are you honest and straightforward in your words and actions, while at the same time courtious and kind? Or do you tell people what they want to hear in order to get what you want or to get ahead?
FLATTERY DESTROYS INTEGRITY.
When we witness for Christ and serve Him, our focus should not be on the impressions we make. As true ministers of Christ, we should point to Him, not to ourself.
Flattery (Part 2)
WHAT ARE THE DANGERS IN BELIEVING FLATTERY?
BIBLE READING: Luke 20:20-26
KEY BIBLE VERSE: And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor. (Luke 20:20)
FLATTERY IS AN ATTEMPT TO DECEIVE.
Jesus turned his enemies’ attempt to trap him into a powerful lesson: As God’s followers, we have legitimate obligations to both God and the government. But it is important to keep our priorities straight. When the two authorities conflict, our duty to God always must come before our duty to the government.
These spies, pretending to be honest men, flattered Jesus before asking him their trick question, hoping to catch him off guard. But Jesus knew what they were trying to do and stayed out of their trap. Beware of flattery. With God’s help, you can detect it and avoid the trap that often follows.
BIBLE READING: Luke 20:20-26
KEY BIBLE VERSE: And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor. (Luke 20:20)
FLATTERY IS AN ATTEMPT TO DECEIVE.
Jesus turned his enemies’ attempt to trap him into a powerful lesson: As God’s followers, we have legitimate obligations to both God and the government. But it is important to keep our priorities straight. When the two authorities conflict, our duty to God always must come before our duty to the government.
These spies, pretending to be honest men, flattered Jesus before asking him their trick question, hoping to catch him off guard. But Jesus knew what they were trying to do and stayed out of their trap. Beware of flattery. With God’s help, you can detect it and avoid the trap that often follows.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Flattery (Part 1)
WHAT ARE THE DANGERS IN BELIEVING FLATTERY?
Psalm 12:1-8
The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. (Psalm 12:6)
FLATTERY IS AN ATTEMPT TO MANIPULATE OTHERS.
Sincerity and truth are extremely valuable because they are so rare. Many people are deceivers, liars, flatterers; they think they will get what they want by deception. There are people like that even in the Lord's churches today.
As a king, David certainly faced his share of such people, who hoped to win his favor and gain advancement through flattery. When we think sincerity and truth have nearly gone out of existence, we have one hope-the Word of God. God’s words are as flawless as refined silver. So listen carefully when He speaks. And don't listen to the flatterers; they sound good at first, but they are poisonous!
Psalm 12:1-8
The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. (Psalm 12:6)
FLATTERY IS AN ATTEMPT TO MANIPULATE OTHERS.
Sincerity and truth are extremely valuable because they are so rare. Many people are deceivers, liars, flatterers; they think they will get what they want by deception. There are people like that even in the Lord's churches today.
As a king, David certainly faced his share of such people, who hoped to win his favor and gain advancement through flattery. When we think sincerity and truth have nearly gone out of existence, we have one hope-the Word of God. God’s words are as flawless as refined silver. So listen carefully when He speaks. And don't listen to the flatterers; they sound good at first, but they are poisonous!
Hymn History - I Love To Tell The Story
KATE HANKEY, the daughter of a prosperous British banker, grew up in a stylish London suburb. She started a Bible class for girls in her neighborhood, and then, when she was only eighteen, Hankey went to London to teach a Bible class of “factory girls.” In her twenties, she started other Bible classes for factory girls.
When she was in her early thirties, Kate Hankey became seriously ill. Doctors said she needed a year of bed rest. She was forbidden to teach her Bible classes for twelve months. During her long, slow recovery, she wrote two lengthy poems. The first, at the beginning of her convalescence, later became the hymn “Tell Me the Old, Old Story.” The second, written ten months later, became “I Love to Tell the Story.”
After ten months she felt strong enough to leave her bed. She soon returned to her Bible classes in London and continued teaching for many years.
I LOVE TO TELL THE STORY
I love to tell the story of unseen things above,
Of Jesus and His glory, of Jesus and His love;
I love to tell the story because I know ‘tis true,
It satisfies my longings as nothing else can do.
I love to tell the story!
‘Twill be my theme in glory—
To tell the old, old story
Of Jesus and His love.
I love to tell the story—’tis pleasant to repeat
What seems, each time I tell it, more wonderfully sweet;
I love to tell the story, for some have never heard
The message of salvation from God’s own holy Word.
I love to tell the story, for those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest;
And when in scenes of glory I sing the new, new song,
‘Twill be the old, old story that I have loved so long.
When she was in her early thirties, Kate Hankey became seriously ill. Doctors said she needed a year of bed rest. She was forbidden to teach her Bible classes for twelve months. During her long, slow recovery, she wrote two lengthy poems. The first, at the beginning of her convalescence, later became the hymn “Tell Me the Old, Old Story.” The second, written ten months later, became “I Love to Tell the Story.”
After ten months she felt strong enough to leave her bed. She soon returned to her Bible classes in London and continued teaching for many years.
I LOVE TO TELL THE STORY
I love to tell the story of unseen things above,
Of Jesus and His glory, of Jesus and His love;
I love to tell the story because I know ‘tis true,
It satisfies my longings as nothing else can do.
I love to tell the story!
‘Twill be my theme in glory—
To tell the old, old story
Of Jesus and His love.
I love to tell the story—’tis pleasant to repeat
What seems, each time I tell it, more wonderfully sweet;
I love to tell the story, for some have never heard
The message of salvation from God’s own holy Word.
I love to tell the story, for those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest;
And when in scenes of glory I sing the new, new song,
‘Twill be the old, old story that I have loved so long.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Shine The Spotlight
Genesis 9:1 - 11:32
We build monuments to great moments and great people. “Lest we forget” is etched on the bronze plates of more than one statue. But monuments are more than just memory aids; in building them we want, above all, to glorify something. We want to honor a person or idealize an event. Shortly after the Flood, God made a covenant (or agreement) with Noah and his descendants. But soon the people forgot God, his goodness, his deliverance, his judgment, and his promise. And they became impressed with themselves, so much so that they decided to erect a monument—to themselves. They built their tower to glorify their greatness; it became, instead, a memorial to their (and our) greatest foolishness—human arrogance.
The people in this story built the Tower of Babel for the whole world to see (Genesis 11:3-4). This tower was most likely a ziggurat, a common structure in Babylonia at the time. Usually built as temples, ziggurats looked like pyramids with steps or ramps leading up the sides. Standing as high as three hundred feet and often just as wide, a ziggurat would stand out as the focal point of a city.
Today, people may not build statues, temples, or pyramids, but they still erect monuments (achievements, expensive clothes, big houses, fancy cars, important jobs) to call attention to themselves. When used to give personal identity and self-worth, these otherwise worthy pursuits take God’s place. God gives us freedom to develop in many areas, but not the freedom to replace him.
As you read this passage of Scripture, check out the attitudes of the builders in the story, and consider any “towers” that you may be building. Tear down anything that stands in God’s place.
We build monuments to great moments and great people. “Lest we forget” is etched on the bronze plates of more than one statue. But monuments are more than just memory aids; in building them we want, above all, to glorify something. We want to honor a person or idealize an event. Shortly after the Flood, God made a covenant (or agreement) with Noah and his descendants. But soon the people forgot God, his goodness, his deliverance, his judgment, and his promise. And they became impressed with themselves, so much so that they decided to erect a monument—to themselves. They built their tower to glorify their greatness; it became, instead, a memorial to their (and our) greatest foolishness—human arrogance.
The people in this story built the Tower of Babel for the whole world to see (Genesis 11:3-4). This tower was most likely a ziggurat, a common structure in Babylonia at the time. Usually built as temples, ziggurats looked like pyramids with steps or ramps leading up the sides. Standing as high as three hundred feet and often just as wide, a ziggurat would stand out as the focal point of a city.
Today, people may not build statues, temples, or pyramids, but they still erect monuments (achievements, expensive clothes, big houses, fancy cars, important jobs) to call attention to themselves. When used to give personal identity and self-worth, these otherwise worthy pursuits take God’s place. God gives us freedom to develop in many areas, but not the freedom to replace him.
As you read this passage of Scripture, check out the attitudes of the builders in the story, and consider any “towers” that you may be building. Tear down anything that stands in God’s place.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Risk
Proverbs 6:16-19
16 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 18 An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, 19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
When I was young, one of my favorite board games was Risk. World conquest was the objective. Each player mobilized his troops to take possession of countries and continents. It always amused me that the person who initially was leading the game seldom won. The reason is obvious. When other players sensed his mounting pride, they would join together against him.
It is easy to dislike people who have proud attitudes and actions. Their very countenance seems to encourage others to throw obstacles in their paths or to be silent objectors, except for those who prifit from their coniving.
In Proverbs 6, we are told that God hates seven things. Tellingly, the first is pride. When someone overvalues himself by undervaluing others, he inevitably reveals it with his proud look. Puffed up in self-conceit, he may also devise evil and sow discord. No wonder God hates proud looks.
Proud people may think they can disregard others’ displeasure, but they cannot disregard God’s opposition. Peter reminds us not to trust in ourselves but in the One who will exalt us “in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). As we submit to Him, we avoid the risk that pride brings to our character and we become thankful, humble servants of God.
Naught have I gotten but what I received;Grace hath bestowed it since I have believed;Boasting excluded, pride I abase;I’m only a sinner saved by grace! —Gray
No one can glorify self and Christ at the same time.
(Adapted from Our Daily Bread.)
16 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 18 An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, 19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
When I was young, one of my favorite board games was Risk. World conquest was the objective. Each player mobilized his troops to take possession of countries and continents. It always amused me that the person who initially was leading the game seldom won. The reason is obvious. When other players sensed his mounting pride, they would join together against him.
It is easy to dislike people who have proud attitudes and actions. Their very countenance seems to encourage others to throw obstacles in their paths or to be silent objectors, except for those who prifit from their coniving.
In Proverbs 6, we are told that God hates seven things. Tellingly, the first is pride. When someone overvalues himself by undervaluing others, he inevitably reveals it with his proud look. Puffed up in self-conceit, he may also devise evil and sow discord. No wonder God hates proud looks.
Proud people may think they can disregard others’ displeasure, but they cannot disregard God’s opposition. Peter reminds us not to trust in ourselves but in the One who will exalt us “in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). As we submit to Him, we avoid the risk that pride brings to our character and we become thankful, humble servants of God.
Naught have I gotten but what I received;Grace hath bestowed it since I have believed;Boasting excluded, pride I abase;I’m only a sinner saved by grace! —Gray
No one can glorify self and Christ at the same time.
(Adapted from Our Daily Bread.)
Monday, June 1, 2009
Hymn History - MY JESUS, I LOVE THEE
MY JESUS, I LOVE THEE
William Ralph Featherston (1846–1873)
SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD William Featherston of Montreal wrote this simple hymn shortly after his conversion in 1862. He died before his twenty-seventh birthday, and this is apparently the only hymn he wrote.
Young Featherston sent the poem to his aunt in Los Angeles, who then sent it to England, where it appeared in The London Hymnbook of 1864. Back in Boston, Massachusetts, a Baptist minister was preparing a hymnal for Baptist congregations when he saw “My Jesus, I Love Thee” in the British hymnal. He didn’t like the music the words were set to, and he later wrote that “in a moment of inspiration, a beautiful new air sang itself to me.” The simple tune he wrote perfectly complemented the simple words, and soon the hymn was being sung across America.
That composer, A. J. Gordon, had a remarkable ministry in New England. But putting music to this hymn by a teenage boy may be the accomplishment in A. J. Gordon’s life that has touched the most lives of all.
MY JESUS, I LOVE THEE
My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine—
For Thee all the follies of sin I resign;
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou:
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
I love Thee because Thou hast first loved me
And purchased my pardon on Calvary’s tree;
I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow:
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
I’ll love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death,
And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath;
And say when the death-dew lies cold on my brow,
“If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.”
In mansions of glory and endless delight,
I’ll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright;
I’ll sing with the glittering crown on my brow,
“If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.”
William Ralph Featherston (1846–1873)
SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD William Featherston of Montreal wrote this simple hymn shortly after his conversion in 1862. He died before his twenty-seventh birthday, and this is apparently the only hymn he wrote.
Young Featherston sent the poem to his aunt in Los Angeles, who then sent it to England, where it appeared in The London Hymnbook of 1864. Back in Boston, Massachusetts, a Baptist minister was preparing a hymnal for Baptist congregations when he saw “My Jesus, I Love Thee” in the British hymnal. He didn’t like the music the words were set to, and he later wrote that “in a moment of inspiration, a beautiful new air sang itself to me.” The simple tune he wrote perfectly complemented the simple words, and soon the hymn was being sung across America.
That composer, A. J. Gordon, had a remarkable ministry in New England. But putting music to this hymn by a teenage boy may be the accomplishment in A. J. Gordon’s life that has touched the most lives of all.
MY JESUS, I LOVE THEE
My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine—
For Thee all the follies of sin I resign;
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou:
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
I love Thee because Thou hast first loved me
And purchased my pardon on Calvary’s tree;
I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow:
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
I’ll love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death,
And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath;
And say when the death-dew lies cold on my brow,
“If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.”
In mansions of glory and endless delight,
I’ll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright;
I’ll sing with the glittering crown on my brow,
“If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.”
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
What The Bible Says About Dancing
I posted this on facebook, but for those not on facebook...
Tis the season... proms, weddings, parties - and DANCING. Yes even Christians (so called) get involved in the ungodly practice of dancing. What does the Bible say about it?
If you really want to know, check out the following link:
http://www.frmbc.com/biblestudies.html
then click on the PDF file "What The Bible Teaches About Dancing"
Tis the season... proms, weddings, parties - and DANCING. Yes even Christians (so called) get involved in the ungodly practice of dancing. What does the Bible say about it?
If you really want to know, check out the following link:
http://www.frmbc.com/bible
then click on the PDF file "What The Bible Teaches About Dancing"
Monday, May 11, 2009
Hymn History - HALLELUJAH, WHAT A SAVIOR
HALLELUJAH, WHAT A SAVIOR
Philip Paul Bliss (1838–1876)
PHILIP BLISS was one of the most prominent hymnwriters in the heyday of gospel hymnwriting. Bliss grew up working on a farm and in lumber camps, but eventually became a music teacher. He sold his first song at age twenty-six and later worked for a hymn publisher. D. L. Moody urged Bliss to become a singing evangelist, and so he did, beginning in 1874. This hymn was published in 1875. In 1876, while traveling through Ohio, Bliss and his family were involved in a train wreck. Reportedly, Bliss went back into the fiery train to save his wife, but they both died.
It was a tragedy for hymn lovers around the world, but you might say that Bliss just changed his address. Certainly he continues, even now, creating new praises for our wonderful Savior in glory.
HALLELUJAH, WHAT A SAVIOR
“Man of Sorrows!” what a name
For the Son of God, who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood—
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Guilty, vile and helpless we,
Spotless Lamb of God was He;
Full atonement! can it be?
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Lifted up was He to die,
“It is finished!” was His cry;
Now in heav’n exalted high:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
When He comes, our glorious King,
All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew this song we’ll sing:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Philip Paul Bliss (1838–1876)
PHILIP BLISS was one of the most prominent hymnwriters in the heyday of gospel hymnwriting. Bliss grew up working on a farm and in lumber camps, but eventually became a music teacher. He sold his first song at age twenty-six and later worked for a hymn publisher. D. L. Moody urged Bliss to become a singing evangelist, and so he did, beginning in 1874. This hymn was published in 1875. In 1876, while traveling through Ohio, Bliss and his family were involved in a train wreck. Reportedly, Bliss went back into the fiery train to save his wife, but they both died.
It was a tragedy for hymn lovers around the world, but you might say that Bliss just changed his address. Certainly he continues, even now, creating new praises for our wonderful Savior in glory.
HALLELUJAH, WHAT A SAVIOR
“Man of Sorrows!” what a name
For the Son of God, who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood—
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Guilty, vile and helpless we,
Spotless Lamb of God was He;
Full atonement! can it be?
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Lifted up was He to die,
“It is finished!” was His cry;
Now in heav’n exalted high:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
When He comes, our glorious King,
All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew this song we’ll sing:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Hymn History - GRACE GREATER THAN OUR SIN
GRACE GREATER THAN OUR SIN
Julia Harriette Johnston (1849–1919)
GRACE is one of the hardest lessons for us to learn about God. Some show their ignorance of God’s grace by working hard to be good enough. They pay lip service to the idea of God’s grace but cannot stop trying to earn their own way. Others display their misunderstanding of God’s grace by concluding it’s inaccessible to them. They know they cannot be good enough for God, so they despair of ever having a relationship with Him.
It is this second group that Julia Johnston was writing for. She knew how important it was to understand and experience the simple, yet difficult, truth of God’s gracious forgiveness. Johnston was a Sunday school teacher herself and became a noted expert in Sunday school curriculum. Though she penned texts for more than five hundred hymns, this is the only one widely known. It powerfully teaches this essential Christian truth: You cannot out-sin God’s grace.
GRACE GREATER THAN OUR SIN
Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured—
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within,
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!
Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater—yes, grace untold—
Points to the refuge, the mighty cross.
Dark is the stain that we cannot hide—
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! there is flowing a crimson tide—
Whiter than snow you may be today.
Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
You that are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?
Julia Harriette Johnston (1849–1919)
GRACE is one of the hardest lessons for us to learn about God. Some show their ignorance of God’s grace by working hard to be good enough. They pay lip service to the idea of God’s grace but cannot stop trying to earn their own way. Others display their misunderstanding of God’s grace by concluding it’s inaccessible to them. They know they cannot be good enough for God, so they despair of ever having a relationship with Him.
It is this second group that Julia Johnston was writing for. She knew how important it was to understand and experience the simple, yet difficult, truth of God’s gracious forgiveness. Johnston was a Sunday school teacher herself and became a noted expert in Sunday school curriculum. Though she penned texts for more than five hundred hymns, this is the only one widely known. It powerfully teaches this essential Christian truth: You cannot out-sin God’s grace.
GRACE GREATER THAN OUR SIN
Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured—
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within,
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!
Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater—yes, grace untold—
Points to the refuge, the mighty cross.
Dark is the stain that we cannot hide—
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! there is flowing a crimson tide—
Whiter than snow you may be today.
Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
You that are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Persecution
WHY DOES GOD ALLOW HIS PEOPLE TO BE PERSECUTED?
BIBLE READING: Matthew 5:1-16
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (Matthew 5:11-12)
PERSECUTION BUILDS CHARACTER.
Jesus said to rejoice when we’re persecuted. Persecution can be good because (1) it takes our eyes off earthly rewards, (2) it strips away superficial belief, (3) it strengthens the faith of those who endure, and (4) our attitude through it serves as an example to others who follow. We can be comforted to know that God’s greatest prophets were persecuted (Elijah, Jeremiah, Daniel). The fact that we are being persecuted proves that we have been faithful; faithless people would be unnoticed. In the future God will reward the faithful by receiving them into his eternal kingdom where there is no more persecution.
BIBLE READING: Matthew 24:1-51
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Matthew 24:12-13)
PERSECUTION STRENGTHENS OUR FAITH.
Jesus predicted that his followers would be severely persecuted by those who hated what he stood for. In the midst of terrible persecutions, however, they could have hope, knowing that salvation was theirs. Times of trial serve to sift true Christians from false or fair-weather Christians. When you are pressured to give up and turn your back on Christ, don’t do it. Remember the benefits of standing firm, and continue to live for Christ.
BIBLE READING: 1 Peter 1:1-12
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: (1 Peter 1:6)
PERSECUTION BRINGS MATURITY.
Peter mentions suffering several times in this letter: 1:6-7; 3:13-17; 4:12-19; 5:9. When he speaks of trials, he is not talking about natural disasters or the experience of God’s punishments, but the response of an unbelieving world to people of faith. All believers face such trials when they let their light shine into the darkness. We must accept trials as part of the refining process that burns away impurities and prepares us to meet Christ. Trials teach us patience (Romans 5:3-4; James 1:2-3) and help us grow to be the kind of people God wants.
BIBLE READING: Matthew 5:1-16
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (Matthew 5:11-12)
PERSECUTION BUILDS CHARACTER.
Jesus said to rejoice when we’re persecuted. Persecution can be good because (1) it takes our eyes off earthly rewards, (2) it strips away superficial belief, (3) it strengthens the faith of those who endure, and (4) our attitude through it serves as an example to others who follow. We can be comforted to know that God’s greatest prophets were persecuted (Elijah, Jeremiah, Daniel). The fact that we are being persecuted proves that we have been faithful; faithless people would be unnoticed. In the future God will reward the faithful by receiving them into his eternal kingdom where there is no more persecution.
BIBLE READING: Matthew 24:1-51
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Matthew 24:12-13)
PERSECUTION STRENGTHENS OUR FAITH.
Jesus predicted that his followers would be severely persecuted by those who hated what he stood for. In the midst of terrible persecutions, however, they could have hope, knowing that salvation was theirs. Times of trial serve to sift true Christians from false or fair-weather Christians. When you are pressured to give up and turn your back on Christ, don’t do it. Remember the benefits of standing firm, and continue to live for Christ.
BIBLE READING: 1 Peter 1:1-12
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: (1 Peter 1:6)
PERSECUTION BRINGS MATURITY.
Peter mentions suffering several times in this letter: 1:6-7; 3:13-17; 4:12-19; 5:9. When he speaks of trials, he is not talking about natural disasters or the experience of God’s punishments, but the response of an unbelieving world to people of faith. All believers face such trials when they let their light shine into the darkness. We must accept trials as part of the refining process that burns away impurities and prepares us to meet Christ. Trials teach us patience (Romans 5:3-4; James 1:2-3) and help us grow to be the kind of people God wants.
Friday, May 8, 2009
SUBMITTING TO GOD’S GUIDANCE
HOW IS OUR OBEDIENCE RELATED TO GOD’S GUIDANCE?
BIBLE READING: Exodus 11:1-10
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 9 And the LORD said unto Moses, Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you; that my wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt.
10 And Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh: and the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go out of his land. (Exodus 11:9-10)
GUIDANCE FOR THE FUTURE COMES WITH OBEDIENCE IN THE PRESENT.
When Moses gave God’s message to the people, they were too discouraged to listen. The Hebrews didn’t want to hear any more about God and his promises, because the last time they listened to Moses, all they got was more work and greater suffering. Sometimes a clear message from God is followed by a period when no change in the situation is apparent. During that time, seeming setbacks may turn people away from wanting to hear more about God. If you are a leader, don’t give up. Keep bringing people God’s message as Moses did. By focusing on God, who must be obeyed, rather than on the results to be achieved, good leaders see beyond temporary setbacks and reversals.
BIBLE READING: 2 Chronicles 18:1-34
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 12 And the messenger that went to call Micaiah spake to him, saying, Behold, the words of the prophets declare good to the king with one assent; let thy word therefore, I pray thee, be like one of theirs, and speak thou good.
13 And Micaiah said, As the LORD liveth, even what my God saith, that will I speak. (2 Chronicles 18:12-13)
SEEKING GUIDANCE WITH NO INTENTION OF OBEDIENCE IS SELF-DESTRUCTIVE.
Wicked Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to join forces with him in battle (18:2-3). Before making that commitment, Jehoshaphat rightly sought God’s advice. However, when God gave his answer through the prophet Micaiah (18:16), Jehoshaphat ignored it (18:28). It does us no good to seek God’s advice if we ignore it when it is given. Real love for God is shown not by merely asking for direction, but by following that direction once it is given.
BIBLE READING: Acts 8:26-40
KEY BIBLE VERSE: And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. (Acts 8:26)
GOD’S GUIDANCE SELDOM FOLLOWS OUR PLANS.
Philip was having a successful preaching ministry to great crowds in Samaria (8:5-8), but he obediently left that ministry to travel on a desert road. Because Philip went where God sent him, Ethiopia was opened up to the gospel. Follow God’s leading, even if it seems like a demotion. At first you may not understand his plans, but the results will prove that God’s way is right.
BIBLE READING: Exodus 11:1-10
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 9 And the LORD said unto Moses, Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you; that my wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt.
10 And Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh: and the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go out of his land. (Exodus 11:9-10)
GUIDANCE FOR THE FUTURE COMES WITH OBEDIENCE IN THE PRESENT.
When Moses gave God’s message to the people, they were too discouraged to listen. The Hebrews didn’t want to hear any more about God and his promises, because the last time they listened to Moses, all they got was more work and greater suffering. Sometimes a clear message from God is followed by a period when no change in the situation is apparent. During that time, seeming setbacks may turn people away from wanting to hear more about God. If you are a leader, don’t give up. Keep bringing people God’s message as Moses did. By focusing on God, who must be obeyed, rather than on the results to be achieved, good leaders see beyond temporary setbacks and reversals.
BIBLE READING: 2 Chronicles 18:1-34
KEY BIBLE VERSE: 12 And the messenger that went to call Micaiah spake to him, saying, Behold, the words of the prophets declare good to the king with one assent; let thy word therefore, I pray thee, be like one of theirs, and speak thou good.
13 And Micaiah said, As the LORD liveth, even what my God saith, that will I speak. (2 Chronicles 18:12-13)
SEEKING GUIDANCE WITH NO INTENTION OF OBEDIENCE IS SELF-DESTRUCTIVE.
Wicked Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to join forces with him in battle (18:2-3). Before making that commitment, Jehoshaphat rightly sought God’s advice. However, when God gave his answer through the prophet Micaiah (18:16), Jehoshaphat ignored it (18:28). It does us no good to seek God’s advice if we ignore it when it is given. Real love for God is shown not by merely asking for direction, but by following that direction once it is given.
BIBLE READING: Acts 8:26-40
KEY BIBLE VERSE: And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. (Acts 8:26)
GOD’S GUIDANCE SELDOM FOLLOWS OUR PLANS.
Philip was having a successful preaching ministry to great crowds in Samaria (8:5-8), but he obediently left that ministry to travel on a desert road. Because Philip went where God sent him, Ethiopia was opened up to the gospel. Follow God’s leading, even if it seems like a demotion. At first you may not understand his plans, but the results will prove that God’s way is right.
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