One of the many quotations I reflected on today:
"He who kneels before God can stand before anyone!"
"He who kneels before God can stand before anyone!"
Monday, December 27, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Delight and Receive: Thanks to the Father
I thank God for my wife who is relaxing in His love without headaches. She had been tormented, yes tormented, with migraine headaches, tension headaches, etc. Now, there is a joy that transcends all understanding that I see in her. The joy of His peace and vibrancy. I pray that the Father through Jesus Christ will continue to guide her in utilizing what He provided on this earth for her to enjoy a full life.
I am reminded to delight in the Lord and He will give the desires of your heart.
I delight in You God. Thank you Father for Your healing and peace in Jesus name. Amen!
I am reminded to delight in the Lord and He will give the desires of your heart.
I delight in You God. Thank you Father for Your healing and peace in Jesus name. Amen!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Counting My Blessings One by One
Over the weekend and up to this morning, I had, and have been thinking, humming and at times singing the chorus of the song, "Count Your Blessings." When I got up this morning to be with my Father, the song was going through my mind. I found the scheduled emission test document for my vehicle and the test was set due for December 8, 2010. I had forgotten and the late fee is $15.00. Thank God that He turned my human limitation around for my good that I could reschedule the emission test date online just in time. His Word spoken in Romans 8:28 came alive again. I am counting my blessings, naming them one by one and seeing what God hath done!
Thanks Father for another blessing in Jesus name, Amen!
Thanks Father for another blessing in Jesus name, Amen!
Friday, November 19, 2010
What Is Purity (Party I)
Christians talk much about “purity.” Parents, the church and church leaders tell us to live “pure” lives. However, what do they mean? I will try to briefly deal with “purity” in the writing.
Many times “pure” is used in the Old Testament to describe gold. Other times it describes the type of material or substance used in worship. In Leviticus, when the LORD gave instructions on what to used during Israel’s holy days and religious feasts they were instructed, among other things, to use “pure oil,” “pure candle stick,” “pure frankincense” etc. Even the animals used for sacrifice were to be pure without blemish [spot, fault, stain, etc]
In the New Testament, Jesus uses the word “pure” only once; and this was during the Sermon on the Mount. Many of us know Matthew 5:8 which says, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” But what did Jesus mean by “pure in heart?”? [I will come back to this question later]
If you know anything about purifying gold, you know that is goes through fire to take out all of the impurities. What does impurity mean? It means, dirt, infection, uncleanness, adulteration [ruining, corruption, tarnishing], pollution, dirtiness, etc. I think we got the picture. So when applying the word “pure” to ourselves, it means that we have to go through a process. It means “purity” or being “pure” is not a one-time activity then everything falls in place with nothing impure coming from us.
Using the King James Version Bible, the word “purity” is used only two times: 1 Timothy 4:12 [Let no man despise your youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity] and 1 Timothy 5:12 [The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity].
What was Paul saying to Timothy? Let’s remember that Timothy was a youthful believer. When Paul said “your youth”, he was indicating that Christian authority depends on one’s character rather than age. He was saying that Timothy must be “an example” as a Christian [leader]. Timothy must be a model to others in several ways, such as by what Timothy said; by what he did; by him demonstrating true love; by him showing a right spirit or attitude; by him adhering to the truths of the Christian faith; and, by him maintaining moral purity and integrity. This also applies to each believer.
Therefore, what are we saying about purity? Purity simply means the state of being pure, uncorrupted or undefiled. It also implies remaining uncontaminated and free of uncleanness. However, purity does not mean that a person is a Christian. Purity does not mean you are right with God. It does not make you righteous. Purity does not mean you are going to heaven. Being a Christian requires you accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and walking with Christ Jesus with the help of the Holy Spirit. Paul mentioned the importance of us having a pure or uncluttered devotion to Jesus when he stated: “But I am afraid, lest as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds should be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ [2 Corinthians 11:3 ]. Moreover, Jesus said that those with a pure heart would have supernatural sight- "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
Many times “pure” is used in the Old Testament to describe gold. Other times it describes the type of material or substance used in worship. In Leviticus, when the LORD gave instructions on what to used during Israel’s holy days and religious feasts they were instructed, among other things, to use “pure oil,” “pure candle stick,” “pure frankincense” etc. Even the animals used for sacrifice were to be pure without blemish [spot, fault, stain, etc]
In the New Testament, Jesus uses the word “pure” only once; and this was during the Sermon on the Mount. Many of us know Matthew 5:8 which says, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” But what did Jesus mean by “pure in heart?”? [I will come back to this question later]
If you know anything about purifying gold, you know that is goes through fire to take out all of the impurities. What does impurity mean? It means, dirt, infection, uncleanness, adulteration [ruining, corruption, tarnishing], pollution, dirtiness, etc. I think we got the picture. So when applying the word “pure” to ourselves, it means that we have to go through a process. It means “purity” or being “pure” is not a one-time activity then everything falls in place with nothing impure coming from us.
Using the King James Version Bible, the word “purity” is used only two times: 1 Timothy 4:12 [Let no man despise your youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity] and 1 Timothy 5:12 [The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity].
What was Paul saying to Timothy? Let’s remember that Timothy was a youthful believer. When Paul said “your youth”, he was indicating that Christian authority depends on one’s character rather than age. He was saying that Timothy must be “an example” as a Christian [leader]. Timothy must be a model to others in several ways, such as by what Timothy said; by what he did; by him demonstrating true love; by him showing a right spirit or attitude; by him adhering to the truths of the Christian faith; and, by him maintaining moral purity and integrity. This also applies to each believer.
Therefore, what are we saying about purity? Purity simply means the state of being pure, uncorrupted or undefiled. It also implies remaining uncontaminated and free of uncleanness. However, purity does not mean that a person is a Christian. Purity does not mean you are right with God. It does not make you righteous. Purity does not mean you are going to heaven. Being a Christian requires you accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and walking with Christ Jesus with the help of the Holy Spirit. Paul mentioned the importance of us having a pure or uncluttered devotion to Jesus when he stated: “But I am afraid, lest as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds should be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ [2 Corinthians 11:3 ]. Moreover, Jesus said that those with a pure heart would have supernatural sight- "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
Coming back to the meaning of “pure in heart,” one question many people do not ask about this verse is, “what does ‘heart’ mean.” Some people say “I gave my heart to Jesus,” or “I invited Jesus into my heart.” What do they really mean?
Heart = your thoughts, emotions, affections and attitude
Simply put, “heart” means giving or turning your thoughts, emotions, affections and attitude over to Jesus. You let Jesus through His Word guide and direct your “heart.” The Bible says, you do it by hearing the Word and doing what it says. Moreover, if you have not thought about it, reading the Bible is “hearing” what God has to say to you.
There are several passages concerning the necessity of purity in our thoughts and affections. To the Philippians, Paul says, “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things [Philippians 4:8].
This verse tells us to do things that reflect our spiritual thoughts, emotions, affections and attitude. Whatever we do ultimately is an extension of our thoughts, emotions, affections and attitudes. The Bible says we speak out of the abundance of our heart. That is, the things we say is taken from the large quantity of thoughts, emotions, affections and attitude we have stored up inside of us.
In closing, as Christians it is important that we strive towards living a life of purity with the help of the Holy Spirit. Purity within itself does not make a person a Christian. Yet, one cannot say he is a Christian and not be striving to a life of purity with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Remember: Being pure does not make you righteous or holy.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
My Love for Jesus: Traced In My Past Writings
I am sorting through and compiling whatever electronic files of my writings done over the past ten plus years. It's just amazing, encouraging and...WOW! I believe in a risen King! I have grown from grace to grace, from glory to glory over the years. My writings express my love for Jesus and desire to serve Him. I am praying for a full-time ministry appointment. Funny uhm? You knew me then; but He knew me before "then." He knew me before I was formed in my mother's womb! PTL! He delivered me! Today, I am forgiven; not perfect! \o/\O/\0/
Whatever You Receive
John 3:27 says, "A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven." My take on it is that, 'it is how you uitilize what you receive from heaven that determines your worth.' So, whatever you do, do it for God's glory. Jesus is the answer! Believe in Him and live!
Friday, October 22, 2010
The LORD - my Guide and Guard, yes my Shepherd
My life, like the Psalmist’s, must simply be one of obedience to GOD!
I acknowledge You LORD as my Shepherd therefore I lack nothing. You are my Provider of everything. LORD, You are totally reliable, knowledgeable, and all-giving. You are my Protector and the Shield of my life. You are the great lover of my soul. Mindful of the character of my LORD, I give up my independence to Him. I say to Him, “I 'll let You tell me and I will obey. I’ll let You signal and I’ll follow. Just say it LORD and I’ll do it!”
The verses 2-3 express my total obedience to whatever You want to tell me LORD. LORD, You tell me rest and I comfortably “lie down in green pastures” in obedience. You led me to the green pastures. You know my nervousness and my need to become, and remain, calm. So, You tell me to follow You. I follow you, and You “lead me beside quiet waters.” How relaxing it becomes when I look and there is stillness. My mind is put at ease and I think nothing but peaceful thoughts. I experience Your peace which transcends all understanding. My soul has no longing for anything. It is not troubled or torn up out of fear. It is not challenged with, or for, earthly issues. Nothing bothers me. I forget everything because I am in Your presence. Restoration of my soul is my portion. My life rejuvenates!
You guide me. I fear nothing!
I look and You are guarding me. So, darkness brings more rest time with hopes and expectation of a better tomorrow. When I wake, You provide a well prepared table to satiate my physical needs in spite of the challenges of the world system. You provide soothing balm on my head to quiet my nerves and shield me from the cares of the world. As usual, I lack nothing! There is much more than I need. I can share Your generosity. I can only think about the pluses of life and enjoy what You have given me. It is good! Where else would I want to be than in Your presence forever.
LORD, I say, “You are my Shepherd – my Guide and Guard – I shall not want. I will obey you.”
I acknowledge You LORD as my Shepherd therefore I lack nothing. You are my Provider of everything. LORD, You are totally reliable, knowledgeable, and all-giving. You are my Protector and the Shield of my life. You are the great lover of my soul. Mindful of the character of my LORD, I give up my independence to Him. I say to Him, “I 'll let You tell me and I will obey. I’ll let You signal and I’ll follow. Just say it LORD and I’ll do it!”
The verses 2-3 express my total obedience to whatever You want to tell me LORD. LORD, You tell me rest and I comfortably “lie down in green pastures” in obedience. You led me to the green pastures. You know my nervousness and my need to become, and remain, calm. So, You tell me to follow You. I follow you, and You “lead me beside quiet waters.” How relaxing it becomes when I look and there is stillness. My mind is put at ease and I think nothing but peaceful thoughts. I experience Your peace which transcends all understanding. My soul has no longing for anything. It is not troubled or torn up out of fear. It is not challenged with, or for, earthly issues. Nothing bothers me. I forget everything because I am in Your presence. Restoration of my soul is my portion. My life rejuvenates!
You guide me. I fear nothing!
I look and You are guarding me. So, darkness brings more rest time with hopes and expectation of a better tomorrow. When I wake, You provide a well prepared table to satiate my physical needs in spite of the challenges of the world system. You provide soothing balm on my head to quiet my nerves and shield me from the cares of the world. As usual, I lack nothing! There is much more than I need. I can share Your generosity. I can only think about the pluses of life and enjoy what You have given me. It is good! Where else would I want to be than in Your presence forever.
LORD, I say, “You are my Shepherd – my Guide and Guard – I shall not want. I will obey you.”
Saturday, October 16, 2010
TNT (Trials and Tribulations)
It is quite a challenge to face trials and tribulations (TNT).
James, in his letter, says we should consider it all joy; it’s only a lesson,
But the Word provides an answer to deal with it next time around.
TNT may come as anger,
But the Word says anger cannot do God’s righteousness and should not cause us to sin.
TNT could come as a lack,
But the Word says He’ll supply all our needs; success is not determined by how much we have.
TNT might show up as sin,
But the Word says if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.
TNT may come as rejection, abuse, or whatever man metes out against you;
But the Word of God says:
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30, KJV).
TNT will cause you to focus on the world and not the Word.
Remain steadfast in the WORD of God, not the world of man.
Man is His creation, God is the Creator.
The ‘world’ has one letter more than Word, and it is an 'l'.
Now think: ‘l’ could stand for lies, lust, laziness, laggard, low life, lasciviousness,
Not to mention the big L…Lucifer
Now are you hearing me?
Be blessed!
James, in his letter, says we should consider it all joy; it’s only a lesson,
But the Word provides an answer to deal with it next time around.
TNT may come as anger,
But the Word says anger cannot do God’s righteousness and should not cause us to sin.
TNT could come as a lack,
But the Word says He’ll supply all our needs; success is not determined by how much we have.
TNT might show up as sin,
But the Word says if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.
TNT may come as rejection, abuse, or whatever man metes out against you;
But the Word of God says:
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30, KJV).
TNT will cause you to focus on the world and not the Word.
Remain steadfast in the WORD of God, not the world of man.
Man is His creation, God is the Creator.
The ‘world’ has one letter more than Word, and it is an 'l'.
Now think: ‘l’ could stand for lies, lust, laziness, laggard, low life, lasciviousness,
Not to mention the big L…Lucifer
Now are you hearing me?
Be blessed!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
The Christ in Me
Yesterday was a day of doing for me. I called a friend and he needed to “discuss something” with me. He had mentioned it before but we did not meet to discuss it. It was something he did not want to discuss on the phone. We live in different states; yet, we met at a midpoint and discussed his concerns. As I drove back home on a busy I- 495, a lady with her two girls sat in their vehicle on the fast lane. The vehicle had given up. Yes, it started a traffic build up on the fast lane with a domino effect to the other lanes as people swerved from behind her. I stopped and went back to help her. The road had an incline so I had to push the vehicle against the traffic to get if off the road while instructing her on how to steer the vehicle. There were some close encounters. Funny though, that as I helped this lady, a “brother” slowed down and yelled at me, “get the vehicle off the road.” Thank God two other men, not “brothers” though, saw me doing my three months amount of exercise and stopped to give some helping hands and muscles. Yesterday for me was just getting together with a friend to talk and then helping a lady in a tight spot.
Now that I reflect on yesterday's activities, I am reminded that the Scripture says it is no longer St. Jerome who lives but Christ living inside of me. It is refreshing that like Jesus, I forgot about me and responded to the needs of others. How grateful I am that God could used me to meet the needs of others. Thank God I became His eyes, mouth, hands, feet, and body on August 14, 2010. I had the mind of Christ!
Today, I pray: Father God in the name of Jesus Christ, guide and guard me as I do your will. Amen!
Now that I reflect on yesterday's activities, I am reminded that the Scripture says it is no longer St. Jerome who lives but Christ living inside of me. It is refreshing that like Jesus, I forgot about me and responded to the needs of others. How grateful I am that God could used me to meet the needs of others. Thank God I became His eyes, mouth, hands, feet, and body on August 14, 2010. I had the mind of Christ!
Today, I pray: Father God in the name of Jesus Christ, guide and guard me as I do your will. Amen!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Greetings To a Church
Psalm 118: 24 says, “This is the day which the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” It is always so wonderful to be in the House of the Lord.
In Matthew 7: 24-27, Jesus talks about two kinds of people. The first kind takes what Jesus teaches and works it into their lives. The second uses His words in Bible studies, services, etc but do not work it into their lives. In Matthew 8 after healing the leper, Jesus instructs him to go to the priest but not to talk about his healing along the way. Jesus was saying to the leper, your cleansed and grateful life, not your words, will bear witness to what He [Jesus] had done. In the same chapter, Jesus tells the Roman officer: “It shall be done for you as you have believed.” The officer’s servant was healed. This is the result of FAITH!
Children of God, what do we believe everyday? Each day is a day that the LORD has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Jesus is still saying today, “It shall be done for you as you have believed.”
Let us pray.
Father God, in the name of Jesus we come before before You. You are the Creator of everything. You are the Provider and Sustainer of everything good. Jesus is the Lord and Savior of our lives. Thank You for this day and for life. Our hearts are not troubled because we believe You are taking care of everything in our lives. Thank You for the Word that is comes forth whenever we come before you. We will always worship you in Spirit and truth, in Jesus name. AMEN!
Greeting on 8.1.2010 revised 8.11.2010
In Matthew 7: 24-27, Jesus talks about two kinds of people. The first kind takes what Jesus teaches and works it into their lives. The second uses His words in Bible studies, services, etc but do not work it into their lives. In Matthew 8 after healing the leper, Jesus instructs him to go to the priest but not to talk about his healing along the way. Jesus was saying to the leper, your cleansed and grateful life, not your words, will bear witness to what He [Jesus] had done. In the same chapter, Jesus tells the Roman officer: “It shall be done for you as you have believed.” The officer’s servant was healed. This is the result of FAITH!
Children of God, what do we believe everyday? Each day is a day that the LORD has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Jesus is still saying today, “It shall be done for you as you have believed.”
Let us pray.
Father God, in the name of Jesus we come before before You. You are the Creator of everything. You are the Provider and Sustainer of everything good. Jesus is the Lord and Savior of our lives. Thank You for this day and for life. Our hearts are not troubled because we believe You are taking care of everything in our lives. Thank You for the Word that is comes forth whenever we come before you. We will always worship you in Spirit and truth, in Jesus name. AMEN!
Greeting on 8.1.2010 revised 8.11.2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Saturday, July 17, 2010
A New Heart
“A new heart will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26, AMP).
There is much trueness in the adage “experience is the best teacher.” In the passage, “a new heart” is most time taken literally and we think about the organ in the body that pumps the blood. The heart regulates and sustains life, but is used symbolically in many passages in the Bible.
I suffered chest pains for about a year. It was becoming frequent. At times at the start of regular walks, I would have sharp chest pains and then they would fade away. Various tests and examinations found no problems. My heart muscles were strong; heart beat great; pressure wonderful. In April 2010, after another experience of the chest pains, invasive examination was done and corrective action was done. I was out of the hospital the next day after the corrective action, and was at work the following day. I immediately felt the difference as I walked out of the hospital. There was a feeling newness. I breathed better and performance of life’s activities became excellent! It felt like I had a new heart!
When the Scripture speaks of you having a new heart, the result is a freshness of life. The “new heart” starts with accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior but does not end there. The heart as mentioned above, is not the organ in your body. It is having a new outlook of everything inside and outside of you. It affects your belief, attitude, behavior, emotions and consequently knowledge as you search the Scriptures like the Bereans (Acts 17:10-11). It brings a new aura of life, its challenges, and decision-making. You become like Cleopas and his walking companion who encountered Jesus while on their way to Emmaus. After the encounter they said: “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” (Luke 24:1-32). Yes, that insatiable desire to do what is Biblically right is what causes your heart to ‘burn” within you. The new heart propels you “to contend for the faith” (Jude 3).
Faith grows because of everything that is internalized on a daily basis as you search the Scriptures. It is adding daily to your knowledge of the Scriptures and the totality of your Biblical belief of what you read, hear, and experience as a Christian. The result is allowing God to put His Spirit within you, ordering your steps, and heeding to His Word in obedience by doing what His Word says. You become a doer of His Word.
Ask the Lord to touch your heart, and especially others who do not know Him, to receive a new heart and not remain, as Jesus said, “foolish men [people], and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!” (Luke 24:25).
There is much trueness in the adage “experience is the best teacher.” In the passage, “a new heart” is most time taken literally and we think about the organ in the body that pumps the blood. The heart regulates and sustains life, but is used symbolically in many passages in the Bible.
I suffered chest pains for about a year. It was becoming frequent. At times at the start of regular walks, I would have sharp chest pains and then they would fade away. Various tests and examinations found no problems. My heart muscles were strong; heart beat great; pressure wonderful. In April 2010, after another experience of the chest pains, invasive examination was done and corrective action was done. I was out of the hospital the next day after the corrective action, and was at work the following day. I immediately felt the difference as I walked out of the hospital. There was a feeling newness. I breathed better and performance of life’s activities became excellent! It felt like I had a new heart!
When the Scripture speaks of you having a new heart, the result is a freshness of life. The “new heart” starts with accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior but does not end there. The heart as mentioned above, is not the organ in your body. It is having a new outlook of everything inside and outside of you. It affects your belief, attitude, behavior, emotions and consequently knowledge as you search the Scriptures like the Bereans (Acts 17:10-11). It brings a new aura of life, its challenges, and decision-making. You become like Cleopas and his walking companion who encountered Jesus while on their way to Emmaus. After the encounter they said: “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” (Luke 24:1-32). Yes, that insatiable desire to do what is Biblically right is what causes your heart to ‘burn” within you. The new heart propels you “to contend for the faith” (Jude 3).
Faith grows because of everything that is internalized on a daily basis as you search the Scriptures. It is adding daily to your knowledge of the Scriptures and the totality of your Biblical belief of what you read, hear, and experience as a Christian. The result is allowing God to put His Spirit within you, ordering your steps, and heeding to His Word in obedience by doing what His Word says. You become a doer of His Word.
Ask the Lord to touch your heart, and especially others who do not know Him, to receive a new heart and not remain, as Jesus said, “foolish men [people], and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!” (Luke 24:25).
Sunday, June 27, 2010
I've Learned!
Jesus was not imputed with obedience rather He “learned” it through His sufferings (Heb 5:8). Yes He was “a Son” but was not exempted from learning. The verb “learn” communicates two things that complement each other. It speaks about the increase in one’s intellectual knowledge, and additionally the consistent practice or doing of something. It was James who told us to be both hearers and doers of the Word (James 1:22).
Jesus as the role model in our Christian walk understands the attraction of temptations and how difficult it is to obey God (Heb 2:18; Luke 4:1-13). Notwithstanding, He was obedient and lived a sinless life. I am not saying we will live a sinless life now, but "progressive sanctification" leads us to that day. Jesus understood His mission or purpose, overcame temptation and did the Father’s will. How did He do it?
Paul hints on it in Philippians 4:11-13:
“…for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
I implore you reading this to accept this truth: the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is sufficient for you. Amen?
Jesus as the role model in our Christian walk understands the attraction of temptations and how difficult it is to obey God (Heb 2:18; Luke 4:1-13). Notwithstanding, He was obedient and lived a sinless life. I am not saying we will live a sinless life now, but "progressive sanctification" leads us to that day. Jesus understood His mission or purpose, overcame temptation and did the Father’s will. How did He do it?
Paul hints on it in Philippians 4:11-13:
“…for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
I implore you reading this to accept this truth: the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is sufficient for you. Amen?
Monday, June 21, 2010
Using What God Created
Being treated by doctors and using medicine are just fine. It is putting faith in action.
In the story of the the man who was born blind [John 9:1-7], Jesus could have just spoken and the blind man would have received his sight. Instead, "Jesus spat on the ground and made some mud with the spittle; He rubbed the mud on the man's eyes..." [TEV]. Few observations here.
1. Yes, this was a paste used by Jesus. Do we have eye ointments today?
2. We don't know how much time afterwards that it took for him to be totally healed, but it took some time. Are we told to take time off work and activities after receiving treatment for an illness?
3. The man exercised his fath by getting involved in the healing process. He availed himself to Jesus. Do we not admit we are ill and avail ourselves to medical personnel for treatment?
4. The man was obedient to the Word. He did what Jesus told him to do. He went to the pool and washed himself. Do we not follow the medical personnel instructions?
5. Above all else, Jesus is the Light of the world and the man saw the Light. Wherever Light appears, darkness disappears. Is Jesus different today? Is He not the same yesterday, and today and forever?
Everything was created by God. Through His love we got Jesus Christ. Let's continued to use all the wonderful gifts and blessings He has provided and provides for us. There is nothing new under the sun. Those instructions [gifts and blessings] worked for Abraham and they can work for us...in Jesus name!
In the story of the the man who was born blind [John 9:1-7], Jesus could have just spoken and the blind man would have received his sight. Instead, "Jesus spat on the ground and made some mud with the spittle; He rubbed the mud on the man's eyes..." [TEV]. Few observations here.
1. Yes, this was a paste used by Jesus. Do we have eye ointments today?
2. We don't know how much time afterwards that it took for him to be totally healed, but it took some time. Are we told to take time off work and activities after receiving treatment for an illness?
3. The man exercised his fath by getting involved in the healing process. He availed himself to Jesus. Do we not admit we are ill and avail ourselves to medical personnel for treatment?
4. The man was obedient to the Word. He did what Jesus told him to do. He went to the pool and washed himself. Do we not follow the medical personnel instructions?
5. Above all else, Jesus is the Light of the world and the man saw the Light. Wherever Light appears, darkness disappears. Is Jesus different today? Is He not the same yesterday, and today and forever?
Everything was created by God. Through His love we got Jesus Christ. Let's continued to use all the wonderful gifts and blessings He has provided and provides for us. There is nothing new under the sun. Those instructions [gifts and blessings] worked for Abraham and they can work for us...in Jesus name!
Monday, May 31, 2010
My "Gilgal"
Memorial Day is another day to remember Jesus Christ. My Lord and Savior! He died, I live! He died that all of us may live a victorious life.
Recently, I have been through a 'wilderness period.' Not as long as I have been away from my blog. It's been a few weeks but in a subtle way, it started prior to those few weeks. Thank God I can admit that I had become cold. No denials, I had become spiritually cold. God's grace through Jesus Christ kept me going. Yes, He saved me and I am again both physically and spiritually alive today!
June 1, 2010 is not just another Memorial Day. For me, it is a day that I have been removed from the disgrace of being a slave to sin and poverty of the mind. It is a day that I am being removed from the disgrace of being a slave to people expectations. It is a day that I am being removed from doing nothing daily for Jesus. It is my "GILGAL"!
I pray that as the LORD told Joshua, He is telling me through Christ Jesus: "St. Jerome, no one will be able to defeat you as long as you live...I will always be with you; I will never abandon you. Be determined and confident. Do not neglect any part of My Word. Christ Jesus lives in you!"
Recently, I have been through a 'wilderness period.' Not as long as I have been away from my blog. It's been a few weeks but in a subtle way, it started prior to those few weeks. Thank God I can admit that I had become cold. No denials, I had become spiritually cold. God's grace through Jesus Christ kept me going. Yes, He saved me and I am again both physically and spiritually alive today!
June 1, 2010 is not just another Memorial Day. For me, it is a day that I have been removed from the disgrace of being a slave to sin and poverty of the mind. It is a day that I am being removed from the disgrace of being a slave to people expectations. It is a day that I am being removed from doing nothing daily for Jesus. It is my "GILGAL"!
I pray that as the LORD told Joshua, He is telling me through Christ Jesus: "St. Jerome, no one will be able to defeat you as long as you live...I will always be with you; I will never abandon you. Be determined and confident. Do not neglect any part of My Word. Christ Jesus lives in you!"
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